Diabetes (Diabetes Mellitus)

This disorder, (popularly spoken of as “Sugar Diabetes), is caused by an inefficient production of the hormone insulin in the pancreas.

The pancreas is a long, tapered gland which is found behind the stomach, lying across the back. Its broadest part is situated on the right-hand side while the rest extends upwards towards the left.

Its two functions are to secrete digestive juices which break down carbohydrates and proteins as well as nucleic acids and fats. It also secretes hormones knows as insulin and glucagon which regulate the amount of glucose in the blood,

Insulin controls the uptake of glucose by cells

Insulin is a very important hormone which controls the absorbtion of glucose into the cells for energy and also into the liver and fat cells where it is stored until needed.

If adequate insulin is not available, the amount of glucose in the blood becomes abnormally high, causing polynuria (the excessive passing of water) which in turn causes excessive thirst.

The lack of an adequate supply of glucose in the body causes weight loss, constant hunger and tiredness. The body has problems in metabolising (digesting and using) fat while small blood vessels deteriorate at an accelerated rate.

Type 1 Diabetes

Diabetes Type 1, which is insulin dependent, usually appears in young people under 35 and most commonly between the ages of 10 and 16. It develops very quickly.

Insulin production in the pancreas ceases almost completely because the insulin-producing cells have been destroyed, possibly by an immune response to a severe viral infection. If the sufferer is not given insulin injections regularly he or she will lapse into a coma and die.

Type 2 Diabetes

The second type of Diabetes Mellitus, which is non-insulin dependent, is known as Diabetes Type 2. This form usually develops quite gradually and occurs mainly only in those over 40.

Very frequently the sufferers are not aware of their diabetes until a routine medical check reveals it. In this type of diabetes the body is producing insulin, but not adequately to meet the person’s needs. This happens especially in those who are overweight. Sometimes the body is resistant to the insulin being produced by their own body.

In Type 2 Diabetes, insulin injections are not required. The combination of a strict diet, and weight reduction together with oral medication can keep this form of diabetes under control.

Causes of Diabetes >>