Glucose, or blood sugar, is the body’s primary source of energy and comes from the food we eat. The hormone insulin, produced by the pancreas, helps move glucose from the bloodstream into the body’s cells so it can be used as energy.

However, there are times when the body doesn’t make enough insulin or doesn’t use it properly. When this happens, glucose builds up in the blood instead of being absorbed into the cells. Over time, consistently high blood sugar levels can lead to health conditions such as diabetes.

 

If diabetes is not managed well, it can lead to serious health complications. Based on information from diabetes.org, here are several complications that may occur:

• Heart disease (cardiovascular problems)

• Kidney damage (diabetic nephropathy)

• Eye disorders (diabetic retinopathy)

• Nerve damage (neuropathy)

• Stroke

• Amputation of the lower limbs

The positive news is that you can prevent these complications by following your doctor's treatment plan and advice. Staying consistent with your medications, monitoring routines, and lifestyle adjustments is key to staying healthy.

 

Living a healthier lifestyle is one of the most effective ways to prevent complications related to diabetes. Here are some essential steps you can take:

 

Managing diabetes requires discipline. You’ll need to stick to a schedule for taking medications or insulin, follow specific dietary rules, and be careful with portion sizes.

It’s also important to monitor your blood sugar regularly, according to your doctor's recommendations. This helps keep your glucose levels within a safe range and prevents sudden spikes or drops.

 

Smoking and drinking alcohol can make diabetes worse and increase your chances of developing other serious problems, such as:

• Poor circulation, which may lead to infections

• Heart disease

• Stroke

• Vision loss

• Nerve issues

• Kidney failure

• Sudden death

Avoiding cigarettes and alcohol can reduce these risks and support overall diabetes control. 

 

High blood pressure and high cholesterol, much like diabetes, can damage your blood vessels. If not managed, these conditions may lead to heart attacks, strokes, or other serious medical emergencies.

For this reason, it’s important to maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels through diet, exercise, and any medications your doctor may prescribe.

 

Physical activity is another powerful tool for managing diabetes. Exercise helps the body use insulin more effectively, which supports stable blood sugar levels.

Health experts suggest engaging in at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week, or around 75 minutes of more intense exercise. This could include walking, swimming, biking, or any other activity that gets your body moving.

 

Gum infections are more common in people with diabetes, so good dental hygiene is important. Be sure to brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste for two minutes at least twice a day, and clean between your teeth with floss or interdental brushes.

 

High blood sugar can reduce circulation and lead to nerve damage in the feet. If unnoticed or untreated, even small wounds can turn into serious infections.

Since diabetes can cause numbness or tingling, you might not feel an injury right away. To protect your feet, follow these steps:

• Wash your feet daily using warm water and mild soap

• Don’t soak your feet for too long, as it can dry out your skin

• Dry your feet thoroughly, especially between the toes

• Apply moisturizing lotion or petroleum jelly to avoid cracking

• Get help right away if your feet become painful, swollen, or red

• Avoid walking barefoot, even inside the house

 

Also, contact a doctor immediately if you notice an open wound that won’t heal. Regular check-ups are crucial so your doctor can track your condition and catch any potential problems early.

 

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