What Is Diabetes?

When we eat food, our bodies produce glucose which is then used as the primary energy source for our bodies. Glucose is absorbed through the bloodstream and activates the creation of insulin, a hormone, from within the pancreas. The insulin is then released directly into the bloodstream. Diabetes directly affects how the body utilizes glucose by either not being able to make insulin or not being able to respond to insulin correctly. An individual with diabetes will be more prone to a having a higher than normal blood sugar level.

What Is Type 2 Diabetes?

Non-Insulin Dependant Diabetes Mellitus (NIDDM) or Type 2 Diabetes is a condition in which the individual doesn’t produce enough insulin or their cells don’t respond properly to the insulin. There bodies are still capable of producing insulin, just not at a satisfactory level for their body. Type 2 Diabetes is often the result of poor lifestyle choices such as being overweight, inactive, and drug and alcohol abuse, in those with a family history of the condition. In most cases, the individual is over the age of 30.

Signs Of Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 Diabetes usually surfaces no early than 30 years of age. The following is a list of symptoms that should be watched for in individuals if the family has a history of diabetes:

• Frequent Urination - With the inability to utilize the glucose in their bloodstream due to the lack of insulin, the kidneys flush the high levels of glucose out of the body. The volume and frequency of urination is very common in children with Type 2 Diabetes.
• Increased Thirst - Due to a loss of fluids from increased urination, dehydration is very common in individuals with Type 2 Diabetes.
• Weight Loss - While individuals with Type 2 Diabetes are prone to having an increased appetite, the inability to breakdown the glucose for energy results in the body breaking down muscles and stored fat for a fuel.
• Tired - As the individual’s system is no longer operating as it was meant to, the body doesn’t have enough consistent energy to sustain their daily routine. The child will be visibly tired more frequently, regardless of how much sleep they received.
• Blurred Vision - This occurs due to the high levels of glucose in the bloodstream and it’s effects on the eye.
• Numbness / Tingling Of The Hands And Feet - A decrease in circulation to the extremities.

Methods Of Controlling Type 2 Diabetes

It is possible to cure Type 2 Diabetes, but to do so, a method of control needs to be implemented to prevent serious damage to the body. Below is a list of the most common methods used by those with Type 2 Diabetes to control and cure their symptoms:

• Diet -  Lowering fat and cholesterol intake can greatly reduce your symptoms and even cure Type 2 Diabetes.
• Weight Loss - Even a minor loss in weight can improve your blood glucose levels.
• Exercise - Insulin sensitivity is greatly increased by moderate exercise.
• Oral Medication - Used to control high levels of glucose, but unfortunately cause weight gain.