What is Diabetes? – Understanding the Condition and How to Prevent It

Diabetes is a common health condition that affects millions worldwide. It happens when your body can’t use sugar (glucose) from the food you eat properly for energy. As a result, sugar builds up in your blood, leading to various health problems over time.

Main Types of Diabetes

Type 1 Diabetes – The body stops making insulin, a hormone that helps your body use sugar for energy.
Type 2 Diabetes – The body does not use insulin properly or doesn’t make enough of it. This is the most common type of diabetes.

Common Symptoms of Diabetes

Peeing more than usual
Feeling very thirsty
Unexplained weight loss
Feeling very tired
Blurred vision

What is Pre-Diabetes?

Pre-diabetes means your blood sugar is higher than normal but not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes.
It’s a warning sign that you need to make healthy lifestyle changes—like improving your diet, increasing exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight—to avoid developing Type 2 diabetes.

How is Diabetes Diagnosed?

1. Fasting Blood Sugar Test (after not eating overnight):

Less than 100 mg/dl → Normal
100–125 mg/dl → Pre-diabetes
126 mg/dl or more → Diabetes

2. HbA1C Test (average blood sugar over the last 3 months):

Less than 5.7% → Normal
5.7–6.4% → Pre-diabetes
6.5% or more → Diabetes

Can Diabetes Be Prevented?

Type 1 Diabetes: Cannot be prevented.
Type 2 Diabetes: Can often be prevented or delayed, even if it runs in your family.

How to Prevent Type 2 Diabetes

Maintain a healthy weight
Exercise regularly (e.g., brisk walking 1–2 miles in 30 minutes, at least 5 times a week)
Eat a balanced diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins
If needed, take preventive medicines like Metformin (especially for pre-diabetes)

If You Already Have Type 2 Diabetes

You can still live a healthy life and reduce complications by:

Keeping blood sugar under control
Managing heart health risks like:
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol or triglycerides
- Smoking
- Obesity

✅ Sanior Hospitals Tip:
Regular check-ups and early detection are key to preventing diabetes-related complications. Our specialists are here to help you manage your sugar levels and maintain your overall health.

📞 Book your appointment today with Our Specialist at Sanior Hospitals and take control of your health!