Surprising Facts You Should Know About Diabetes

83 million people worldwide suffer from diabetes. It will be a surprise to know that 8 out of 10 people you meet every day will have diabetes or are in the starting stages. This can be anyone like your parents, siblings, friends, coworkers, children, or yourself. But, when you come to know this, instead of feeling bad or punishing yourself for having developed this diabetes, it’s time to have the mindset to deal with it. Before you start managing your diabetes, you should know a few facts. Let’s get to know them in this post. 

Fact No. 1: Diabetes is Caused by Eating Just Sugar

Diabetes is caused by more than just eating too much sugar. Drinking soda, sugary foods, and processed foods, yes, of course, increases your risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, and other diseases, but it is not the main cause of diabetes. Weight, genetics, hormonal issues and other factors may also be a reason for developing diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes occurs when your body does not react to the amount of insulin it produces.

Conditions:

• Genetics
• Excess body fat
• Physical inactivity
• Eating junk foods & high-carbohydrate foods
• Medications
• Hormonal disorders (hypothyroidism and Cushing syndrome)
• Chronic stress 
• Lack of quality sleep

These listed conditions may raise your risk of developing diabetes.

How to manage:

• Exercise
• Oral medications
• Insulin

The condition known as type 1 diabetes usually affects children or teenagers. This occurs when the pancreas is unable to produce insulin, the unused glucose remains in the blood rather than entering the body’s cells, where it is utilized for energy. Type 1 diabetes may develop as a result of a family history of the disease or due to low immune condition. Although sugar does not cause type 1 diabetes, individuals who have the condition should still limit their sugar intake.

How to manage:

• Daily insulin shots
• Careful carbohydrate counting
• Planning meals 
• Physical activity

Fact No. 2: People With Diabetes Can Enjoy Sweets

According to Dr. Durai, a diabetes patient need not be completely restricted when it comes to sweets; he says, “It’s a myth that people with diabetes can never eat sugar.”

Carbohydrates will be in cookies and other sweets, which raise blood glucose levels. Keeping your blood glucose levels within normal ranges requires carefully calculating them each time you eat. It is also helpful to decide the right amount of insulin.

It’s important to keep in mind that choosing “sugar-free” foods or using sweeteners, such as swapping for real sugar, does not guarantee that a food is free of sugar substances and carbohydrates. In a few products, the name carbohydrate is not directly mentioned. Getting to the elements in the food labels is important for carbohydrate counting and meal planning.

Cocktails, wine, and beer can also be included. These drinks can be enjoyed in moderation because alcohol can raise or lower your blood sugar levels. But it is important to consult with a diabetes doctor. He will suggest the food and sweets that you can have while keeping your blood sugar in control.

Fact No. 3: Your Baby Won’t Get Gestational Diabetes

Approximately 9% of expected mothers will experience this gestational diabetes and insulin problems. This can only occur during pregnancy, even if you have never had diabetes before. It is not your fault or your child’s fate in the case of gestational diabetes. This does not guarantee that your child will grow up to have diabetes. This kind of diabetes usually disappears after the pregnancy is over.

You need to consult with your diabetes doctor to manage your diabetes. If blood sugar levels rise, your baby’s pancreas may produce more insulin. Along with that, respiratory problems, low blood sugar, and high birth weight may occur, and your child may also be at risk for obesity and Type 2 diabetes in the future. Learn more about pregnancy and diabetes, the risks, and how to stay healthy to ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy.

Fact No. 4: Diabetes May Cause a Wide Range of Emotions

People with diabetes may feel depressed, angry, or anxious with frequent tests and medications. You may lose control and deny that you have diabetes if your blood glucose level is not in range.  Make an effort to express your feelings to those around you openly.

Keep in mind that these feelings are normal and may stop you from taking proper care of yourself if you observe someone with diabetes going through any of them. Be conscious and learn as much as you can to take care of yourself or support and encourage others.

Also, remember that diabetes is a disease that may get bad over time. Dr. Durai states that “managing diabetes is a lifelong condition that may require changes in medication or lifestyle.” He also promises that his care team will work with you to manage the conditions during the changes. Our article on managing diabetes with lifestyle changes provides tips to help you stay in control.

Fact No. 5: Get Along, It Takes Time To Accept Diabetes

If you or someone you care about were recently diagnosed with diabetes, understand that it takes time to adjust to accept this. In order to maintain normal blood glucose levels over time, a lot of tests and treatments like pricking in the finger to take the test, blood testing, injections, and self-management are required. You must also be patient. Various factors are involved, such as your diet, level of exercise, insulin or medication timing, stress, and illness.

Diabetes can result in long-term complications if treatment is not received. Thus, diabetes management is essential, but always remember to start small. “Even minor lifestyle adjustments can make a big difference,” Dr. Durai said.

Conclusion

Now that you know the facts about diabetes, there’s no need to panic. Managing diabetes is possible with the proper guidance and care. Dr. Durai and his team are here to support you every step of the way. Whether you have questions, need expert advice, or want to understand the best ways to control and manage diabetes, whether through medication, lifestyle changes or treatment, Dr. Durai’s Diabetes and Foot Care Clinic is the place to go.

Get the right treatment, personalized care, and solutions for all your diabetes and foot care needs. Book a consultation with diabetologist Dr. Durai, today and confidently take charge of your health!