Did you know?
- 38.4 million Americans have diabetes. That’s 11.6% of the population.
- Another 97.6 million have prediabetes.
- About half the women who experience gestational diabetes go on to develop diabetes.
Diabetes occurs when blood sugar (glucose), the body’s main source of energy, is too high. Your body can make glucose, or it can come from the food you eat.
Glucose uses insulin to get into the cells to nourish them. Insulin is a hormone made in the pancreas. If you have diabetes, your body doesn’t have enough insulin (type 1) or doesn’t use insulin properly (type 2) so that glucose tends to stay in your blood and doesn’t reach the cells. One way to know if your blood glucose is higher than normal is with an A1C test ordered by your doctor.
- Hemoglobin A1C tests the amount of glucose that is attached to your red blood cells. It is recorded as a percentage.
- Normal is typically below 5.7%
- Prediabetes is typically 5.7% to 6.4%
- Diabetes is typically 6.5% or higher
Over time, having diabetes can damage your blood vessels, heart, kidneys, feet, and eyes.
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), you can lower your risk for type 2 diabetes. Work with your doctor to make a game plan to:
- Manage your weight.
- Follow a healthy eating plan such as a Mediterranean style diet
- Move your body. Try to get at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise every day.
- Know your numbers, track your progress, and make changes when necessary.
If you have diabetes, work closely with your health care team to be as healthy as possible. That might include:
- Choosing healthy foods and drinks.
- Understanding how to use prescribed medications.
- Being physically active as you are able.
- Quitting smoking.
- Reducing stress. Keep a journal, practice relaxation, or reach out for help if you need it.
- Getting 7-9 hours of sleep every night.
- Knowing your numbers and making adjustments.
Be diabetes aware. It might make a difference in your life or the life of someone you love. For more information, go to https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes