what causes diabetes type 2

ByHawya

Before delving into diabetes, let me share a personal story. A friend of mine recently felt persistently unwell. After a hospital check-up, he was diagnosed with diabetes, which came as a shock to us all. Since then, I’ve taken a keen interest in understanding this condition, and today I’d like to discuss it with you.

Fundamentals of Type 2 Diabetes

  • How does Type 2 diabetes begin?
    Primarily driven by obesity and physical inactivity, Type 2 diabetes also has genetic risk factors. It’s remarkably common, accounting for about 90% of all diabetes cases, with the remaining 10% comprising Type 1 and gestational diabetes. My friend, who was sedentary and favoured high-calorie foods, gradually gained weight and developed the condition. His experience serves as a wake-up call about lifestyle choices.
  • What are the main causes?
    Two key mechanisms are involved, as explained by his doctor. First, cells in muscles, fat, and the liver become insulin resistant – meaning they struggle to absorb sugar efficiently. Think of insulin as a key and cells as locked rooms; when the key no longer fits, sugar can’t enter. Second, the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
  • What are the key risk factors?
    Multiple factors contribute. My friend, being inactive and overweight with significant abdominal fat, was at high risk. Doctors emphasise unhealthy waist circumference (relative to gender and ethnicity), and excess fat around the liver/pancreas – which can occur even in those with normal weight.

Warning Signs and Prevention

  • 10 key warning signs of diabetes:
    • Frequent urination (e.g., my friend waking multiple times nightly)
    • Excessive thirst (constant drinking without relief)
    • Persistent hunger (feeling hungry soon after eating)
    • Extreme fatigue (constant tiredness affecting daily tasks)
    • Blurred vision (mistaken for eye strain)
    • Slow-healing wounds or bruises (delayed recovery)
    • Unexplained weight loss (common in Type 1)
    • Tingling, pain, or numbness in hands/feet (a sign he ignored in Type 2)
  • Preventing Type 2 diabetes:
    • Lose excess weight (crucial for risk reduction)
    • Exercise regularly (I now incorporate daily runs or skipping)
    • Eat healthy plant-based foods (I prioritise vegetables at every meal)
    • Choose healthy fats (e.g., olive oil over saturated fats)
    • Avoid fad diets; adopt sustainable, healthy eating patterns
  • Diabetes-preventative plate composition:
    • 50% Non-starchy vegetables (e.g., leafy greens – I fill half my plate)
    • 25% Healthy carbohydrates (whole grains like brown rice, farro, quinoa – I’ve swapped white rice)
    • 25% Lean protein (chicken, turkey, fish, tofu – steamed or grilled, not fried)

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is Type 2 diabetes curable?
    While not currently curable, recent research shows some patients achieve complete remission (non-diabetic blood sugar levels) or partial remission (pre-diabetic levels) through significant lifestyle changes. My friend found hope in this and is actively managing his condition.
  • How do I know if I’m developing diabetes?
    Watch for symptoms like frequent urination (especially at night), excessive thirst, unusual fatigue, or unexplained weight loss. Seek medical advice if these occur.
  • How much water should diabetics drink daily?
    Aim for 1.6 litres (~6.5 cups) for women and 2 litres (~8.5 cups) for men. Hydration is critical to prevent dehydration. My friend strictly follows this and feels noticeably better.
  • What causes diabetes fundamentally?
    Type 1 diabetes results from the immune system destroying insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas, triggered by genetic and environmental factors. A neighbour’s child developed it after a severe infection.
  • Can healthy people get Type 2 diabetes?
    Yes. Factors like prenatal nutrition or subtle unhealthy habits can contribute, regardless of weight or apparent health. A seemingly healthy colleague’s diagnosis was a stark reminder not to become complacent.
  • Can you live long with Type 2 diabetes?
    Yes. With good management to minimise complications, life expectancy can match those without diabetes. My friend is determined to achieve this.
  • What should diabetics drink first thing?
    Start the day with a glass of water. I do this daily and feel more energised.
  • What foods should Type 2 diabetics avoid?
    Limit high-fat dairy, animal proteins (butter, beef, sausages, bacon), coconut/palm kernel oils, and completely avoid trans fats (found in processed snacks, baked goods, shortening, stick margarine). My friend avoids these rigorously.
  • Are eggs good for diabetics?
    Yes. Protein-rich eggs (only 80 calories each) help regulate blood sugar and provide essential nutrients. I eat one daily.
  • How much exercise prevents diabetes?
    Endocrinologist Dr. Tim Graham recommends 150 minutes per week for those with pre-diabetes (like me). I now schedule regular exercise.
  • How to flush sugar quickly?
    Drink plenty of water. As Khan explains: “Water helps kidneys filter excess sugar via urine. Better hydration = more urine = more sugar flushed.” I choose water over sugary drinks.
  • Can Type 2 diabetes disappear?
    While not cured, reversal/remission is possible through diet changes and weight loss, potentially eliminating medication need. However, it requires lifelong vigilance. My friend is striving for this.
  • Which country has the most diabetics?
    According to the US NIH, China leads globally with ~140.9 million diabetics (aged 20-79). India ranks second (~74.2 million), highlighting diabetes as a worldwide crisis.
  • Medication for Type 2 diabetes:
    Trulicity (dulaglutide) is a once-weekly injectable prescribed with diet/exercise for Type 2 diabetics aged 10+. It improves blood sugar and reduces major cardiovascular events (heart attack, stroke, death) in adults. My friend uses it alongside lifestyle changes with good results.

Summary Lists

Diabetes Warning Signs

  • Frequent urination
  • Excessive thirst
  • Persistent hunger
  • Extreme fatigue
  • Blurred vision
  • Slow-healing wounds/ bruises
  • Unexplained weight loss (Type 1)
  • Tingling/pain/numbness in hands/feet (Type 2)

Preventing Type 2 Diabetes

  • Lose excess weight
  • Exercise regularly
  • Eat healthy plant-based foods
  • Choose healthy fats
  • Adopt sustainable healthy eating, avoid fad diets

Diabetes-Preventative Plate

  • 50% Non-starchy vegetables
  • 25% Healthy carbohydrates (whole grains)
  • 25% Lean protein (non-fried)