10/09/2022
Hey how are you all! I hope you are getting empowered by what is posted on this page. Today I would like to discuss one of the non- communicable diseases. Let's talk about diabetes.
Diabetes is defined as a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by sustained elevated blood glucose (hyperglycemia) resulting from defects of insulin secretion, action or both.
Diabetes is an increasing problem throughout the world. It is associated with significant mobidity and decreased life expectancy due to its complications which include; heart diseases, stroke, amputation, blindness and kidney failure. It basically reduces the quality of life especially in people with complications.
The key risk factors for diabetes are;
1. Obesity
2. Physical inactivity
3. Unhealthy diets
Two hormones are responsible for controlling blood glucose levels in the body, insulin and glucagon. When we eat food for instance any carbohydrates/ starch, it is digested and the end result is glucose. The release of insulin into the blood lowers the level of blood glucose by allowing glucose to enter the body cells, where it is metabolised leading to normal blood glucose levels. If blood glucose levels get too low, the pancreas secretes glucagon to stimulate the release of glucose from the liver thus raising the levels of blood glucose to normal.
You realise that the two hormones that is insulin and glucagon have a role in maintaining a normal blood glucose level. The pancreas is responsible for the release of the two hormones. However when this normal body process is affected then the body is unable to maintain normal blood glucose levels.
When the pancreatic islet beta cells are destroyed predominantly by an autoimmune process, or from insulin resistance or insufficient insulin secretion then diabetes sets in.
Keep following for more nutrition education.
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