Diabetes is a disease where the body cannot properly produce
or use insulin. Insulin is a hormone that turns the foods you
eat into energy. If your body cannot turn food into energy, not
only will your cells be starved for energy, you will also build
up glucose (sugar) in your blood. This will lead you to have "high
blood glucose levels." Over years, the high blood glucose
level can damage major organs like your heart, eyes, and kidneys...
Types of Diabetes:
Type 1 Diabetes is caused by a total lack of insulin that, in
turn, produces high blood glucose levels. Type 1 is most often
is seen in children, but can develop in adults. If you have Type
1, your health care provider might recommend scheduled, nutritious
meals, exercise, medication, and frequent blood sugar level tests.
Type 2 Diabetes occurs when the body does not produce enough
insulin or cannot properly use insulin. This is the most common
type. The treatment may be similar to Type 1.
Pre Diabetes or Borderline Diabetes may occur before a Type 2
diagnosis. Blood glucose levels will be higher than normal. Good
nutrition and exercise may be recommended by your health care
provider as treatment for pre diabetes. Even a slightly high blood
sugar level is insidious and could affect major organs over time.
Gestational Diabetes occurs in pregnant women that have high
blood glucose levels. This type of Diabetes can harm both Mother
and baby. If you have Gestational Diabetes, your health care provider
may prescribe meal plans, exercise, daily testing and medicine.
