Diabetes: Key Notes & Top 25 MCQs for UPSC Exams
Summary table: Diabetes
| Particulars | Description |
|---|---|
| Role of the Pancreas in Diabetes | The pancreas controls insulin production, which regulates blood sugar levels. |
| Main Types of Diabetes | Type 1, Type 2, and gestational diabetes are the primary forms. |
| Causes of Diabetes | Genetics, poor diet, obesity, and inactivity are key causes. |
| Early Signs of Diabetes | Frequent urination, thirst, fatigue, and blurry vision are common signs. |
| Complications of Diabetes | Uncontrolled diabetes can damage the heart, eyes, kidneys, and nerves. |
| Diabetic Tests | Fasting blood sugar, HbA1c, and glucose tolerance tests are used. |
| Common Blood Sugar Levels | Normal fasting: <100 mg/dL; diabetic: >126 mg/dL; prediabetic: 100–125 mg/dL. |
| GI & GL | Glycemic load (GL) offers a better picture than glycemic index (GI). |
| Prevent Diabetes Naturally | Eat healthy, stay active, maintain weight, and manage stress levels. |
| Diabetic Diet | A balanced diet is low in sugar, refined carbs, and processed foods. |
| Diabetes Reversal | Some people reverse Type 2 diabetes through diet and lifestyle changes. |
What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a health problem in which blood sugar levels are high. It is caused by a lack of insulin production in the body or its improper use. It comes in many forms, but all types affect blood glucose levels.
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Uncontrolled blood glucose levels can lead to diabetes, a chronic illness.
When the body's insulin hormone isn't functioning correctly, glucose builds up in the blood rather than getting to the cells.
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High glucose levels in the long term can have serious effects on eyesight, kidneys, the nervous system, and the heart.
What is the Role of the Pancreas in Diabetes?
One of the most vital glands in the body is the pancreas.. It not only releases enzymes necessary for our digestive system but also produces a hormone called insulin. This hormone is directly related to the disease diabetes.
What is the role of the pancreas?
The pancreas works in two ways—releasing digestive enzymes and producing hormones.
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The cells called beta cells in it produce a hormone called insulin.
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Insulin is responsible for moving glucose from the blood to the cells and converting it into energy.
How is the pancreas affected in diabetes?
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In Type 1 diabetes, the body's immune system attacks the beta cells in the pancreas. This stops the production of insulin completely.
Despite the pancreas producing insulin, the body does not use it effectively in those with type 2 diabetes.. This is called insulin resistance.
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A pancreas that has been overworked for a long time eventually weakens, causing a decrease in insulin production.
Pancreatic Cells – Functions
| Pancreatic Cell Type | Function |
|---|---|
| Alpha Cells (α-cells) | Produce glucagon, which raises blood sugar levels. |
| Beta Cells (β-cells) | Produce insulin, which lowers blood sugar levels. |
| Delta Cells (δ-cells) | Secretes somatostatin, which regulates insulin and glucagon. |
| PP Cells (γ-cells) | Produce pancreatic polypeptide, which controls appetite and digestion. |
| Epsilon Cells (ε-cells) | Produce ghrelin, a hormone that stimulates hunger. |
What are the Main Types of Diabetes?
There are different types of diabetes, each with different symptoms and treatment options.
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Type 1 diabetes means the body does not produce enough insulin, and it is most common in young children.
Insulin function decline is the primary cause of type 2 diabetes, which is the most prevalent type.
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Gestational diabetes occurs temporarily in pregnant women but increases the risk of diabetes in the future for the baby.
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Prediabetes means that the sugar level is above normal but has not reached the level of diabetes.
