your questions about Type 2 diabetes – answered!

Our experts have everything you need to know… How will i be diagnosed? you need to see your GP for a urine and blood test. “type 2 diabetes is diagnosed by detecting persistently high blood levels of glucose and Hba1c, which reflects blood glucose levels over the past three months,” says Dr melanie Wynne-Jones. “If you have borderline results (known as “pre-diabetes”), you should be rechecked annually.”

What happens next?

“you’ll need regular checks on your blood pressure, cholesterol, kidneys (blood/urine tests), feet, eyes and circulation to see whether you need more intensive treatment to prevent complications,” says Dr WynneJones. “If you’re prescribed tablets or (occasionally) insulin, you’ll need to learn the symptoms of dangerously low blood sugar (sweating, hunger, irritability, confusion and/or unconsciousness), and tell the

DVla if you’re a driver. you may be offered weight loss surgery.”

My children are overweight, are they at risk?

With the Health and social Care Information Centre revealing that one in five children in england leave primary school obese, it won’t be long before type 2 diabetes affects more under 18s. “numbers are increasing,” warns Pav. all food or drink high in fat, salt or sugar was banned across all children’s media in summer 2017, but it’s still too early to see if it has made a noticeable effect.

How can i cut my risk?

being a healthy weight is key. Women should keep their waist size below 31.5 inches/80cm. Reduce your intake of high-sugar, starchy foods, >>

especially sugary drinks (including fruit juices and smoothies), confectionery, cakes and biscuits. plus, make sure you get moving – 30 mins five times a week if you can (brisk walking is a great way to start), and 10 mins of standing and stretching for every hour of sitting.

Who’s most likely to be affected? type 2 diabetes is strongly linked to age, genes, diet, obesity and lack of exercise; stress, lack of sleep and even noise levels may also contribute. “people from South asian and afro-Caribbean ethnic groups are more likely to develop it,” says dr Wynne-Jones.

What happens if i ignore symptoms? “diabetes damages small arteries, and can lead to heart attacks, strokes, kidney damage, blindness and limb gangrene/amputation, so careful monitoring and effective lifestyle changes/treatment are vital,” says dr Wynne-Jones.

My doctor wants to put me on Metformin, what is it?

“Metformin is one of the main drugs prescribed to treat type 2 diabetes, especially in overweight patients,” says dr Sarah brewer. “it helps to lower blood glucose levels and, while most people tolerate Metformin well, it can cause side effects. doses are often gradually increased to help avoid taste disturbances, nausea, diarrhoea, loss of appetite or abdominal pain. if these occur, they tend to improve after a day or two, but tell your doctor.”

Can natural cures work?

“before prescribing any medicines for type 2 diabetes, your doctor may suggest you try natural approaches, such as improving your lifestyle,” says dr brewer. “during this phase, your Gp may be willing to support you taking ayurvedic herbal medicines (including bitter melon, fenugreek, amla fruit, gymnema and turmeric), which can improve insulin release in the pancreas, reduce insulin resistance and suppress cravings.”