Diabetes is a condition where the body is unable to automatically regulate blood glucose levels, resulting in too much glucose (a sugar) in the blood.
Glucose comes from foods that contain carbohydrate (starches and sugars); for example, breads and cereals, milk and dairy foods, fruits and some vegetables. Glucose travels in the blood stream to the the muscles and other organs where it is used as fuel.
Excess glucose is detoured to the liver where it is stored for future use. Glucose is the body’s preferred source of energy and our bodies need it to work efficiently, just like a car needs petrol to run.
The blood glucose level is regulated with the help of insulin, a hormone (or chemical messenger) made in the pancreas. Insulin is the key that glucose needs to enter the body’s cells so that it can be used as fuel. Diabetes develops when the pancreas stops producing insulin (Type 1 diabetes) or when the body does not respond properly to insulin (Type 2 diabetes).
Insulin injections are necessary to treat Type 1 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes can usually be controlled in the first instance by regular exercise and diet. Tablets and eventually insulin injections may be needed as the disease progresses.
The normal blood glucose level ranges between 3.5-7.8 mmol/l. Over time, high blood glucose levels may damage blood vessels and nerves.
These complications of diabetes can cause damage to eyes, nerves and kidneys and increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, impotence and foot problems. This damage can happen before an individual knows if they have diabetes if diabetes is undetected for a long time.
Studies have shown that if blood glucose and cholesterol levels, and blood pressure are kept within normal limits, the risk of damage to the body is reduced. Therefore, it is important to know if you have diabetes.
Symptoms of Diabetes include:
- Thirst
- Frequent urination
- Tiredness or lack of energy
- Blurred vision
- Infections (eg. Thrush)
- Weight loss (in type 1 diabetes)
However, the symptoms of diabetes may not appear until blood glucose levels are above approximately 15mmol/l or higher. So, it is common to have diabetes without knowing about it.
In Australia, one adult in twelve has diabetes and the prevalence is increasing. Research has shown that for every person with known diabetes, there is another who has it but has not yet been diagnosed.
There are 3 main types of Diabetes:
- Type 1 Diabetes (previously known as juvenile onset diabetes)
- Type 2 Diabetes (previously known as mature onset diabetes)
- Gestational Diabetes (occurring during pregnancy)
Source: International Diabetes Institute - www.diabetes.com.au
More Information & Fact Sheets
Diabetes Australia website
Diabetes NSW website
ADEA website