The first step in protecting blood vessels, kidneys and eyes

Diabetes is one of the most talked about topics on the health agenda after the age of 50.

More than 500 million people worldwide live with this disease, and this number is projected to rise to 700 million by 2030. In Türkiye, the picture is even more striking.

According to data from the National Diabetes Program, one in seven adults has been diagnosed with diabetes. And at least as many of these cases are undiagnosed cases of "hidden diabetes."

(Source: International Diabetes Federation, 2025)

Reliable ways to diagnose

Research shows that regular exercise and a healthy diet can reduce the risk of diabetes by 50 percent. Brisk walking for at least 30 minutes a day, avoiding processed foods, eating meals high in fiber and protein, and getting regular sleep are the most powerful weapons in the fight against diabetes.

(Source: Journal of the American Medical Association, 2025)

Prediabetes is ignored

Diabetes isn't a disease that suddenly appears. It progresses for years in an intermediate stage we call "prediabetes." During this stage, blood sugar is slightly above normal but not yet high enough to diagnose diabetes. If detected early, simple measures can delay or even prevent diabetes altogether. However, without regular checkups, this stage is often overlooked, and the disease progresses insidiously. (Source: American Diabetes Association, 2025)

The power of lifestyle

Research shows that regular exercise and a healthy diet can reduce the risk of diabetes by 50 percent. Brisk walking for at least 30 minutes a day, avoiding processed foods, eating meals high in fiber and protein, and getting regular sleep are the most powerful weapons in the fight against diabetes.

(Source: Journal of the American Medical Association, 2025)

Don't neglect the checks

For everyone over 50, having their fasting blood sugar and HbA1c levels tested at least once a year is the simplest step to detecting risk early. Managing diabetes is much easier than dealing with its consequences. (Source: Mayo Clinic, 2025)

Three steps you can take today

- Get your fasting blood sugar and HbA1c tested at a health center.

- Start a 30-minute daily walking program.

- Remove refined sugars from your table.

(Source: International Diabetes Federation, 2025)

Silent progressive symptoms

The biggest pitfall of diabetes is that it progresses for years without any obvious symptoms. Mild fatigue, frequent urination, constant hunger, or sores that won't heal are often overlooked. However, by the time these symptoms begin, damage to blood vessels, nerves, and organs has already begun.

(Source: Mayo Clinic, 2025)

Damage caused by diabetes to the body

Type 2 diabetes isn't just a condition characterized by elevated blood sugar levels. Over time, high blood sugar levels wear down the entire vascular system and damage many vital organs.

- Heart and vessels

Diabetes increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. One in three heart attacks has a history of diabetes.

(Source: European Society of Cardiology, 2024)

- Kidneys

Sugar that remains uncontrolled for a long time impairs kidney function and can lead to kidney failure requiring dialysis.

(Source: National Kidney Foundation, 2025)

- Eyes

Diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of vision loss. Regular eye exams are critical to preventing permanent damage.

(Source: American Academy of Ophthalmology, 2025)

- Nervous system

Numbness, tingling, and loss of sensation in the hands and feet are the first signs of nerve damage. As this problem progresses, it can become so severe that it makes walking difficult.

(Source: Neurology Journal, 2024)

TOMORROW:

- Diabetic-friendly plates and the concept of glycemic load

- The most practical ways to maintain blood sugar balance over the age of 50

- Science-based sample menus and kitchen tips