Comprehensive Guide to Blood Sugar Control and Healthy Living
Diabetes affects how your body processes blood sugar (glucose), but with proper management, people with diabetes can live full, healthy lives. This comprehensive guide provides evidence-based information about diabetes types, symptoms, treatment options, and lifestyle strategies for effective management.
Diabetes Emergency: If you experience extreme thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision, fatigue, or fruity-smelling breath, seek medical attention immediately. These could be signs of dangerously high or low blood sugar.
Americans have diabetes (11.3% of population)
Adults have prediabetes (38% of population)
Reduction in diabetes risk with lifestyle changes
Annual cost of diabetes in the United States
Autoimmune Condition
The body's immune system attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
Insulin Resistance
The body doesn't use insulin properly (insulin resistance) and may not produce enough insulin.
Warning Stage
Blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough for a diabetes diagnosis.
See how different factors affect blood sugar levels:
Non-starchy vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats
Sugary drinks, processed carbs, trans fats, high-sodium foods
Broccoli, spinach, peppers, cauliflower, greens
Fish, chicken, turkey, tofu, legumes, eggs
Soda, sweet tea, fruit juice, energy drinks
White bread, pastries, cookies, chips, crackers
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-producing cells, requiring insulin therapy. Type 2 diabetes involves insulin resistance where the body doesn't use insulin properly, often managed with lifestyle changes and oral medications. Type 1 usually appears in childhood, while type 2 typically develops in adulthood.
Type 1 diabetes cannot be cured or reversed—it requires lifelong management. Type 2 diabetes cannot be cured, but it can often be put into remission through significant lifestyle changes like weight loss, healthy eating, and regular exercise. Prediabetes can frequently be reversed entirely with lifestyle interventions.
Common symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, extreme hunger, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, slow-healing sores, frequent infections, and tingling in hands or feet. However, many people with type 2 diabetes have mild or no symptoms initially.
This depends on your type of diabetes and treatment plan. People with type 1 diabetes typically check 4-10 times daily. Those with type 2 diabetes may check less frequently, from once daily to several times weekly. Your healthcare provider will recommend a testing schedule based on your specific needs and treatment.
Effective diabetes management is possible with the right knowledge and tools.
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