The food, once consumed, gets broken down into glucose. Once the blood sugar goes up, the pancreas release insulin that makes energy out of the blood sugar. In diabetic patients, the body does not produce enough insulin; cells stop responding to it. People with diabetes should be aware of this condition’s aspects to manage it better. This article focuses on the types, causes, signs, remedies, and food plans for diabetics.

Types of diabetes
There are three types of diabetes- type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes (diabetes while pregnant).

• Type 1
  Type 1 is caused when the body attacks itself by mistake and stops making insulin. It is called an autoimmune reaction. This type is typically diagnosed in children, teens, and young adults.
• Type 2
  In type 2 diabetes, the body does use insulin to keep blood sugar normal. It is seen in both adults and children. This type can be prevented through better food habits, lifestyle changes, and exercise.
• Gestational diabetes
  Gestational diabetes develops in pregnant women. The condition may get cured once the baby is born, but the child is more at risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

Causes of diabetes
According to scientists, the causes of type 1 diabetes could be genes and environmental factors like viruses. Type 2 diabetes is caused by several factors including overweight, obesity, and an inactive lifestyle. Certain genes make you more likely to develop this disease. Gestational diabetes develops due to hormonal changes along with genetic and lifestyle factors.

Signs and symptoms of diabetes
It may start with increased hunger, thirst, and urination, followed by fatigue, blurred vision, and numbness in the hands and feet. You may notice sores that take a lot of time to heal. The onset of type 1 diabetes is sudden, typically in a matter of weeks. Type 2 develops slowly over several years. The symptoms may be so mild that you may not notice until later. Many patients with type 2 diabetes have no symptoms. The symptoms might not be prominent to diagnose.

Remedies and treatment of diabetes
One of the foremost things your doctor may tell you is to have a balanced meal plan. Consume smaller portion sizes and fewer calories with modest servings of low-fat dairy, low-fat fish, and meat. Eat less refined grains and sweets. You may be asked to see a nutritionist who can help you plan and balance meals with the right nutrition. Patients are suggested to keep fit and indulge in exercises like aerobics and resistance training. Your healthcare provider may recommend antibiotics and supplements to regulate your diabetes. If blood sugar targets are not met by lifestyle changes, then doctors may suggest insulin therapy as a last resort. Weight-loss surgery for adults may also be recommended.

Foods to eat for diabetes
Eat whole grains like buckwheat, quinoa, millet, and rye as they have a lower glycemic index (GI). The fiber content aids in slowing down digestion, which keeps blood sugar levels in control. Fatty fish such as salmon, sardines, herring, anchovies, and mackerel contain omega-3 fatty acids and protein, making one feel fuller. Eggs have a high content of nutrition and help in improving insulin sensitivity. Eat low-fat yogurt as it is rich in probiotics. A nutritionist may suggest the consumption of chia seeds for their low carbs and fiber content. Include fruits, vegetables, and lean protein in your meals as well.

Foods to avoid for diabetes
Avoid drinking cola, fruit juice, sweetened ice tea, or lemonade, as they contain an excessively high amount of added sugar and carbs. Additionally, these drinks contain fructose, which can lead to insulin resistance, belly fat, and unhealthy metabolic changes. Processed foods like white bread, rice, and pasta contain a high amount of carbs and very little fiber, which slows the absorption of sugar in the bloodstream. Limit the consumption of full-fat dairy products like ice cream, cream cheese, and full-fat cheeses. High-fat meats such as ground beef, bologna, hot dogs, sausage, bacon, and ribs should be avoided.