According to the American Diabetes Association's most recent diabetes statistics, 1.4 million Americans are diagnosed with diabetes every year. In 2019 alone, approximately 37.3 million Americans were found to be diabetic. In addition, 96 million Americans over the age of 18 were prediabetic — displaying increased blood sugar levels that put them at risk for diabetes, heart disease, and strokes.
American Diabetes Month, which takes place in November, is a month dedicated to spreading awareness about diabetes. By staying informed, those at risk can lower their chances of developing diabetes later in life, while those already diagnosed can minimize the disease's impact on their life.
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body processes glucose, the main energy source for your cells. As your body breaks down food, it releases glucose into your bloodstream. Increased blood sugar levels signal your pancreas to release insulin, a hormone that allows your cells to absorb glucose and use it as energy.
If you're diabetic, however, your body either doesn't make enough insulin or stops responding to it as effectively. This means that excess glucose can't leave your bloodstream. This can lead to fatigue, sudden weight loss, frequent urination, and tingling or numbness in the hands and feet. If diabetes goes unmanaged, it can lead to severe health complications, such as heart disease, kidney disease, vision problems, and nerve damage, particularly in the hands and feet.
Types of Diabetes
While all forms of diabetes affect how the body processes glucose, it can be further divided into three forms:
Type 1
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease where the body doesn't produce enough insulin. It's often diagnosed in children and adolescents and has no known prevention method. According to the American Diabetes Association, approximately 1.9 million Americans have Type 1 diabetes.
Type 2
With Type 2 diabetes, the body becomes insulin-resistant, which means cells stop responding to insulin as efficiently. Type 2 diabetes is often diagnosed in adults and is the most common form of diabetes. It can be prevented or delayed with proper diet, exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding smoking.
Gestational
Gestational diabetes forms exclusively in non-diabetic pregnant women. Gestational diabetes usually goes away after childbirth; however, it can put you at a higher risk for developing Type 2 diabetes later. It can also put the unborn baby at a higher risk for other health problems.
Diabetes Management
Diabetes may be chronic once developed, but it doesn't have to be debilitating. Diabetes is actually quite manageable, as long as you keep the following elements in mind:
Blood Sugar Monitoring
Even if you aren't diabetic, you may be familiar with the "finger prick" test. This is a method of monitoring blood sugar via a small finger prick that samples and tests the patient's blood. Regular blood sugar monitoring is a crucial step in managing diabetes.
Medication
Most people suffering from diabetes, particularly Type 1, are dependent on insulin. Depending on your type and severity, your doctor may prescribe you additional medication. Be sure to take all medications as prescribed, even if it feels as though they're unnecessary. If you feel like you don't need your medicine, that means it's working!
Healthy Eating
Due to the impact diabetes has on blood sugar, it's vital to monitor what you eat. Be sure to focus on a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Limit foods high in processed sugars, cholesterol, and salt. Consult a dietitian in order to create a personalized meal plan.
Regular Exercise
Exercise helps to control your blood sugar levels, so be sure to work regular exercise into your routine. The amount you need depends on several factors, such as your age, mobility levels, and weight, but aiming for 30 minutes of exercise at least 5 days a week is a good place to start.
Living Well with Diabetes
In addition to the above methods of managing diabetes, there are several ways to minimize the disease's impact on your life. Meditation and other mindfulness techniques can help reduce stress, as can signing up for diabetes education classes in order to stay informed. Staying well-rested when possible is also important — aim for eight hours of sleep every night. Finally, don't be afraid to develop a support system and share your journey with friends and family.
Get Involved
In honor of American Diabetes Month, support the American Diabetes Association by helping to raise awareness and funding for diabetes. You can do so by donating to research charities, volunteering, or participating in local awareness events. Check your area to see what options are available near you.
Arnot's Commitment to Diabetic Care
At Arnot Health, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive care to those with diabetes. Our team of experts is here to support you every step of the way. We offer state-of-the-art care for Type 1, Type 2, and gestational diabetes, as well as support programs to help minimize the impact diabetes has on your life. If you or someone you know is suffering from diabetes, find an Arnot provider near you and take the first step towards better care.
