Understanding Diabetes
Glucose is a type of sugar that gives your body the energy it needs to work properly.
However, your body needs insulin to move glucose from the blood into the cells. Insulin is a hormone made by the pancreas.
When the body does not produce enough insulin, or cannot use it properly, glucose stays in the bloodstream. As a result, blood sugar levels rise.
Over time, high blood sugar can damage blood vessels, nerves and important organs.
What Is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a condition that causes too much glucose to build up in the blood.
Normally, glucose moves from the bloodstream into the body’s cells, where it is used for energy.
In a healthy body:
- food is broken down into glucose;
- glucose enters the bloodstream;
- the pancreas releases insulin; and
- insulin helps the cells absorb glucose.
With diabetes, this process does not work properly.
As a result, glucose remains in the bloodstream instead of moving into the cells.
Types of Diabetes
There are several types of diabetes. Each type develops for a different reason.
Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition.
This means the immune system mistakenly attacks the cells in the pancreas that make insulin.
As a result, the body produces very little insulin or stops producing it altogether.
People with type 1 diabetes therefore need insulin treatment throughout their lives.
Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is the most common type.
It develops when:
- the body does not respond properly to insulin; or
- the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin.
Because insulin becomes less effective, glucose begins to build up in the blood.
Type 2 diabetes often develops slowly. Therefore, a person may have the condition for some time before noticing symptoms.
Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy.
Hormonal changes can make it harder for the body to use insulin properly. As a result, blood sugar levels may rise.
Gestational diabetes often improves after the baby is born. However, it can increase the person’s future risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms of diabetes can develop slowly, especially with type 2 diabetes.
For this reason, they may be easy to overlook.
Common symptoms include:
- feeling very thirsty;
- passing urine more often;
- feeling tired or lacking energy;
- blurred vision;
- unexplained weight loss;
- wounds that heal slowly;
- frequent infections; and
- feeling more hungry than usual.
However, some people have no clear symptoms, particularly during the early stages.
What Causes Diabetes?
The causes depend on the type of diabetes.
Causes of Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is linked to:
- an autoimmune response;
- genetic factors; and
- possible environmental triggers.
It is not caused by diet or lifestyle.
Causes of Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes usually develops because of several factors working together.
These may include:
- family history;
- excess body weight;
- low levels of physical activity;
- increasing age; and
- genetic or metabolic factors.
Lifestyle can affect a person’s risk. However, type 2 diabetes is not simply caused by individual choices.
Genetics, health conditions, medication, income, housing and access to healthy food may also have an effect.
Who May Be More at Risk?
A person may have a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes if they:
- have a close family member with diabetes;
- are overweight;
- have high blood pressure;
- are not regularly active;
- previously had gestational diabetes; or
- are getting older.
Some ethnic groups also have a higher risk because of genetic and metabolic factors.
Having one or more risk factors does not mean that a person will definitely develop diabetes. However, it may mean that testing or regular health checks are helpful.
Why Is Diabetes Serious?
When blood sugar remains high for a long time, it can gradually damage different parts of the body.
Possible complications include:
- heart disease;
- stroke;
- kidney damage;
- sight problems;
- nerve damage; and
- foot problems.
For example, diabetes can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, particularly when blood sugar, blood pressure or cholesterol are not well controlled.
However, good treatment and regular health checks can reduce the risk of complications.
When Should You Seek Help?
Speak to a healthcare professional if you have symptoms that may suggest diabetes.
Early testing can help ensure that treatment begins as soon as possible.
Seek urgent medical help if someone develops:
- confusion;
- severe dehydration;
- rapid or difficult breathing;
- repeated vomiting;
- extreme drowsiness; or
- loss of consciousness.
These may be signs of a diabetic emergency and should never be ignored.
How Is Diabetes Diagnosed?
Diabetes is diagnosed using blood tests.
These tests measure either the current blood sugar level or the average level over a longer period.
Tests may include:
- an HbA1c test;
- a fasting blood glucose test;
- a random blood glucose test; and
- an oral glucose tolerance test.
