Living with Diabetes
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a condition in which sugar levels in your blood are high. When you eat, some of your food is broken down into sugar (also called glucose). Sugar from food can be sugar itself, or it can be from carbohydrates that the body turns into sugar. Sugar travels in your blood to all your body’s cells. Insulin helps sugar move from your blood into your cells. Insulin is a hormone that is made by the beta cells in your pancreas.
Your cells need sugar for energy. Sugar from food makes your blood sugar levels go up. Insulin lowers your blood sugar level by helping sugar move from your blood into your cells.
Learn more about Type 1 Diabetes
Here are some tips for understanding type 1 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes can affect anyone at any age, irrespective of race, gender, or size. You are not alone in having it, and you have a community of people who are willing to support you. Your diabetes care team can provide you with everything you need to thrive if you learn as much as you can about it.
Learn more about Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, and it is caused by the inefficient use of insulin by your body. In addition to healthy eating and exercise, some people may require medication or insulin to manage their blood glucose levels. There are options for you-and we are here with resources, tools, and support.
Also, Type 2 diabetes can be effectively managed by maintaining a healthy diet. It's important to eat something that makes you feel better, while also keeping you satisfied and happy. Keep in mind that it's a process. Make your nutritional intake work harder for you by finding helpful tips and diet plans that work best for you.
Managing type 2 requires fitness as well. The good news is that all you have to do is move. Find activities you enjoy and do them as often as you can. Whatever your fitness level, a little daily activity can help you be more in control of your life.
Understanding Diabetes Type 2
How to check your blood glucose?
What is Gestational Diabetes
Great Day Houston: Treating Gestational Diabetes
Gestional Diabetes Video
Diabetes During Pregnancy
If you have diabetes and want to get pregnant, it is important for you to get and keep your blood sugar in control (meaning your Hemoglobin A1c level is within the limits set by your health care provider). Working to keep your blood sugar in control before and during pregnancy increases your chances of having a healthy baby and reduces the chances that you will have other problems. Uncontrolled diabetes increases the chances for the following problems you and your baby.