What is type 2 diabetes? Type 2 diabetes is a disease in which your pancreas Fortunately, good diabetes care and management can prevent …
Type 2 diabetes:
The good news
You can live a long and healthy life by keeping your blood glucose levels the amount of sugar in your blood in the target range set by your doctor see our fact sheet, Managing your blood glucose You can do this by:
the basics
management
What is type 2 diabetes?
Your body gets energy by making glucose from foods like bread, potatoes, rice, pasta, milk and fruit To use this glucose, your body needs insulin Insulin is a hormone that helps your body control the level of glucose sugar in your blood Type 2 diabetes is a disease in which your pancreas does not produce enough insulin, or your body does not properly use the insulin it makes If you have type 2 diabetes, glucose builds up in your blood instead of being used for energy
w Eating healthy meals and snacks w Enjoying regular physical activity w Taking diabetes medications
including insulin, if prescribed by your doctor Type 2 diabetes is a progressive, life-long condition; over time, it may be more difficult to keep your blood glucose levels in your target range Your healthcare team can help by working with you to adjust your food plan, activity and medications
Complications of diabetes
Over
time, high blood glucose levels can cause complications such as blindness, heart disease, kidney problems, nerve damage and erectile dysfunction Fortunately, good diabetes care and management can prevent or delay the onset of these complications
Managing your diabetes
Here are some steps you can take to manage your diabetes and help maintain your overall health and wellness today and in the future: w Dont smoke w Check your blood glucose levels regularly and keep them within your target range w Keep your cholesterol and other blood fats within your target range w Maintain a healthy weight 
w Keep your blood pressure close to target level w Take your medication as prescribed w Manage your stress effectively w Follow a balanced meal plan w Be physically active w Take care of your feet w Regularly visit your dentist, eye care specialist every one to two years and doctor
Get the support you need
You may have a hard time accepting that you or a family member has type 2 diabetes It is not unusual to feel scared, shocked, overwhelmed, or even angry A positive and realistic attitude towards your diabetes can help you manage your condition Talk to others who have diabetes ask your local
Canadian Diabetes Association branch about joining a peer-support group or taking part in an information session
Your diabetes healthcare team can help
Your diabetes healthcare team can answer all your questions about how to manage your diabetes well Depending on your needs and the resources available in your community, your team might include a doctor your family doctor or a diabetes specialist, and diabetes educators nurse and dietitian Your team may also include a: w Pharmacist w Social worker w Psychologist w Foot care specialist w Endocrinologist w Eye care specialist Remember: the most important member of your healthcare team is you
The Canadian Diabetes Association works in communities across the country to promote the health of Canadians and eliminate diabetes through our strong nationwide network of volunteers, employees, healthcare professionals, researchers, partners and supporters In the struggle against this global epidemic, our expertise is recognized around the world The Canadian Diabetes Association: setting the world standard
diabetesca 1-800-BANTING 226-8464
112020 08-399 09/08 Q-50M
Source:health.ri.gov
