5 Important Facts About Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a form of diabetes that is characterized by high blood sugar, insulin resistance and relative lack of insulin. Previously it was known as “adult-onset diabetes”. Type 2 diabetes makes up about 90% of cases of diabetes. It occurs as a result of obesity and lack of exercise, but it can be genetic too. Children and younger adults can also suffer from Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. But, our beloved seniors are more prone to this dreadful disease.

Today, I am going to highlight 5 important facts about Type 2 diabetes that can be useful for your loved ones with Type 2 diabetes.

♦ Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the risk of Type 2 diabetes:

Regular exercises and losing excessive body weight can improve your body’s ability to process insulin and glucose. Many studies and researchers have found that overweight seniors who have managed to shed a few kilos have successfully prevented or delayed the onset of the Type2 diabetes.

♦ Race can increase your risk of Type 2 diabetes:
Studies have found that Asians, African Americans, Hispanics, Alaska Natives are more prone to Type 2 Diabetes than other races. 

♦ Type 2 Diabetes is associated with “severe infection” risk:

“Diabetic Neuropathy” is a very well-known complication of Diabetes that destroys nerve fibers in the body and in some rare cases it may cause paralysis in arms or legs. Due to lack of sensation the paralyzed arms or legs get easily wounded and sometimes the wound turns” gangrenous’’ resulting in amputation. Senior people should monitor their blood sugar levels from time to time and inform their doctors immediately if they notice any abnormality in their body glucose level. Your loved ones can easily keep track of their blood sugar levels with the help of “glucometers” that are readily available in the market. You can also buy them from elder care services in Kolkata.

♦ Diet plays a vital role:

Eating a healthy diet plays an important role in managing Type 2 diabetes. Ensure your beloved seniors consume whole grains, green leafy vegetables, fruits, fish, lean meats etc. daily to remain healthy and active. Keep an eye on the portion of the foods your loved ones are consuming. Prevent your loved ones from consuming foods containing refined sugar, Trans fats etc. These foods can spike up the blood sugar levels in their body and can also make them obese.

♦ Type 2 diabetes increases the risk of Cardiovascular Diseases: 

Diabetes doubles the risk of cardiovascular disease which is one of the leading causes of death in the world. Abnormal body glucose levels can damage blood vessels and the heart so it is important for seniors who are diabetic to monitor their blood sugar levels from time to time and also undergo certain tests like lipid profile, electrocardiogram (ECG), Echocardiography (ECHO) to rule out the risks of any heart diseases.

These are 5 important facts about type 2 diabetes that every senior who has been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes should know to manage this disease well and lead a healthy and active life. Also, make sure to talk to your doctor and continue to follow his/her advice for healthy living.