Diabetes is one of the most well-known medical conditions. It affects up to 37 million people around the world. It is actually the 8th leading cause of death for humans. Diabetes is a condition of the body is not processing or properly utilizing insulin. Insulin is made in the pancreas and is used to turn glucose (blood sugar) into energy. If your body is not making enough insulin, not using the insulin made, or attacking the insulin made then you most likely have diabetes. Diabetes can present itself in a variety of ways including and not limited to: frequently feeling thirsty, slow healing sores, or frequent urination. Family history, geography (eating habits or trends where you live), ethnicity, and age are all risk factors for diabetes.

There are several types of diabetes.

TYPE 1 - is usually caused by an autoimmune issue. This is where the body will attack the insulin made by your pancreas, thinking it is a bad foreign entity. Type 1 usually begins during childhood though some adults develop onset type 1.

TYPE 2 - is far more common and accounts for almost 90% of those diagnosed with diabetes. Type 2 can start at any age although it is most prone to begin after 40 years of age. In this type, the body is either not using all the insulin it should or is not making enough.

GESTATIONAL DIABETES - occurs in pregnant women. Once pregnancy is over, this type of diabetes usually subsides, however, it can increase the risk for the mother to get Type 2 at a later date. 

TYPE 3C - is caused by external damage done to the pancreas.

PREDIABETES - occurs in one of three individuals. It doesn't It doesn't mean one has diabetes but that they are on the edge of a full diagnosis. 

Diabetes can cause kidney damage, occular damage and cardiovascular disease. It is the #1 the number cause of kidney failure, lower limb amputation and adult blindness. There is no cure for diabetes though there are ways to help prevent or slow issues caused by diabetes. Proper diet, exercise, and plenty of water can help lower risk factors one may have. November is Diabetes Awareness Month but Franciscan Health Fitness Centers is here to help you with exercise techniques, nutrition and lifestyle choices that will help you keep a healthy balance.

References: Center for Disease Control 9/5/2023 and Mayo Clinic 9/15/2023