Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body turns food into energy. Your body breaks down food into glucose and uses insulin to help move that glucose into cells. When your body does not make enough insulin or cannot use it well, sugar remains in the bloodstream and can cause long-term complications.
- 38.4 million Americans have diabetes.
- 1 in 5 people with diabetes do not know they have it.
- Diabetes is the 8th leading cause of death in the U.S.
- Type 2 diabetes accounts for 90–95% of cases.
“I will restore health to you, and your wounds I will heal.”
Jeremiah 30:17
Different types of diabetes require different care plans, but every person can take meaningful steps toward stability and confidence.
Type 1 Diabetes
5–10%An autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks insulin-producing cells. It usually requires insulin therapy.
Type 2 Diabetes
90–95%The body becomes resistant to insulin or does not produce enough. Lifestyle changes and medication can help manage it.
Prediabetes
96MBlood sugar is higher than normal but not high enough for a diabetes diagnosis. Early action can prevent progression.
Gestational Diabetes
2–10%Develops during pregnancy and usually resolves after birth, but it increases future Type 2 risk.
“For I know the plans I have for you...”
Jeremiah 29:11
- Increased thirst and frequent urination
- Unexplained weight loss
- Extreme fatigue and weakness
- Blurred vision
- Slow-healing cuts or infections
- Tingling or numbness in hands or feet
- Darkened skin patches
| Test | Normal | Prediabetes | Diabetes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fasting Plasma Glucose | Below 100 | 100–125 | 126+ |
| A1C | Below 5.7% | 5.7–6.4% | 6.5%+ |
| Random Blood Sugar | Below 140 | 140–199 | 200+ |
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart...”
Proverbs 3:5–6Worried About Symptoms?
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- Blood sugar naturally rises after eating.
- Stress, illness, and lack of sleep can raise it.
- Exercise generally lowers blood sugar.
- Consistent monitoring helps reveal patterns.
“Be still, and know that I am God.”
Psalm 46:10
- Carbohydrates have the biggest impact on blood sugar.
- Use the plate method: half vegetables, quarter protein, quarter carbs.
- Fiber helps slow glucose absorption.
- Meal timing matters.
✓ Enjoy These
Non-starchy vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, healthy fats, and low-glycemic fruits.
Limit These
Sugary drinks, white bread, processed snacks, fried foods, and high-sodium foods.
“So whether you eat or drink...”
1 Corinthians 10:31
✓ Improves insulin sensitivity
✓ Lowers blood sugar
✓ Supports weight management
✓ Reduces cardiovascular risk
✓ Improves mood
✓ Increases energy
Exercise Guidelines
- Aim for 150 minutes per week.
- Include aerobic and strength training.
- Check blood sugar before and after exercise.
- Carry fast-acting glucose.
- Stay hydrated.
“Your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit...”
1 Corinthians 6:19
- Medications work best with lifestyle changes.
- Never stop medication without your doctor.
- Report side effects.
- Generic medications can work as well as brand names.
Metformin
First-line medication for Type 2 that reduces glucose production in the liver.
Sulfonylureas
Help stimulate the pancreas to produce more insulin.
GLP-1 Agonists
Help increase insulin response and slow digestion.
SGLT2 Inhibitors
Help the kidneys remove excess glucose.
Insulin
Required for Type 1 and sometimes needed for Type 2.
“He heals the brokenhearted...”
Psalm 147:3
❤️ Heart Disease
Control blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar.
⚡ Neuropathy
Keep A1C in range and check feet daily.
👁 Retinopathy
Get annual dilated eye exams.
🫘 Nephropathy
Get kidney function tests and control blood pressure.
🦶 Foot Problems
Wear proper shoes and see a podiatrist if needed.
“Be strong and courageous...”
Joshua 1:9
Diabetes Distress
Feeling overwhelmed by daily diabetes care.
Diabetes Burnout
Feeling tired of managing the condition.
Depression
People with diabetes have higher depression risk.
Anxiety
Worrying about numbers, complications, or social situations.
Coping Strategies
- Talk to someone.
- Set small goals.
- Take healthy breaks.
- Practice self-compassion.
- Connect with others.
“Cast all your anxiety on him...”
1 Peter 5:7
- Practice daily prayer.
- Memorize Scripture for courage.
- Join a faith-based support group.
- See health as a spiritual journey.
- Practice gratitude daily.
“By his wounds you have been healed.”
1 Peter 2:24“Praise the Lord... who heals all your diseases.”
Psalm 103:2–3“I will restore health to you...”
Jeremiah 30:17“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”
Philippians 4:13