The not so sweet truth about Diabetes

The not so sweet truth about diabetes

Ever wondered if all the sugary foods and drinks in your diet all this while may pose possible health issues? Have you been spending too much time on the couch? If you think the chances of contracting a disease is low just because you have had clean bills of health, then you need to think twice. Today, we bring to you the cold and hard facts of diabetes.

What is diabetes?

Diabetes is a medical condition in which the blood glucose levels remain persistently higher than normal. In Singapore alone, it affects 8.2% of the population aged 18 to 69 years and is the seventh most common cause of death. The likelihood of mortality caused by diabetes-related complications is also significantly higher. Diabetes can be due in part to the process of aging, unhealthy diet and a sedentary lifestyle.

The two most common types of diabetes are as follows:

Type 1 (Insulin absence)

• no insulin is produced due to damaged pancreatic cells
• usually diagnosed in children or young adults although it can occur at any age
• insulin injection is needed for treatment
• complications are sudden and life-threatening

Type 2 (Insulin resistance)

• insulin produced is not enough or not effective (insulin resistance)
• occurs more frequently in people over 40 years old, particularly those who are overweight and physically inactive
• more younger adults and children are developing Type 2 Diabetes
• can be controlled with proper diet and exercise but most diabetics also need oral medication

The last type of diabetes occurs in pregnant women (gestational diabetes). Women who are not diagnosed to have diabetes previously show high blood glucose levels during pregnancy. Such cases require specialized obstetric care to reduce serious complications to the unborn baby.

For those unfamiliar with insulin, insulin is a hormone secreted by the pancreas (islet cells) that pushes sugar in the blood to the cells so they fuel the body. Without insulin, one can eat lots of food and actually be in a state of starvation since many of our cells cannot access the calories contained in the glucose very well without the action of insulin.

Signs & Symptoms

Now that we have understood what diabetes is, these are some of the common symptoms one should look out for.

  (Credits: http://www.xtend-life.com/healthconditions/Diabetes.aspx)

As Type 2 diabetes develops slowly, some people with high blood sugar have no symptoms. In contrast, symptoms of type 1 diabetes develop over a short period of time. Hence, it is important to go for annual health checks as the medical condition may be advanced by the time they are diagnosed.

Complications

Diabetes is not merely an acute condition. It can turn into a chronic disease when not managed well or need long term treatment. Some long-term complications of diabetes include:

• coronary heart disease such as angina, heart attack
• stroke
• eye disease
• kidney disease
• foot disease such as numbness, ulcers and even gangrene
• nerve disease which can lead to problems such as impotence and diarrhoea

Prevention & Screening

• Exercise – Exercise is known to be extremely important in preventing diabetes. It is recommended to have at least ½ hour of exercise a day. 
• Weight – A healthy BMI is also key in the prevention of diabetes. Over 80% of diabetics are overweight and research has shown losing weight to be one of the key factors in preventing diabetes 
• Diet - Eat sugary, oily or fried foods in moderation. Also, it is recommended to have at least 2 portions of fruits and vegetables daily
• Health Screening - As mentioned, Type 2 diabetes can often develop with little to no symptoms. Hence, it is recommended to do regular health screening on an annual basis.

Central Clinic offers a basic screening package priced at $25 at all of its clinics. The health screening package screens for  diabetes, cholesterol screen, gout, kidney function, liver function and urine test. You may also purchase your health screening voucher online here. For further information, you may wish to drop us an email at enquiries@centralclinic.com.sg.