Would you like to know more about type 2 diabetes?

This is a condition in which the body can no longer regulate blood sugar levels properly. Normally, insulin ensures that blood sugar levels remain within healthy limits. In type 2 diabetes (DM2), the pancreas often still produces insulin, sometimes even in large quantities. However, due to insulin resistance – a reduced sensitivity to insulin – glucose is not properly absorbed into the cells, which ultimately leads to elevated blood glucose levels.

DM2 develops gradually and is often linked to factors such as unhealthy diet, obesity, stress and lack of exercise. However, heredity also plays a role. Because unstable blood sugar levels are harmful to the body, proper treatment is essential.

Risk of type 2 diabetes

Anyone can type 2 diabetes develop (diabetes). However, you are more likely to develop it if you are over 45 years of age and have one or more of the following conditions:

• You are overweight, especially around the abdomen.
• You have a mother, father, brother or sister with type 2 diabetes.
• You have high blood pressure or high cholesterol.
• You had gestational diabetes during a previous pregnancy.
• You are smoking.
• You have a Hindustani, Turkish, Moroccan or Surinamese background.
• You are taking medicines such as prednisone or antipsychotics, which are known to increase the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Consequences of type 2 diabetes

Diabetes can have consequences throughout the body: complications. These complications mainly arise when blood sugar levels are frequently too high over a long period of time. In addition, high blood pressure and abnormalities in blood lipids, such as elevated cholesterol levels, can contribute to the damage. Most complications are caused by damage to large and small blood vessels, as well as to the nervous system. Possible complications include:

• Sexual problems, such as erectile dysfunction
• Poor visibility
• Kidney problems
• Heart complaints
• Foot problems

Treatment of type 2 diabetes

A healthy lifestyle is essential for type 2 diabetes. By living healthily, your body will function better, and you may need less or even no medication. You have a lot of influence yourself. Living healthily means:

• Healthy eating and drinking
• Getting enough exercise
• Losing weight if you are overweight
• Quitting smoking
• Plenty of relaxation and a good night's sleep

Sometimes a healthy lifestyle is not enough to control blood sugar levels. In that case, there are various types of medication available that lower blood glucose. These medications are often prescribed as tablets and sometimes used in combination.