The healthcare professional will decide which test is most suitable.
In some cases, more than one test may be needed before a diagnosis is confirmed.
How Is Diabetes Treated?
Treatment depends on:
- the type of diabetes;
- the person’s blood sugar levels;
- their general health; and
- their individual needs.
Diabetes management may include:
- eating a balanced diet;
- regular physical activity;
- weight management;
- blood sugar monitoring;
- medication; and
- insulin treatment.
For example, metformin is commonly prescribed to people with type 2 diabetes. It helps the body respond better to insulin and reduces the amount of glucose released by the liver.
However, not everyone will need the same treatment.
A healthcare professional should therefore develop a plan with the individual and review it regularly.
Living Well With Diabetes
Diabetes requires ongoing care. However, many people with diabetes live long, active and fulfilling lives.
Small daily actions can make a meaningful difference.
Monitor Blood Sugar
Some people need to check their blood sugar regularly.
Monitoring can help:
- identify patterns;
- show how food or activity affects blood sugar;
- guide medication or insulin use; and
- reduce the risk of levels becoming too high or too low.
Not everyone with diabetes needs to test their blood sugar at home. Therefore, the person should follow the advice of their healthcare team.
Eat a Balanced Diet
There is no single diet that suits everyone with diabetes.
However, a balanced diet may include:
- vegetables;
- fruit;
- wholegrains;
- lean sources of protein;
- fibre-rich foods;
- healthy fats; and
- suitable portion sizes.
It can also help to reduce foods and drinks that contain large amounts of added sugar, salt or saturated fat.
Importantly, people with diabetes should still be able to enjoy food. The aim is balance, not unnecessary restriction.
Stay Active
Regular physical activity can help the body use insulin more effectively.
It may also support:
- heart health;
- weight management;
- mood;
- sleep; and
- general wellbeing.
Activity should be suitable for the person’s health, ability and preferences.
Even small increases in movement can be helpful.
Attend Regular Check-Ups
Routine health checks are an important part of diabetes care.
These may include checks of:
- blood sugar;
- blood pressure;
- cholesterol;
- kidney function;
- eyes;
- feet; and
- medication.
Regular reviews can identify concerns early, before they become more serious.
Can Diabetes Be Prevented?
Type 1 Diabetes
There is currently no known way to prevent type 1 diabetes.
Type 2 Diabetes
In some cases, the risk of type 2 diabetes can be reduced.
Helpful steps may include:
- being regularly active;
- maintaining a weight that is healthy for the individual;
- eating a balanced diet;
- reducing highly processed foods;
- managing blood pressure; and
- attending health checks when offered.
Even small changes can improve health and lower risk.
However, it is important to remember that not every case of type 2 diabetes can be prevented.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Diabetes Caused by Eating Sugar?
Not directly.
Eating sugar does not automatically cause diabetes.
However, a diet that regularly contains large amounts of high-calorie or highly processed food may contribute to weight gain. This can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes in some people.
Many other factors, including genetics, age and existing health conditions, are also important.
Can Diabetes Be Cured?
There is currently no universal cure for diabetes.
Type 1 diabetes requires lifelong treatment.
However, some people with type 2 diabetes may achieve remission. This means their blood sugar returns below the diabetes range without the need for diabetes medication for a period of time.
Remission is not the same as a permanent cure. Therefore, ongoing health checks are still important.
Can People With Diabetes Live Normal Lives?
Yes.
With suitable treatment, regular monitoring and healthy routines, many people with diabetes live long, independent and fulfilling lives.
Diabetes may require planning and ongoing care. However, it should not define the whole person or prevent them from having goals, relationships, work, hobbies and meaningful experiences.
Final Thoughts
Diabetes is common, and it can be serious.
However, early diagnosis, suitable treatment and regular health checks can greatly reduce the risk of complications.
If you are concerned about symptoms or blood sugar levels, speak to a healthcare professional.
Important Information
This information is for general guidance only.
It does not replace advice, diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional.
Always speak to an appropriate healthcare professional if you have concerns about diabetes or your health.