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Did you know that about one in ten people in the United States has diabetes? That’s more than 29 million people. And according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), that number is only going to increase in the years to come. In honor of American Diabetes Month, we want to take a closer look at this epidemic and what you can do to prevent it.
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic or long-lasting disease that affects the way your body turns food into energy. There are three main types of diabetes:
1. Type 1 diabetes
With this form of diabetes, the body does not produce insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps the body’s cells use sugar for energy. People with type 1 diabetes must take insulin every day to stay alive.
2. Type 2 diabetes
This is the most common form of diabetes. With type 2 diabetes, the body does not make or use insulin well. When sugar can’t get into the cells for energy, it builds up in the bloodstream. Over time, too much sugar in the blood can lead to serious problems with the heart, eyes, kidneys, nerves, and gums and teeth.
3. Gestational diabetes
This form of diabetes only happens during pregnancy. About 4% of all pregnant women develop gestational diabetes. It usually goes away after the baby is born but women who have had it are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes later in life.
What are the top three symptoms of diabetes?
While there are many different symptoms of diabetes, the three most common are increased thirst, urination, and hunger. Other symptoms can include fatigue, weight loss, blurred vision, and slow-healing wounds. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to speak with your doctor right away.
Why is it important to eat a healthy diet if you have diabetes?
Eating a healthy diet is important for everyone, but it’s especially important if you have diabetes. That’s because a healthy diet can help to control your blood sugar levels. When your blood sugar levels are in check, you’re less likely to experience the symptoms of diabetes. So what does a healthy diet look like? The best way to find out is to speak with a registered dietitian. They can help you create a personalized meal plan that meets your specific needs.
What can you do to prevent diabetes?
There are many things you can do to prevent diabetes. First, and most importantly, eat a healthy diet and get regular exercise. This will help maintain a healthy weight, one of the most important risk factors for diabetes. You can also talk to your doctor about taking a diabetes prevention class. These classes are designed to teach you the skills you need to make healthy lifestyle changes.
Understanding Diabetes Health Risks
If you have any questions about diabetes or if you would like to learn more about our diabetes prevention classes, please call us at 1-888-4-Pinnacle. We’re here to help!
At Pinnacle HealthCare, we are committed to helping our patients lead healthier lives. To learn more about our services, please visit our website or give us a call at 1-888-4-Pinnacle.