There are two types of diabetes, Type 1, which used to be called Juvenile Diabetes, and Type 2, which is typically in people where the disease develops later in life. Type 1 occurs when no insulin is produced and must be administered on a regular basis. Type 2 occurs where the insulin exists but the body is unable to utilize it properly.

Statistics – American Diabetes Association

*Currently, almost 26 million people in our country have diabetes or 8.3 percent of our population.

*Another 79 million are pre-diabetic.

*People with diabetes are more likely to develop complications from the disease such as heart disease and stroke, high blood pressure, blindness, kidney disease and even amputation.

*The cost of diabetes in the U.S. in 2012 was $245 billion.

Cure/Treatment

There is currently no cure for the disease, but there are things that can be done that will help keep individuals from developing the disease but also help manage the symptoms once it is diagnosed.

*Exercise – Following a regular routine of exercise can help both prevent the disease and control the blood sugar levels in those that already have the disease.

*Nutrition – Eating the proper variety of foods and appropriate portions again can help prevent the disease and will help keep sugar levels in control for those that are already diagnosed.

*Medications – The regular check of blood sugar levels for Type 1 diabetics and the resulting need for insulin can help control the disease. For Type 2 the use of medications to help control the disease takes careful management along with consultation with medical staff.

By following these strategies people can reduce their risk of developing the disease and better manage it once they are diagnosed.