Type 2 Diabetes is a chronic condition where the body either resists the effects of insulin or doesn't produce enough insulin to maintain a normal blood glucose level. WHO on Diabetes
Prediabetes is a condition where blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not high enough yet to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes. It indicates a high risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the future. CDC on Prediabetes
Statistics/Demographics
India has a significant number of diabetes cases. As of 2019, India had around 77 million adults with diabetes, making it the second-highest country globally in terms of diabetes prevalence. ICMR on Diabetes
Which are the body parts that get effected?
Diabetes can affect multiple organs:
Eyes (can lead to blindness)
Kidneys (can cause kidney failure)
Nerves (neuropathy, leading to foot ulcers)
Heart (increased risk of heart diseases)
Blood vessels (leading to poor circulation).
Symptoms:
Preclinical: Often, prediabetes has no clear symptoms. Some people may experience conditions related to insulin resistance like darkened areas of the skin.
Clinical: Excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing sores.
Risk factors:
Obesity, sedentary lifestyle, family history, age above 45, history of gestational diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome, and high blood pressure. Mayo Clinic on Type 2 Diabetes
How to control/manage Type 2 Diabetes?
Medications, monitoring blood sugar, healthy eating, regular exercise, and diabetes education.
Role of nutrition & diet:
A balanced diet helps regulate blood sugar levels, manage weight, and reduce the risk of complications.
What should you focus on?
Prioritize whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, and vegetables.
Limit sugars, refined carbs, and unhealthy fats. Monitor carbohydrate intake.
Regular medical check-ups, monitoring cholesterol, blood pressure, and kidney functions can help prevent complications. Managing stress and avoiding smoking or alcohol can also be beneficial. CDC on Diabetes Diet