Millions of people worldwide are affected by the chronic disease Type 2 Diabetes. According to the Government of Canada, approximately nine out of 10 people with diabetes have type 2 diabetes. It is essential to comprehend its causes, symptoms, and available treatments to manage and stop its progression. This blog shares important knowledge regarding type 2 diabetes and how Ayurvedic diabetes care can help control its symptoms.
What is Type 2 Diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes grows when the body becomes resistant to insulin or the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin. In comparison to Type 1 Diabetes, which is an autoimmune disease, Type 2 Diabetes is frequently linked to lifestyle choices. It is the most common type of diabetes, affecting a large percentage of the adult population.
Types Of Diabetes
There are many different types of diabetes however we will discuss some of the major and common types of it:
Type 2 Diabetes
This is the most common type of diabetes. It happens when the body becomes insulin resistant or when the pancreas produces insufficient insulin. Type 2 diabetes is frequently associated with excessive fat in the body and develops in adults over the age of 45, but it is also becoming more common in kids, teens, and young adults as well. Type 2 diabetes has affected more than 90% to 95% of people who have diabetes.
Type 1 Diabetes
An autoimmune condition known as Type 1 Diabetes occurs when the body's defenses target and kill the beta cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. Insulin must be taken daily by those with type 1 diabetes to maintain blood sugar control. Although it can happen at any age, children and young people are the most common diagnoses.
Gestational diabetes
This type of diabetes develops during pregnancy and typically disappears after childbirth. However, women who have had gestational diabetes are more likely to develop Type 2 diabetes later in life. To protect both the mother's and the baby's health, gestational diabetes must be managed properly.
Type 2 diabetes causes
Genetic factors
Genetics plays an important role in the development of Type 2 diabetes. If you have a family history of diabetes, there is a high chance of developing it.
Lifestyle influence
Poor eating habits, a lack of exercise, and obesity (excessive fat in the body) are all major contributors. High consumption of processed foods and sugary beverages can cause insulin resistance.
Environmental Factors
Urbanization and stress are two environmental factors that affect the prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes. This increases the risk because these factors can lead to bad lifestyle choices.
Type 2 diabetes symptoms
Early Signs:
Increased thirst, frequent urination, and unexplained weight loss can be early symptoms that you should be aware of.
Advanced Symptoms:
Symptoms such as blurred vision, slow-healing sores, and frequent infection development could be signs that it’s getting serious now.
Complications of untreated diabetes:
Type 2 diabetes, if not managed at the right time, can cause serious complications such as heart disease, kidney damage, and nerve damage.
Type 2 diabetes risk factors
There is no particular reason for diabetes however, there are some factors that put you on the wrong side:
- Obesity and Physical Inactivity: Excess weight, particularly around the abdomen, and excessive sitting are major risk factors.
- Age Factor: People over 40 can easily get this disease.
- Family History: A family history of diabetes increases your chances of developing the condition.
Medications and Treatment Of Type 2 Diabetes
To be very true to you, diabetes has been incurable till now, but as science evolves, we believe one day we are going to find a cure for this well-known disease. However, there are ways we can manage its symptoms and keep it in control. Let’s know the best ways to tackle diabetes:
Oral medications:
There are several oral medications available to help control blood sugar levels. These include metformin, sulfonylureas, and DPP-4 inhibitors.
Insulin Therapy:
In some cases, insulin therapy may be helpful to manage blood sugar levels effectively.
Emerging treatments:
New treatments, such as GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT2 inhibitors, provide additional options for managing Type 2 diabetes.
Trying Ayurveda For Managing Type 2 Diabetes
An integrated approach is employed in Ayurvedic treatment for diabetes, balancing the body's doshas and controlling blood sugar levels through natural therapies, dietary modifications, and lifestyle adjustments. Because they assist in increasing insulin sensitivity and lowering blood sugar levels, herbal remedies like bitter gourd, fenugreek, amla, cinnamon, and turmeric are essential ingredients. Eating a balanced diet, avoiding added sugar and salt, and eating fibre-rich foods are the main dietary recommendations. Additional factors to consider are enough sleep, regular exercise, and stress-reduction methods like pranayama and meditation. Treatments like oil massages and herbal steam baths are used with detoxification therapies like Panchakarma treatment to help eliminate toxins and enhance general health. Engaging with a certified Ayurvedic physician guarantees a customized treatment regimen that enhances conventional medical care. An Ayurvedic approach to managing diabetes involves all these aspects to offer complete Diabetes care to the patient.
Tips For Prevention Of Type 2 Diabetes
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle.
- Have a balanced diet daily.
- Exercise regularly.
- Most importantly, avoid smoking.
- Do regular screenings.
- Don’t be overweight; take responsibility for yourself.
Conclusion
Understanding type 2 diabetes is the first step toward effective management. Knowing the causes, symptoms, and treatment options allows you to take proactive steps toward a healthier lifestyle. Remember that managing diabetes is a process; with the right tools and support, you can live a full and active life. Also, Ayurveda can be very helpful if you consider trying it for proper diabetes care.
FAQ's (Frequently Asked Questions):
- Can type 2 diabetes be reversed?
Yes, with the right lifestyle modifications and medical care, type 2 diabetes may often be controlled and even reversed, especially in its early stages.
- Can type 2 diabetes turn into type 1?
No, diabetes type 2 cannot become type 1 diabetes. These two distinctive conditions have different mechanisms and causes.
- Why does type 2 diabetes happen?
An imbalance in insulin production and insulin resistance are the results of an interaction of behavioral, environmental, and genetic variables that cause type 2 diabetes.
- Is type 2 diabetes hereditary?
Type 2 diabetes is influenced by genetics, thus, having a family history of the disease raises the risk. Even for people with a genetic predisposition, lifestyle variables are important, and adopting healthy choices can greatly lower the risk.