Simply put…. diabetes is a medical condition that impacts the body’s ability to convert food, especially carbohydrates, into energy.

When we eat, the carbohydrates in our food are transformed into glucose, or sugar. This sugar is then transported from the bloodstream into cells with the help of insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas. However, if the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or doesn’t utilize it effectively, some sugars remain in the bloodstream instead of being transferred to the cells. This persistent elevation of blood sugar levels indicates a condition called Type 2 Diabetes, which signifies improper insulin usage by the body.

What are common factors leading to Type 2 Diabetes?

• Genetics & Family History
• Life Style 

What are signs and symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes?

• Excessive thirst
• Frequent urination
• Extreme hunger
• Unexplained Weight Loss
• Vision changes
• Tingling or numbness in hands or feet
• Very dry skin
• Sores that are slow to heal

How Do I Know If I Have Type 2 Diabetes?

Health care provider’s diagnose type 2 diabetes using a glycated hemoglobin (A1C) test. An A1C is a blood test that measures the blood glucose level of the life cycle of a cell (2 to 3 month period). A normal A1C is 4.0% – 5.7%, 5.8%-6.4% is considered pre-diabetes, or at risk of developing diabetes, and anything over 6.5% is considered diabetes. High levels of blood sugar can be detected at home using a blood glucose test.

How is Type 2 Diabetes Treated?

Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes does require lifestyle changes and most health care providers will recommend a diet that is low in carbohydrates and low in sugars and high in protein. Treatment will also include increasing activity and exercise, routine blood glucose testing, and possibly oral medication, and/or insulin. 

Can Type 2 Diabetes Be Cured?

Although there is not a cure for type 2 diabetes, the effects of diabetes can be reversed and you can maintain a healthy life with diabetes. Eating healthy foods that are low in carbohydrates and sugars and increasing physical activity can help with maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. 

What Are the Long-Term Effects? 

If type 2 diabetes goes undetected or untreated it can lead to serious diabetes complications. 

• Pour Circulation
• Neuropathy 
• Retinopathy
• Blindness
• Kidney Disease
• Foot Ulcers
• Peripheral Vascular Disease 
• Heart Failure
• Stroke
• Risk for Amputation

Long-term complications can be avoided through good blood glucose control, diet and exercise.

For more information on Type 2 Diabetes, visit the American Diabetes Association at https://www.diabetes.org.