Diabetes can be overwhelming, so start with the basics.

After all, you’re free to’t address what you don’t understand.

And remember, millions of people are thriving while managing prediabetes and diabetes-you will, too!

Start with the Basics

Prediabetes is having a fasting blood glucose reading of 100125 mg/dl.

The body also can’t effectively use the insulin it still makes.

Most people manage key in 2 by eating healthfully, being active, and taking medication.

The Three Types of Diabetes

Gestational diabetes:A pop in of diabetes that women can develop during pregnancy.

The American Diabetes Association says it occurs in about 18 percent of all pregnancies.

Gestational diabetes is managed with healthy eating and activity.

3 Important Diabetes Measures

It measures your average blood glucose (sugar) level over the past two to three months.

The A1C test gives you and your health care provider a measure of your progress.

B = Blood pressure:Blood pressure is the force of blood flow in your blood vessels.

Test Regularly

A blood pressure test reveals two readings.

People with diabetes should have their blood pressure checked at every appointment with their care provider.

High-density lipoproteins (HDL) are considered good cholesterol and appear to protect against heart disease.

Learn How Insulin Works

Triglycerides are a form of fat made in the body.

Carbohydrate found in food increases blood glucose.

Your doctor may give you one, or you could buy one at a pharmacy.

Use Medication as Directed

Insulin acts like a key to open cells, allowing glucose to enter the cells and fuel your body.

Taking insulin is a must for people with key in 1 diabetes.

Some people with punch in 2 diabetes need insulin when oral medications aren’t doing the job.

Plan Your Meals

Remember, taking insulin is not a sign of failure!

Insulin pens make taking insulin a bit easier.

They hold prefilled cartridges and have a dial that allows you to choose the dose you need.

Exercise!

Or you’re free to use one of many insulin pumps on the market today.

The most common ones used resemble a pager and attach to a belt or slip into your pocket.

Insulin can be injected just under the skin in the abdomen, legs, arms, and other places.

Schedule Regular Exams

Some medications perform multiple actions.

And verify to take the medications as directed by your health care team.

There may be an alternate medication available that you will tolerate better.

Build a Support Team

Eating irregularly can make your blood sugars bounce back and forth between normal and high levels.

Well-controlled blood sugar levels help manage appetite, which can help you lose or maintain your weight more effectively.

If you do only one thing, exercise, say two experts, both with bang out 1 diabetes.

“give a shot to do a little more each day.”

Schedule Regular Exams

Diabetes can influence all aspects of your health.

Keeping up-to-date on the following may prevent complications down the road.

Always brush your teeth after every meal and floss twice a day.

A one-time pneumonia shot is recommended for people with diabetes ages 64 and older.

  • A1C:Every few months, you should get an A1C test, also known as hemoglobin A1C.

The target will vary depending on your individual lifestyle and medical condition.

Just remember, the most important member of your health care team is YOU!

A CDE may also be a registered nurse, registered dietitian, pharmacist, or doctor.

Many private insurance companies cover some sessions with a CDE.

It’s most often a family practice doctor, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant.

In some states, it can even be a pharmacist.

Endocrinologist:This throw in of doctor specializes in diseases of the endocrine system, including diabetes.

Not everyone with diabetes needs to see an endocrinologist-your primary care provider will refer you to one if necessary.

He or she also can teach you long-term skills to balance diet, medications, and activity.

Some CDEs also are RDs or RDNs.

Ordering all of your medications from one pharmacy or a mail-order company is a good idea.

Ophthalmologist:Diabetic retinopathy is the most common vision problem in people with diabetes.

you might have it and show no symptoms.

An eye doctor can diagnose and monitor diabetes-related eye diseases.

Mental health counselor:Diabetes hits many people with an emotional wallop.

It’s common to experience depression.

Talk with your primary care provider about what key in of professional might suit your needs in this area.

A podiatrist can help you properly care for your feet.