Diabetes: causes, symptoms, treatment & tips

Diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases worldwide and affects millions of people. There are two main types: Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. As we are currently reporting a lot about weight loss injections such as Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro, here is everything you need to know about the actual task of the pens: diabetes. Find out everything you need to know about the causes, symptoms, treatment options and tips for a healthy life with diabetes.

What is diabetes?

Diabetes, also known as diabetes mellitus, is a metabolic disease in which the blood sugar level is chronically elevated. This occurs either because the body does not produce insulin (type 1 diabetes) or because the insulin cannot be used effectively (type 2 diabetes). Insulin is a hormone that transports sugar from the blood into the cells, where it serves as a source of energy.

Explanatory video: Simple and understandable

Types of diabetes

Let’s start with the 3 types:

• Type 1 diabetes
• Type 2 diabetes
• Gestational diabetes

Type 1 diabetes

An autoimmune disease in which the immune system destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. This form usually occurs in childhood or adolescence. Read more about type 1 diabetes here.

Type 2 diabetes

The most common form in which the body can no longer use insulin properly (insulin resistance). It often occurs in adults, but is also increasingly common in younger people. Read more about type 2 diabetes here.

Gestational diabetes

Occurs during pregnancy and usually disappears after birth, but can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Causes and risk factors

The causes of diabetes depend on the type:

• Type 1 diabetes: genetic predisposition, autoimmune reactions
• Type 2 diabetes: obesity, unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, genetic factors

An unhealthy lifestyle is one of the main factors for type 2 diabetes. Prevention through a healthy diet and regular exercise is therefore crucial.

Symptoms of diabetes

The typical symptoms of diabetes include

• Frequent urge to urinate
• Strong thirst
• Tiredness and weakness
• Unintentional weight loss (especially with type 1 diabetes)
• Slow wound healing
• Visual disturbances

If you notice one or more of these symptoms, you should see a doctor to check your blood sugar.

Treatment options

The treatment of diabetes depends on the type:

Treating type 1 diabetes

Insulin therapy, regular blood sugar monitoring and a balanced diet.

Treating type 2 diabetes

Lifestyle changes, medications such as metformin or GLP-1 receptor agonists and in some cases insulin.

Innovative drugs such as Ozempic or Mounjaro offer additional benefits such as weight reduction.

Tips for a healthy life with diabetes

Here are some tips that can help you live well with diabetes:

• Eat a balanced diet with little sugar and healthy carbohydrates.
• Exercise regularly – just 30 minutes a day can help.
• Check your blood sugar regularly to avoid hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia.
• Talk to your doctor about new treatment options and adjust your plan regularly.

A healthy lifestyle is the key to maintaining a high quality of life despite diabetes.

Diabetes is a serious condition, but with the right treatment and a healthy lifestyle, you can lead an active and fulfilling life. Talk to your doctor to find the best treatment for you and find out about new options such as weight loss injections that can also help.