Modern Day Causes of Diabetes Mellietus/Sugar
Modern Day Causes of Diabetes Mellietus/Sugar. Diabetes Mellitus, commonly known as diabetes or sugar, is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by high levels of glucose or sugar in the blood due to either the inability of the body to produce insulin or the failure of insulin to work correctly. Diabetes is a complex disease, and its development involves multiple factors such as genetics, lifestyle choices, and environmental factors. In this blog, we will discuss the causes of diabetes mellitus or sugar in detail.
Genetics:
Research suggests that if one or both parents have diabetes, their offspring have a higher risk of developing the condition. Type 1 diabetes, also known as juvenile diabetes, is strongly linked to genetics. In this type of diabetes, the immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, leading to a lack of insulin production. Type 2 diabetes, on the other hand, is influenced by multiple genes, and the interaction between genes and the environment is responsible for its development.
Lifestyle Choices:
Lifestyle choices such as diet and physical activity can also contribute to the development of diabetes or sugar. A diet high in sugar, refined carbohydrates, and unhealthy fats can lead to obesity and insulin resistance, increasing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Lack of physical activity and sedentary behavior are also linked to the development of diabetes. Regular exercise can help the body use insulin more effectively, reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Obesity:
Obesity is a significant risk factor for diabetes or sugar, especially type 2 diabetes. Excess body fat causes insulin resistance, leading to high levels of glucose in the blood. Obesity also increases the risk of other health problems such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke. Losing weight with the help of regular exercise and deit control helps in decreasing the risk of diabetes.
Insulin Resistance:
Insulin resistance is a condition in which insulin is unable to act on body cells and decrease blood glucose level. When the cells become resistant to insulin, glucose cannot enter the cells and remains in the bloodstream, leading to high blood glucose levels. Insulin resistance is a significant risk factor for type 2 diabetes and is often associated with obesity, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.
Environmental Factors:
Environmental factors such as exposure to toxins and viruses can also contribute to the development of diabetes. Certain toxins, such as bisphenol-A (BPA), found in plastics and other products, can disrupt the body's hormonal balance, leading to insulin resistance and diabetes. Viral infections such as the Coxsackie virus and cytomegalovirus (CMV) have also been linked to the development of type 1 diabetes.
Age:
Age is also a risk factor for diabetes. As we age, the body's ability to produce and use insulin declines, increasing the risk of developing diabetes. The risk of type 2 diabetes increases significantly after the age of 45, and the risk continues to rise as we get older.
Gestational Diabetes:
Diabetes that occurs during the pregnancy is called gestational diabetes. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to insulin resistance, causing high blood glucose levels. Gestational diabetes usually resolves after pregnancy, but women who have had gestational diabetes have a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, diabetes mellitus is a complex condition that can have multiple causes. Genetics, lifestyle choices, obesity, insulin resistance, environmental factors, age, and gestational diabetes are all risk factors for diabetes. Understanding the causes of diabetes is essential for prevention and management. A healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, can help reduce the risk of developing diabetes.