Type II Diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. Type II Diabetes occurs when either the body does not produce enough insulin, or the cells ignore the insulin.
Insulin is necessary for the body to be able to use sugar (glucose), which is the basic fuel for the body’s cells.
Insulin takes sugar from the blood stream and into the cells. Without insulin, the cells do not get the sugar they need to function, and the sugar stays in the bloodstream.
When sugar builds in the bloodstream instead of going into cells, it causes two problems:
1. Cells are starved for energy
2. High blood sugar levels can damage the eyes, kidneys, nerves, and heart.
Diabetes causes an increased risk for heart attack, stroke, and complications related to poor circulation
Diabetes can lead to kidney failure, which means the kidneys will no longer be able to filter waste out of the body.
Diabetes can cause eye problems and may lead to blindness. Early detection and treatment of eye problems can save your sight.
Nerve damage is one of the most common complications of diabetes. Neuropathy is damage to the nerves throughout the body.
People with diabetes can develop different foot problems. The most common cause of this is nerve damage in the feet, and blood flow is poor.
A condition in which the stomach takes too long to empty its contents. It happens when nerves to the stomach are damaged or stop working.
Before people are diagnosed with Type II Diabetes, they almost always have pre-diabetes, which is blood sugar levels that are higher than normal, but not high enough to be diagnosed with diabetes.
Pre-diabetes occurs when fasting blood glucose is more than 100 mg/dl, but less than 126 mg/dl. Diabetes is diagnosed when fasting blood sugar is 126 mg/dl or more.
If someone in your family, such as a parent or sibling has diabetes, you could be at a greater risk than someone with no family history. Risk factors include:
A healthy lifestyle can help you reduce your risk of developing type II diabetes. A healthy diet that is low in fat and added sugars and high in fiber can help reduce your risk. Examples of these foods include dark leafy green vegetables, fruit, lean meats, beans, and whole grains.
An active lifestyle is also an important factor in reducing your risk for diabetes. Adults should aim for 30-60 minutes of activity each day.
