Having type 2 diabetes is not the end of the world.You can live a happy and fulfilling life with a good treatment plan.
Step 1: Most people have type 2 diabetes.
There is a chronic condition called type 2 diabetes.Sugar is an important source of energy.It affects the way your body uses a hormone that regulates the movement of sugar into your cells.It can take a long time for the signs and symptoms to develop.You can have type 2 diabetes before you realize it.
Step 2: Your body is unable to regulate its blood sugar levels.
If you have type 2 diabetes, your body will either resist the effects of insulin, which can cause problems with the way sugar moves into your cells to provide fuel, or it will not produce enoughinsulin to maintain normal, healthy levels.
Step 3: Children and adults can be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.
Genetics and environmental factors are thought to be contributing factors to type 2 diabetes.Being overweight and not exercising are some of the main causes.If the conditions are right, type 2 diabetes can affect anyone.
Step 4: Your body may not be able to make enoughinsulin.
Your body regulates your blood sugar levels with the help of your pancreas.It can be dangerous to have a blood sugar level that is too low.If you have type 2 diabetes, your body will either resist the effects ofinsulin or it will not produce enough to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
Step 5: People with type 2 diabetes are more susceptible to it.
Some factors can make you more likely to develop the condition.Black, Hispanic, American Indian, and Asian American people are at a higher risk.The factors that can be contributing are age and gender.If you have a family history of type 2 diabetes, you're more likely to develop it.
Step 6: Body weight, exercise, and diet are important.
People who are overweight or obese are more likely to have diabetes.A lack of physical exercise can lead to the condition, as well as the foods and drinks that you consume.The good news is that you can improve your condition by controlling and changing these factors.
Step 7: Increased thirst, frequent urination, hunger, and weight loss are common.
People have different symptoms of type 2 diabetes.Some people feel a little thirsty, while others can experience extreme thirst.It is common for people to feel like they are more hungry but also lose weight at the same time.Let your doctor know if you develop more serious symptoms.
Step 8: It can be more serious if you have fatigue, blurred vision, sores, and infections.
You can have more serious problems if your blood sugar levels are too high or low.It's a sign that your blood sugar level is out of whack.You can have sores that take a long time to heal if you don't manage your condition well.Areas of dark skin can be found around your neck and armpits.If you start to experience symptoms, talk to your doctor.
Step 9: Losing weight with diet and exercise is usually the start of treatment.
You should choose foods that are low in fat and calories.Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are good for you.It is important that you exercise a bit each day.If you want to get your blood pumping and burn calories, take a 30-minute walk or bike ride.
Step 10: Try a plant-based diet.
Studies show that following a plant-based diet can help manage type 2 diabetes.There are many reasons why this diet can benefit you and your condition, such as an increase in high-fiber foods and a decrease in saturated fat.If it's a good fit for you, talk to your doctor.
Step 11: It's possible that you need to take regular injections.
If you have a condition that causes your pancreas to be unable to make enoughinsulin, you will need to take injections.It is fairly common.One in three people with type 2 diabetes take some form of injection.You may need to take more than one day.
Step 12: Your doctor may prescribe something.
There are some medications that can help with things like causing a burst ofinsulin release with each meal, slow your digestion, or reduce your appetite for large meals.If your doctor thinks it's necessary, he or she may prescribe a medication to help you manage your diabetes.
Step 13: Diabetes ABCs can be managed.
If you want to manage your type 2 diabetes, you need to carefully monitor 3 big factors.A1C is a blood test that measures your average blood sugar level.If your heart is working too hard, B is for blood pressure.Cholesterol is an important part of controlling your health and blood pressure.Talk to your doctor about where to keep your ABCs.
Step 14: You can manage type 2 diabetes if you stick to your treatment plan.
Although there isn't a magic cure for type 2 diabetes, you can work with your doctor to come up with an effective treatment plan that reduces your symptoms and helps you live a normal life.Let your doctor know if you experience any additional symptoms so they can make adjustments to your treatment plan.
Step 15: There is more info on the American Diabetes Association website.
The American Diabetes Association has a lot of information about type 2 diabetes, how to identify it, and how you can reduce your risk of getting it.They have a lot of information and links to local services.They have a website at: https://www.diabetes.org/.