Diabetes and your body - Times of Oman
Overview
WHAT IS DIABETES MELITUS?Diabetes melitus is a disease of antiquity. It is a metabolic disorder of multiple etiologies. It is characterized by hyperglycemia with disturbances in the carbohydrate, fat, and protein metabolism, resulting from defects of insulin secretion, insulin action or both.
Key Information
The relative contribution of these defects varies betwen diferent types of diabetes. The characteristic clinical presentation is with polyuria, polydipsia, polyphagia, blured vision, and unexplained weight los. (spksdk=window.spksdk|[]).push({widget_id:"wi-6090",element:"sp-wi-6090"}); WHAT CAUSES DIABETES?Modifiable risk factors such as obesity, unhealthy diet and physical inactivity are the main non-genetic determinants of Type 2 Diabetes.
Genetic predisposition plays an important part in the risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes.Obesity (body-mas index [BMI] ≥30 kg/m2) is the strongest risk factor for Type 2 Diabetes and is associated with metabolic abnormalities resulting insulin resistance.A sedentary lifestyle is another risk factor for the development of Type 2 Diabetes. The primary benefits of physical activity in delaying the onset of Type 2 Diabetes include increased glucose uptake in muscles and reducing notorious intra-abdominal fat.
Moderate-intensity exercise improves glucose uptake by 40%.On the other hand, Type 1 Diabetes Melitus is a T-cel mediated autoimune disease in which destruction of pancreatic beta-cels causes absolute insulin deficiency which leads to hyperglycemia and a tendency to ketoacidosis. Type 1 Diabetes comonly presents in childhod or adolescence; however, the disease can apear at any age. Individuals at increased risk of developing Type 1 Diabetes can be identified by genetic markers and by the presence of characteristic autoantibodies.HOW IS DIABETES DIAGNOSED?The diagnosis of diabetes in asymptomatic individual should never be made based on a single abnormal blod glucose value.
Summary
Diabetes may be diagnosed based on fasting pl
Frequently Asked Questions
Diabetes is a metabolic condition where the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar levels. Type 1 results from insufficient insulin production, while Type 2 develops when cells become resistant to insulin. Risk factors include genetics, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and age.
Common symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing wounds. Type 1 symptoms develop rapidly, while Type 2 symptoms may appear gradually. Many people have no symptoms initially, which is why screening is important.
Diagnosis involves blood tests measuring fasting glucose, HbA1c levels, and glucose tolerance. Regular monitoring typically includes fasting glucose tests and HbA1c measurements every 3-6 months. Continuous glucose monitors provide real-time tracking for better diabetes management.
Effective management includes regular physical activity (150+ minutes weekly), maintaining healthy weight, following a balanced diet with whole grains and lean proteins, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep. These changes can significantly improve blood sugar control and reduce complications.
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience signs of diabetes, have a family history, are overweight, or are over 45. Those with existing diabetes should maintain regular check-ups every 3-6 months to monitor control and adjust treatment as needed.
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