Diabetes

Most people can have diabetes and be completely unaware.The main reason for this is that the symptoms,when seen on their own,seem harmless.However,the earlier diabetes is diagnosed,the greater the chances are that serious complications,which can result from having diabetes,can be avoided.

Common diabetes symptoms

1.      Blurred Vision-This can be caused by tissue being pulled from your eye lenses.This affects your eyes’s ability to focus.With proper treatment,this can be treated.There are severe cases where blindness or prolonged vision problems can occur.

2.      Cuts and bruises don’t heal properly or quickly-When there’s more glucose in your body,its ability to heal can be undermined.

3.      Increased fatigue-If insulin is not working properly,or is not there at all,glucose will not be entering your cells and providing them with energy.This will make you feel tired.

4.      Irritability due to your lack of energy.

5.      Intense hunger-Since insulin in your blood is not working properly,your cells are not getting their energy,your body may react by trying to find more energy through food therefore you will become more hungry.

6.      Weight gain due to intense hunger.

7.      Unusual weight loss especially with type 1 diabetes.

8.      Frequent urination.

9.      Frequent thirst:Urinating more than usual, you will need to replace that lost liquid,therefore drinking more than usual.

Certain foods may help those with diabetes to keep sugar levels under control.

·         Porridge-This is high in soluble fibre.Its slower to digest and hence won’t raise your blood sugar as much or as quickly therefore maintaining a healthy,blood sugar level over time.

·         Broccoli,Spinach and green beans-These foods are high in fibre and low in carbohydrates which make them ideal for diabetics.

·         Strawberries-They’re low in calories and carbohydrates and are high in fibre and water therefore people will feel fuller for longer.

 

·         Salmon and Lean meats-Meats are high in protein and hence don’t affect blood sugar as much as carbohydrates.Meat is also a source of chromium,a mineral that helps enable insulin to function properly and helps to metabolize carbohydrates.

·         Cinnamon is said to be a spice that may have insulin-like effects and help reduce blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.