What is Diabetes?
Diabetes mellitus refers to a group of diseases that affect how the body uses blood sugar (glucose). Glucose is an important source of energy for the cells that make up the muscles and tissues. It's also the brain's main source of fuel.
How do I Know if I am Diabetic?
Diabetes symptoms depend on how high your blood sugar is. Some people, especially if they have prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, may not have symptoms. In type 1 diabetes, symptoms tend to come on quickly and be more severe.
Some of the symptoms of type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes are:
- Feeling more thirsty than usual
- Urinating often
- Losing weight without trying
- Presence of ketones in the urine. Ketones are a byproduct of the breakdown of muscle and fat that happens when there's not enough available insulin
- Feeling tired and weak
- Feeling irritable or having other mood changes
- Having blurry vision
- Having slow-healing sores
- Getting a lot of infections, such as gum, skin and vaginal infections
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, contact our office and setup an appointment.
How Do I Keep it Under Control?
Lose extra weight
Losing weight reduces the risk of diabetes. People in one large study reduced their risk of developing diabetes by almost 60% after losing approximately 7% of their body weight with changes in exercise and diet.
Be more physically active
There are many benefits to regular physical activity. Exercise can help you in many areas. See your Provider prior to setting up your overall physical activity.
Eat healthy plant foods
Plants provide vitamins, minerals and carbohydrates in your diet. Carbohydrates include sugars and starches — the energy sources for your body — and fiber. Dietary fiber, also known as roughage or bulk, is the part of plant foods your body can't digest or absorb.
Eat healthy fats
Fatty foods are high in calories and should be eaten in moderation. To help lose and manage weight, your diet should include a variety of foods with unsaturated fats, sometimes called "good fats." Your Provider will setup a healthy eating lifestyle for you.
When to See your Provider?
Share your concerns about diabetes prevention with your Provider. They will appreciate your efforts to prevent diabetes and may offer additional suggestions based on your medical history or other factors.
