What Is Diabetes

Diabetes happens when your body cannot utilize insulin in cells to metabolize sugar. This can be a result of the inability to produce adequate insulin levels. This is Type 1 diabetes. The CV risk from this can be mitigated largely by controlling sugar levels in the blood.

Type 2 diabetes is a result of the body being resistant to using insulin. The reason for that is mainly due to oxidative stress. All the conditions we manage including hypertension, triglycerides, nicotine, sleep disorders, periodontal disease, vitamin D deficiency, psychosocial issues, poor diet, lack of exercise, obesity, gut dysbiosis are associated with type 2 diabetes. Therefore, the oxidative stress and inflammation in type 2 diabetics places them at high risk for CV disease.

Types of Diabetes:

  • Type 1: The body makes little or no insulin.
  • Type 2: The body can’t use insulin well.
  • Pre-diabetes: Blood sugar is high but not yet diabetes.

Causes of Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes often starts with insulin resistance. This means your body doesn’t respond well to insulin. Over time, blood sugar builds up. Common causes include:

  • Being overweight
  • Not being active
  • Family history of diabetes
  • Poor diet (too much sugar and processed food)
  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol
Prevent Diabetes BaleDoneen

Symptoms of Diabetes

Many people don’t notice signs at first. Watch for:

  • Feeling very thirsty

  • Urinating often

  • Feeling very hungry

  • Tiredness

  • Blurry vision

  • Cuts that heal slowly

How to Prevent Type 2 Diabetes

You can lower your risk with simple steps:

1. Eat Better

Choose whole foods like:

  • Vegetables
  • Fruits (like berries and apples)
  • Whole grains (like oats and brown rice)
  • Lean proteins (like fish and beans)
  • Healthy fats (like nuts and olive oil)

Avoid sugary drinks and processed snacks.

2. Move More

Aim for 30 minutes of activity most days. Walking, biking, or dancing all count.

3. Lose Extra Weight

Even a small weight loss helps. Losing 5-7% of your weight can make a big difference.

4. Get Enough Sleep

Aim for 7-9 hours each night. Poor sleep can affect blood sugar.

5. Manage Stress

Try deep breathing, meditation, or talking to someone. Stress can raise blood sugar.

Foods That Help Prevent Diabetes

Some foods can help keep blood sugar steady:

  • Leafy greens

  • Berries

  • Whole grains

  • Nuts and seeds

  • Fish rich in omega-3 fats

These foods are high in fiber and antioxidants.

BaleDoneen Can Help

We offer personalized plans to help you prevent diabetes. Our team at BaleDoneen works with you to:

  • Assess your risk and optimal management of all the associated conditions – see above.

  • We also assess genetic tests related to risk of type 2 diabetes. These tests can fine tune dietary advice.

  • Create a healthy eating plan

  • Develop a routine of exercise to improve heart health

  • Monitor your progress

Take the first step towards a healthier future.

Note: People with diabetes who’ve had a heart attack or stroke may benefit from a post-event recovery program to aid in recovery and prevent diabetes future events.

Many of these events may be triggered by an infected tooth. Once the patient is stabilize they should have a thorough oral health checkup including 3D Cone beam imaging of the teeth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can diabetes be prevented?

Can type 2 diabetes be reversed permanently?

What foods help prevent diabetes?

What are the 4 stages of type 2 diabetes?

Take the First Step

We offer personalized plans at BaleDoneen to help you prevent diabetes.