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Understanding Diabetes

It’s estimated that 1 out of 10 Americans have diabetes, and many people don’t even know it. More than 1 in 3 adults have prediabetes — when blood sugar is elevated, but not high enough to be diabetes. Prediabetes is a red flag to make changes to avoid the road to diabetes. If you don’t know your blood sugar levels, talk to your provider or health care team during your next visit.
  1. What is diabetes?
    Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. When blood sugar levels are too high, it can lead to serious health problems, such as heart disease, stroke and kidney disease.

  2. The different types of diabetes:
     There are two main types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2. Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body does not produce any insulin. This form of diabetes is typically diagnosed in childhood or adolescence. Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. This form of diabetes is typically diagnosed in adulthood.

  3. The symptoms of diabetes:
    The symptoms of diabetes can vary depending on the type of diabetes and the severity of the condition. However, some common symptoms include frequent urination, excessive thirst, fatigue, weight loss and blurred vision. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see your medical care team for a diagnosis.

  4. The causes of diabetes:
    The exact cause of diabetes is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some people are more at risk for developing diabetes than others, such as those with a family history of the condition or those who are overweight or obese.
     
  5. The complications of diabetes:
    Diabetes can lead to a number of serious health complications if it is not properly managed. Some of these complications include heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, nerve damage and eye damage. Diabetes can also make it more difficult for wounds to heal and can increase the risk for infections.

  6. Managing diabetes:
    Diabetes is managed through lifestyle changes and medication. Lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise can help control blood sugar levels. Medications such as insulin injections or oral diabetic medications may also be necessary to manage the condition.

Some common signs and symptoms of diabetes include.
  • Feeling very thirsty
  • Weight gain or loss
  • Urinating (peeing) more, especially at night
  • Blurry vision
  • Feeling very tired
  • Dry mouth or skin
  • Cuts that take longer to heal
  • Tingling or numbness in your hands or feet
Tips for Staying Healthy During the Holidays

Most holiday spreads are overflowing with favorite comfort foods and sweets. In addition to being delicious, these are also overloaded with fats and sugar, which can leave you feeling uncomfortably full and zapped of energy if you overdo it.

Here are some tips to stay focused on your health and nutrition:
  1. Get enough sleep. During the holiday season, it’s common for people to skimp on sleep in order to get everything done. However, it’s important to make sure that you’re getting enough sleep during this time of year. Lack of sleep can lead to a number of health problems, such as weight gain, depression and anxiety. Aim to get at least 7 hours of sleep each night.
     
  2. Eat healthy. Make sure to include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet. Also, try to limit your intake of sugar and alcohol. Try not to skip meals just because you think you’re going to be having a big meal later on. Be smart about how you fill your plate. 

  3. Focus on friends and family first. Let’s face it, most holiday celebrations center around meals. But don’t forget the main reason for gathering is to spend quality time with loved ones. Recount old memories or plan some fun games, a post-meal walk or other ways to enjoy your time together.
Coping with Seasonal Affective Disorder

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs during the fall and winter months when there is less natural sunlight, and it goes away during the sunnier months. SAD affects an estimated 5 million Americans each year and is more common in women than men. In most cases, people start to feel better and more themselves in the spring.

Symptoms of SAD include:
  • Socially isolating oneself
  • Fatigue
  • Low energy
  • Sleeping more
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Changes in appetite, often overeating
  • Feelings of sadness or hopelessness
If you think you suffer from SAD, talk with your primary care provider.

 There are steps you can take to feel better:
  1. Get plenty of natural sunlight during the day. This can be done by spending time outside or sitting near a window.
  2. Get moving. Regular exercise can help to improve mood and energy levels.
  3. Eat a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
  4. Spend time with loved ones. Snuggle with your kids or pets, play board games as a family and talk about how you feel.
  5. Seek professional help. Psychotherapy and light therapy are effective treatments for SAD, along with medication and lifestyle changes.
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