Diabetes & Gestational Diabetes

Diabetes (Mellitus)
Diabetes is a condition in which the amount of glucose (sugar) in the blood is too high because the body cannot use it properly.

People with Diabetes find that their body does not produce or properly use insulin. (Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas, it is needed to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy needed for daily life)

Insulin acts like a bridge - it carries the sugar (made from the foods we eat) from the blood to the muscles where it is used for energy.

The main symptoms of untreated diabetes are increased thirst, going to the toilet all the time, extreme tiredness, weight loss, genital itching or regular episodes of thrush, and blurred vision.



The Main Types of Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes (insulin dependant diabetes)
Results from the body`s failure to produce insulin, the hormone that "unlocks" the cells of the body, allowing glucose to enter and fuel them. This is usually treated with insulin injections.


Type 2 diabetes (non-insulin dependant diabetes)
Results from insulin resistance (a condition in which the body fails to properly use insulin), combined with relative insulin deficiency. This is usually treated with either tablets or diet control.


Gestational diabetes
Gestational Diabetes can develop during pregnancy in a woman who hasn't previously had the condition. This is called gestational diabetes, which affects four per cent of pregnant women. If it is not properly controlled, it can lead to problems for the mother and her baby.
In the majority of women, gestational diabetes will cause no symptoms. A few women will get symptoms of high blood sugar including increased thirst, increased need to pass water and increase in appetite, although these symptoms are also common in the later stages of pregnancy anyway.



Pre-diabetes
Pre-diabetes is a condition that occurs when a person`s blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not high enough for a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes.


Diet and Diabetes:
The general diet guidelines for people suffering from diabetes are a healthy diet and the whole family can follow it.

The main points are.

• Reduce sugar and sugary foods
• Eat more high-fibre carbohydrates
• Eat less fat and fatty foods
• Eat regular meals containing carbohydrates
• Achieve and maintain an ideal body weight
• Take regular exercise as able

How can an Eatatease Dietitian help?
Whatever type of diabetes you may suffer, Eatatease can offer support and advice to make a real difference. We offer you meal ideas, advice on how to read labels and how to consider meal plans for you and your family.
The e-consultation option allows a comprehensive dietary review to be undertaken by a UK registered Dietitian and a diet schedule can be devised specifically for you. 

Get PERSONALLY tailored diet advice about your diabetes from one of our registered dietitians!