Diabetes is a chronic health condition that affects how your body turns food into energy. It is marked by elevated levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood due to either insufficient insulin production or the body’s inability to use insulin properly. With millions affected globally, diabetes has become a major public health concern. Early detection, accurate diagnosis, and a tailored management plan are crucial in preventing complications and improving long-term outcomes.
In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of diabetes, discuss how diabetes is diagnosed, and outline effective strategies for managing diabetes, including the importance of exercise and lifestyle changes.
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes mellitus is a group of metabolic disorders characterised by high blood sugar (hyperglycaemia) resulting from problems with insulin production, insulin action, or both. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that allows glucose to enter cells to be used for energy.
Without proper insulin regulation, glucose builds up in the bloodstream, which over time can lead to serious health complications including heart disease, kidney damage, nerve damage, and vision loss.
Types of Diabetes
There are several types of diabetes, each with unique causes, symptoms, and treatment options:
1. Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. It typically develops in childhood or adolescence, though adults can develop it too.
- Cause: Autoimmune destruction of beta cells (genetic and environmental triggers)
- Symptoms: Increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, and unintentional weight loss
- Treatment: Daily insulin injections or insulin pump therapy, along with blood glucose monitoring and dietary planning
2. Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form and is strongly linked to lifestyle factors and genetics. The body either becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough of it.
- Cause: Insulin resistance or insulin deficiency, often linked to obesity, sedentary lifestyle, or poor diet
- Symptoms: Similar to Type 1, but may be milder and develop gradually
- Treatment: Lifestyle modification, oral medications, and sometimes insulin
3. Gestational Diabetes
This type occurs during the second or third trimester of pregnancy and typically resolves after childbirth. However, it increases the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life for both the mother and child.
- Management: Diet, physical activity, and, in some cases, insulin or other medications
4. Other Specific Types
Less common forms of diabetes include:
- Secondary Diabetes: Caused by conditions like pancreatic disease, endocrine disorders, or certain medications (e.g., corticosteroids, HIV/AIDS treatment)
- Monogenic Diabetes: Due to genetic mutations affecting insulin production
- Alzheimer’s-Linked Diabetes: Sometimes referred to as “Type 3 Diabetes,” this emerging concept links insulin resistance to neurodegenerative conditions
5. Double Diabetes
This term describes when an individual with Type 1 diabetes develops insulin resistance, a hallmark of Type 2 diabetes, typically due to poor control or excessive weight gain.
6. Pre-diabetes
Pre-diabetes is a warning stage where blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough for a diabetes diagnosis. Without intervention, it often progresses to Type 2 diabetes.
How is Diabetes Diagnosed?
Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent complications. Several tests help assess blood glucose levels and determine whether someone has diabetes or is at risk.
1. HbA1c (Glycated Haemoglobin) Test
- What it Measures: Average blood glucose over the past 2–3 months
- Normal Range: Below 5.7%
- Diabetes Diagnosis: 6.5% or higher
2. Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG)
- Measures: Blood glucose after an overnight fast
- Target Range: 3–6.5 mmol/L
- Diabetes Threshold: 7.0 mmol/L or higher
3. Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT)
- How it Works: Blood sugar levels are measured after fasting and again two hours after consuming a glucose-rich drink
- Used For: Diagnosing Type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes
4. Postprandial Blood Glucose Test
- Timing: Two hours after a meal
- Normal Value: Less than 7.8 mmol/L
Effective Diabetes Management Strategies
Diabetes management requires a multi-faceted approach tailored to the individual’s condition, lifestyle, and preferences. Key components include:
1. Medication
- Type 1: Insulin therapy is essential
- Type 2: May involve oral medications (like metformin), non-insulin injectables, or insulin
2. Diet
- Focus on whole, unprocessed foods with low glycaemic index (GI)
- Include fibre-rich foods, lean proteins, healthy fats, and reduce added sugars and refined carbs
- Consistency in carbohydrate intake helps regulate blood sugar
3. Physical Activity
Regular exercise improves insulin sensitivity, aids weight management, and supports cardiovascular health.
Exercise Guidelines for People with Type 2 Diabetes
A tailored exercise plan is a powerful tool in managing Type 2 diabetes. It can help lower blood glucose, reduce insulin resistance, and improve overall well-being.
Aerobic Training
- Activities: Walking, swimming, cycling, dancing
- Duration: At least 150 minutes per week, in sessions of 10+ minutes
- Intensity: Start low and build gradually to moderate or vigorous
Resistance Training
- Exercises: Multi-joint movements like squats, lunges, or weightlifting
- Frequency: 2–3 sessions per week
- Benefits: Enhances muscle mass, insulin sensitivity, and glucose uptake
Pre-Exercise Considerations
Before starting any exercise routine, healthcare providers should assess:
- Blood glucose levels
- Medication timing and dosage
- Food intake
- Presence of diabetic complications (e.g., neuropathy, retinopathy)
- Signs of infection or feeling unwell
Exercise Safety Tips
- Check feet before and after exercise to prevent unnoticed injuries
- Stay hydrated and avoid extreme temperatures
- Monitor blood sugar, especially if using insulin or prone to hypoglycaemia
- Consider continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) for real-time insights
Taking Control of Diabetes
Diabetes is a lifelong condition, but with the right knowledge and support, it can be effectively managed. Early diagnosis, regular monitoring, and a commitment to a healthy lifestyle are the foundations of diabetes care. Healthcare professionals play a vital role in educating, supporting, and empowering patients to take control of their health.
By combining medication, physical activity, and a balanced diet with ongoing professional guidance, individuals living with diabetes can reduce their risk of complications and enjoy a healthier, more active life.
🗓️ Take control of your health and book an appointment today!