Types of Diabetes & Their Features
| Type of Diabetes | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Type 1 Diabetes | Autoimmune, insulin-dependent; onset in childhood or adolescence; high blood sugar >126 mg/dL fasting. |
| Type 2 Diabetes | Insulin resistance; usually after age 40; linked to lifestyle; gradual onset. |
| Gestational Diabetes | Occurs during pregnancy; often resolves after delivery; may lead to Type 2 later. |
| Prediabetes | Borderline sugar levels (100–125 mg/dL fasting); early warning sign. |
| MODY (Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young) | Genetic; affects teens and young adults; not always insulin-dependent. |
| LADA (Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults) | Slow-developing Type 1 in adults; initially misdiagnosed as Type 2. |
| Neonatal Diabetes | Rare; occurs in infants under 6 months; may be temporary or permanent. |
| Steroid-Induced Diabetes | Caused by long-term use of corticosteroids; reversible if medication stops. |
| Cystic Fibrosis-Related Diabetes (CFRD) | Seen in people with cystic fibrosis; mix of Type 1 and Type 2 traits. |
| Post-Pancreatectomy Diabetes | Occurs after surgical removal of pancreas; insulin-dependent. |
| Wolfram Syndrome | Rare genetic disorder; includes diabetes, vision, and neurological issues. |
What Causes Diabetes to Develop?
Many physical, lifestyle, and genetic factors are responsible for the development of this disease.
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The disease can run in families through heredity.
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Being overweight or obese and not exercising increases the risk of developing diabetes.
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Eating too much processed food and consuming too much sugar also increases the risk.
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Lifestyle problems such as stress and lack of sleep can also lead to this disease.
What are the Early Signs of Diabetes?
In its early stages, diabetes may not exhibit any overt symptoms. However, you might see some significant indicators.
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Frequent urination, especially at night.
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Weight loss may occur despite excessive thirst and hunger.
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You may feel tired, have aches, and be moody.
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Even minor wounds do not heal quickly, and skin infections are common.
What are the Diabetic Complications?
If diabetes is not properly controlled, many health problems may arise. These can become very dangerous.
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Long-term diabetes increases the risk of kidney failure.
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Decreased vision and blurred vision are common.
Heart attacks and strokes are among the problems that diabetes can cause.
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Neurological problems and foot amputations can also be serious.
Which Test Confirms Diagnosis?
Timely testing can help detect diabetes early.
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The fasting blood sugar test can be used to find out the blood sugar level on an empty stomach.
The last three months' blood sugar levels can be evaluated with the HbA1c test..
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The oral glucose tolerance test evaluates how the body processes sugar.
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Along with these tests, urine tests and kidney function tests are also required.
What are the Common Blood Sugar Levels?
Testing blood glucose levels is essential for effective monitoring and management of the health of people with diabetes. These tests are useful in assessing the patient's sugar level, insulin response, and risk of diabetes.
- Fasting Blood Sugar Test (FBS): This test is performed on an empty stomach (without eating for 8 to 12 hours).
- Postprandial Blood Sugar Test (PPBS): This test is performed 2 hours after eating. It assesses how the body processes the sugar in the meal.
- Hemoglobin A1c Test (Glycated Hemoglobin Test): This test evaluates the blood sugar level over the past three months. It is used to understand whether diabetes is stable or not.
- Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): In this test, a blood sample is first taken. Then, after drinking a glucose mixture, the blood glucose levels are monitored for 2 hours.
Glucose Levels by Age Group
| Age Group | Fasting (mg/dL) | Post-meal (mg/dL) & HbA1c (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Children (0–12 yrs) | 70–100 | Post-meal: — HbA1c: <5.7% |
| Teens (13–19 yrs) | 70–100 | Post-meal: — HbA1c: <5.7% |
| Adults (20–59 yrs) | 70–99 | Post-meal: — HbA1c: <5.7% |
| Seniors (60+ yrs) | 80–110 | Post-meal: — HbA1c: <6.5% |
| Prediabetic (All ages) | 100–125 | Post-meal: 140–199 HbA1c: 5.7–6.4% |
| Diabetic (All ages) | ≥126 | Post-meal: ≥200 HbA1c: ≥6.5% |
Which is More Important: GI or GL?
Those who want to control their blood glucose levels, especially diabetic patients, need to understand two important food metrics — Glycemic Index (GI) and Glycemic Load (GL). These are metrics that indicate how food affects our bodies.
