Why ageing and diabetes go hand-in-hand: What you need to know as you age

Type 2 diabetes is particularly common in older adults, often linked to age-related health changes. Studies suggest that while diabetes is a serious condition, it can be prevented or delayed in many cases through lifestyle adjustments (Image: Canva)

Your body undergoes several changes as you grow old. Some of these changes can make diabetes more likely. These include decreased insulin production, reduced muscle mass, and slower metabolism. When they are coupled with lifestyle factors such as reduced physical activity or weight gain, these changes can disrupt the body's ability to manage blood sugar. As you age you are also more likely to experience complications from diabetes, making early detection and management even more important.

The National Institutes on Ageing (NIA) suggests that type 2 diabetes is particularly common in older adults, often linked to age-related health changes. The study notes that while diabetes is a serious condition, it can be prevented or delayed in many cases through lifestyle adjustments.

For those who already have diabetes, careful management of the condition can significantly reduce the risk of complications such as cardiovascular disease, kidney problems, or vision loss.

Also read | Prediabetes symptoms, cure: Regular exercise, healthy diet and metformin help control blood sugar level

Diabetes occurs when the body cannot regulate blood glucose (sugar) levels effectively. Glucose is a primary source of energy, derived from the food we eat, and its absorption into the cells requires insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas. Diabetes comes in four main types. Type 1 is an autoimmune condition where the body destroys insulin-producing cells, often starting in childhood.

Type 2, the most common in adults, occurs when the body doesn't use or produce insulin efficiently. Gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy and raises the risk of type 2 diabetes later. Prediabetes signals increased blood sugar levels, serving as a warning sign for type 2 diabetes

Watch out for these symptoms of diabetesas you age:

Running on empty: Chronic fatigue may occur as cells don’t get enough energy due to insufficient or ineffective insulin.

Hungry for answers: When blood sugar levels are high, the body struggles to regulate energy, causing constant hunger or excessive thirst.

Losing it without trying: Sudden weight loss without trying can indicate the body is burning fat and muscle for energy instead of glucose.

Bathroom breaks galore: High blood sugar levels cause the kidneys to work harder, leading to increased trips to the bathroom, especially at night.

Also read | Protein and steady blood sugar level: Here's how to reduce diabetes and prediabetes risks

Pins and needles alert: Peripheral neuropathy, or nerve damage caused by high blood sugar, can lead to sensations of tingling, numbness, or even pain in extremities.

Blurred vision: High glucose levels can affect the lens of the eye, causing swelling and blurred vision that may fluctuate.

Skin infections and slow healing: Diabetes weakens the immune system and reduces circulation, making infections more common and slowing the healing process for cuts and bruises.

How to delay, prevent, or manage diabetes:

Food for thought: A balanced diet with whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, and fiber helps stabilize blood sugar and supports overall health.

Move it to improve it: Regular physical activity boosts insulin sensitivity, lowers blood sugar, and promotes better cardiovascular health. Aim for 30 minutes most days.

Lighten the load: Losing even 5-10 percent of body weight can significantly lower your risk of type 2 diabetes and improve insulin function.

Check it out: Regular screenings for blood sugar levels, especially if you’re at risk, help detect prediabetes or diabetes early for timely management.

Stick to the prescription: Follow your doctor’s advice on diabetes medications or insulin to maintain steady blood sugar levels and prevent complications.

Also read | Type 2 diabetes mellitus and heart disease: The dangerous connection you need to know, tips to lower risk

Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water helps regulate blood sugar and supports kidney function, which may be strained in diabetes.

Stress less: Chronic stress raises blood sugar levels. Incorporate relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing into your daily routine.

Sleep smart: Poor sleep can disrupt insulin regulation and increase blood sugar. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night.

Quit the habit: Smoking increases the risk of diabetes-related complications, including nerve damage and heart disease. Quitting benefits overall health.

Monitor regularly: Keeping track of your blood sugar levels helps you stay in control and adjust your lifestyle or medication as needed.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.