Introduction
Maternal grandfather experienced high blood pressure, which was associated with diabetes and obesity. The mother’s sister recently experienced high blood pressure linked to diabetes. However, the other two siblings, including my mother, have not suffered from any health condition despite being overweight. Paternal grandfather never had any health risks, but his two brothers had stress issues and tobacco use. The stress issue is evident in my father and his two brothers. The only difference is that the two brothers smoke, except my father. Although my sister and I have had no health issues, the sister has shown signs of being overweight. Therefore, diabetes is a possible health condition predominant in the family. The paper evaluates the prevalence of diabetes in our family history to inform lifestyle changes and prevention measures.
Signs, Symptoms, and Preventive Measures of Diabetes
Early signs of diabetes include frequent hunger and fatigue, dry mouth and itchy skin, blurred vision, peeing frequently, and becoming thirsty often (D’Arrigo). People with type 1 diabetes may experience unexpected weight loss, nausea, vomiting, or stomach pains (D’Arrigo). According to D’Arrigo, these symptoms develop within a few days or weeks and can be more severe. Although type diabetes is more prevalent in children, teenagers, or young adults, it can happen at any age.
Type 2 diabetes manifests observable signs after many years of development. It has ties to family history and is the most prevalent kind of diabetes (Mambiya et al. 1). Yeast infections between the fingers and toes, beneath the breast, and in or around the genital organs are the common symptoms of type 2 diabetes (D’Arrigo). It is also characterized by slow-healing cuts or sores, recent weight gain, and pain or numbness in the feet or legs(D’Arrigo). There is no cure for type 2 diabetes, but lifestyle changes can help manage the disease.
Lifestyle modification, such as losing weight, becoming physically active, and eating healthy plant foods, is essential for stopping the onset of type 2 diabetes. Study results have revealed healthy diet pattern coupled with physical activity in people with high genetic risk is effective in diabetes prevention (Rajput et al. 74). Meeting diabetic educators is also great for seeking support and guidance on a healthy lifestyle. For example, awareness of the need to cut sugar and refined carbohydrates, quitting smoking, eating fiber, and drinking plenty of water are good health tips for preventing diabetes.
The Way Forward
The family history of the maternal grandfather indicates high-risk factors for diabetes. Limiting refined carbohydrates and sugar will be the first step toward preventing the disease. Therefore, a small serving of food high in complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains, vegetables, and oatmeal, will be the regular meal. The meals will also contain plenty of fiber to prevent spikes in insulin levels and blood sugar.
My dietary goal is to lose weight and maintain a healthier weight. Therefore, I intend to intentionally remain active by walking, swimming, or lifting weights for 40 minutes four days a week. Other measures will include drinking water, which is essential in controlling blood sugar and insulin levels, instead of beverages. Besides, I will take precautionary measures like seeing a doctor whenever I notice any signs or symptoms of type 2 diabetes.
Conclusion
In summary, the stronger link between diabetes type 2 and family lineage indicates a higher risk of other family members becoming diabetic. Diabetes is generally characterized by hunger and fatigue, dry mouth and itchy skin, blurred vision, peeing frequently, and feeling thirsty often. The plan is to cut sugar and refined carbohydrates from my diet, eat plenty of fiber, and exercise regularly. Other measures will include taking water instead of beverages and seeking help from a doctor at the notice of any signs or symptoms of diabetes.
Works Cited
D’Arrigo, Terri. Early Signs and Symptoms of Diabetes. WebMD, Web.
Mambiya, Michael, et al. “The Play of Genes and Non-genetic Factors on Type 2 Diabetes.” Font. Public Health, vol. 7, 2019, pp. 1-8.
Rajput, Sheeraz, et al. “Diet and Management of Type II Diabetes Mellitus in the United Kingdom: A Narrative Review.” Diabetology, vol. 3, no. 1, 2022, pp. 72-78.