As diabetes is gaining prominence across the globe, it has raised a very significant question – Is diabetes a genetic disease? While genetics play a role in the development of diabetes, it is not solely a genetic disease. Environmental factors and lifestyle choices also contribute significantly to its onset and progression.
There are three types of diabetes – Type 1 Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes and Gestational Diabetes. Each kind is influenced by various factors. Let’s delve deeper into what are the risk factors for these three types.
Is Diabetes A Genetic Disease? What Causes Diabetes?
There are different factors that can lead to the onset of different types of diabetes. Some of them have been discussed below-
Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 Diabetes is an autoimmune disease. It happens when your own immune system starts attacking your insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Consequently, the pancreas starts producing little or no insulin, which leads to a spike in your blood sugar levels. Both genetic and environmental factors play a role in the onset of this chronic condition.
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Type 2 Diabetes
This type of diabetes happens when your body becomes resistant to insulin or your pancreas fails to produce enough insulin to keep your blood glucose levels within the normal range. The risk factors for Type 2 Diabetes include an inactive lifestyle, unhealthy diet, obesity, and certain medical conditions like metabolic syndrome. Lifestyle changes can often prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes. Is diabetes a genetic disease? Well, not in the case of Type 2 Diabetes.
Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes happens during pregnancy when your body cannot produce enough insulin. It usually happens during the 24th to 28th week of your pregnancy. The exact cause of gestational diabetes is not fully understood, but hormonal changes and metabolic demands during pregnancy play a role. Women who are overweight, older, or have a family history of diabetes are at higher risk. This kind of diabetes usually resolves after childbirth but it can increase the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes for the mother and the baby, later in their life.
How Can You Control Type 1, Type 2 and Gestational Diabetes?
Type 1 Diabetes – Insulin therapy is essential for people who have Type 1 Diabetes. This usually involves multiple daily injections or the use of an insulin pump to mimic the body’s natural insulin production. Apart from this, one must also follow the right lifestyle practices to keep their blood sugar levels within the desired range. You should also keep a regular check on your sugar levels and make the required changes to your lifestyle.
Also Read – From Genes To Lifestyle : What Causes Diabetes?
Type 2 Diabetes – Type 2 Diabetes is mainly influenced by lifestyle factors. If you wish to keep your sugar levels under control, you need to follow a diet which is high in fibre and has less carbohydrates. You should also exercise regularly and make sure that your stress levels are under control. Monitor your sugar levels on a regular basis so you can track your progress and make adjustments to your treatment plans.
Gestational Diabetes – In some cases, insulin therapy or oral medication is necessary to manage your glucose levels during pregnancy. You should also visit your doctor or healthcare provider on a regular basis to keep track of your overall health. Women who develop gestational diabetes should continue to monitor their blood sugar levels after childbirth and undergo postpartum screening for diabetes.
Conclusion
So, is diabetes a genetic disease? The answer is no. While the specific causes differ between the types of diabetes, all involve a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors. Additionally, lifestyle choices such as diet, exercise, and weight management play a significant role in the development and management of type 2 diabetes.
Irrespective of the type of diabetes that a person has, the importance of regular monitoring cannot be emphasized enough. It is a cornerstone of effective diabetes management, empowering individuals to lead healthier and more fulfilling lives. By monitoring your blood glucose levels consistently, you can detect trends, prevent complications, and make informed decisions that will have a lasting positive impact on your well-being. Embrace the power of your glucometer, take charge of your health.
Also Read – What Is The Normal Range Of Fasting Blood Sugar Level?
Disclaimer – The content of this article is compiled information from generic and public sources. It is in no way a substitute, suggestion, or advice, for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. The BeatO App does not claim responsibility for this information.
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