Diabetes is a common yet serious condition that affects how your body turns food into energy. When you eat, your body breaks down most food into sugar (glucose) and releases it into your bloodstream. Insulin, a hormone produced by your pancreas, helps the glucose enter your cells to be used as energy. However, in people with diabetes, either the body doesn’t make enough insulin or can’t use insulin properly, causing high levels of sugar to build up in the blood.
There are three main types of diabetes: Type 1, Type 2, and Gestational Diabetes.
Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. This type is usually diagnosed in children and young adults. People with Type 1 diabetes need to take insulin daily to manage their blood sugar levels.
Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. It occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough. Risk factors include obesity, sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, and family history. Unlike Type 1, Type 2 diabetes can often be managed through lifestyle changes like healthy eating, regular exercise, and medications if needed.
Gestational Diabetes
This type of diabetes develops during pregnancy and usually goes away after the baby is born. However, it increases the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life for both the mother and child.
Symptoms of Diabetes
Common symptoms include:
Managing Diabetes
Managing diabetes involves more than just medication. At Nakshatra Health, we believe in a holistic approach, combining dietary counseling, exercise plans, and medication management to help you lead a healthier life. Regular checkups and blood sugar monitoring are essential to prevent complications like heart disease, kidney issues, and nerve damage.