The scary truth no one tells you – and why taking control now is worth it.
When I was first diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, I didn’t realise how serious it could get. To be honest, I thought, “It’s just a bit of sugar.” But as I started learning more, I found out how much damage it can do if we don’t take care of ourselves.
This post isn’t to scare anyone – just to tell the truth. Because no one told me either.
Ignoring diabetes doesn’t just mean higher blood sugar. It can affect your eyes, your feet, your kidneys, your heart – even your mental health. Some people don’t realise the damage until it’s too late. But here’s the good news: a lot of this is preventable.
What No One Told Me in the Beginning
I didn’t get much support or clear advice at first. I remember getting a phone call from a dietitian, and she told me it was fine to eat things like a small banana or a handful of grapes. I trusted her and gave it a try – but after eating just a small banana, my blood sugar shot up to over 20 mmol/L (around 360 mg/dL).
It was so frustrating and confusing. I felt like I was trying to do the right thing, but the advice didn’t work for me.
That’s when I realised how different every person with diabetes can be. What works for one person might not work for another. Maybe some people are fine with small portion of banana – but for me it caused a big spike.
That’s why I had to start learning what my body could handle. And honestly, that’s when things slowly started to change.
What Can Happen If You Don’t Manage Diabetes?
💥 Nerve Damage (Neuropathy)
Tingling, numbness, pain – mostly in the feet or hands. Some people end up with serious infections and need amputations. It’s heartbreaking, but it’s real.
👁️ Vision Loss
High blood sugar can damage the blood vessels in the eyes (diabetic retinopathy). Over time, this can lead to blurred vision or even blindness.
🩺 Kidney Failure
Your kidneys work hard to clean your blood, but high sugar levels over the years can wear them down – sometimes leading to dialysis or transplant.
❤️ Heart Disease & Stroke
Diabetes increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes. It’s like carrying silent damage inside your body without feeling it right away.
🦶 Foot Problems
Because of poor circulation and nerve damage, even small blister or cut can turn into a big problem. People with diabetes should also be extra careful with pedicures and general foot care.
🦷 Tooth and Gum Problems
People with uncontrolled diabetes are more likely to get gum disease, infections, and even lose teeth early. Elevated glucose levels weaken the mouth’s ability to fight bacteria and heal properly.
🦠 Frequent Infections
High blood sugar weakens the immune system, so wounds and infections take longer to heal and are more likely to come back.
🧠 Mental Health Impact
Living with uncontrolled diabetes can affect your mood, energy, and even cause depression or anxiety. It’s hard, and that’s okay to admit.
The Good News – You Can Prevent This
Even though this all sounds scary, it’s not hopeless. In fact, most complications can be avoided or delayed just by:
- Eating lower sugar foods 🍓
- Staying active 🏃🏻♀️
- Checking your blood sugar 📊
- Losing a bit of weight if needed ⚖️
- Seeing your doctor regularly 🩺
Even small steps matter. You don’t have to be perfect – just consistent.
🌱 Final Thoughts
Diabetes isn’t just about numbers. It’s about your life, your body, your future. And you deserve to feel your best.
If you’ve been ignoring it or putting it off, this is your sign to start caring for yourself today. Trust me – it’s worth it.
-Roni 💚
Lower Your Sugar - Simple Tips for a Healthier Life 
Leave a comment