Diabetes
Diabetes is a condition where your blood glucose level is too high.
Type 1 Diabetes
This can happen when your body can’t produce any insulin at all.
Some people are born with Type 1 Diabetes. It is very important that they take care of their health through advice and medication from their GP or healthcare provider.
Type 2 Diabetes
This is when your body doesn’t produce enough insulin or when the insulin produced isn’t effective.
Type 2 Diabetes can be treated (also called remission) through making lifestyle changes such as eating healthier foods and safely losing weight. It is very important that this is done with advice from your GP or healthcare provider.
Some people, especially those from Black African, African Caribbean and South Asian (Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi) backgrounds are at higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Everyone can help to reduce their risk by being active and eating a healthy balanced diet.
Always remember if you want to discuss anything about your health, you can speak to your GP.
Rumours about diabetes that you might believe
Myth or fact?
Myth – Having diabetes does not change who you are. The best thing you can do is educate those around you, share your experiences, your journey, warning signs and how they can support you.
Myth or fact?
Myth – There is no problem in occasionally including sweets and chocolate in your diet as part of a healthy balanced diet. If you need more advice about your diet, speak to your healthcare team.
Myth or fact?
Myth – Research shows that exercise can help the body have better blood sugar control and can help to control type 2 diabetes alongside medication or a healthy lifestyle. There are many sporting role models that have diabetes, so don’t let it put you off something that you enjoy and will help you stay healthy.
Myth or fact?
Myth – Diabetes can affect people of all body types.
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