November is National Diabetes Awareness Month
Diabetes Mellitus is a condition that affects the way the body processes glucose
(often called just sugar) and is our main source of energy. Insulin is a hormone
required for most cells in the body to absorb glucose and convert it to
energy. Low levels of insulin production causes many cells in the
body to become starved for energy while the body’s blood glucose (sugar)
levels rise above normal levels. This causes inefficient cell activity and
multiple other complications. Over time, the eyes, kidneys, nerves, or heart can be affected.
Different types of diabetes:
Type 1, requires a person to take insulin every day. It is usually first diagnosed
in children and young adults.Type 2 is the most common form, and develops when a person’s body does not efficiently process insulin. This form often appears very slowly and can be
brought on from poor diet.1.5 million Americans are diagnosed with diabetes every year.
Diabetes has no cure, but if managed well, people can live a healthy life.