Journey Towards Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions of people around the world. It occurs when the body becomes increasingly resistant to the hormone insulin or when the pancreas is unable to produce enough insulin to regulate blood sugar levels. In this blog, we will be exploring the journey into type 2 diabetes and how it can be managed.

The first step in understanding the journey towards type 2 diabetes is to understand the risk factors associated with the condition. Risk factors include obesity, physical inactivity, poor diet, family history, age, poor sleeping patterns, chronic stress and even ethnicity. While some of these risk factors are out of our control, such as age and ethnicity, however, others can be managed through positive lifestyle changes.

For many people, the journey towards type 2 diabetes start with a diagnosis of pre-diabetes. Pre-diabetes (or insulin-resistance) occurs when blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes. This is a warning sign that changes need to be made to prevent the progression to full-blown diabetes. Here are some ways recommended for pre-diabetes:

-        Weight loss, losing just 5-10% can make a significant difference!

-        Physical activity, the power of simple movement can make a massive impact.

-        Improving diet, looking at nourishment rather than empty calories.

-        Reducing processed food intake. Fibre is seen as a natural antidote to diabetes.

For those developing type 2 diabetes, the journey can be unsettling and unnerving. Diabetes can lead to a range of health problems if left unmanaged, including cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, nerved damage, and even blindness. It is therefore, unadvisable to stubbornly disregard the need for positive behavioural change around certain lifestyle choices. This will only encourage the likely development of the aforementioned health problems. Consider how diet, lifestyle and environmental factors are influencing your current health diagnosis. With proper management, these problems can often be prevented.

Diabetes is a progressive condition and management of type 2 diabetes can involve a combination of medication, as well as lifestyle changes. Medications can include oral medications to help regulate blood sugar levels, and insulin injections for those who cannot produce insulin.

With focus, drive and dedication, both pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes can be brought into remission. Acknowledging the need to make some positive lifestyle/ behavioural changes is a massive first step in the right the direction.

Blog edited by our Cuppa Squad volunteers and contributors, Bella Ming and Lianne Dong.