Diabetes - Prologue and Rationale

Diabetes mellitus is a nutritional disorder, characterized by an abnormally high level of blood glucose and by the excretion of the excess glucose in the urine. It results from an absolute or relative lack of insulin which leads to abnormalities in carbohydrate metabolism and metabolism of protein and fat. The word diabetes is derived from the Greek word meaning “to siphon, to pass through”, and mellitus comes from the Latin word “honey”. The cases of diabetes are much higher these days as compare to the past. The most commonly used screening tests are the determination of the fasting blood glucose level and the blood glucose level tested two hours after a meal. The normal fasting blood sugar content is 80-120mg.per 100 ml of blood, this can go up to a level of 160 mg. per 100 ml of blood two hours after meals. Anything above these levels can be termed as diabetic levels. It occurs in all age groups but the most common sufferers are obese people in middle or older age.

Types of diabetes

• Type 1 diabetes
• Type 2 diabetes
• Gestational diabetes
• Prediabetes

Type 1 diabetes was previously known as insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) or juvenile onset diabetes. In this type the body stops producing insulin or produce less to regulate the level of blood glucose. In type 2 diabetes the body is not able to use insulin secreted by the pancreas. It was known as non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus or adult onset diabetes. The most sufferers are people of middle and older ages. It can be controlled with diet, exercise and weight loss. Gestational diabetes occurs during the second half of pregnancy and disappears after the delivery. The women suffering from gestational diabetes have higher chances of type 2 diabetes in the later stages of life. Prediabetes is a common condition related to diabetes. In this the level of blood sugar is higher but not to the extent to be considered diabetes. It increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.

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