Obesity, also known as overweight or fatness, is a condition characterized by an excessive accumulation of body fat. Lack of exercise, convenience and unhealthy eating are the main causes of obesity. But there are a number of comorbidities.
The link between obesity and diabetes
Matthew Watt and his team at the University of Melbourne, Australia, found that the fat cells in the bodies of obese patients secrete a newly discovered protein called PEDF. This release into the bloodstream causes muscles and the liver to become insensitive to the hormone insulin. To counteract this, the pancreas produces more insulin than is needed. With the result that it is heavily overloaded. Ultimately, this slows down or even stops the production of insulin in the pancreas, which leads to the development of diabetes.
According to Matthew Watt, patients with diabetes will benefit from the discovery of the protein PEDF. Scientists and researchers can now use these findings to develop new medications for the improved treatment of type 2 diabetes.
Prevention of both conditions
Overweight is defined as a BMI of over 25 kg/m2 and obesity as a BMI of over 30 kg/m2. If this applies to you, you should consult your doctor. Obesity and diabetes are conditions that can very often be avoided with simple preventive measures. A healthy lifestyle with plenty of exercise and a balanced diet are the best ways to prevent obesity and its secondary disease diabetes.
Early preventive measures at a glance
- Weight stabilisation, preferably at your normal weight
- Moderate weight loss for a BMI between 25 and 29.9
- Reduce consumption of foods with high energy density
- Increase consumption of foods with low energy density
- Reduce consumption of fast food
- Reduce alcohol consumption
- Reduce consumption of sugary drinks
- Exercise at least 3 times a week
The symptoms of diabetes
If you suffer from obesity, you should always keep an eye out for sudden symptoms. The first symptoms of diabetes are thirst, tiredness and dryness of the skin and mucous membranes. As the disease progresses, sugar is excreted during urination. In addition, blood sugar levels increase. One sign that only appears later is damaged blood vessels or a damaged organism. Do you suffer from obesity and do some of these symptoms sound familiar? Then you should see your doctor as soon as possible.
Treatment of obesity and diabetes
The treatments of those affected are adapted to their individual needs with the aim of long-term weight control. Over a period of six to twelve months, a weight loss of at least 5% should be achieved for patients with an initial BMI between 25 and 35 kg/m2, and a weight loss of at least 10% for patients with an initial BMI > 35 kg/m2.
The aim of the treatment is also to establish a healthy lifestyle and improve quality of life. Long-lasting. The ability to cooperate, personal responsibility and motivation are the key factors for long-term, successful weight control. To evaluate your individual measures, you should report to your physician.
