Understanding Diabetes and Taking Control of Your Health

A person checks a phone showing a glucose reading of 170 with a rising arrow beside a round white glucose monitor on their upper arm. Diabetes is a chronic health condition that affects how the body turns food into energy. When you eat, your body breaks down most foods into glucose (sugar), which enters your bloodstream. Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, helps move that glucose from your bloodstream into your cells where it is used for energy.

People with diabetes either do not produce enough insulin, or their bodies cannot effectively use the insulin they make. As a result, glucose remains in the bloodstream, causing blood sugar levels to become too high.

The most common forms of diabetes include:

Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune condition in which the body stops producing insulin.
Type 2 Diabetes: The most common form of diabetes, occurring when the body becomes resistant to insulin or does not produce enough of it.
Prediabetes: A condition where blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough for a diabetes diagnosis.

How Does Diabetes Affect the Body?

Over time, consistently high blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels, nerves, and organs throughout the body. When left unmanaged, diabetes can increase the risk of serious health complications, including heart disease and stroke, kidney disease, vision loss and eye disease, nerve damage, poor circulation, and slow wound healing.

Many people with Type 2 diabetes may not experience symptoms right away. However, common warning signs can include increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, unexplained weight loss, blurred vision, and frequent infections.

Preventing and Managing Diabetes

While Type 1 diabetes cannot currently be prevented, many cases of Type 2 diabetes can be delayed or prevented through healthy lifestyle choices.

Some of the most effective ways to lower your risk include maintaining a healthy weight by being physically active on a regular basis. Eating a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limiting foods high in added sugars and saturated fats. Managing blood pressure and cholesterol levels and scheduling regular health screenings

For those already living with diabetes, treatment may include lifestyle changes, medication, insulin therapy, routine blood sugar monitoring, and regular medical care. Working closely with a healthcare provider can help ensure blood sugar levels remain within a healthy range and reduce the risk of complications.

We’re Here to Support Your Health

You do not have to deal with diabetes alone. Whether you need preventive screenings, diabetes management support, nutrition counseling, or ongoing medical care, our healthcare team is here to help.

“Regular checkups can help identify risk factors early, monitor your health, and create a personalized care plan that fits your lifestyle and goals. Acting today can make a meaningful difference in your long-term health and well-being.“ – Dr. Vanessa Rojas, Associate Medical Director at Care Resource

This Diabetes Awareness Month, take a proactive step toward better health. If you have concerns about your blood sugar, a family history of diabetes, or simply want to learn more about your risk, schedule an appointment with one of our providers. Together, we can help you stay healthy and thrive for years to come.

For media inquiries, please contact Jonathan Welsh, Director of Marketing and Communications at jwelsh@careresource.org.