World Diabetes Day is observed annually on November 14th, to raise awareness about diabetes, its prevention and management. No doubt! Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions worldwide. Managing diabetes requires lifestyle modifications, medications and regular monitoring. In this blog, we will explore the strategies for management of diabetes.
Understanding Diabetes
Before moving to strategies, it’s important to understand the basics first. So, What is Diabetes? Well, it’s a chronic condition that happens when the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or can’t use it properly. Moreover, it affects people of all ages.
Types of Diabetes
There are several types of diabetes but most common diabetes include:
Type 1 diabetes – In type 1 diabetes, your immune system attacks and destroys insulin producing cells in your pancreas for unknown reasons. Moreover, this is a lifelong condition that requires proper management.
Type 2 diabetes – This is a very common type of diabetes, with this type, your body doesn’t produce enough insulin or body cells don’t react properly to insulin.
Prediabetes – Blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be considered as diabetes. Prediabetes can convert to diabetes if steps are not taken to prevent it.
Gestational diabetes – Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy when pancreas can’t produce enough insulin. Moreover, it goes away after pregnancy.
What are the Symptoms of Diabetes?
Symptoms of diabetes include:
- Increased thirst
- Frequent urination
- Blurred vision
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
- Numbness or tingling in your hands or feet
- Frequent infections
- Slow-healing sores or cuts
Strategies For Management of Diabetes
There are many strategies for managing diabetes, including
- Eat a balanced diet – Eat a healthy diet such as fruits, green vegetables, and whole grain food. Try to avoid bad carbohydrates like white bread, pasta and fruit juices.
- Weight Management – Maintain a healthy weight. Get regular physical exercise
- Avoid or quit smoking
- Alcohol can have a number of negative effects on people with diabetes. So, avoid it.
- Go for regular checkups
- Keep your vaccines up to date
- Take care of oral hygiene as diabetes may increase your risk of gum infections.
Conclusion
Diabetes is a lifelong condition, however by understanding its diabetes and strategies for management of diabetes, we can work towards preventing and managing this chronic condition. If you or someone struggling with diabetes learn the managing strategies and take control of your blood sugar level.