- The GI is a figure that shows how rapidly blood sugar is raised by a food.. It ranges from 0 to 100.
- GL has a greater impact than GI. Additionally, it considers the food's carbohydrate content. GL means how much and how effectively the food you eat raises your blood glucose. The calculation is as follows: GL = (GI × grams of carbohydrate) ÷ 100.
- The GI shows how quickly a food releases glucose, and is based only on the type of food. The GL shows how much glucose a food releases, and GL also considers the amount of food. The GL analysis is more practical because it reflects the actual quantity we eat.
Difference Between GI (Glycemic Index) & GL (Glycemic Load)
| Aspect | Glycemic Index (GI) | Glycemic Load (GL) |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Measures how fast a food raises blood sugar. | Measures the actual blood sugar impact based on portion size. |
| Scale | Scale of 0–100 | Low: <10, Medium: 11–19, High: >20 |
| Focus | Speed of carbohydrate absorption | Amount of carbohydrates per serving |
| Usage | Useful for understanding food quality | Better for meal planning and real impact |
| Limitation | Doesn’t consider quantity eaten | More precise, but needs calculation |
| Examples with GI/GL Levels | Watermelon (72), White bread (75), Rice (73), Cornflakes (81), Carrot (71), Banana (51), Potato (85), Pineapple (66), Honey (61), Mango (56) | Watermelon (4), White bread (10), Rice (26), Cornflakes (23), Carrot (6), Banana (13), Potato (17), Pineapple (8), Honey (9), Mango (12) |
How Can You Prevent Diabetes Naturally?
Although diabetes cannot be completely prevented, it can be avoided through a healthy lifestyle.
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Exercising at least 30 minutes a day can improve insulin sensitivity.
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Blood glucose levels can be controlled by consuming foods with a low glycemic index.
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Eating in moderation and eating regularly keeps you healthy.
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Keeping your body weight under control reduces the chances of developing diabetes.
What is Diabetic Diet?
Sugar control is possible by following a diet that is appropriate for the body.
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Completely reduce processed foods and eat a diet rich in fresh vegetables and fiber.
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It is better to eat only fruits with low sugar content.
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By dividing your daily meals into small portions, you can keep your blood glucose levels stable.
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Drinking plenty of water helps detox the body.
Diabetes Reversal—True or False?
Some of the things you hear about diabetes reversal are true, and some are false. Reversal in diabetes (mainly Type 2 Diabetes) does not mean that it is completely cured, but that the blood sugar level can be kept at a normal level without medication.
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This is possible through strict lifestyle control, dietary rules, and weight loss.
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In some cases, glucose levels improve due to the reduction of insulin resistance.
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But this is only possible with timely treatment, and not for everyone.
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Especially in type 1 diabetes, it is impossible to reverse it, because the body stops producing insulin completely.
While "diabetes reversal" is possible in some cases, it is not a "cure"—it is only "bringing it under control". This is true, but not everyone should use it. Therefore, this matter should be clearly understood with the advice of a doctor.
Top 25 MCQs on Diabetes for UPSC Exams
Practice the Top 25 MCQs on Diabetes to strengthen understanding of metabolic disorders, prevention strategies, and public health implications, enhancing exam readiness for UPSC prelims and other competitive examinations.
1. Diabetes Mellitus is primarily characterized by:
a) Low blood pressure
b) Chronic Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar)
c) High cholesterol
d) Low iron levels
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Answer: b) Chronic Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar)
It is a metabolic group of diseases where the body cannot produce enough insulin or use it effectively, leading to excess sugar in the blood.
2. Which organ in the human body produces Insulin?
a) Liver
b) Kidneys
c) Pancreas
d) Stomach
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Answer: c) Pancreas
[Image of pancreas and insulin production]
Specifically, the "Beta cells" in the Islets of Langerhans within the pancreas are responsible for producing and releasing insulin.
