| Q. What is Diabetes? |
| A. |
Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin.
Insulin is a hormone, produced by the pancreas, that is needed to convert food, such as sugar,
starches and other food components, into energy needed for daily life. When insulin does not work properly, blood glucose levels rise.
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| Q. What is the difference between type 2 diabetes & type 1 diabetes? |
| A. |
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of the disease, affecting 90-95% of those with diabetes. In type 2 diabetes, the body does not create enough insulin or cells are resistant to the action of the insulin the body does make. Diet and exercise are an important part of treating type 2 diabetes, and with the advice of a health care provider, medications may also be needed for blood glucose control.
Type 1 diabetes is usually diagnosed in children and young adults, but can be diagnosed through the early adult years. Only 5-10% of people with diabetes have type 1 diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, the body does not produce insulin. People with type 1 diabetes require insulin shots.
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| Q. Why is blood glucose so important? |
| A. |
Glucose is the basic fuel for the cells in the body, and insulin takes the glucose from the blood into the cells. When glucose builds up in the blood instead of going into cells, it can cause problems:
- The cells of your body become starved for energy.
- High blood glucose levels may hurt your eyes, kidneys, nerves or heart over a period of time.
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| Q. What causes type 2 diabetes? |
| A. |
The cause of diabetes is unknown. However, there are several factors that can increase
the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, such as: being overweight, a lack of exercise, and genetics.
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| Q. What is "high blood sugar?" |
| A. |
Blood sugar, more accurately called blood glucose is the main source of energy for our bodies
and the body makes it from the food we eat. "High Blood Sugar" is the condition in which
glucose builds up in the bloodstream. The medical term for this is hyperglycemia and it is the main
factor used to diagnose diabetes. Hyperglycemia can only be determined by a blood test. However,
hyperglycemia can have some serious side effects. Prolonged hyperglycemia may contribute to changes in vision or damage to the eye, kidney problems, heart disease or stroke.
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| Q. What is insulin? |
| A. |
Insulin is a hormone produced by our bodies, specifically our pancreas. Among it's many functions, insulin also helps with the movement of glucose from the blood into body cells where glucose is used as a source of energy or stored as a future fuel source. Without insulin, body cells can "starve", even though there may be plenty of glucose in the bloodstream.
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| Q. What is hypglycemia (low blood sugar)? |
| A. |
Hypoglycemia can occur when there is an imbalance between insulin and glucagon (Glucagon is a hormone produced by our bodies that raises the level of glucose in the blood, and is an important factor in hypoglycemia.). To keep diabetes in control it is important to test blood glucose often. Ask your health care provider how often you should test and what your blood glucose levels should be, and what to do when they are low. Good diabetes control, including an appropriate diet, is the best way to prevent hypoglycemia.
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| Q. What can I do to help treat type 2 diabetes? |
| A. |
The most important thing is to work on a plan with your healthcare provider. In general, most people with type 2 diabetes need to change their lifestyle to control diet, exercise and weight loss, especially if you have just been diagnosed.
- If you are overweight, try to lose some weight. Even a small reduction is body weight can have a major effect in controlling blood glucose.
- Be sure to eat regularly throughout the day. Eat lots of foods that are a good source of fiber, such as oats and beans and try to include vegetables in each meal.
- Help protect your heart by lowering your fat intake.
- If you do not currently have one, find a dietitian. They can help you choose a diet that will work for your specific needs. Your physician may also prescribe medication and/or insulin depending on your blood glucose levels, your health, how long you’ve had type 2 diabetes and other issues.
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| Q. How will my diet change? |
| A. |
Controlling your diet is an important aspect of your treatment plan. Your health care provider will make specific recommendations, perhaps by sending you to consult a dietitian. You will learn to eat a well-balanced diet-like everyone should-and you'll need to learn about foods and how blood glucose levels respond to them. A registered dietitian can help you develop a plan that fits your lifestyle, habits and health goals. The good news is that almost any food can fit into your meal plan. You will learn to keep track of what you eat so you stay in control of your blood glucose.
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| Q. How will my diet change? |
| A. |
Controlling your diet is an important aspect of your treatment plan. Your health care provider will make specific recommendations, perhaps by sending you to consult a dietitian. You will learn to eat a well-balanced diet-like everyone should-and you'll need to learn about foods and how blood glucose levels respond to them. A registered dietitian can help you develop a plan that fits your lifestyle, habits and health goals. The good news is that almost any food can fit into your meal plan. You will learn to keep track of what you eat so you stay in control of your blood glucose.
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| Q. Now that I have been diagnosed with diabetes, do I have to give up all the foods I love? |
| A. |
While you may have to adjust your serving size and how often you eat them, most foods can fit into your eating plan. The key for a healthy diet is moderation, which everyone, diabetic or not, should follow. Consult your healthcare provider to help you develop your meal plan.
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| Q. Do i have to completely eliminate sugar from my diet? |
| A. |
People with diabetes can fit sweets into their meal plan by substituting for other carbohydrate foods, according to the American Diabetes Association (ADA). It's the total amount of food and type of food consumed that really matters. Consult your health care provider or dietitian to find out what is the right amount for you.
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| Q. Should I try to eat at the same time everyday? |
| A. |
It is helpful to have a regular eating schedule. This will help your blood glucose level to stay better balanced. Also, don't miss out on breakfast.
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| Q. Why should I consult a dietitian? |
| A. |
Registered dietitians have special training and knowledge on how the body handles food. Dietitians who understand diabetes can show you how the foods you consume affect your blood glucose level. Understanding this helps to coordinate your needed medications and eating habits. Your dietitian will help you create a healthy diet that incorporates your favorite foods.
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