Learn about diabetes, explore its symptoms, causes, prevention methods, and effective management options with GoVital by GoRocky.
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Quick Summary
In the Philippines, around 7% of adults—approximately 5 million people—are living with diabetes.
Urbanization, poor diets, and sedentary lifestyles have fueled the rapid rise of this epidemic. Worse, many individuals lack access to early testing and proper care, which can lead to severe complications such as heart disease, kidney failure, and vision loss [1], [2].
When left unmanaged, this condition can escalate into life-altering complications. However, with the right knowledge, tools, and support, you can take charge of your health. GoVital by GoRocky is here to empower you with accessible, affordable, and effective care, so you can manage diabetes confidently and live well.
This isn’t just about addressing diabetes—it’s about reclaiming your health and your future. Let’s explore the steps you can take to make that happen by learning everything there is to know about diabetes and how to live beyond diabetes.
Diabetes is a condition where the body struggles to control blood sugar levels.
This happens when there isn’t enough insulin, the hormone that helps cells use sugar for energy, or when the body doesn’t use insulin effectively.
High blood sugar can harm the heart, kidneys, nerves, and eyes over time, leading to serious health issues like heart disease, kidney damage, and vision loss [3], [4].
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Without insulin, blood sugar levels rise dangerously high. This type is most common in children and young adults and requires daily insulin shots or pumps for management. While the exact cause is unclear, genetics and environmental factors, like infections, may trigger it. [5]
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form and occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or does not produce enough of it. Risk factors include being overweight, poor diet, lack of exercise, and family history.
Unlike type 1, type 2 diabetes often develops gradually and can sometimes be managed through lifestyle changes, such as healthy eating, regular exercise, and weight management. Medications or insulin may also be needed [6].
Prediabetes occurs when blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough for a diabetes diagnosis. It’s a warning sign that your risk of type 2 diabetes is high. Fortunately, prediabetes can often be reversed with healthy habits like eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and losing weight if needed [7].
Gestational diabetes happens during pregnancy when hormonal changes make it harder for the body to use insulin effectively. It typically goes away after delivery but increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.
Women with gestational diabetes should work closely with their healthcare provider to manage blood sugar levels and protect their health and the baby’s [1].
The early symptoms of diabetes can be subtle but are important to recognize. Key indicators include:
Recognizing these early signs is critical for timely intervention and preventing further complications.
As diabetes progresses, the symptoms can become more severe and require immediate attention:
If you experience symptoms like fruity-smelling breath, difficulty breathing, confusion, or severe abdominal pain, this may indicate diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or other serious complications and require urgent medical intervention. [10], [11], [12].
A strong family history significantly increases the likelihood of developing diabetes. For type 1 diabetes, genetic predisposition is linked to specific genes that influence immune responses. Children or siblings of individuals with type 1 diabetes are at a higher risk [3].
In type 2 diabetes, heredity plays an equally important role. The risk escalates if one or more close family members, such as parents or siblings, have the disease. Genetic influence is further exacerbated when combined with shared lifestyle factors, such as diet and activity levels [4], [6].
Lifestyle choices directly affect diabetes risk, particularly for type 2 diabetes. A diet high in processed foods, sugary beverages, and unhealthy fats contributes to weight gain and insulin resistance, which are primary drivers of the condition. On the other hand, a nutrient-rich diet helps maintain stable blood sugar levels [1], [5].
Lack of physical activity compounds these risks by reducing the body’s ability to use insulin efficiently. Regular exercise improves insulin sensitivity, helps with weight control, and lowers diabetes risk, even for individuals with a genetic predisposition [6], [8].
Excess fat, particularly around the abdomen, increases insulin resistance, where cells become less responsive to insulin. This causes glucose to accumulate in the blood, leading to elevated sugar levels. Weight loss, even as little as 5–7% of body weight, dramatically lowers the risk of developing diabetes by improving the body's sensitivity to insulin [5], [7].
Diabetes significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks and strokes. High blood sugar damages blood vessels, contributing to the buildup of plaque in arteries (atherosclerosis), which raises the likelihood of coronary artery disease and stroke. Additional factors such as hypertension and abnormal cholesterol levels further compound this risk [1], [2], [3].
Prolonged high blood sugar can lead to nerve damage (neuropathy), one of the most common complications of diabetes. Symptoms often start as tingling, pain, or numbness in the hands and feet but can progress to more severe issues such as loss of sensation. Diabetic neuropathy increases the risk of ulcers and infections, especially in the feet, which may require amputation in severe cases [4], [5].
Diabetic retinopathy occurs when high blood sugar damages the tiny blood vessels in the retina, leading to vision problems or even blindness. Diabetes also increases the risk of cataracts and glaucoma, making routine eye exams crucial for early detection and prevention [6], [7].
Diabetes is a leading cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Prolonged high blood sugar can impair kidney function, causing protein to leak into the urine (albuminuria), which is an early sign of diabetic nephropathy. If untreated, it may progress to kidney failure, requiring dialysis or a transplant [3], [8].
The psychological burden of managing diabetes can lead to emotional distress, depression, and anxiety. This emotional toll can negatively affect diabetes management, creating a cycle where poor mental health worsens glucose control. Addressing mental health is critical for comprehensive care and improved quality of life [5], [9].
A balanced diet plays a crucial role in preventing diabetes by maintaining stable blood sugar levels and a healthy weight. Include foods rich in fiber, such as whole grains, legumes, and vegetables, as these slow the absorption of glucose.
