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Health and Wellbeing

Diabetes

There are two main types of diabetes, these are called type 1 and type 2. Once diagnosed, diabetes is a life-long condition and must be managed carefully. Type 1 diabetes is where the body’s immune system destroys the cells that produce insulin. Type 2 diabetes is a progressive illness when the body cannot produce enough insulin or does not react to insulin.

Living with diabetes

Although this is a long-term condition, it is possible to manage and keep the condition under control with a combination of medication and healthy lifestyle habits. If you are diagnosed, you will need to undertake regular blood tests and ensure that you eat healthy food and exercise regularly.

People diagnosed with type 1 diabetes will also require regular insulin injections. These are usually administered daily at home. People with type 2 diabetes usually will need regular tablets.

If you have any concerns, please get in touch with your GP.

Spot the signs of diabetes

  • Feeling very thirsty
  • Urinating frequently, especially at night-time
  • Feeling very tired and sluggish
  • Weight loss and loss of muscle bulk
  • Itching around the genitals, or frequent thrush episodes
  • Slow-healing cuts and wounds
  • Blurred vision

How to reduce the risk and symptoms of diabetes

There are some lifestyle changes that you can take to reduce the risk of developing diabetes – or if you have been diagnosed, reduce any symptoms. These include:

  • Stick to a healthy diet, incorporating all of the food groups.
  • Stay active, with a minimum of 2.5 hours per week or ideally an hour per day.
  • Losing any excess weight in a safe and healthy way.