Many people are being diagnosed with diabetes, and most not
aware they have this disease until they’re at a much later stage. The problem
with this? It robs them of the chance to get adequate blood sugar control to
prevent secondary complications at an early stage. If you are overweight or
have parents with diabetes, be sure to check your blood sugar with your doctor
soon.
There are two types of diabetes; type 1 and 2. Type 1 is
inherited and is usually diagnosed at a young age. The best treatment is
achieving blood sugar control via insulin therapy, along with nutrition
education. Type 2 diabetes can be caused by many more factors. Contrary to this
popular myth about sugar causing diabetes, eating too many sweets and sugar
does not cause diabetes regardless of weight. According to studies, overweight
and obesity are the main culprits that lead to type 2 diabetes. However, it is
possible to gain excess weight by consuming too many calories from added sugar
and high calorie sweets.
Treatment of diabetes type 2 usually begins with oral
anti-hyperglycemic tablets and then moves on to insulin over time. However,
diabetic medications can be reduced and maybe even discontinued if weight loss
is reduced in an overweight individual and diet is planned well to control
blood sugar. Genetics is another risk factor to diabetes type 2. Children of
parents with type 2 diabetes have a one in three chance of inheriting the
disease, regardless of weight. Aging, pregnancy, physical inactivity, certain
medicines, and any diseases that may affect the condition of the pancreas can
also increase the chances of developing diabetes. Healthy weight management can
be achieved with the educational advice and guidance of a dietitian.
What happens if diabetes is left untreated? Many
complications can develop, such as heart disease, cataracts of the eye, loss of
extremities such as toes and fingers, and kidney failure. Can anything be done
to prevent diabetes? Certainly! Start sooner than later. Lose excess weight by
consulting with a dietitian. If you have already been diagnosed with diabetes,
consult with your physician and dietitian to receive help with controlling your
blood sugar. Or register for the Royal Bahrain Hospital’s specialized “Fresh
Start” program to gain better blood sugar control today to save your toes and
fingers tomorrow. Book your initial free consult with the dietitian and “Fresh
Start” Panel to learn more.
Nada Jawahery is the
Registered Dietician at Royal Bahrain Hospital and is a member of, and licensed by, the American
Dietetics Association. For more information call 17246832 or email:
Nada.Jawahery@royalbhrn.com
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