Diabetes is a condition many of us have heard of, but not everyone realises just how complex it is and how much it can impact the entire body.
According to Diabetes Australia, nearly one in twenty Australians live with diabetes, so understanding the condition is critical.
So, what is diabetes? What are its symptoms and how can you manage it?
Read on to find out more…
What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic medical condition where the body struggles to regulate blood glucose (sugar) levels.
Normally, the hormone insulin helps glucose enter our cells to provide energy, but in diabetes, this process is disrupted either due to the lack of insulin produced by the pancreas, inadequate amount of insulin produced, or the body’ reduced sensitivity to insulin.
Diabetes mellitus, more commonly known as diabetes, is a condition in which the body struggles to manage glucose, or blood sugar levels, effectively. When we eat carbohydrates, our body breaks them down into glucose, which our cells then use for energy. However, to enter cells, glucose needs insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas that acts like a key to open cell doors. In diabetes, however, this system doesn’t function correctly—either because the body doesn’t make insulin, doesn’t make enough, or doesn’t use it effectively.
What are the types of diabetes?
There are three main types of diabetes:
- Type 1: This is an autoimmune condition where the body stops making insulin. This is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Without insulin, glucose builds up in the bloodstream. Symptoms of type 1 often come on suddenly and can be life-threatening if left untreated
- Type 2: The most common form, where the body doesn’t use insulin effectively. By far the most common type, type 2 diabetes often develops gradually as the body becomes resistant to insulin, meaning it doesn’t use insulin effectively. Over time, the pancreas can’t keep up with the body’s demand for insulin, and blood glucose levels rise. Many people with type 2 diabetes may have no symptoms, and it can be years before they’re diagnosed.
- Gestational diabetes: As the same suggests, this is a type of diabetes that affects some women during pregnancy. This type occurs during pregnancy and can affect both the mother’s and baby’s health. Though it usually resolves after birth, it increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.
There is also a stage known as pre-diabetes, where blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not yet in the diabetes range. Without lifestyle changes, pre-diabetes can progress to type 2 diabetes – something which happened to notable Hollywood actor, Tom Hanks – which he shared on a late-night talk show.
How does diabetes affect the body?
When blood glucose levels stay high over time, they begin to damage blood vessels and nerves throughout the body. This damage can lead to complications, impacting your heart and blood vessels (increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke), kidneys (high glucose levels can lead to kidney disease), eyes (diabetic retinopathy can lead to the loss of eyesight), feet (reduced blood flow and nerve damage can lead to movement issues and amputation in severe cases), and mental health – depression and anxiety affects more than 30 per cent of people with diabetes.
What are the symptoms of diabetes?
In type 1 diabetes, symptoms such as extreme thirst, frequent urination, and weight loss can develop quickly. Type 2 diabetes symptoms, however, can be subtle or even nonexistent.
Signs can include fatigue, frequent infections, blurry vision, or wounds that heal slowly. If you experience these symptoms, speak to a healthcare provider for a proper assessment.
How is diabetes diagnosed?
The only way to accurately diagnose diabetes is with a laboratory blood test ordered by your GP.
How can you manage diabetes?
Managing diabetes requires daily attention. But with the right support, you can live a full and healthy life.
The latest guidelines from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) and Diabetes Australia emphasise an approach focused on individualised care.
This may include lifestyle interventions (i.e. weight management, balanced nutrition and increase in physical activity), medications such as GLP-1 receptor agonists (like Ozempic) which can help control blood sugar and support weight loss, and regular monitoring of blood glucose levels is key. Many people use blood glucose monitors, while others may benefit from continuous glucose monitoring systems.
Excitingly, recent studies suggest that with early intervention, some people with type 2 diabetes can achieve remission, where blood glucose levels return to a non-diabetic range without the need for medication. This outcome isn’t possible for everyone, but it’s a hopeful development.
How can diet affect diabetes?
Diet is key in managing diabetes. The focus is on balanced meals with complex carbohydrates like whole grains, which release energy slowly, helping prevent blood sugar spikes. Including lean protein, healthy fats, and fibre-rich vegetables keeps blood sugar stable and supports heart health.
For some meal inspiration check out these diabetes-friendly recipes on Women’s Weekly Food.
Diabetes may be serious, but with informed choices, you can live well. A good diet, regular exercise, and support from healthcare professionals can make all the difference.
If you’re experiencing symptoms like fatigue, frequent thirst, or blurred vision, consider speaking to your doctor to rule out diabetes. Remember, you’re not alone — many people successfully manage diabetes and live full, vibrant lives.
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