Diabetes Mellitus - Everything You Need To Know

Have you been feeling an insatiable thirst?

Tiredness? Fatigue? Increased appetite? These symptoms could be a sign that your health is compromised. They are some of the indicators of Diabetes Mellitus. If you identify with these symptoms or simply want to understand more about this disease, keep reading.

This article aims to highlight important aspects of Diabetes Mellitus, its symptoms, how it manifests itself and the path that glucose takes in the body.. 

DIABETES – WHAT IS IT? 

Diabetes is a metabolic disease characterized mainly by increased blood glucose levels (hyperglycemia). Without adequate treatment and glycemic control, diabetes can lead to heart complications, amputations, loss of vision, among other consequences.

THE "4 Ps" OF DIABETES The "4 Ps" of diabetes are classic signs and symptoms that may indicate the presence of the disease. They are: 1. Polyuria: Excessive urination. People with diabetes have high blood glucose levels, and the kidneys work to remove excess glucose by filtering it from the blood into the urine. This results in increased urine production.

2. Polydipsia: Excessive thirst. Due to polyuria, there is a significant loss of fluids in the body, leading to dehydration. To compensate, the person feels constant thirst and drinks more fluids. Polydipsia 3. Polyphagia: Excessive hunger. Despite eating normally, a person with diabetes cannot use glucose efficiently for energy, leading to a constant feeling of hunger.

Perda de peso inexplicável: 

Even with increased eating (due to polyphagia), a person with diabetes may lose weight because the body begins to use fat and muscle for energy as it cannot use glucose properly.

These symptoms are often seen in type 1 diabetes and can also appear in type 2 diabetes.

It is important that anyone experiencing these symptoms consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis.

The path of glucose into a healthy body

• The gastrointestinal tract converts food into nutrients, including glucose.

• Glucose is absorbed through the intestinal walls and enters the bloodstream.

• In the presence of food, hormones such as incretins are released, signaling the pancreas to release insulin.

• Insulin helps transport glucose from the blood to the body's cells.

• The liver stops producing glucose.

• Glucose absorbed by cells is used as an energy source.

The kidneys function normally, and the resulting urine does not contain glucose.

The glucose pathway in the presence of diabetes mellitus

• The gastrointestinal tract converts food into nutrients, including glucose.

• Glucose is absorbed through the intestinal walls and enters the bloodstream.

• In diabetics, incretin production is deficient, making it difficult for the pancreas to signal.

• Furthermore, insulin production is inadequate or insufficient, making it difficult to transport glucose to cells.

• Glucose builds up in the blood (hyperglycemia).

• The pancreas tries to compensate by intensifying its functio.

• As glucose does not reach the cells properly, the liver continues to produce glucose.

• Glucose is not properly absorbed by the cells, and the body does not get the necessary energy.

The kidneys try to eliminate the excess glucose through urine, resulting in frequent urination.

Diabetes - 3 lessons for a happy life

Do you want to learn 3 valuable lessons about Diabetes Mellitus?

Do you want to discover how it is possible to live with diabetes and still be happy? Then you need to read this article.

Being happy even with diabetes? Yes, it’s possible

Diabetic individuals face various restrictions in their lives.

Often, this is due to a lack of information or knowledge of the best care practices.

To change this situation, two points are essential: information and adequate care.

Attention! High glucose

To avoid glycemic spikes (high blood glucose levels), many patients end up drastically changing their lifestyle. This can result in less pleasurable eating and a reduction in physical activity, leading to sedentary behavior and potentially depression.

But who said it has to be this way?

Here are 3 lessons to live well with Diabetes Mellitus:

Lesson 1 – don’t be fooled by radical diets

Obesity worsens diabetes because excess fat impairs insulin action, keeping glucose levels high in the blood.

There are healthy ways to lose weight through changes in eating habits.

• Yo-yo effect: Crash diets are not effective and can cause the yo-yo effect, a cycle of weight gain and loss that causes constant fluctuations in glucose levels.~

• Gradual changes:The ideal approach is a gradual and permanent change in eating habits, ensuring a balanced and nutritious diet.

• Nutritional advice: Consider working with a nutritionist to create a personalized eating plan that is sustainable over the long term.

Lesson 2– Practice regular physical activity

Physical activity offers numerous benefits for diabetics. You know why?

• Glucose Regulation When exercising, muscles absorb more glucose independently of insulin, helping to keep blood sugar levels in control.

• Weight loss Exercise promotes weight loss, which is beneficial for overall health and diabetes control.

Improved Self-Esteem: The Benefits of Regular Physical Activity 

Regular physical activity is widely recognized for its numerous physical health benefits, but its positive impact on mental and emotional health should not be underestimated. 

For many people, especially those facing challenges such as diabetes, physical activity can be a powerful tool for improving self-esteem and promoting emotional well-being.

How Physical Activity Improves Self-Esteem

1. Increases Self-Confidence: As you commit to an exercise routine and see improvements in your physical condition, such as weight loss, strength gains or increased endurance, your self-confidence grows. Feeling stronger and healthier directly contributes to a more positive view of yourself.

