Type 2 diabetes

Definition

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the way the body metabolizes glucose, leading to high blood sugar levels. It occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or when the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin. This condition is often linked to obesity and can be influenced by genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors, making nutrition an essential element in its management and prevention.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Type 2 diabetes accounts for about 90-95% of all diabetes cases and is often associated with obesity and a sedentary lifestyle.
2. Dietary interventions can significantly improve glycemic control and may even lead to remission of type 2 diabetes in some individuals.
3. The risk of developing type 2 diabetes increases with age, particularly after the age of 45, but it is increasingly being diagnosed in younger populations due to rising obesity rates.
4. Individuals with type 2 diabetes are at a higher risk for cardiovascular diseases, kidney failure, and neuropathy due to prolonged high blood sugar levels.
5. Lifestyle changes, such as increased physical activity and improved dietary choices, are crucial for managing type 2 diabetes and can reduce dependence on medication.

Review Questions

• How does insulin resistance contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes, and what role does nutrition play in this process?
  • Insulin resistance is a key factor in the onset of type 2 diabetes, as it prevents cells from effectively utilizing glucose for energy, causing elevated blood sugar levels. Poor dietary choices, such as high intake of refined carbohydrates and unhealthy fats, can exacerbate insulin resistance. Nutrition plays a critical role in managing this condition by promoting a balanced diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, which can help improve insulin sensitivity and overall metabolic health.
• Discuss the relationship between obesity and type 2 diabetes, including how weight management strategies can impact disease progression.
  • Obesity is one of the most significant risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes due to its association with insulin resistance. Excess fat, especially visceral fat around the abdomen, releases inflammatory substances that interfere with insulin signaling. Effective weight management strategies, including calorie reduction and increased physical activity, can lead to significant improvements in glycemic control and may even result in remission for some individuals with type 2 diabetes.
• Evaluate the long-term health implications of uncontrolled type 2 diabetes and the importance of nutritional management in preventing these complications.
  • Uncontrolled type 2 diabetes can lead to serious long-term health complications such as cardiovascular disease, nerve damage (neuropathy), kidney disease (nephropathy), and eye problems (retinopathy). These complications arise from prolonged elevated blood sugar levels that damage blood vessels and nerves throughout the body. Nutritional management is crucial in preventing these complications; adhering to a balanced diet that stabilizes blood sugar levels helps mitigate risks associated with chronic hyperglycemia while promoting overall health and well-being.

Related terms

Insulin Resistance: A condition in which cells in the body become less responsive to insulin, leading to elevated blood glucose levels and eventually type 2 diabetes.

Metabolic Syndrome: A cluster of conditions, including obesity, hypertension, and dyslipidemia, that increase the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

Glycemic Index: A measure that ranks foods according to their effect on blood glucose levels, which can help in managing blood sugar for those with type 2 diabetes.