Why Does Obesity Cause Diabetes?

Being overweight or obese can increase your chances of developing type 2 diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes is a medical condition that requires regular monitoring of your blood sugar levels. With type 2 diabetes, your body is unable to properly produce or use insulin, which is produced by the pancreas to help move sugar into your cells. Essentially, your body will become resistant to insulin, which results in high blood sugar. There is research-based evidence that shows that fat cells are more resistant to insulin as opposed to muscle cells.

The fat distribution also plays a role in whether an individual will be affected by diabetes. People who have more weight in their stomachs are more likely to be affected by diabetes as opposed to those who carry more weight in their hips/waist.

What Are The Risks?

High blood sugar carries many risks. Your cells are unable to get the sugar they need, which causes damage to the nerves and blood vessels, in areas such as the heart, eyes, and kidneys. Other complications include:

• Higher risk of heart and stroke

• Nerve damage

• Depression

• Blindness

Signs That You May Have Type 2 Diabetes

• Recurrent urination

• Frequent infections

• Increased thirst

• Blurred vision

Important Facts to Know About What Causes Diabetes

• During a routine blood test, the doctor can detect a patient called pre-diabetes. It is very important to be aware of this condition and take steps to improve your lifestyle to protect yourself from the transition to fully developed diabetes.

• There are two forms of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is a more serious condition. Victims have to take insulin every day because their body is unable to produce insulin. Common symptoms of type 1 diabetes include increased urination, excessive thirst, weight loss, and increased appetite.

• Type 1 diabetes is more common in children, but it occurs in adults. Type 1 diabetes was formerly referred to as juvenile diabetes or insulin-based diabetes.

• Type 2 diabetes, also known as adult diabetes, is more common than type 1 diabetes. It can be caused by genes, often passed on to parents. This does not mean that all parents with diabetes will pass on the disease to their children. Some of the symptoms include sores that heal very slowly, abuse bruises, increased urination, weight loss, fatigue, and blurred vision.

• Uncontrolled or undiagnosed diabetes can cause heart disease, kidney failure, or blindness. Circulation is compromised, and poor blood flow to the limbs can also lead to amputation.

• People living with diabetes need to have their eyes checked regularly, take care of their feet - preferably visit a podiatrist, and consult with a professional health care worker. They need to be fully committed to taking care of themselves in every way. With proper care, patients with diabetes can lead a normal life.

• You have to learn how to control your condition. Remember, knowledge is the power of knowledge. Do a little research and learn as much as possible about diabetes, and find out why our bodies need insulin.

• To avoid lowering your blood sugar level, always have something salty with you. 

• Fruit juice or soda, raisins, or hard candies (such as peppermints) are good for raising your blood sugar. But beware, too much sugar is bad too. Eat candy only when the first symptoms of low blood sugar appear.

• Grill the vegetables and add spices, lemon juice, or garlic to add flavor. Eat fresh fruits like bananas and strawberries but always do it in a controlled way. Avoid certain fruits like mangoes, custard apples, and grapes due to their high sugar content.

If you or someone you know may be at risk for type 2 diabetes, visit us at Vital RX Pharmacy. We offer both pharmacy services (diabetes supplies, diabetes counseling), as well as health resources (nutrition resources). You are not alone, and we are here to help you create a healthier life.