Millions of individuals throughout the world suffer from the chronic disease of diabetes. The World Diabetes Federation estimates that 463 million adults in the world with ages 20 to 79 will have diabetes by 2023.That's a staggering number and is expected to rise to 700 million by 2045.

Diabetes is a major risk factor for heart attacks and strokes, as well as a primary cause of blindness, kidney failure, and lower limb amputations. In 2023, diabetes will be responsible for an estimated 4.2 million deaths worldwide, with many of these deaths being preventable through proper management and prevention strategies.


These statistics highlight the urgent need for effective diabetes management and prevention strategies to reduce the burden of this condition on individuals, families, and healthcare systems.

Types Of Diabetes



Type 1 Diabetes:

The immune system targets and kills the cells in the pancreas that make insulin in type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune illness. This results in high blood sugar levels, leading to a range of symptoms, including increased thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss. Type 1 diabetes develops in children and young adults, requiring lifelong insulin therapy to manage blood sugar levels.

Treatment Of Type 1 Diabetes

The main treatment for type 1 diabetes is insulin therapy, which involves injecting insulin to regulate blood sugar levels. Different types of insulin are available, including short-acting, intermediate-acting, and long-acting. Insulin therapy must be carefully monitored and adjusted to ensure that blood sugar levels remain within the target range. In addition to insulin therapy, people with type 1 diabetes may also need to monitor their blood sugar levels regularly, follow a healthy diet, and exercise regularly.

Type 2 Diabetes:

Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough insulin to meet its needs. This can lead to various symptoms, including increased thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision, fatigue, and slow-healing wounds or infections. Type 2 diabetes is typically associated with lifestyle factors such as obesity, physical inactivity, and poor diet. It can often be managed through lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise, medications, and insulin therapy.

Treatment 



Type 2 diabetes treatment varies depending on the severity of the condition. In the early stages, lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise are usually the first line of treatment. A healthy diet low in sugar and refined carbohydrates and high in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins can help manage blood sugar levels.


Regular exercise can also help to improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control. Occasionally, oral medications such as metformin or sulfonylureas may be prescribed to help lower blood sugar levels. For more severe cases, insulin therapy may be necessary.


Gestational Diabetes:

Gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy. It usually goes away after the baby is born. Women who develop gestational diabetes are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life. 

Symptoms of gestational diabetes can include increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and blurred vision. Treatment usually involves diet and exercise modifications, and in some cases, insulin therapy may be necessary.


Treatment 

The treatment for gestational diabetes usually involves lifestyle modifications such as following a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and monitoring blood sugar levels. Insulin therapy may sometimes be necessary to manage blood sugar levels. 

Women with gestational diabetes need to monitor their baby's growth and require more frequent prenatal checkups.

 

Symptoms Of Diabetes



The symptoms vary depending on the type of diabetes and the individual's age, health status, and other factors. Some common symptoms of diabetes include:

  • Increased thirst and hunger
  • Frequent urination
  • Fatigue
  • Blurred vision
  • Slow-healing wounds or infections
  • Tingling or numbness in the hands or feet

Treatments For Diabetes:

The treatment of diabetes depends on the type and severity of the condition. For type 1 diabetes, insulin therapy is the mainstay of treatment. For type 2 diabetes, lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise are usually the first line of treatment, with medications or insulin therapy added as needed. Treatment for gestational diabetes usually involves diet and exercise modifications, with insulin therapy added if necessary.

Prevention Of Diabetes



There are various things you can do to reduce your risk of developing diabetes, including:

  • Maintaining a healthy weight
  • Eating a balanced, healthy diet
  • Getting regular exercise
  • Managing stress
  • Avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption

Dietary Recommendations:

sticking to a healthy diet is an important part of managing diabetes. Some tips for a diabetes-friendly diet include:

  • consuming a range of foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, and healthy fats
  •  fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats
  • Limiting sugar, refined carbohydrates, and saturated and trans fats
  • Monitoring carbohydrate intake and spacing meals evenly throughout the day
  • Staying hydrated with water or other non-sugary beverages

Products Found In Pharma Plus

Diabetone Original 30's



Diabetone is a vitamin and mineral supplement for those who wish to safeguard their daily diet with key vitamins and minerals. It is not a treatment for diabetes or metabolic control but is intended to help maintain overall health and well-being.

  • 21 nutrients, including Chromium which helps to maintain normal blood glucose levels
  • A balanced formula developed by experts
  • Take one tablet per day with your main meal
  • Swallow with water or a cold drink. 
  • Not to be chewed. 
  • Stay within the recommended intake. 
  • Diabetone should not be taken on an empty stomach. 

This comprehensive formula replaces other Diabetone multivitamins.

Diabetone does not contain any drugs or hormones but should be used under the guidance of your pharmacist, physician, or healthcare professional.

  • No preservatives, artificial colors, yeast, or lactose. Gluten-free
  • No added sugar
  • Suitable for vegetarians
  • Diabetes is not tested on animals


Healthaid Chromium Picolinate



Chromium is a trace mineral that contributes to normal macronutrient metabolism and the maintenance of normal blood glucose levels. HealthAid Chromium Picolinate provides a high-potency tablet that is readily absorbable for optimum benefit.

 

What Is Chromium For?

  • It may promote glucose metabolism.
  • May support weight loss programs by reducing sugar cravings
  • It may improve heart health.
  • It may help to build lean muscles.
  • Aid normal growth
  • Support the nervous system.

Recommended Daily Allowance of Chromium Picolinate Tablet:

One pill per day for adults and kids over the age of 12.It can be increased to two tablets if required. Stay within recommended daily intake unless advised by a suitably qualified person.


Food Additive

Dietary supplements shouldn't be used as a substitute for a balanced diet and a healthy way of life. If you have any of the following conditions: epilepsy, thyroid disease, hemochromatosis, food allergies, being under medical supervision, pregnancy, breastfeeding, thyroid condition, hemochromatosis, or if you are allergic to any of the substances, visit your doctor or pharmacist.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Diabetes

Can diabetes be cured?

currently there is no cure for diabetes, but it can be managed with lifestyle modifications, medications, and insulin therapy.

Is diabetes genetic?

There is a genetic component to diabetes, and having a family history of the condition can increase your risk.

Can diabetes be prevented?

While some risk factors for diabetes, such as family history and age, cannot be changed, several lifestyle factors can be modified to reduce the risk of developing diabetes.

 

It is important for individuals to understand the risk factors for diabetes and to take action to prevent or manage the condition. Maintaining a healthy diet, staying physically active, and getting regular medical checkups can help to identify and manage diabetes early. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is also important in managing diabetes, and it is recommended that individuals with diabetes check their blood sugar levels regularly.

Most pharmacies offer free blood sugar testing services to encourage individuals to check their blood sugar levels. In particular, all PharmaPlus outlets offer customers free blood sugar testing services.


This provides a convenient and accessible way for individuals to monitor their blood sugar levels and take control of their diabetes.


We urge everyone to take action in the prevention and management of diabetes. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels, following a healthy lifestyle, and seeking medical care can go a long way in preventing diabetes-related complications. We encourage everyone to take advantage of free blood sugar testing services at PharmaPlus outlets and control their diabetes for a healthier life.