top of page
Search

Understanding Type 2 Diabetes: From Root Causes to Real Solutions: Q & A Session with an Expert

  • decodeMR Team
  • Jul 25
  • 3 min read

Welcome back to Inline! 


In this episode, we discuss the growing concern of type 2 diabetes.

 

We are joined by Dr. L. Priyanka Mahali, an endocrinologist and obesity medicine specialist at Northeast Medical Group in the United States, who shares her expertise on the root causes, challenges, and advances in diabetes care. 


Dr. Mahali explains the difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes, the impact of insulin resistance, and why earlier screening and intervention are critical. She highlights how childhood habits are setting the stage for early-onset diabetes, and stresses the need for balanced meals and daily physical activity. 


We also explore how treatment is evolving—with newer medications like GLP-1 receptor agonists offering hope for better outcomes. Dr. Mahali also addresses common misconceptions about insulin and highlights the importance of personalized care and patient education in achieving long-term control. 


Additionally, she shares practical prevention strategies for families—encouraging home-cooked meals, consistent movement, and habit-stacking to build sustainable health routines. 


Key discussion points: 


Understanding Type 2 Diabetes (0:55)


  • Type 1 diabetes is due to lack of insulin production whereas Type 2 involves insulin resistance 

  • In Type 2, the pancreas produces insulin, but the body does not use it effectively 

  • Over time, the pancreas can get exhausted, leading to insulin deficiency 


Rising Cases in Younger Populations (1:56)


  • Type 2 diabetes, once seen in adults over 40, is now appearing in children and young adults 

  • Increased obesity and sedentary lifestyles are major contributors 

  • Diets high in processed and carbohydrate-rich foods worsen insulin resistance 


Childhood Nutrition and Physical Activity (2:38) 


  • Many children are not meeting the recommended 60 minutes of daily physical activity 

  • Screen time and busy family schedules are leading to sedentary behavior 

  • Pediatric diets often lack protein and healthy fats, relying heavily on carbs and unhealthy fats 


Importance of Early Screening (3:32) 


  • Most individuals with diabetes are asymptomatic in early stages 

  • Regular annual check-ups can help catch early warning signs like sudden weight gain 

  • Screening should include fasting glucose, HbA1c, liver function, and cholesterol panels


Navigating Glucose Control (5:47) 


  • Tight glucose control prevents complications but must be balanced against low sugar risk 

  • Older adults and those with comorbidities require careful medication selection 

  • Medications should be chosen based on the patient’s overall health and lifestyle compatibility 


The Role of Insulin (7:52)


  • Insulin is needed when the pancreas can no longer keep up due to exhaustion 

  • Some patients, especially South Asians, may have partial insulin deficiency from the start 

  • Patient education is key to overcoming fear and stigma around insulin use 


Hope for the Future – GLP-1 Agonists (10:14)

 

  • GLP-1 receptor agonists address insulin resistance and aid weight loss 

  • These medications can improve overall health outcomes, not just glucose control 

  • More advanced therapies with fewer side effects are in development


 Prevention Starts at Home (11:47) 


  • Families should prioritize home-cooked meals over frequent food delivery 

  • Eating earlier and avoiding late-night snacking helps regulate metabolism 

  • Simple routines like regular mealtimes and shared physical activities can shape lifelong habits 


Making Lifestyle Changes (12:27) 


  • Start with small, realistic steps like short daily walks or swapping one meal per day 

  • Use habit stacking—linking new habits to existing ones to build consistency 

  •  Gradually introduce weight training and other activities to build a sustainable routine 


Take home messages: 


  • Type 2 diabetes is preventable and manageable when diagnosed early 

  • Lifestyle habits in childhood, particularly nutrition and activity play a foundational role 

  • Patient education and personalized care are vital in managing diabetes effectively 

  • The future of diabetes care is promising, with newer medications offering better outcomes and fewer side effects 

  • Prevention starts at home: small, consistent changes in diet and movement can transform long-term health


About Dr. L. Priyanka Mahali: 


Dr. L. Priyanka Mahali is a double board-certified endocrinologist and obesity medicine specialist with expertise in managing a wide range of endocrine and metabolic conditions, including type 1 and type 2 diabetes, thyroid and pituitary disorders, high cholesterol, kidney disease, osteoporosis, and weight management. Dr Mahali participated in multiple research and quality improvement initiatives, particularly in the areas of diabetes technology and health equity, and has authored several case reports and peer-reviewed publications. 



Relevant links: 


 




 



bottom of page