Being diagnosed with a metabolic disorder can be frightening as it can be both serious and life-threatening. However, the more common metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes, although serious, can be managed to a certain degree with diet and lifestyle changes.
Metabolic disorders can affect anyone, but those with parents who are both carriers of genes associated with certain metabolic diseases, are at higher risk of developing them either in childhood or as adults.
Other metabolic disorders, such as type 2 diabetes, can develop due to poor diet, obesity, and lack of exercise. However, even type 2 diabetes affects certain racial groups more than others for reasons that may also be genetic.
Metabolic disorders are complex and produce a variety of symptoms which can make them hard to diagnose. Metabolic disorders arise when something goes wrong and causes abnormal chemical reactions in the body resulting in the disruption of the body’s metabolism.
Sometimes essential enzymes can be missing that are vital in the breakdown and metabolism of fats and amino acids. This can lead to a build-up of these substances in the body, including in vital organs such as the liver. If this occurs, then the affected organs can malfunction.
To get a diagnosis, symptoms must be present, and if a metabolic disorder is suspected, then lab investigations such as blood tests are the best way forward, especially if enzyme deficiencies and gene inheritance are behind the disorders.
Metabolic disorders can be very serious, especially the rare inherited ones that lead to fats and amino acids not being broken down, stored, or removed properly. With these conditions, some of the symptoms can be controlled, but life expectancy can be shortened considerably.
However, most people’s experiences with metabolic disorders are most likely to be conditions that can be managed with medication and lifestyle changes, such as those associated with diabetes and type 2 diabetes.
Having a healthy diet is good for everyone and even more so for those with health problems such as metabolic disorders. Eating fruits, vegetables, and other food groups that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients can help support the body through illness.
Exercise has numerous health benefits. It not only improves fitness and muscle tone, but it can be helpful in controlling type 2 diabetes and obesity. This does not necessarily involve having to join a gym, either. Even walking can help improve stamina, burn fat, and boost cardiovascular health.
Cigarette smoke introduces numerous toxins into the human body; it also weakens immunity and makes individuals more susceptible to certain illnesses. For those with type 2 diabetes, smoking increases the chances of developing heart disease and high blood pressure. It also further increases the chances of suffering a stroke.
Continuous stress is detrimental to physical health and mental well-being, and it is not easy to control. However, activities such as yoga and meditation can help individuals deal with stress and its effects on the body better.
Good quality sleep of at least eight hours a night, especially unbroken sleep, can help the body repair and destress. Sleep is important for the immune and digestive system. It also boosts mental health as well. Those who get plenty of rest decrease their chances of developing diabetes and increase their chances of staying at a healthy weight.