Diabetes is a chronic health condition that affects how your body converts food into energy. It occurs when blood sugar levels become too high due to problems with insulin production or usage. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and management is key to living a healthy life.

What Is Diabetes?

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder where your body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or can’t use it effectively. This leads to elevated glucose in the blood, which, over time, can cause serious health issues like heart disease, kidney damage, or nerve problems.

There are mainly three types:

• Type 1 Diabetes: The body stops producing insulin.
• Type 2 Diabetes: The body becomes resistant to insulin.
• Gestational Diabetes: Develops during pregnancy.

Common Symptoms of Diabetes

Early identification helps prevent complications. Look out for:

1. Excessive thirst and frequent urination
2. Unexplained weight loss
3. Blurred vision
4. Slow-healing wounds
5. Fatigue and irritability

Normal Blood Sugar Levels

Knowing your glucose range helps in proper monitoring.

• Fasting Blood Sugar: 70–100 mg/dL
• After Eating (Postprandial): Less than 140 mg/dL
• HbA1c: Below 5.7% is normal

Best and Worst Foods for Diabetes

Best Foods:

✅ Whole grains like brown rice and oats

✅ Leafy greens (spinach, kale)

✅ Lean proteins (fish, eggs)

✅ Nuts and seeds

✅ Low-GI fruits (apple, berries)

Foods to Avoid:

🚫 Sugary drinks and processed snacks

🚫 Refined carbs and white bread

🚫 Deep-fried foods

🚫 Sweets and desserts

How to Manage Diabetes at Home

Effective diabetes management involves consistency and discipline:

• Monitor regularly: Check glucose using a glucometer.
• Stay active: 30 minutes of exercise daily.
• Eat balanced meals: Follow a diabetic-friendly diet plan.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water.
• Manage stress: Practice meditation or yoga.

Prevention Tips

Even if you’re at risk, you can delay or prevent diabetes:

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Eat a fiber-rich diet
• Limit sugar intake
• Get regular health checkups

Conclusion

Managing diabetes starts with awareness and lifestyle control. Healthy eating, exercise, and regular monitoring help keep your sugar levels in check.

With proper care, diabetes can be controlled effectively, allowing you to live an active, balanced, and fulfilling life.

Visit our Pranahitha Hospital for expert diabetes care and personalized treatment plans.