Type II Diabetes: Definition, Causes and Prevention

By HelloLife

At one time, type 2 diabetes was referred to as adult onset or non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM). It is a chronic disease that stems from the body's resistance to the effects of insulin, a hormone that is responsible for moving sugar into cells. Type 2 diabetes patients cannot fully produce or process the amount of insulin needed to maintain a healthy glucose level. Currently, type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes and there is no known available cure, but it can possibly be prevented.

Prediabetes

Before a person develops type 2 diabetes, it is common for them to experience high glucose levels. Although the levels are not quite high enough to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes, the condition is called prediabetes. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases estimates that prediabetes can turn into type 2 diabetes within 10 years for many people. Plus, prediabetes has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. Based on information from the American Diabetes Association, 57 million people suffer from prediabetes.

Causes of Type II Diabetes

An exact cause for type 2 diabetes is still unknown. In order to know why type 2 diabetes exists, it helps to study the role of insulin in the human body. The pancreas, located behind the stomach, produces insulin and sends it into the bloodstream. Once it is in the bloodstream, the insulin makes it possible for sugar to enter the cells; simultaneously lowering the amount of sugar in the bloodstream. With the drop in the bloodstream insulin levels, the pancreas adjusts and reduces the secretion of new insulin. Glucose, a sugar and main source of energy for cells of the muscles and other tissues, originates in the liver and from the food eaten. When a person consumes food, it is digested, following by absorption into the bloodstream and to the cells, with insulin's assistance. If no food has been eaten for a certain period of time, the liver will metabolize stored glycogen into glucose. This process does not work correctly in people with type 2 diabetes, and the sugar remains in the bloodstream instead of entering the cells. As a result, the sugar is built up in the bloodstream, and the pancreas is not producing enough insulin.

Prevention

Type 2 diabetes may be prevented or delayed by following a beneficial diet and exercise program. Obesity is a major cause of diabetes, so weight loss is the focus of many prevention plans. If family members have had diabetes in the past, the risk might be increased. Also, it is important to monitor weight gains and maintain a doctor recommended weight range for your age and height. Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains should be part of a healthy diet. Look for foods that are low in fat and calories. Additionally, fiber can help in controlling blood sugar levels. The Mayo Clinic advises that, "for every 1,000 calories you consume, try to have at least 14 grams of fiber." Physical activity is essential for battling weight gain and the diseases associated with excess pounds. Brisk walking, bicycle riding, and swimming are excellent examples of quality exercises that lead to a healthier heart, while boosting your energy and confidence. Try to get 30 minutes of moderate level exercise each day, or split the times up into smaller sessions.

Sources:

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/type-2-diabetes/DS00585

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/type-2-diabetes/DS00585/DSECTION=causes

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/type-2-diabetes/DS00585/DSECTION=prevention

http://brighamandwomens.staywellsolutionsonline.com/Library/Encyclopedia/85,P00356