Approximately 28 million people in the United States have type 2 diabetes. It is a chronic disease that affects how the body digests and processes glucose. The disease has no cure but can be managed. Managing the condition can help to prevent or delay the complications that are associated with diabetes.
The pancreas produces a hormone, called insulin, that allows cells to turn glucose into energy. In people with type 2 diabetes, the cells become resistant and no longer respond to the insulin that is being produced. This causes the glucose to build up in the blood stream.
Symptoms
Many people don't experience symptoms until their blood sugar gets too high. These symptoms may include:
Extreme thirst
Urinating more than usual
Irritability
Extreme hunger …show more content…
Treatment
Glucose comes from carbohydrates, such as sugar, bread, pasta, potatoes and rice. When foods high in glucose are consumed and the body doesn't respond to insulin, blood sugar can rise dangerously high and cause complications.
To reduce blood sugar levels, medications and insulin are sometimes prescribed by a doctor. Many people are able to control their blood sugar levels through diet and exercise. Eating a diet that balances carbohydrates with fat, protein and fiber will slow down the rate that the glucose is absorbed by the body and will keep blood sugar levels steady.
Regular exercise can also help to keep blood sugar levels steady. The body uses excess glucose as energy as it exercises and can reduce high blood glucose levels. Regular exercise can also increase insulin sensitivity and help to prevent high blood sugar from occurring in the future. Many studies have shown that both cardiovascular exercises and strength training can be helpful in managing type 2 diabetes.
The pancreas produces a hormone, called insulin, that allows cells to turn glucose into energy. In people with type 2 diabetes, the cells become resistant and no longer respond to the insulin that is being produced. This causes the glucose to build up in the blood stream.
Symptoms
Many people don't experience symptoms until their blood sugar gets too high. These symptoms may include:
Extreme thirst
Urinating more than usual
Irritability
Extreme hunger …show more content…
Treatment
Glucose comes from carbohydrates, such as sugar, bread, pasta, potatoes and rice. When foods high in glucose are consumed and the body doesn't respond to insulin, blood sugar can rise dangerously high and cause complications.
To reduce blood sugar levels, medications and insulin are sometimes prescribed by a doctor. Many people are able to control their blood sugar levels through diet and exercise. Eating a diet that balances carbohydrates with fat, protein and fiber will slow down the rate that the glucose is absorbed by the body and will keep blood sugar levels steady.
Regular exercise can also help to keep blood sugar levels steady. The body uses excess glucose as energy as it exercises and can reduce high blood glucose levels. Regular exercise can also increase insulin sensitivity and help to prevent high blood sugar from occurring in the future. Many studies have shown that both cardiovascular exercises and strength training can be helpful in managing type 2 diabetes.