Protein sources like lean meat, fish, and plant-based options, along with healthy fats from nuts and seeds, also support blood sugar stability. Portion control is equally important, as overeating—even healthy foods—can disrupt glucose levels [10], [11].
Physical activity enhances insulin sensitivity and helps the body use glucose more effectively. For beginners, walking, cycling, or swimming for at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week, is a great start. Strength training can further improve glucose metabolism. Consistency is key, and finding enjoyable activities can increase adherence to an exercise routine [10], [12].
Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most effective ways to lower the risk of type 2 diabetes. Excess abdominal fat contributes to insulin resistance, where cells become less responsive to insulin.
Losing just 5–7% of body weight can significantly reduce the risk of diabetes. Gradual changes, such as reducing calorie intake and incorporating regular physical activity, make long-term weight management sustainable [11], [13].
Regular health screenings are essential for early detection. Blood sugar tests, including fasting glucose and HbA1c levels, help identify prediabetes or diabetes. Screening for blood pressure and cholesterol is equally vital, as these are often co-occurring issues. Proactive monitoring enables timely intervention to prevent complications [14], [15].
Stress and poor sleep can disrupt blood sugar regulation. Chronic stress triggers cortisol release, which raises blood sugar levels. Techniques like meditation, yoga, or mindfulness can help reduce stress. Additionally, adults should aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep per night, as inadequate sleep increases insulin resistance and appetite dysregulation [10], [16].
Managing diabetes effectively involves combining medication, insulin therapy (when needed), lifestyle changes, and consistent monitoring. These elements work together to stabilize blood sugar levels and minimize the risk of complications.
For type 2 diabetes, medications play a crucial role in managing blood sugar levels. Metformin is commonly prescribed as a first-line treatment to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce glucose production in the liver.
Other medications, like GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT2 inhibitors, offer additional benefits such as promoting weight loss or aiding the kidneys in glucose elimination. These medications are tailored to individual needs and may also help reduce cardiovascular risks.
Insulin is essential for managing type 1 diabetes and is often used for type 2 diabetes when other treatments are insufficient.
It can be delivered through injections or insulin pumps, with regimens designed to match individual glucose patterns and lifestyle needs. Insulin types range from short-acting options for meals to long-acting options for maintaining stable levels throughout the day.
Lifestyle modifications form the cornerstone of diabetes management. A balanced diet, emphasizing high-fiber foods like whole grains and vegetables, paired with regular physical activity, can improve insulin sensitivity and overall health.
Weight management is critical, as even small reductions in weight can significantly enhance glucose control. Managing stress through techniques like mindfulness can also positively impact blood sugar levels [1], [12], [13].
Consistent monitoring is critical for understanding how lifestyle choices, medications, and other factors affect blood sugar levels. It provides actionable data to prevent spikes and dips.
Self-Monitoring
Using a glucometer is a convenient and effective way to check blood sugar levels at home:
Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM)
CGM devices provide real-time data on glucose trends throughout the day, offering advanced insights into how blood sugar levels respond to meals, activity, and medications:
HbA1c Testing
HbA1c tests offer a long-term view of blood sugar control by measuring average glucose levels over the past two to three months:
By combining daily monitoring with long-term testing, individuals can maintain tighter control over their blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of complications and improving overall well-being [17], [18].
Managing diabetes doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With GoVital, you get the care and support you need to feel in control of your health. Whether you’re just starting out or need advanced care, we’ve designed three packages tailored to fit your life:
No trips to the clinic, no hassle—your FDA-approved medicines and tests are delivered discreetly to your door, giving you privacy and peace of mind.
We’re here to help you take control of diabetes, not let it control you. Our specialized blood tests—like the Sugar Panel for monitoring blood sugar and the Comprehensive Sugar Panel for catching early complications—give you the information you need to stay ahead.
With affordable pricing, convenient delivery, and 24/7 access to a care team, GoVital ensures managing diabetes fits into your life, not the other way around. Let us help you live well and feel your best every day. Get started with us today!
GoRocky is your trusted partner in health, offering discreet, affordable, and accessible solutions for managing conditions like diabetes, erectile dysfunction, hair loss, and more. With FDA-approved treatments, personalized care plans, and nationwide delivery, we empower you to take control of your well-being with confidence and convenience.
*The information provided on this platform is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
[1] World Health Organization. (2024). Diabetes fact sheet.
[2] Physio-pedia. (2024). Diabetes overview.
[3] Cleveland Clinic. (2024). Diabetes overview.
[4] National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2023). What is diabetes?.
[5] Healthline. (2021). Type 1 diabetes.
[6] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Symptoms of diabetes.
[7] National Center for Biotechnology Information. (2023). Prediabetes.
[8] Diabetes UK. Symptoms of diabetes.
[9] Healthline. (2024). Early symptoms of diabetes.
[10] Mayo Clinic. (2023). Diabetes treatment.
[11] Better Health Channel. (2021). Diabetes and healthy eating.
[12] American Heart Association. (2024). Diabetes and your heart.
[13] Diabetes.org. (2023). Medications for diabetes.
[14] Johns Hopkins Medicine. Prediabetes diet.
[15] PMC. (2013). Diabetes prevention and management.
[16] El Camino Health. (2024). Diet for diabetes prevention.
[17] Diabetes UK. (2024). HbA1c testing.
[18] MSD Manuals. Medications for Diabetes Mellitus Treatment.
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