Understanding Diabetes
Diabetes is a chronic health condition that affects how your body turns food into energy. Most of the food you eat is broken down into sugar (glucose) and released into your bloodstream. When your blood sugar goes up, it signals your pancreas to release insulin, which acts like a key to let the blood sugar into your body’s cells for use as energy.
Types of Diabetes
Type 1 Diabetes
An autoimmune reaction that stops your body from making insulin. People with type 1 diabetes need to take insulin every day to survive.
- Usually diagnosed in children and young adults
- About 5-10% of all diabetes cases
- Requires daily insulin injections
- Cannot be prevented
Type 2 Diabetes
Your body doesn’t use insulin well and can’t keep blood sugar at normal levels. This is the most common type of diabetes.
- About 90-95% of all diabetes cases
- Can be prevented or delayed
- Often managed with lifestyle changes
- May require medication or insulin
Gestational Diabetes
Develops in pregnant women who have never had diabetes. If you have gestational diabetes, your baby could be at higher risk for health problems. This type usually goes away after your baby is born but increases your risk for type 2 diabetes later in life.
Warning Signs and Symptoms
Common Symptoms
- Urinate often
- Feel very thirsty
- Feel very hungry
- Extreme fatigue
- Blurry vision
- Cuts/bruises slow to heal
Type 1 Specific
- Weight loss (even when eating more)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Symptoms appear quickly
- Often diagnosed in emergency
⚠️ Important: Type 2 diabetes symptoms often develop slowly over several years and can be so mild that you might not even notice them. Many people with type 2 diabetes have no symptoms at all.
Risk Factors
Type 2 Diabetes Risk Factors
- Prediabetes – Blood sugar levels higher than normal but not high enough for diabetes
- Age – 45 years or older
- Family History – Parent or sibling with type 2 diabetes
- Weight – Being overweight or obese
- Physical Activity – Less than 3 times a week
- Race/Ethnicity – African American, Hispanic/Latino American, American Indian, or Alaska Native
- Health Conditions – High blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol levels
- Previous History – Gestational diabetes or gave birth to baby weighing more than 9 pounds
Prevention and Management
The Good News
Type 2 diabetes can often be prevented or delayed with healthy lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, eating healthy food, and being active. Even if you have diabetes, these same lifestyle changes can help you manage your condition and prevent complications.
Key Prevention Strategies
- Lose Weight: If you’re overweight, losing even 5-10% of your body weight can make a significant difference
- Be More Active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week
- Eat Healthy: Choose foods lower in calories, saturated fat, trans fat, sugar, and salt
- Don’t Smoke: Smoking increases your risk of type 2 diabetes
- Get Regular Check-ups: Know your numbers – blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol
Living Well with Diabetes
A diabetes diagnosis doesn’t mean you can’t live a full, active life. With proper management, people with diabetes can:
- Maintain normal blood sugar levels
- Prevent or delay complications
- Stay physically active and fit
- Enjoy a varied, nutritious diet
- Continue working and pursuing their goals
- Travel and maintain social relationships
Remember: Managing diabetes is a team effort. Work closely with your healthcare provider, certified diabetes educator, and other members of your care team to develop a management plan that works for your lifestyle.
Take Action Today
Whether you’re at risk, newly diagnosed, or managing diabetes, Boot Diabetics is here to support your journey to better health.
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