Type 2 diabetes has become a growing concern worldwide, including in Indonesia. This condition occurs when blood sugar levels remain high due to impaired insulin response or inadequate insulin production.

If left untreated, it can lead to complications such as heart disease, kidney failure, vision problems, and nerve issues. But what actually causes type 2 diabetes? Is it true that a love for sweets is the main cause?

Causes of Type 2 Diabetes

While many people believe that consuming too many sweet foods and drinks is the primary cause of type 2 diabetes, the reality is much more complex. Type 2 diabetes results from a combination of lifestyle, genetic, and health factors, not just sugar consumption.

Here are the main causes:

Unhealthy Lifestyle

The primary trigger for type 2 diabetes is an unhealthy lifestyle, particularly poor eating habits and a lack of physical activity. Consuming excessive refined carbohydrates, saturated fats, and added sugars can lead to weight gain and increase the risk of insulin resistance.

When the body is exposed to high glucose levels for extended periods, the pancreas works overtime to produce insulin. Over time, the cells become less sensitive to insulin, leading to a condition known as insulin resistance.

Lack of physical activity also plays a crucial role. Regular exercise helps muscle cells use glucose for energy, which lowers blood sugar levels. However, a sedentary lifestyle can hinder the body's ability to regulate glucose, exacerbating insulin resistance.

Overweight and Obesity

Excess weight, especially around the abdominal area, significantly increases the risk of type 2 diabetes. Visceral fat, which surrounds internal organs, is particularly harmful. This fat produces hormones and compounds that cause long-term inflammation in the body, contributing to insulin resistance.

Losing weight can improve insulin sensitivity, lowering the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and aiding in the management of the condition.

Genetics and Family History

While lifestyle plays a major role, genetics also affect the risk of type 2 diabetes. If you have a family history of the disease, you are at a higher risk of developing it yourself. Certain genes can impact how the body produces and uses insulin.

Health Conditions and Medication Use

Certain health conditions can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, including high blood pressure, Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), sleep apnea, high cholesterol, and heart disease. Additionally, the long-term use of certain medications, such as corticosteroids, antipsychotics, beta blockers, and some high blood pressure medications, can affect glucose and insulin metabolism.

While there is no cure for type 2 diabetes, lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms and allow for a normal life. Recognizing the signs of type 2 diabetes, such as frequent thirst, urination, fatigue, excessive hunger, slow-healing wounds, dry skin, tingling sensations, and blurred vision, is crucial for early detection and management.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor immediately. You can also take advantage of health consultation services through the Ai Care app, available for download on the App Store or Play Store.

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