3. What is the fundamental difference between Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes?
a) Type 1 is caused by sugar intake
b) Type 1 is autoimmune (no insulin); Type 2 is lifestyle-related (insulin resistance)
c) Type 2 happens only in children
d) Type 1 is curable
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Answer: b) Type 1 is autoimmune (no insulin); Type 2 is lifestyle-related (insulin resistance)
[Image of type 1 vs type 2 diabetes]
In Type 1, the body attacks its own insulin-producing cells. In Type 2, cells stop responding to insulin effectively, often due to obesity.
4. What is the main function of the hormone "Insulin"?
a) To digest protein
b) To allow glucose to enter cells for energy
c) To increase heart rate
d) To break down fat
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Answer: b) To allow glucose to enter cells for energy
Insulin acts like a key, unlocking cells so glucose (sugar) from the blood can enter and be used as fuel.
5. The "HbA1c" test measures:
a) Immediate blood sugar level
b) Average blood sugar level over the past 2-3 months
c) Insulin level
d) Kidney function
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Answer: b) Average blood sugar level over the past 2-3 months
It measures the percentage of hemoglobin coated with sugar (glycated hemoglobin), giving a long-term picture of diabetes control.
6. Which condition is known as "Hypoglycemia"?
a) High blood pressure
b) Dangerously low blood sugar levels
c) High cholesterol
d) High blood sugar
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Answer: b) Dangerously low blood sugar levels
Usually defined as blood sugar below 70 mg/dL. Symptoms include shaking, sweating, confusion, and fainting; it requires immediate sugar intake.
7. "Polydipsia" is a common symptom of undiagnosed diabetes. It refers to:
a) Excessive hunger
b) Excessive thirst
c) Frequent urination
d) Blurred vision
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Answer: b) Excessive thirst
High blood sugar pulls water from cells, leading to dehydration and an intense, unquenchable thirst.
8. "Gestational Diabetes" occurs during:
a) Childhood
b) Old age
c) Pregnancy
d) Puberty
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Answer: c) Pregnancy
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause insulin resistance. It usually resolves after birth but increases the risk of Type 2 diabetes later.
9. Which complication involves damage to the blood vessels in the retina, potentially causing blindness?
a) Diabetic Neuropathy
b) Diabetic Retinopathy
c) Diabetic Nephropathy
d) Glaucoma
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Answer: b) Diabetic Retinopathy
High blood sugar damages the tiny blood vessels in the eye's retina, leading to leakage, swelling, and vision loss.
10. "Insulin Resistance" means:
a) The body makes no insulin
b) Cells do not respond properly to insulin
c) Allergic reaction to insulin
d) High insulin production
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Answer: b) Cells do not respond properly to insulin
[Image of insulin resistance mechanism]
The "locks" on the cells become rusty. Despite insulin knocking, the cells don't open to let glucose in, causing sugar to build up in the blood.
11. Diabetic "Ketoacidosis" (DKA) is a life-threatening condition caused by:
a) Too much insulin
b) Severe lack of insulin leading to ketone buildup
c) Eating too much fruit
d) Drinking water
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Answer: b) Severe lack of insulin leading to ketone buildup
Without insulin, the body burns fat for fuel, producing acidic byproducts called ketones. This turns the blood acidic and is a medical emergency.
12. Which drug is the "First-line medication" typically prescribed for Type 2 Diabetes?
a) Aspirin
b) Metformin
c) Penicillin
d) Paracetamol
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Answer: b) Metformin
Metformin lowers blood sugar by reducing glucose production in the liver and improving the body's sensitivity to insulin.
13. The "Glycemic Index" (GI) measures:
a) Total calories in food
b) How quickly a food raises blood sugar levels
c) Fat content
d) Vitamin content
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Answer: b) How quickly a food raises blood sugar levels
[Image of glycemic index food chart]
Foods with a high GI (like white bread) cause rapid spikes in blood sugar, while low GI foods (like oats) release energy slowly.
14. Why is foot care critical for diabetics?
a) Feet grow faster
b) Nerve damage (Neuropathy) reduces pain sensation, hiding injuries
c) Shoes don't fit
d) It improves balance
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Answer: b) Nerve damage (Neuropathy) reduces pain sensation, hiding injuries
A diabetic might step on a nail and not feel it. Poor blood flow then prevents healing, leading to ulcers and potentially amputation.
