Type 2 diabetes is a chronic medical condition that occurs when the body is unable to properly use and store glucose as energy. This is due to an excess of glucose in the blood and a lack of insulin production to regulate it. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps regulate glucose levels.
Insulin resistance is a central characteristic of type 2 diabetes and occurs when the cells in the body become less sensitive to the effects of insulin, making it harder for the hormone to regulate blood sugar levels effectively. The pancreas responds by producing more insulin to overcome the resistance, but over time, it can become exhausted, leading to a decrease in insulin production and an increase in blood sugar levels.
Several factors contribute to the development of insulin resistance, including excess weight, lack of physical activity, poor diet, genetics, age, and other medical conditions.
Symptoms of type 2 diabetes include increased thirst and hunger, fatigue, blurred vision, slow healing of cuts and bruises, frequent infections, and numbness or tingling in the extremities.
A healthy diet is an important part of managing type 2 diabetes, emphasizing whole, unprocessed foods, controlling portion sizes, limiting refined carbohydrates, choosing healthy fats, avoiding added sugars, and limiting alcohol.
Treatment for type 2 diabetes includes oral medications, insulin therapy, lifestyle modifications, continuous glucose monitoring, and bariatric surgery in severe cases.
There is currently no cure for type 2 diabetes, but it can be managed effectively with the right combination of medication, lifestyle modifications, and medical care. Remission is possible with weight loss, improved diet, and increased physical activity, but it is not a permanent cure. It’s important to work with your doctor and medical team to develop a comprehensive treatment plan and make necessary lifestyle changes to manage type 2 diabetes effectively.
