LAZARUS UNION International

… WHAT IS IT ACTUALLY?

Diabetes, also known as diabetes mellitus, is a chronic medical condition characterized by high levels of sugar (glucose) in the blood. Glucose is a vital source of energy for the body, and its levels are regulated by insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas. Insulin allows glucose to enter the body’s cells, where it is used for energy.

There are three main types of diabetes:

Type 1 diabetes: This type occurs when the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. As a result, the body is unable to produce insulin or produces very little. People with type 1 diabetes need to take insulin injections or use insulin pumps to manage their blood sugar levels effectively.

Type 2 diabetes: This is the most common form of diabetes, accounting for the majority of cases. In type 2 diabetes, the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or becomes resistant to its effects. It is often associated with factors like obesity, sedentary lifestyle, genetic predisposition, and certain ethnicities. Type 2 diabetes can usually be managed through lifestyle changes, oral medications, and in some cases, insulin therapy.

Gestational diabetes: This type occurs during pregnancy when the body is unable to produce enough insulin to meet the increased demand. It usually resolves after childbirth, but women who have had gestational diabetes are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

Symptoms of diabetes can include frequent urination, excessive thirst, unexplained weight loss, increased hunger, fatigue, and blurred vision. If left untreated or poorly managed, diabetes can lead to serious complications, such as heart disease, kidney damage, nerve damage, eye problems, and circulation issues.

According to current figures, more than 7 million people in Germany are being treated for diabetes. In addition, there are 3-4 million people whose diabetes has not yet been diagnosed.

Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels, a healthy diet, regular exercise, and adherence to prescribed medications or insulin are crucial for effectively managing diabetes and reducing the risk of complications. If you suspect you have diabetes or are experiencing symptoms, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and appropriate management.

Hypoglycaemia refers to a condition in which the blood glucose level in the body is too low, i.e. falls below the normal range. Normally, the blood glucose level is around 70-110 mg/dL (milligrams per decilitre) or 3.9-6.1 mmol/L (millimoles per litre). Hypoglycaemia occurs when the blood glucose level falls below 70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L). This condition is particularly relevant for people with diabetes, but it can also occur in non-diabetics.

Causes of hypoglycaemia:

Diabetes: in people with diabetes, too much insulin or other blood sugar-lowering medication can cause blood sugar levels to drop too low.

Delayed or skipped meals: If a meal is delayed or skipped, blood glucose levels may drop because the body is not getting enough glucose from food.

Excessive physical activity: intense physical activity can lower blood glucose levels, especially if there is not enough carbohydrate intake.

Alcohol consumption: Alcohol can prevent the liver from releasing glucose, which can lead to hypoglycaemia.

Symptoms of hypoglycaemia:

Symptoms can vary from mild to severe and may include:

• Shaking or twitching
• Sweating
• Palpitations or increased pulse
• Anxiety or nervousness
• Irritability or restlessness
• dizziness or lightheadedness
• confusion or difficulty concentrating
• pale skin
• tiredness or weakness
• headache
• Hunger

Dangers of hypoglycaemia:

Untreated hypoglycaemia can be dangerous and lead to serious complications, including:

Loss of consciousness: if blood glucose levels become too low, loss of consciousness can occur, which is potentially life-threatening.

Seizure activity: Severe hypoglycaemia can cause seizures.

Brain damage: If the brain does not get enough glucose, brain damage can occur.

Accidents: Hypoglycaemia can cause confusion and impaired cognitive function, increasing the risk of accidents.

Long-term complications: Repeated episodes of hypoglycaemia can lead to decreased awareness of hypoglycaemia in people with diabetes, increasing the risk of further severe hypoglycaemia.

It is important to recognise hypoglycaemia early and treat it appropriately by consuming carbohydrates or injecting glucagon (a hormone that increases blood glucose levels) if necessary. People with diabetes should work closely with their doctor to control their blood glucose levels and prevent hypoglycaemia.

If hypoglycaemia occurs frequently or is severe, it is important to inform the attending physician in order to adjust the diabetes treatment accordingly.

Immutable factors that influence the risk of type 2 diabetes:

Modifiable factors that influence type 2 diabetes risk:

This test determines your diabetes risk quickly and reliably:

(No personal data such as IP address or the values entered will be stored!)

Calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI) and note it down,

then answer 7 questions to determine your individual risk.

For example, do you have a relative with diabetes or have you ever been diagnosed with high blood sugar levels? At the end of the test, you will see your result and also tips on how you can reduce your determined risk through your behaviour. . (This test is recommended by the German Diabetes Foundation)

NOTE: The test is not suitable if you already have diabetes (type 1 or type 2) or if you already notice typical signs of diabetes. These are, for example, strong thirst, increased urination, fatigue, loss of appetite, tiredness, or unjustified weight loss. If the latter is the case, please discuss these symptoms with your family doctor.

To avoid diabetes or reduce the risk of developing it, you can take several proactive steps to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Here are some essential strategies:

Eat a balanced diet: Focus on consuming a variety of nutrient-rich foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit your intake of processed foods, sugary beverages, and high-calorie snacks.

Control portion sizes: Be mindful of portion sizes to prevent overeating, especially when consuming calorie-dense foods.

Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of diabetes. Aim to achieve and maintain a healthy weight through a combination of a balanced diet and regular physical activity.

Stay physically active: Engage in regular physical activity, such as walking, jogging, swimming, cycling, or any other exercise you enjoy. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week.

Monitor carbohydrate intake: If you have a family history of diabetes or are at risk, consider monitoring your carbohydrate intake. Choose complex carbohydrates and avoid excessive consumption of refined sugars and processed carbohydrates.

Limit alcohol consumption: If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation. Excessive alcohol intake can contribute to weight gain and may increase the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Quit smoking: Smoking is associated with an increased risk of diabetes and various other health issues. If you smoke, seek support to quit.

Manage stress: Chronic stress can affect your hormone levels and blood sugar regulation. Practice stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing, or spending time doing activities you enjoy.

Get regular check-ups: Regular health check-ups can help monitor your blood sugar levels and detect any potential issues early.

Know your family history: If you have a family history of diabetes, it’s essential to be aware of the increased risk and take preventative measures.

Sleep well: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Poor sleep patterns can affect insulin sensitivity and increase the risk of diabetes.

Remember that genetics can play a role in diabetes risk, but lifestyle choices can significantly influence the development of type 2 diabetes. By adopting a healthy lifestyle and making positive changes, you can reduce your risk and improve overall well-being. If you have concerns about your diabetes risk or need personalized advice, consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian.