15 Jan 2019

A Gaborone based cardiologist, Dr Kiran Bhagat says many people have above the normal range blood sugar levels, but are not aware.

Dr Bhagat said it was important for diabetes to be diagnosed early because it gets progressively worse if left untreated.

He explained that there were two main types of diabetes; being Type 1 and Type 2, pointing out that with Type 1 the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the cells that produce insulin, adding that it could develop quickly over weeks or even days.

Dr Bhagat stated that Type 2 diabetes was more common, revealing that around 90 per cent of adults with diabetes have Type 2.

He further indicated that during pregnancy, some women experience high levels of blood glucose leading to what is known as gestational diabetes.

He said in some instances, sugar levels may not be high enough to be diagnosed as having diabetes, a state known as pre-diabetes, pointing out that if the blood sugar levels are above the normal range, the risk of developing full blown diabetes are increased.

Dr Bhagat said some of the symptoms of diabetes include urinating more frequently than usual, particularly at night, itching around the penis or vagina, frequent episodes of thrush, blurred vision, feeling extremely thirsty and tired.

He said many people have Type 2 diabetes for years without realising because the early symptoms tend to be general.

He explained that the amount of sugar in the blood is controlled by a hormone called insulin, which is produced by the pancreas (a gland behind the stomach).

He further stated that when food is digested and enters the bloodstream, insulin moves glucose out of the blood into cells, where it is broken down to produce energy.

He however pointed out that when one has diabetes the body is unable to break down glucose into energy because there is either not enough insulin to move the glucose, or the insulin produced does not work properly.

Meanwhile, Dr Bhagat also said high blood pressure is common in people with diabetes, adding that ‘people with diabetes are more at risk of developing high blood pressure’.

He said the risks are when one has a family history of hypertension, they have certain lifestyle factors such as those who are overweight, those who eat a lot of salt, those who do not eat much fruit and vegetables, those who do not take much exercise or those who drink a lot of alcohol.

He recommended a diet high in fresh, nutritious foods, including whole grains, fruits, vegetables, avoiding high-sugar foods that provide empty calories, such as sweetened sodas, fried foods and high-sugar desserts.

Dr Bhagat also called on people to refrain from drinking excessive amounts of alcohol and stressed on engaging in exercise, saying walking, aerobics, riding a bike or swimming could make a difference. ENDS