A Brief Overview Of Adult Onset Diabetes

Adult onset diabetes is also referred to as Type 2 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes, which usually occurs in children, requires insulin injections to control. Type 2 usually can be controlled with diet, exercise, and weight loss. Oral medications may also be prescribed if other methods fail.

Adult onset diabetes was so named because, historically, it occurred in those approaching middle age. However, in recent years, there has been an increase in cases among teens and young adults, and there have been instances involving children. Type 2 diabetes is considered a preventable condition in most cases, with the main causes listed as obesity, poor diet, and lack of exercise.

Diabetes can be completely asymptomatic, meaning that many patients have no idea that their blood sugar is high. Others do not recognize the symptoms, which are usually not severe enough to disrupt their lives. Such warning signs include excess thirst, unexplained weight loss despite increased hunger, and frequent urination, particularly waking up at night to go. They may also experience numbness in their feet or hands, blurred vision, or dizziness.

Both types of diabetes can cause severe complications. There is an increased risk for circulatory problems, such as heart attack, stroke, and nerve damage in the feet and legs. The risk for renal disease is also increased, and some studies indicate that it may also increase the risk for certain types of dementia.

Diabetes occurs when the pancreas either does not produce enough insulin or the body cannot process the insulin produced. Insulin is used to move sugar through the bloodstream and direct it to cells for storage. Sugar that cannot be transferred to the cells and therefore must remain in the bloodstream can damage several of the internal organs. Fat cells are more resistant to insulin, which is why weight loss is often beneficial to diabetics.

A proper diet is also an effective way to treat adult onset diabetes. Meals should be eaten around the same time of day and consist of roughly the same proportion of protein to starches. Spinach, beans, barley, tomatoes, fat free dairy products, oatmeal, and citrus fruits are all recommended foods for a diabetic diet. Sugars should be reserved for a special treat and eaten after a meal during which limited carbohydrates have been consumed.

What You Need To Know About Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes was once considered an adult disease, particularly common in those over 45. Recently, though, a surprising number of children are being diagnosed with the condition. Type 2 differs from juvenile onset diabetes (Type 1) in that it rarely requires insulin treatment. It can usually be handled with a proper diet and an exercise program, although oral medications may also be used.

There is no cure for diabetes, only treatment. The condition is a result of the pancreas’ inability to manufacture sufficient insulin or the body’s inability to utilize it properly. Insulin removes sugar from the blood and sends it to cells, where it is stored for energy usage. Too much sugar in the blood can lead to severe organ damage; fatigue can also result since the sugar cannot be burned for energy.

Diabetes can be a silent disease, with symptoms either not present or minor enough that many patients do not recognize them. Weight loss, excessive urination, and high levels of thirst or hunger can all be symptoms of diabetes. High blood sugar levels can also cause a blurring of vision and numbness of the toes or fingers.

Uncontrolled diabetes can result in neuropathy, particularly in the feet, as well as renal damage. It also increases the chance of osteoporosis, heart disease and stroke. Recent studies suggest it may also be a risk factor in Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

Certain traits are common among most patients diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. Obesity and inactivity are the predominant factors. Weight reduction and and increased exercise can often prevent the condition, and is beneficial for its control. Exercise also helps circulation and lowers glucose levels.

Eating a balanced, healthy diet is an important part of the treatment plan. Consistency is important, and eating around the same times each day is recommended. Also, meals should include the same types of food in the same proportions.

A good diet for diabetics does not have to be an economic hardship. Many of the recommended foods carry a lower cost than most. Green leaf vegetables, such as spinach, are excellent, as are beans and oatmeal. Sweet potatoes, citrus, and tomatoes are also good choices for a diabetic diet. Since diabetes can worsen osteoporosis, dairy should be included, but only the non-fat varieties. And while sugar does not have to be avoided altogether, it should be reserved for a special treat. In addition, sweets should be planned for ahead of time through reducing the carbohydrates in the accompanying meal.

A diabetic needs to have a good relationship with his or her doctor, and willing to listen to his advice. Making dietary adjustments and increasing exercise will usually be needed for effective blood sugar control. But if this is done, the risk of complications can usually be dramatically reduced.