Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body uses sugar or glucose. If it is not controlled, it can cause damage to your eyes, heart, blood vessels and nerves. This is a serious disease that requires frequent blood sugar checks, medication and lifestyle changes. It is important to eat a healthy, balanced diet and exercise regularly. Regular health checkups, immunizations and regular healthcare are also important.

You can treat diabetes type 2 by making lifestyle changes and changing your diet. If insulin is needed, you may also need to take medication. Other prescription medications may be needed, including ACE inhibitors to reduce cholesterol or angiotensin receptor blockers that slow blood vessel narrowing. You should always follow the advice from your doctor and diabetes team and notify them of any deviations.

Obesity or being overweight is the most common cause of Type 2 Diabetes. The disease is more likely to develop if you are overweight, because fat blocks the body’s ability to use glucose for energy.

You get glucose from your food and liver. Insulin and hormones help glucose to enter your cells. All of your cells use glucose for energy, including those that keep you living. When your glucose level is too low, as happens when you haven’t eaten for a while, your body will convert stored glycogen to glucose. This keeps your glucose levels within the normal range.

Over time, high levels of blood glucose can damage your kidneys and eyes, and cause an accumulation of fat within your blood vessels (atherosclerosis). The nerves of your legs and feet can be damaged, resulting in burning, tingling, or numbness.

A poor control of blood sugar may also cause cuts and sores to heal slower, resulting in an infection and septic. You may be at greater risk of having to amputate your foot, leg, or arm. You can also be at risk for nerve damage called neuropathy which causes numbness and pain in the hands and feet.

To prevent or delay Type 2 diabetes, it is best to maintain a healthy body weight, exercise regularly, eat a diet rich in lean protein (poultry and fish), whole grains and vegetables, as well as fruit and nuts. Limiting added sugars, salts and trans and saturated fats is important. You should also drink plenty of water, and avoid sweet drinks such as soda. Exercise at least 30 minutes a day to increase your heart rate and help you burn calories.

If you would like to speak with a Doctor who is an expert in the field or has Australian training, please contact us. Book an online Telehealth consultation. We are always here for you, 24/7. Contact info@clinicall.com.au.