Is it in the sugar???

As we enter into November, we cross into another time of raising awareness for a very important cause.
It is National Diabetes awareness month.

As with some other diseases out there, Diabetes is one that comes with many myths that are passed off as fact.  Many people may not realize the truths of the disease vs. the old wive's tales.

One prominent fact that often gets misconstrued is that there are 2 types of Diabetes.  While they encompass the same disease, they are truly different in how they affect the body.

So, let's go ahead and set the record straight for good.  After all, part of raising awareness is educating people on the facts.

Type I - (It is usually written this way, but when discussed you would say "type one")
  What this does, type 1, is cause fluctuations in blood sugar.  However, these fluctuations do not mean that person is somehow doing something wrong.  If it were that simple we wouldn't still be talking about the disease.
  
Type 1 Diabetes is controlled by multiple factors.  
  * Diet  * Excersice  * Insulin  * Blood Glucose (aka sugar) Tests.  
  All these factors combined make it possible for the individual lead a normal life; but they must be carefully monitored and maintained to make that happen.  If you know someone who regularly uses Insulin to control their Diabetes, you know they have type 1.

Type II (aka "Type 2) - is the one most associated with overeating and obesity.  The problem is that the body does not process insulin properly.  It is also called "insulin  resistence."

So, the answer to my question "Is it in the sugar?" is partly a yes.  This only applies to Type II.  This is where much confusion lies.  Many people are not aware which type requires insulin regulation, vs. regulation of sugar in the blood.
However, Type II is therefore the one you can more easily avoid.  Daily exercise, a healthy diet and lifestyle has been found to greatly reduce your risk of Type II Diabetes.  That is the good news!  However, it is not 100%.  There have certainly been cases of individuals with Type II who follow all those guidelines.
Individuals dealing with Type II must also closely monitor their Blood Glucose (aka blood sugar), but the solution for levels that are too high or too low can be obtained through diet and exercise, and certain medications, rather than insulin.

This is why it is SO important we get the word out about this disease! 

Researchers are still trying to determine a cause for Type I.  Want to learn more?  Check out the link to get the facts!

Want info on Type II?  We've got you covered!  Click this Link to a page with all the details.

Help us get the word out about Diabetes in all forms!  Know the facts and know how to help those who suffer.  Hopefully, one day this awful disease will be a thing of the past.