What’s the problem? DIABETES

What is Diabetes? The amount of glucose (sugar) in the blood is too high because the body cannot use it properly. Blood sugar level is controlled by insulin from the pancreas but that may be insufficient (e.g. type 1 ~ from birth) or begin to not work properly (e.g. type 2 – “age related” insulin resistance). Insulin allows glucose to enter blood cells where it provides energy around the body for us to live, work and play. It is vital!!

Characteristics of Types 1 & 2 Type 1 Diabetes Type 2 Diabetes Accounts for ~10% of all adult diabetics. It is treated by daily insulin doses by injection or via an insulin pump. Recommended to follow a healthy diet and take regular physical activity. Type 1 diabetes can develop at any age. Usually appears before age 40, especially in childhood. It is the most common type of diabetes found in childhood. Usually appears in people over the age of 40, It often appears from the age of 25. Increasingly common in children & adolescents. Accounts for 85-95% of people with diabetes. Healthy diet and increased physical activity. Medication and/or insulin are often required. Insufficient insulin (or not working properly) Cells not fully unlocked so blood glucose builds.

Common Symptoms of Diabetes Going to the toilet a lot, especially at night Being really thirsty Feeling more tired than usual Losing weight without trying to Genital itching or thrush Cuts and wounds take longer to heal Blurred vision With any such symptoms contact your GP. It doesn’t mean you have diabetes, but it’s worth checking. Early diagnosis, treatment and good control are vital for good health and to reduce the chances of serious complications.

Carbohydrates – a main energy source, BUT . Important nutrients in a healthy, balanced diet. All carbohydrates break down into glucose. The type and amount affects blood glucose levels and diabetes management. Starchy foods: bread, pasta, potatoes, cereals, couscous. Sugars: naturally occurring and added sugars. The total amount of carbohydrate consumed will have the biggest effect on glucose levels. Wholegrain breads & cereals. Whole fruit rather than juice. An apple with the skin on provides more fibre than a glass of juice. Ring the changes with quinoa and couscous as alternatives to pasta. Important nutrients for good health and are part of a healthy, balanced diet. All carbohydrates break down into glucose. The type and amount consumed can make a difference to blood glucose levels and diabetes management. Starchy foods: bread, pasta, potatoes, cereals, couscous. Sugars: naturally occurring and added sugars. The total amount of carbohydrate consumed will have the biggest effect on glucose levels. Choose wholegrain breads and cereals. Have fruit whole, rather than as a juice. An apple with the skin on provides more fibre than drinking a glass of apple juice. Ring the changes with quinoa and couscous as an alternative to pasta.

Final Messages for you to think on . . . Do take diabetes seriously. It takes you seriously! It is not cured by medication but managed by it if you do what the Doctors and Practice Nurses say. Keep it under review and do not miss appointments. Join Churchfield Surgery’s Diabetes Forum which meets monthly. Contact xxx@yyyyyyyy or phone. Join with others to hear more detailed guidance. Look at Diabetes UK website: www.diabetes.org.uk Don’t forget, your health is also in your hands. This does not illustrate any particular member of Churchfield’s team 