According to the International Diabetes Federation around 6.9% of Pakistani adult population has diabetes which makes around 7 million people. These figures are only the cases diagnosed and reported while many people live without knowing their diabetic condition. So to save yourself from becoming one of the 7 million people you need to know about diabetes.
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What Diabetes, Actually, Is?
When you eat, your body breaks down the food containing carbohydrates into glucose. Glucose is a type of sugar. The sugar moves in your blood stream. Your pancreas detects the sugar level and releases insulin which acts as a key to open your cells to consume the sugar for energy. If you are diabetic, this system stops working.
Two Major Types Of Diabetes Are:
Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is also called insulin-dependent diabetes and juvenile onset diabetes.
It usually develops in children and teenagers though it can develop at any age.
In this type of diabetes, your immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells in your own pancreas. These cells are the ones who sense the sugar in your blood and respond to it by releasing insulin to regulate it. The reasons for this attack are still unknown to doctors.
Also See: 7 Best Diabetologists in Lahore
Type 2 Diabetes
Around 90% of diabetic patients have type 2 diabetes making it the most common form of diabetes.
It is also called adult onset diabetes since it typically develops after the age of 35 but there are growing cases of type 2 diabetes among younger people.
A type 2 diabetic patient’s pancreas often produces some insulin but mostly it’s not enough and sometimes the patient has insulin resistance which means the cells which open up with insulin, to consume the sugar, don’t open.
What Causes of Diabetes?
The bad news is that type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented and doctors don’t exactly know what causes it but the good news is that nearly half of the more common form of diabetes, the type 2 diabetes, can be delayed or prevented with a healthy lifestyle. Doctors know that the probability of developing diabetes is much higher if you have a family history of diabetes or you are fat. You can consult with the best Endocrinologist in Lahore, Karachi and Islamabad and other cities of Pakistan.
Why Do You Need To Take Diabetes Seriously?
You should keep in mind that diabetes is a leading cause of blindness, kidney failure, amputations, heart failure and stroke.
How Can You Save Yourself From Diabetes?
Start exercise & healthy balanced diet you can lower the risks of developing it and keep it in control if you have already developed it. Time is running fast so you better slow down on the halwa poori nashtas (high fat and carb food) and hit the gym because, as you might have been thinking before, your health isn’t just about how you look.
If you have any particular questions about diabetes or how to live a healthy lifestyle, ask free questions at Marham Health Community.
