More than 100 million Americans have diabetes or prediabetes. Perhaps the most concerning part of this statistic is that an overwhelming percentage of Americans have prediabetes and most of them have no idea. At NOELA CHC, we firmly believe in educating our community on diabetes and helping as many patients as we can with diabetes management. Our caring staff is here to support you as you learn more about diabetes and take care of yourself or a loved one.
Diabetes occurs when your blood glucose, more commonly known as blood sugar, is too high. Blood glucose is your body’s main and preferred source of energy and it comes from the food we eat. Normally, your body produces the hormone insulin which regulates blood glucose and helps that sugar become food for your cells. Unfortunately, those with diabetes have problems regulating insulin, so the glucose in diabetics is left in the blood.
There are two types of diabetes:
Type 1 Diabetes: Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which your body cannot produce insulin. Your immune system, for no known reason, attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. Type 1 diabetes is typically diagnosed in children, but it can develop at any age.
Type 2 Diabetes: Type 2 diabetes can vary. Either these diabetics cannot make insulin, or their bodies don’t know how to use it properly. Type 2 diabetes tends to be diagnosed in adulthood. You’re at greater risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes if you are:
If left untreated, diabetics put themselves at risk for:
Since diabetes can lead to such severe consequences, it’s important to seek help as soon as possible. NOELA CHC knows how important it is to treat your diabetes and our professionals are here to help you manage your condition and learn more about it.
Diabetes is not simple to manage, but your Care Team at NOELA CHC makes it a lot easier. We provide the education and resources you need to get your diabetes under control.
Diabetics often require medication to manage their blood glucose levels. Patients may take insulin or other medication to get their blood glucose at a safe level.
Diabetes meal plans are designed to be incredibly nutritious and lower blood glucose levels. When you consume too many calories and/or excess fat, your body responds by increasing your blood glucose levels. To manage these spikes, it’s crucial for a patient to have a healthy meal plan that they stick to.
Exercise can reduce blood glucose levels. Your muscles can use glucose without insulin, so it’s a great way to put the extra glucose in the blood to use. Exercise is also important for your overall health and general mood.
There is a lot of information you will need to take care of your diabetes at home every day. NOELA CHC is hear to teach you about how to store your medication, read your blood glucose levels, and support you along the way.