As per the recent statistics, there has been a 65% rise in diabetes since the past decade in the UK. Moreover, the number of people living with diabetes has crossed 4 million for the first time ever. Such alarming statistics not only give rise to anxiety in people but also necessitates educating people about diabetes type 2 and its first symptoms. Also, it is estimated that about 6,00,000 people remain undiagnosed increasing the future possibilities of amputation and stroke in them.

What is Diabetes 2?
- Commonly known as adult onset diabetes, it is a metabolic disorder characterised by Hyperglycemia (high levels of glucose circulating in the blood) which results when the insulin produced by pancreas is not utilised sufficiently by the human body thus increasing the concentration of blood glucose levels.

- Increasing inactivity can cause this type of diabetes at any age, especially in young adults with obesity.

- Typical symptoms of Diabetes type - 2: Polydipsia (increased thirst), Polyuria (frequent urination), Polyphagia (increased hunger), unexplained and sudden loss of weight, blurring of vision, fatigue and nausea.

- Undiagnosed/ uncontrolled diabetes can lead to several serious complications like diabetic retinopathy (permanent loss of vision due to damage of the retina), strokes, heart disease, kidney failure and diabetic ketoacidosis (abnormally high production of ketone bodies in absence of insulin).

How can you control it?
Diabetes is progressive disorder which presently does not have a cure, however, with dietary changes and an active lifestyle it can be kept under control. Read on to know more tips that will help you prevent/ live with diabetes:

1. Regular exercise: You shouldn’t be surprised to know why this tops the list. Exercise, mainly a combination aerobic and weight training is known to increase insulin sensitivity and keep diabetes in control. Also, regular exercise can help you shed off those extra pounds and stay in shape! You can support the weight loss process using supplements that aid digestion process. They contain all important nutrients the body needs, essential amino acids and enzymes for easy digestion.

2. Keep a glucose testing kit: Whenever you experience symptoms like numbness in feet or if you want to check glucose after the ‘sweet treat’ party night, a glucose testing kit can help you test the blood sugar level instantly.

3. Avoid Trans fats and processed foods: Processed foods are known to contain ‘hidden sugars’ that add sugar secretly in your blood levels. Also, Trans fats labelled as ‘low fat’ gradually increase cholesterol thus leading to heart risk.

4. Eat homemade food: Restaurants and eating-joints can easily go out of control, since, they tend to have large portions, lots of calories, and high amounts of fat. Moreover, when you prepare your own lunch, you have complete control over the ingredients and your portion sizes. If making your own lunch every day is too much, you might want to try twice a week to start.

5. Check labels: Always check the label and opt for low sugar products. Instead use fresh or frozen ingredients instead of canned goods. Be especially aware of the sugar content of cereals and sugary drinks.

6. Reduce soft drinks, soda and juice: With every 12 oz. serving of a artificially sweetened beverage you drink per day, the risk for diabetes increases by about 15 percent. Try sparkling water with a twist of lemon or lime instead.

Type 2 diabetes can be easily managed with prescription medicine and a healthy change in lifestyle. A combination of the two can help you love a longer life. Try our online consultation service for managing your medicine for diabetes.