15. "Pre-diabetes" means:
a) You definitely have diabetes
b) Blood sugar is higher than normal but not yet high enough for a diabetes diagnosis
c) Low blood sugar
d) Perfect health
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Answer: b) Blood sugar is higher than normal but not yet high enough for a diabetes diagnosis
It is a warning sign. Lifestyle changes like weight loss and exercise can often prevent or delay the progression to Type 2 diabetes.
16. Which nutrient has the biggest impact on blood sugar levels?
a) Protein
b) Carbohydrates
c) Fat
d) Water
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Answer: b) Carbohydrates
Carbs (sugars and starches) are broken down directly into glucose. Managing carb intake is central to diabetic diet planning.
17. "Acanthosis Nigricans" is a skin condition often signaling insulin resistance. It looks like:
a) Red spots
b) Dark, velvety patches in skin folds (neck/armpits)
c) White patches
d) Dry skin
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Answer: b) Dark, velvety patches in skin folds (neck/armpits)
It is a common physical sign of metabolic syndrome and Type 2 diabetes, caused by high insulin levels stimulating skin cell growth.
18. What is the fasting plasma glucose level that indicates diabetes?
a) 90 mg/dL
b) 100 mg/dL
c) 126 mg/dL or higher
d) 110 mg/dL
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Answer: c) 126 mg/dL or higher
A fasting level between 100-125 mg/dL is considered pre-diabetes. 126 mg/dL or above on two separate tests confirms diabetes.
19. "Nephropathy" refers to damage to which organ due to diabetes?
a) Heart
b) Kidneys
c) Brain
d) Lungs
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Answer: b) Kidneys
High blood sugar overworks the kidneys' filtration system, eventually leading to kidney failure requiring dialysis or transplant.
20. Which artificial sweetener is safe for diabetics because it has zero calories and doesn't raise blood sugar?
a) Honey
b) Jaggery
c) Stevia / Aspartame
d) High Fructose Corn Syrup
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Answer: c) Stevia / Aspartame
These non-nutritive sweeteners provide sweetness without the carbohydrate load, helping manage glucose levels.
21. "World Diabetes Day" is observed on:
a) 1st January
b) 14th November
c) 1st May
d) 25th December
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Answer: b) 14th November
It marks the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting, who co-discovered insulin in 1922 along with Charles Best.
22. Why are "Fiber-rich" foods recommended for diabetics?
a) They act as insulin
b) They slow down sugar absorption
c) They taste sweet
d) They increase blood pressure
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Answer: b) They slow down sugar absorption
Fiber acts as a barrier in the gut, preventing glucose from entering the bloodstream too quickly, thus avoiding sugar spikes.
23. "Polyuria" refers to:
a) Excessive hunger
b) Frequent urination
c) Weight gain
d) Hair loss
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Answer: b) Frequent urination
When blood sugar is too high, the kidneys try to flush out the excess glucose through urine, taking water with it.
24. Type 1 diabetics must take insulin externally because:
a) Their cells are resistant
b) Their pancreas produces little to no insulin
c) They eat too much sugar
d) It cures the disease
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Answer: b) Their pancreas produces little to no insulin
Since their immune system has destroyed the beta cells, lifelong insulin injections or a pump are necessary for survival.
25. A "Glucometer" is a device used to:
a) Inject insulin
b) Measure blood pressure
c) Measure blood sugar levels at home
d) Count calories
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Answer: c) Measure blood sugar levels at home
It uses a small drop of blood on a test strip to provide an instant glucose reading, essential for daily management.
Conclusion
Diabetes is a health problem that completely affects your life. It can be effectively controlled with proper diet, exercise, medication, and lifestyle changes. It is a sensitive problem and requires daily attention. If you can see diabetes not as a punishment but as an opportunity to improve your health, you will be able to cope with it effectively.
Online Courses, Reference Books, & Websites
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