Diabetes is a common and serious chronic disease that affects millions of people worldwide.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are currently around 422 million people suffering from diabetes, up from 108 million in 1980.
Diabetes occurs when the body cannot produce or effectively use insulin, leading to high levels of sugar (glucose) in the blood.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at diabetes, including its definition, world statistics, risk factors, prevention strategies, and foods to avoid.
Definition of Diabetes
As mentioned, diabetes is a chronic disease that affects the body’s ability to produce or use insulin. Insulin is produced by the pancreas and helps the body to convert glucose from food into energy that is used by the body’s cells.
There are two main types of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2.
Type 1 Diabetes
Also known as insulin-dependent diabetes or juvenile diabetes, occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the beta cells in the pancreas that produce insulin.
As a result, the body is no longer able to produce insulin, and glucose builds up in the bloodstream, leading to high blood sugar levels.
Type 1 diabetes usually starts in childhood or adolescence, and people with the disease require insulin injections to control their blood sugar levels. There is no known way to prevent Type 1 diabetes.
Type 2 Diabetes
Also known as non-insulin-dependent diabetes, occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or is unable to produce enough insulin to meet its energy needs.
This type of diabetes is much more common than Type 1 diabetes and accounts for around 90% of all cases of diabetes.
Type 2 diabetes is often associated with lifestyle factors such as poor diet, lack of physical activity, and obesity. It can usually be managed with lifestyle changes, medication, and sometimes insulin injections.
World Statistics on Diabetes
Diabetes is a major public health issue worldwide, and its prevalence is rapidly increasing. According to the International Diabetes Federation, there were around 463 million adults living with diabetes worldwide in 2019, and this number is projected to increase to 700 million by 2045.
Regionally, the Western Pacific and South-East Asia have the highest prevalence of diabetes, accounting for 60% of all cases.
In these regions, diabetes is often associated with rapid economic growth, urbanization, and changes in lifestyle factors such as diet and physical activity.
In the United States, diabetes affects around 34 million people or approximately 10.5% of the population. Of these, around 90-95% have Type 2 diabetes.
Risk Factors for Diabetes
There are several risk factors associated with diabetes, including:
1. Age
The risk of developing Type 2 diabetes increases with age, particularly after the age of 45.
2. Family history
People with a family history of diabetes are more likely to develop the disease themselves.
3. Obesity
Being overweight or obese is a significant risk factor for Type 2 diabetes, as excess weight can lead to insulin resistance.
4. Physical inactivity
Lack of physical activity can increase the risk of Type 2 diabetes.
5. Poor diet
Eating a diet high in processed foods, saturated and trans fats, and sugar can increase the risk of Type 2 diabetes.
6. Gestational diabetes
Women who develop gestational diabetes during pregnancy are at higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.
Prevention of Diabetes
While Type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented, there are several lifestyle changes that can help prevent Type 2 diabetes, including:
1. Maintaining a healthy weight
Losing weight and maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent diabetes.
2. Eating a healthy diet
Eating a diet low in processed foods, saturated and trans fats, and sugar can help prevent diabetes.
3. Staying physically active
Engaging in regular physical activity can help prevent diabetes.
4. Quitting smoking
Smoking can increase the risk of Type 2 diabetes, so quitting smoking is essential.
5. Monitoring blood sugar levels
People at high risk of developing diabetes, such as those with a family history of the disease, should monitor their blood sugar levels regularly.
Foods to Avoid with Diabetes
People with diabetes should avoid foods that are high in sugar, saturated and trans fats, and processed carbohydrates. Here are some examples of foods to avoid with diabetes:
1. Sugary drinks
Sugary drinks such as soda, energy drinks, and fruit juices can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels.
2. Sweets
Sweets such as candy, cakes, and cookies are high in sugar and should be avoided or consumed in moderation.
3. White bread and pasta
White bread and pasta are highly processed and can cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels.
4. Fried and fatty foods
Fried and fatty foods such as fried chicken, French fries, and fast food should be avoided as they are high in saturated and trans fats.
5. Alcohol
Alcohol can cause a rapid decrease in blood sugar levels and should be consumed in moderation or avoided.
Diabetes is a significant public health issue worldwide, affecting millions of people.
While Type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented, Type 2 diabetes can be prevented in many cases through healthy lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, eating a healthy diet, staying physically active, and quitting smoking.
People with diabetes should also avoid foods that are high in sugar, saturated and trans fats, and processed carbohydrates.
By making these changes, people with diabetes can improve their quality of life and reduce their risk of developing complications associated with the disease.
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