Understanding the Condition and How to Manage It

Diabetes is a long-term health condition that affects how your body turns food into energy. Most of the food you eat is broken down into sugar (glucose) and released into your bloodstream. When your blood sugar rises, your pancreas releases insulin, a hormone that helps your body use sugar for energy.

If you have diabetes, your body either doesn’t make enough insulin or can’t use it properly, causing sugar to build up in your blood. Over time, high blood sugar can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, kidney damage, nerve issues, and vision loss.

🩸 The Main Types of Diabetes

1. Type 1 Diabetes

  • Caused by the body’s immune system attacking insulin-producing cells.
  • Usually diagnosed in children or young adults.
  • Requires daily insulin to manage blood sugar levels.

2. Type 2 Diabetes

  • The most common form of diabetes.
  • Occurs when your body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t make enough of it.
  • Often linked to unhealthy lifestyle habits, excess weight, or family history.
  • Can often be managed through diet, exercise, and medication.

3. Gestational Diabetes

  • Develops during pregnancy and usually goes away after childbirth.
  • Increases the mother’s risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

🍎 Common Symptoms of Diabetes

If you experience any of the following, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider:

  • Frequent urination
  • Extreme thirst or hunger
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Blurred vision
  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Slow-healing cuts or infections

💪 How to Prevent or Manage Diabetes

✅ Eat Balanced Meals

Choose whole grains, lean proteins, vegetables, and fruits. Avoid sugary drinks and limit processed foods.

🚶 Stay Physically Active

Exercise helps your body use insulin more effectively. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week.

⚖️ Maintain a Healthy Weight

Even small amounts of weight loss can make a big difference in improving blood sugar control.

🩺 Schedule Regular Checkups

Routine blood sugar screenings help detect problems early. Your provider may also monitor cholesterol, blood pressure, and kidney function.

❤️ Take Control of Your Health Today

Diabetes may be a lifelong condition, but with proper care and lifestyle changes, you can live a healthy, active life.
At Family Health Primary Care, our team provides personalized diabetes care and education to help you manage your condition with confidence.

📞 Call us today or book an Appointment Online to discuss your blood sugar concerns and create a care plan that works for you.

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