Diabetes is a disorder of metabolism -- the way our bodies use digested food for growth and energy. There are three main types of diabetes: type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes.
Blood sugar control is at the center of any diabetes treatment plan. High blood sugar, or hyperglycemia, is a major concern and can affect people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
People with diabetes get hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) when their bodies don't have enough sugar to use as fuel. It can happen for several reasons, including diet, some medications and conditions, and exercise.
See medical guidelines for blood sugar levels with diabetes.
Continuous glucose monitors are FDA-approved systems that track your blood sugar levels day and night. Learn how they work and who might benefit from using one.
Most people with diabetes need to check their blood sugar (glucose) levels regularly. The results help you and your doctor manage those levels, which helps you avoid diabetes complications.
Low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, happens to many people with diabetes. Thankfully, most episodes related to insulin can be avoided if you follow a few simple rules.
An insulin reaction is a health risk for anyone with diabetes. It can occur anytime there is an imbalance between the insulin in your system, the amount of food you eat, or your level of activity.
When you watch your diet because you have diabetes, you'll want to pay special attention to carbohydrates, because they can affect your blood sugar level faster than protein or fat.
The glycemic index gives you a way to tell slower-acting "good carbs" from the faster "bad carbs." You can use it to fine-tune your carb-counting and help keep your blood sugar more steady.
Confused about how much you can eat when you have diabetes? First you need to know how much food is in a serving. It may be different from what you expect.
Drinking alcohol can cause your blood sugar to rise. Learn other effects of alcohol on diabetes, and how to drink safely.
Starting a family requires a bit more planning when you're a mother-to-be with diabetes. But you can take some simple steps to make sure your pregnancy and your baby are safe and healthy.
An illness can boost your blood sugar, so it's important to stay on top of your glucose levels. Learn tips for managing your diabetes despite being sick.
Diabetes can dry out your skin. That means you could get injured more easily, be more likely to get an infection, and take longer to heal. Follow these tips to care for your skin and keep it healthy.
Diabetes makes you more likely to get a wide range of skin problems. But you can do a lot to keep yours healthy. These simple tips can help.
If you have diabetes, it is important to check your feet once a day and protect them from cuts, corns, blisters, and injuries.
Looking for organizations that provide information that can help you manage your diabetes? You may want to start with these groups.
Diabetes can take a toll on nearly every organ in your body. Learn how it affects your heart and blood vessels, eyes, kidneys, and more.
Diabetes can cause a lot of complications that can affect nearly every organ in your body. Learn what you can do to prevent these problems.