The Facts Behind Diabetes
IN WEIGHT MANAGEMENT
If you or a family member was recently diagnosed with diabetes, you are probably dealing with a wide range of emotions and a long list of questions. Whether you are facing Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, many helpful resources and support groups are available to help answer your questions and calm your fears. Although a diagnosis can be upsetting, making a few lifestyle changes and participating in proper medication management can help you control your diabetes for life.
Type 1 Most commonly found in children and young adults, Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body does not make any insulin to handle blood sugar levels. People with Type 1 diabetes must take insulin for the rest of their lives, either through injections or by using an insulin pump. The American Academy of Family Physicians (www.familydoctor.org) recommends patients with Type 1 diabetes test their blood sugar levels throughout the day, usually at mealtimes and before bedtime.
If you have Type 1 diabetes, Your physician will give you guidelines on how to best monitor and control your blood sugar levels and may suggest you participate in diabetes management counseling.
Type 2 Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes and often develops in older adults who are overweight, have a poor diet, or have low levels of physical activity. A family history or genetics can also increase your risk for developing Type 2 diabetes.
The good news is that, depending on the severity of your disease, you may be able to control it with a few simple lifestyle changes, such as including eating a healthy diet and engaging in an exercise program. Medication may be used to lower blood sugar levels, too.
Finding Support No matter your diagnosis, it’s important to realize you are not alone. The American Diabetes Association (www.diabetes.org) offers a wealth of information on diabetes as well as message boards for diabetes sufferers. You may also want to check with your local hospital or community center for support groups in your area.
| What Does Gestational Diabetes Mean for Your Baby?
Although only a small percentage of women develop gestational diabetes during pregnancy, this disease, if left untreated, can lead to complications for the newborn.
Gestational diabetes usually appears late in the pregnancy and causes a woman to have high blood glucose levels. In this instance, the woman’s pancreas may be working overtime to produce insulin, yet her glucose levels remain high. This high blood sugar is passed onto the baby through the placenta, contributing to excess body fat in the baby. The baby’s extra weight, in turn, can lead to increased risk of obesity and Type 2 diabetes when the child is older.
The good news is gestational diabetes can often be treated with a special meal plan and exercise program, or, in more extreme cases, blood glucose testing and insulin injections. |
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