Recent research from the Maastricht Study, conducted by Maastricht UMC+, shows that even prediabetes, the early stage before type 2 diabetes, significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. This is an important warning, especially for those leading busy lives, who often only think about their health when symptoms arise. Type 2 diabetes is not a sudden illness, but a silent condition that can cause damage for years without being noticed.
What is Type 2 Diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes is a condition that develops gradually and often goes unnoticed for a long time. Your body struggles to absorb sugar (glucose) from the blood because it becomes less responsive to insulin. This hormone allows glucose to enter your cells. As a result, sugar remains in your bloodstream for too long, eventually causing damage to vital organs such as your heart, kidneys, eyes and blood vessels – and all of this can happen without you realising it.
Vague symptoms?
Because type 2 diabetes develops gradually, symptoms are often vague. You might feel tired, even after getting enough sleep. You may be frequently thirsty, need to urinate often, or notice that wounds take longer to heal. Blurred vision or recurring infections can also be signs. Due to the hectic pace of daily life, these signals are often ignored or attributed to stress. That's why it's so important to reflect on your health regularly.
Prediabetes Is not a harmless stage
Recent findings from the Maastricht Study reveal that even prediabetes, the stage before type 2 diabetes, increases the risk of heart and vascular diseases. This means your body is already struggling to regulate blood sugar levels, even if you still feel fine. The researchers' message is clear: don't wait for the symptoms. Prevention starts with awareness.
Healthy living starts with small choices
A healthy lifestyle doesn't have to involve drastic changes. Choose fresh and unprocessed foods more often, reduce your sugar and fat intake, and get daily exercise – think walking, cycling or simply taking the stairs. Make sure you get enough sleep, drink plenty of water, and try to balance stressful moments with periods of rest. Quitting smoking is a powerful step towards better health. Living healthily doesn't mean living perfectly – it means being conscious and consistent.
Start today – For a healthier tomorrow
At IKARIA Clinics, we believe in the power of preventive care. We support you with tailored programmes that suit your lifestyle. Whether you're looking for nutritional advice, lifestyle coaching, or a comprehensive health check, we are here to help.
Your health is your greatest asset. Are you ready to invest in it? Book an appointment with
IKARIA Clinics and discover what's possible for your well-being.
Sources:
- Maastricht UMC+. (2024). New research from the Maastricht Study: prediabetes increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. [Link to article]
- Diabetes Fund. What is type 2 diabetes? https://www.diabetesfonds.nl
- Nutrition Centre. Healthy living with diabetes https://www.voedingscentrum.nl
This article is written with the help of AI.