Diabetes
Diabetes is a health condition where your blood glucose level is too high. This can happen when your body can’t produce any insulin at all (this is known as Type 1 Diabetes), or when your body doesn’t produce enough insulin or when the insulin produced isn’t effective (this is known as Type 2 Diabetes).
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. We can help to reduce our risk of developing Type 2 diabetes by being active and eating a healthy balanced diet.
Some people are born with Type 1 Diabetes and will be given medication to help manage it.
Type 2 Diabetes can be treated by making changes to your lifestyle such as eating healthier foods. However, sometimes medication might be needed.
If you are worried about Diabetes talk to a trusted adult who can support you to speak to your GP.
Myth or fact?
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.
For further support and information...
These links take you to other websites or services that are not provided by Teen Health. The pages have been selected to give you more information on this topic area. They will open another tab in your browser.
