Diabetes is a condition wherein the body’s ability to produce or use insulin is affected. Insulin is an important element that helps the body to utilize blood sugar for the production of energy. Diabetes, here, causes the blood sugar level to rise to atypical levels which in turn causes severe damage to the circulatory and nervous system of the body. Diagnosing diabetes with a simple diabetes test, at the earliest, can defer the chances of an individual suffering from many chronic diseases and even heart attacks.
Who Should Take a Diabetes Test?
Diabetes is known to showcase no signs and symptoms in its early phase. However, some people may experience the below mentioned symptoms which call for the need to get a diabetes test done.
• Extreme thirst
• Sudden weight loss
• Persistence fatigue feeling
• Feeling hungry all the time
• Difficulty in seeing or focusing
• Urinating more than usual
How to get tested?
Typically, there are three methods to get tested against diabetes. These include:-
Testing using a blood sample – A blood diabetes test allows a physician to evaluate the level of blood sugar present in the body. There further are four types of blood tests, one of which may be suggested for checking the prevalence of diabetic condition. These are:-
• A1C Test
• Random Blood Sugar Test
• Fasting Blood Sugar Test
• Oral Glucose Tolerance Test
Testing using a urine sample – This often is not used by the physicians to diagnose diabetes. However, it may be recommended to those who showcase the signs of having Type 1 diabetes.
Gestation Diabetes Test – Gestational diabetes is common amid pregnant women. They may be suggested a gestation diabetes test in two cases – either they have a family history or had it in the past, or in the second trimester when the chances of blood sugar level fluctuating is high.
How to Control Diabetes?
In addition to the availability of a plethora of medications, there are few foods that widely help in controlling blood sugar levels in the body.
Dates – A brown, sticky fruit, date is a rich source of fibre and makes for a perfect diabetes-friendly snack. Many pieces of research have also proven that dates are richer in antioxidants when compared to a serving of oranges, broccoli and peppers.
Milk – As a known fact, milk is one of the best sources of Vitamin D and calcium. A glass of milk is enough to help regulate blood sugar level in the body. One can also opt for other dairy products such as low fat yogurt, cottage cheese, etc. to quell diabetes.
Flaxseeds – These are rich sources of fibre and alpha-linolenic acid. Flaxseeds are known to lower cholesterol and blood sugar, thereby curtailing the chances of one experiencing a heart disease, heart attack or other cardiovascular conditions.
Sage – Sage has the prowess to boost insulin secretion in the body and curb blood sugar level, especially amid individuals on the edge of getting diabetes. In addition to this, it also aids in proper functionality of the liver and improves the body’s immunity.
Beans – Yet another fibre loaded food, beans is heavy and makes one feel full. It aids in keeping a steady blood sugar and even lowers cholesterol level. Furthermore, beans are known to burn fat as they are rich in calcium.
To conclude, diabetes is a condition that affects the blood sugar level of the body and triggers the on-set of many chronic conditions. The best way to avoid diabetes is to lead a healthy life, eat a balanced diet, exercise properly and get a diabetes test done at regular intervals.
