Summary FAQ on Diabetes

This answer is brought to you by many of the Australian nutrition professionals who regularly contribute to a nutrition email discussion group.

Summary Answer

'Diabetes' is the abbreviated name of a condition whose full name is 'diabetes mellitus'. There are several forms of diabetes, all of which involve a reduced ability of the body to handle blood glucose (the type of sugar transported in the blood). Because the vast majority (more than 90%) of people with diabetes have the form known as 'type 2' diabetes, and its incidence is growing in epidemic proportions, this FAQ addresses mainly type 2 diabetes.

Formerly known as 'adult-onset' and also as 'non insulin dependent diabetes mellitus' (NIDDM), type 2 diabetes is spreading in epidemic proportions in the western world. Its incidence has increased about threefold in Australia in the last 20 years. Regarded as a disease of middle or old age until recently, type 2 diabetes is now being seen increasingly in teenagers and even in some young children. This is almost certainly because obesity is also increasing in epidemic proportions in developed western nations among both adults and children, and being obese is the single greatest risk factor for type 2 diabetes.

Unless diabetes is treated adequately it greatly increases the risk of a range of diseases, including heart disease, blindness, gangrene (leading to the need for limb amputations) and kidney disease. But with proper management, including appropriate alterations to diet and lifestyle as described below, the vast majority of people with diabetes can continue to lead full and satisfying lives.

Some groups of people are at special risk of developing type 2 diabetes, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, Pacific Islanders, people from the Indian subcontinent, people of Chinese origin, and people over the age of 55 (regardless of racial origin). Another risk factor is having a family history of type 2 diabetes. If you have, or suspect that you may have type 2 diabetes, it is essential to see a doctor. Only your doctor (perhaps with nutritional input from a dietitian) can give you the most appropriate advice on medication, diet and lifestyle for your particular circumstances. One major problem is that many people--especially those who have only recently developed diabetes--are unaware of their condition, and so are not receiving the necessary treatment.

Because being obese is strongly predictive of the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, the dietary and lifestyle factors that help prevent, or reduce, the level of obesity also apply to diabetes prevention. These are also the factors that reduce the risk of heart disease--the major health problem associated with having type 2 diabetes. By following the dietary guidelines, lowering body weight (if overweight or obese) and taking part in plenty of moderately physical activity, you can actively reduce your risk of developing diabetes.

Although each person with diabetes needs professional treatment tailored to their unique situation, in general, people with diabetes need to alter their diet and lifestyle to maintain blood glucose within a fairly narrow range (4-8 millimoles per litre); lose some weight (if overweight or obese); reduce blood cholesterol (if elevated); refrain from smoking; and take part in plenty of moderately vigorous physical activity.

For more information see the Detailed Answer to this FAQ.

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[Date Issued: May 2002]

Disclaimer: This material is provided on the basis that it constitutes advice of a general nature only. It is not intended to replace the advice of a physician or a dietitian.