Whether you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, what, when, and how much you eat
all affect your blood glucose. Blood glucose is the main sugar found in the
blood and the body's main source of energy.
If you have diabetes (or impaired glucose tolerance), your blood glucose can go
too high if you eat too much. If your blood glucose goes too high, you can get
sick.
Your blood glucose can also go too high or drop too low if you don't take the
right amount of diabetes medicine.
If your blood glucose stays high too much of the time, you can get heart, eye,
foot, kidney, and other problems. You can also have problems if your blood
glucose gets too low (hypoglycemia).
Keeping your blood glucose at a healthy level will prevent or slow down diabetes
problems. Ask your doctor or diabetes teacher what a healthy blood glucose level
is for you.
How can I take care of my diabetes?
Diabetes means that your blood glucose (also called blood sugar) is too high.
Your body uses glucose for energy. But having too much glucose in your blood can
hurt you. When you take care of your diabetes, you'll feel better. You'll reduce
your risk for problems with your kidneys, eyes, nerves, feet and legs, and
teeth. You'll also lower your risk for a heart attack or a stroke. You can take
care of your diabetes by
- being physically active
- following a healthy meal plan
- taking medicines (if prescribed by your doctor)