Diabetes is a chronic health condition that affects how your body turns food into energy. At its core, diabetes is about problems with insulin—a hormone made by the pancreas that helps move sugar (glucose) from your blood into your cells, where it’s used for energy. When this process breaks down, blood sugar levels rise, leading to a range of health issues.

Types of Diabetes

• Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. The exact cause isn’t fully understood, but genetics and possibly viral triggers play a role. People with type 1 diabetes produce little or no insulin.
• Type 2 Diabetes: The most common form, accounting for over 90% of cases. Here, the body either doesn’t make enough insulin or becomes resistant to it. Type 2 diabetes is closely linked to lifestyle factors and genetics.
• Gestational Diabetes: Develops during pregnancy due to hormonal changes that make the body less responsive to insulin. It usually resolves after childbirth but increases the risk of type 2 diabetes later in life.
• Prediabetes: A condition where blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough for a diabetes diagnosis. Without intervention, prediabetes can progress to type 2 diabetes.

Causes of Diabetes

• Type 1 Diabetes: Triggered by an autoimmune reaction. The body mistakenly destroys insulin-producing cells. The exact cause remains unknown, but genetics and environmental factors may contribute.
• Type 2 Diabetes: Develops due to a combination of insulin resistance and inadequate insulin production. Major risk factors include being overweight, physical inactivity, family history, age, and certain ethnic backgrounds.
• Gestational Diabetes: Caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy that affect insulin’s effectiveness. Overweight women and those who gain excessive weight during pregnancy are at higher risk.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms can vary by type and may develop gradually, especially in type 2 diabetes. Some people may not notice symptoms for years.

• Increased thirst and frequent urination
• Unexplained weight loss
• Extreme fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Slow-healing sores or frequent infections
• Presence of ketones in urine (mainly in type 1 diabetes)

In some cases, especially with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, symptoms can be so mild they go unnoticed.

Complications of Diabetes

If left unmanaged, diabetes can lead to serious health problems:

• Heart disease and stroke
• Kidney failure
• Nerve damage (neuropathy)
• Eye problems, including blindness
• Foot problems, sometimes leading to amputation

Prevention: How to Lower Your Risk

While type 1 diabetes cannot currently be prevented, type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes can often be delayed or avoided with healthy lifestyle choices.

Effective Prevention Strategies:

• Stay Physically Active: Aim for regular exercise, such as walking, cycling, or swimming. Physical activity helps manage weight, lowers blood sugar, and boosts insulin sensitivity.
• Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Increase dietary fiber and limit sugary foods and drinks.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Even modest weight loss can significantly reduce your risk. Losing 5–7% of your body weight can lower your risk of developing type 2 diabetes by up to 60%.
• Avoid Tobacco Use: Smoking increases the risk of diabetes and its complications.
• Regular Checkups: Early detection through routine blood sugar screening is vital, especially if you have risk factors like family history or are over 45 years old.

Takeaway

Diabetes is a serious but manageable condition. Understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and making proactive lifestyle changes can help you prevent or control diabetes and lead a healthier life. Small steps—like moving more, eating better, and maintaining a healthy weight—can make a big difference in your long-term health.