Common Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes

• Increased thirst and frequent urination
• Fatigue and low energy
• Blurred vision
• Slow-healing wounds
• Tingling or numbness in hands/feet
• Frequent infections (skin, urinary tract, gums)
• Weight gain

Treatment Options

• Diet changes: more fiber, less sugar and refined carbs
• Exercise: at least 30 minutes, 5 days a week
• Medications: metformin, GLP-1 receptor agonists, or other modern drugs
• Insulin therapy: in advanced cases

Preventing Type 2 Diabetes

• Lose weight
• Stay active daily
• Eat a balanced, low-sugar diet
• Annual screenings, especially with family history

With early intervention, type 2 diabetes can be prevented or well controlled.

Weight Loss Medications vs Lifestyle Changes

While medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro offer a medical boost in managing Type 2 Diabetes and weight loss, they are not a replacement for lifestyle changes, but rather a complement. These drugs work by improving insulin function and helping patients lose significant weight, which in turn leads to better blood sugar control. However, research consistently shows that sustainable lifestyle changes, such as adopting a balanced diet, increasing physical activity, improving sleep, and reducing stress, have long-term benefits not just for blood sugar, but for overall heart health, blood pressure, cholesterol, and mental well-being.

In fact, in many cases, people with early-stage Type 2 Diabetes who commit to healthy habits can achieve remission without medication. That said, for those who struggle with weight or have not seen results through lifestyle alone, medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro can act as a powerful tool to get them back on track, especially when paired with nutrition counseling, exercise, and regular monitoring. The best results often come from a combined approach, where medication supports, but does not replace, long-term lifestyle change.

 FAQs About Type 2 Diabetes

Q: Can type 2 diabetes be reversed?
Yes. Weight loss, healthy eating, and exercise can put blood sugar back into normal range, especially if diagnosed early.

Q: Who is most at risk of type 2 diabetes?
Those with a family history, people who are overweight, sedentary, or over age 40 are at higher risk.

Q: Do I need insulin if I have type 2 diabetes?
Not always. Many people manage with lifestyle changes and tablets. Insulin is used if blood sugar remains uncontrolled.

Q: How common is type 2 diabetes in Dubai?
Very common, the UAE is among the countries with the highest diabetes rates globally, due to lifestyle and genetic factors.

Q: Can type 2 diabetes cause serious complications?
Yes, if untreated it can lead to heart disease, kidney problems, nerve damage, and vision loss. Early care prevents these risks.

Q:  Will Type 2 Diabetes Be Passed on to My Children?

Type 2 Diabetes isn’t directly inherited, but your children may have a higher chance of developing it if one or both parents have it, due to shared genetics and lifestyle habits.

Here’s what research shows:

• If the mother has Type 2 Diabetes → the child’s risk is about 6%
• If the father has it → the risk increases to about 9%
• If both parents have it → the risk rises to around 16%
• If a sibling has Type 2 Diabetes → there's a 20% chance of developing it