Diabetes Flashcards
What is diabetes?
A metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia due to defective insulin secretion, insulin action, or both.
How is prediabetes defined?
A state where blood glucose levels are elevated but not high enough to be classified as diabetes. Without intervention, it can progress to diabetes.
What are the key differences between type 1 and type 2 diabetes?
Type 1: Autoimmune destruction of pancreatic beta cells leading to little or no insulin secretion.
Type 2: Insulin resistance where cells do not respond to insulin properly, often associated with obesity.
Which type of diabetes is more common?
Type 2 diabetes accounts for 90-95% of cases, while type 1 diabetes accounts for 5-10%.
What 3 diagnostic tests are used for diabetes?
Fasting plasma glucose: Diabetes diagnosed at >7 mmol/L.
Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT): Diabetes diagnosed at >11.1 mmol/L.
A1C (glycated hemoglobin): Diabetes diagnosed at >6.5%.
What happens to blood glucose levels when insulin is impaired?
Glucose remains in circulation, leading to hyperglycemia, increased urine production (polyuria), excessive thirst (polydipsia), and hunger (polyphagia).
What are the metabolic consequences of type 1 diabetes?
Weight loss due to protein and fat breakdown.
Diabetic ketoacidosis due to ketone buildup, leading to blood pH imbalance.
Why does type 2 diabetes often result in weight gain?
Slow glucose uptake leads to persistent hunger (polyphagia), promoting excess caloric intake.
What are 6 major complications of uncontrolled diabetes?
Chronic kidney disease, retinopathy (blindness), nerve damage, amputations, heart disease, stroke.
What are 6 common risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes?
Prediabetes, age, obesity, physical inactivity, family history, certain ethnic backgrounds.
What 4 lifestyle interventions can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes?
Weight management, physical activity, healthy diet, smoking cessation
How do fats influence diabetes risk?
Unsaturated fats (plant-based) are associated with lower risk, while saturated fats (animal-based) may increase risk.
What role do fiber and whole grains play in diabetes prevention?
Higher fiber intake is associated with reduced diabetes risk. It slows glucose absorption, reducing blood sugar spikes
Why are lower glycemic index (GI) foods beneficial for diabetes prevention?
They lead to a slower rise in blood glucose, improving insulin sensitivity.
What 4 dietary factors are associated with increased diabetes risk?
Processed meats, red meat, added sugars, high glycemic index foods.
How does vitamin D potentially reduce diabetes risk?
It may enhance insulin secretion and sensitivity through effects on calcium homeostasis and anti-inflammatory mechanisms.
What is the role of magnesium in insulin signaling?
Magnesium supports insulin receptor activation, promoting glucose uptake.
What are the 4 key dietary strategies for managing type 2 diabetes?
Consistent carbohydrate intake, high fiber intake, whole foods, and reducing processed foods
How does weight loss impact insulin resistance?
Losing weight improves insulin sensitivity and helps regulate blood glucose.
What effect does physical activity have on blood glucose regulation?
Increases insulin sensitivity, aids in weight management, and improves cardiovascular health.
What is the safest approach to alcohol consumption for individuals with diabetes?
Zero consumption is the safest level, as alcohol can interact with medications and affect blood sugar control.
Which 3 dietary patterns are associated with better diabetes prevention?
Mediterranean, DASH, and prudent diets, which emphasize whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes.
Why is meal timing and distribution important for diabetes management?
Consistent carbohydrate intake throughout the day prevents large blood sugar fluctuations.
What are 4 areas of consensus in evidence-based dietary guidelines for diabetes?
Weight management, energy balance, dietary patterns, and avoidance of processed foods.
