14 November is World Diabetes Day. Diabetes is a long-term (chronic) condition caused by too much glucose, a type of sugar, in the blood. According to the NHS, Type 2 diabetes is far more common than type 1.
World Diabetes Day this year focuses on the importance of knowing your risk of type 2 diabetes to help delay or prevent the condition and highlighting the impact of diabetes-related complications and the importance of having access to the right information and care to ensure timely treatment and management.
About diabetes
Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs due to the inability of the pancreas to synthesise the insulin that the body needs for proper functioning. Insulin is the hormone responsible for controlling the amount of sugar in your blood.
When food is digested and enters your bloodstream, insulin moves glucose out of the blood and into cells, where it’s broken down to produce energy. However, when you have diabetes, your body is unable to break down glucose into energy.
There are no lifestyle changes you can make to lower your risk of type 1 diabetes. However, you can help manage type 2 diabetes through healthy eating, regular exercise and achieving a healthy body weight.
Diabetes and Physical Activity:
Keeping active when you have diabetes is highly recommended. Physical activity can help you manage your diabetes both mentally and physically.
Exercise has been proven to:
– Improve control of insulin levels generated by the body.
– Increase energy.
– Strengthen bones and muscles.
– Reduce the risk of heart disease and even some cancers.
– Improve skills such as strength, endurance, balance and coordination.
– Help keep blood sugar levels stable as it helps insulin do its job better.
– Burn calories so you’ll get closer to your healthier weight.
– Avoid anxiety and stress.
Living with Diabetes
“Five years ago, I found out I had diabetes (then I was 64). I started to lose a lot of weight; I was very thirsty and tired. I ate everything I wanted and kept losing weight, this had never happened to me before, and I thought it was a little suspicious. I went to the doctor, and after some tests, I was diagnosed with diabetes. I was very surprised because I had no history of diabetes in the family. Still, there was no doubt I had diabetes. My sugar levels were at 600 mm, which is barbaric. The doctors immediately started giving me insulin, and in a few days attending the outpatient clinic, they taught me how diabetes works and how to manage my food intake. I learned how to manage carbohydrates, rations, fruits, etc. At first, it’s not easy, but once you come terms with it, and understand it’s nature, with a little discipline, you can manage to live with diabetes.”
Carmen Mars – Curves Tarragona
People with diabetes can live a healthy lifestyle. At CURVES we strive to help you succeed whichever your wellness goal is. We are here for you! If you have diabetes, always consult with your doctor first and explore your options. If you or your health professional have questions about the Curves programme, don’t hesitate to contact your nearest club.
