Diabetes in men actually occurs slightly more frequently than in women in general. Even so with some outdated stereotyping and beliefs, men don’t really talk about it, leading to many undiagnosed cases. However, there are some telltale signs of this disease and it’s better to get it checked out properly and managed if you do happen to have it.

Some of the most common signs are:

• Increase in urinating
• Dark spots on your skin
• Deteriorating eyesight
• Decreasing waistline
• Increasing blood pressure

If you experience any of the above, it doesn’t necessarily mean you have diabetes or are even pre-diabetic, but it is a good idea to have it checked out by a doctor.

Of course, there are some things you can do to in a bid to reduce your risk for getting diabetes or at least to manage the disease if you do have it.

Top of the list is, of course, exercise. Exercise helps to lower body fat, fights insulin resistance and improves nerve function. It is also a great stress reliever which is essential because once your stress levels start to rise, so does your blood sugar.

Next is diet. Much controversy exists over exactly what the right diet is, but generally consensus is to cut out the foodstuffs that cause blood sugar to spike. That is the soda’s, chocolates, sugary sweets and cakes and also less obvious ones such as bread and pasta. Introduce lots of fresh fruit and vegetables and you’ll be on your way to a healthier you.

If you do have diabetes, it will do you good to invest in a proper glucose monitor – at least initially while you learn how and when your blood sugar spikes. Your doctor will tell you what the acceptable/ideal readings should be.

So while diabetes might not have been in your life plan, there are things you can do to improve how you progress. Most importantly, if you are bothered in the slightest by any symptoms, have it checked it. It might go away, but it might not.