 |
|
Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce enough insulin or it does not use insulin properly. The two most common forms of diabetes are Type 1 and Type 2.
 Type 1 diabetes is usually diagnosed in children and young adults, and was previously known as juvenile diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, the body does not produce insulin. Insulin is necessary for the body to be able to use sugar. Sugar is the basic fuel for the cells in the body, and insulin takes the sugar from the blood into the cells. Only about 5-10% of diabetes cases are Type 1 and most cases are diagnosed at an early age. Type 1 diabetes is serious, but people with it can live long, healthy, happy lives. People with Type 1 diabetes need to check their blood sugar levels frequently and inject insulin into their blood supply when needed. Conditions associated with type 1 diabetes include hyperglycemia(high blood sugar), hypoglycemia(low blood sugar), ketoacidosis(the presence of keto acids in the urine), and celiac disease. |
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. In type 2 diabetes, either the body does not produce enough insulin or the cells ignore the insulin. Insulin is necessary for the body to be able to use sugar. Sugar is the basic fuel for the cells in the body, and insulin takes the sugar from the blood into the cells. When glucose builds up in the blood instead of going into cells, it can cause two problems:
right away, your cells may be starved for energy; over time, high blood glucose levels may damage your eyes, kidneys, nerves, or heart.
While diabetes occurs in people of all ages and races, some groups have a higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes than others. Type 2 diabetes is more common in African Americans, Latinos, Native Americans, and Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders, as well as the aged population. Although Type 2 Diabetes is very serious, it can usually be controlled with a well balanced diet, exercise, and weight management. Oral medications or insulin therapy may also be needed to keep blood glucose levels normal.
Many people are now being diagnosed with Pre-Diabetes which is a condition that occurs when a person’s blood glucose levels are higher than normal but are not high enough to be classified as Type 2 diabetes. People with Pre-Diabetes usually need to lose some weight and pay close attention to their diet and exercise plans.
You can lower your risk for developing Type 2 diabetes by
- Eating a diet that is rich in complex carbohydrates and high fiber foods and low in sodium and fat
- Eating fruits and vegetables
- Keeping your weight down
- Exercising regularly
Health Services can do screenings for diabetes and the campus nutritionist is always available to meet with you to discuss healthy ways to prevent and manage diabetes. If you would like to set up an appointment you can stop by the office on the first floor of Jonsson Tower or you can call 580-5550. Needle boxes are available at no cost from Health Services and full boxes can be dropped off for exchange as well.
For more information on diabetes you can visit the American Diabetes Association.
Back to General Health Information
