Learning to Live with Diabetes: A Comprehensive Guide
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What is the awareness of diabetes?
Diabetes is a global health condition affecting millions. Increasing awareness involves understanding what diabetes is and its impact on individuals' lives. It also encompasses educating people on preventive measures and necessary lifestyle changes to avoid diabetes.
What are the first signs of being diabetic?
Recognising early signs of diabetes is crucial, as symptoms vary between individuals and depend on whether they have type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Key signs include:
What is the main cause of diabetes?
The causes of diabetes vary by type. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-producing cells. Type 2 diabetes, more prevalent (over 90% of cases in the UK), occurs when the body either doesn't produce enough insulin or the cells don't respond to insulin effectively.
Type 1 diabetes is largely genetic, whereas type 2 can be influenced by lifestyle factors such as being overweight, poor diet, family history, certain ethnic backgrounds, long-term use of specific medications, high blood pressure, and a history of gestational diabetes.
When to see a doctor
If you experience any early signs of diabetes, it's vital to consult a doctor. These symptoms include:
How can I reduce my diabetes risk?
Although genetic factors play a role, certain lifestyle changes can help reduce diabetes risk:
Eating well
Adopt a plant-based diet rich in fruits, non-starchy vegetables, legumes, and whole grains.
Change of lifestyle
Improve overall self-care and gradually implement healthy lifestyle changes.
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Lose weight
Even modest weight loss can significantly reduce diabetes risk, aiming for a gradual loss of about 2 lbs per week.
Moving more
Regular physical activity helps with weight loss and blood sugar management.
Managing your diabetes
Effective diabetes management involves finding a routine that works for you. Though it takes time to adapt, with persistence, it becomes second nature. While you may not control diabetes completely, you can manage its impact on your life.
Diabetes treatments
Diabetes treatment depends on the type. Type 1 diabetics need insulin, administered via injections or pumps. Type 2 diabetics might use insulin in tablet form or manage their condition with diet and exercise. However, even well-managed type 2 diabetes might require insulin eventually.
Diabetes complications
Proper management can prevent complications such as heart disease, chronic kidney disease, nerve damage, oral health issues, vision problems, and mental health challenges.
Diabetes diet
Maintaining a balanced and healthy diet is crucial. Eat from all food groups daily but monitor the intake of high-sugar and high-fat foods.
Diabetes meal plan
Consider following a diabetes meal plan, available online, to balance food choices and avoid monotony.
Diabetes technology
Advancements in diabetes technology have made managing the condition easier. These tools assist with insulin administration, blood sugar monitoring, and making informed dietary and activity choices.
Diabetes Awareness Training
Our training programmes are designed to help individuals manage their diabetes and support those around them. This training provides valuable knowledge and skills to improve overall diabetes care.
Learn more on the Learn Q website here: https://learnq.co.uk/blog/care-skills/learning-to-live-with-diabetes-guidance