2. Release of Endorphins: During physical exercise, the body releases endorphins, also known as "happiness hormones". 

These natural chemicals improve mood, reduce stress, and promote an overall sense of well-being, which positively impacts self-esteem. 

3. Reducing Stress and Anxiety: Regular exercise is an effective way to combat stress and anxiety. Physical activity helps reduce levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, and promotes a state of relaxation. Feeling less stressed and anxious improves mental and emotional health, strengthening self-esteem.

4. Sense of Accomplishment: Completing an exercise session or achieving a specific goal, such as running a certain distance or lifting a certain weight, provides a great sense of accomplishment. This feeling of achievement is a great booster of self-esteem.

5. Improved Body Image: Regular exercise can lead to positive changes in body composition, such as reduced body fat and increased muscle mass. These changes often result in a better perception of one's own image, which is crucial for self-esteem. 

Contribution to Emotional Well-Being

1. Socialization: Participating in group physical activities, such as exercise classes, running clubs, or sports teams, provides opportunities for socialization. Interacting with others and building relationships can reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness, improving emotional well-being.

2. Routine and Structure: Incorporating exercise into your daily routine creates a sense of structure and purpose. Having a regular activity to engage in can provide emotional stability and a sense of order, which is beneficial for mental well-being.

3. Developing Coping Skills: Exercising teaches important coping skills, such as discipline, resilience and persistence. Learning to overcome physical challenges can translate into a greater ability to deal with emotional and mental difficulties. 

4. Increased Energy and Vitality: Regular physical exercise increases energy levels and reduces fatigue. Feeling more energized and vital contributes to a more positive outlook on life and improves emotional well-being.

 Tips for Incorporating Exercise into Your Routine

1. Choose Activities You Enjoy: The best way to ensure that you continue exercising is to choose activities that you really enjoy. Whether it's dancing, walking, swimming or yoga, finding pleasure in physical activity is essential.

2. Set Realistic Goals: Setting achievable goals helps maintain motivation and provides a sense of accomplishment when those goals are achieved.

3. Find an Exercise Partner: Having a friend or family member to exercise with can make physical activity more enjoyable and increase accountability.

4. Vary the Exercises: Alternating between different types of exercises avoids boredom and works different muscle groups, providing more complete physical conditioning.

Regular physical activity is one of the most effective ways to improve self-esteem and promote emotional well-being. Incorporating exercise into your daily routine can transform not only your body, but also your mind and spirit, resulting in a more balanced and happy life.

Sports for Diabetics: The Importance of Variety in Exercise

For those with diabetes, regular physical exercise is a fundamental part of controlling blood sugar levels and maintaining general health. Physical activity helps improve insulin sensitivity, control weight and reduce the risk of complications associated with diabetes.

However, the key to maintaining an effective and enjoyable exercise routine is variety. Incorporating different types of physical activities not only keeps motivation high, but also works different muscle groups, providing more complete physical conditioning.

Walk

Walking is one of the simplest and most accessible forms of exercise. It can be done anywhere and does not require special equipment. Walking regularly helps control blood glucose levels, improves circulation and strengthens leg muscles. Start with short walks and gradually increase the duration and intensity.

Swimming

Swimming is a low-impact activity that is especially beneficial for diabetics who have joint problems or are overweight. In addition to being an excellent cardiovascular exercise, swimming works practically all muscle groups in the body. It also helps improve flexibility and muscle strength without putting excessive stress on your joints.

Cycling

Cycling, whether outdoors or on a stationary bike, is a great form of cardiovascular exercise. Cycling strengthens your leg muscles and improves cardiovascular health. For diabetics, it is an effective way to improve blood circulation and help with weight control. Remember to monitor glucose levels before and after activities to avoid hypoglycemia.

Yoga

Yoga offers a combination of physical and mental benefits. Yoga poses increase flexibility, muscle strength and endurance. Additionally, the breathing and meditation practices associated with yoga help reduce stress.

 which can have a significant impact on blood glucose levels. There are many styles of yoga, from the gentlest to the most intense, allowing each person to find the pace that best suits their needs.

Tips for a Safe and Effective Exercise Routine

• Consult Your Doctor: Before starting any exercise program, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional. He or she can provide specific guidance based on your health status and individual needs.

• Monitor Your Glucose Levels: Check your glucose levels before, during and after exercise to ensure they remain within a safe range.

• Hydrate Adequately: Stay hydrated during physical activities. Dehydration can negatively affect blood glucose levels.

• Wear Appropriate Footwear: Invest in appropriate footwear to avoid foot injuries, which are a common concern for diabetics.

• Listen to Your Body: If you feel dizzy, weak or otherwise uncomfortable, stop the activity immediately and check your glucose levels.

Incorporating a variety of physical exercises into your routine can make doing activities more interesting and motivating. Furthermore, working different muscle groups and body systems contributes to a more balanced and effective overall health in controlling diabetes.

Remember, consistency is key to reaping the benefits of exercise, so choose activities that you enjoy and can do regularly.