The symptoms that accompany type 2 diabetes are caused by a dysfunction in the way the body processes glucose, otherwise known blood sugar. If you have type 2 diabetes, the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or the insulin it does produce is not absorbed by the cells. Insulin is responsible for regulating blood sugar levels, which means people with diabetes are prone to high blood sugar levels.
Poor insulin production and unregulated blood sugar levels can unleash a slew of unsettling symptoms.
One of the most serious symptoms is “ketones” in your urine, according to the Mayo Clinic.
If you have ketones in your urine, you should seek emergency medical assistance, warns the health body.
What are ketones?
If your cells don’t get enough glucose, your body burns fat for energy instead. This produces a substance called ketones, which can show up in your blood and urine.
READ MORE: Diabetes type 2 symptoms: The peculiar sensation in your hands to watch out for
How to respond to symptoms
According to the NHS, you should see a GP if you have any of the symptoms of type 2 diabetes or you’re worried you may have a higher risk of getting type 2 diabetes.
“You’ll need a blood test, which you may have to go to your local health centre for if it cannot be done at your GP surgery,” explains the health body.
The earlier diabetes is diagnosed and treatment started, the better.
As the NHS points out, early treatment reduces your risk of other health problems.
The carbs to watch out for are those that rank high on the glycaemic index (GI) – a rating system for foods containing carbohydrates.
The GI shows how quickly each food affects your blood sugar (glucose) level when that food is eaten on its own.
High GI foods include:
- Sugar and sugary foods
- Sugary soft drinks
- White bread
- Potatoes
- White rice.
Physical exercise helps lower your blood sugar level. – you should aim for 2.5 hours of activity a week, adds the NHS.