Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition, whereby the immune system attacks the pancreas (a gland behind the stomach), destroying the cells which are responsible for producing insulin. Type 1 diabetes is life-threatening and people with this condition need to have insulin injections every day.
Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, accounting for around 90% of all cases of adult diabetes in the UK. It was originally also known as adult diabetes because it was mostly seen in adults only. However, now more and more children are being diagnosed with diabetes due to high sugar and refined carbohydrate diets and the increasing rates of childhood overweight and obesity. In type 2 diabetes, the pancreas becomes worn out and stops producing adequate amounts of insulin, or the body’s cells stop responding to insulin. If left unmanaged, type 2 diabetes can eventually turn into type 1 diabetes, where the patient must inject insulin.
Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes is diabetes that occurs during pregnancy and usually disappears post-partum. It is most common in the second half of pregnancy, and if left untreated can cause complications such as pre-eclampsia and premature birth. Having gestational diabetes also means you are at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.
Symptoms of Diabetes include:
– Increased thirst
– Frequent urination, especially at night
– Fatigue
– Weight loss
– Loss of muscle mass
– Recurrent thrush/candida
– Cuts or wounds which heal slowly
– Blurred vision
Support for Diabetes
At Optimal Health we see diet and lifestyle as key to both the prevention and management of type 2 diabetes. We also offer full optimal health support to best manage type 1 diabetes and prevent further autoimmune conditions developing.
How Optimal Health Can Help
If you have any symptoms you are concerned about or have been diagnosed with Diabetes, then we recommend starting with an Initial Health Consultation for new patients. We connect online, listen clearly to your health concerns and priorities, ensure our philosophy meets your needs, and recommend the best starting point for an Optimal Health Treatment Pathway©
