Diabetes: What you Need to Know

Q: What is the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes?

A: People with Type 1 diabetes do not produce insulin, and rely on synthetic insulin. People with Type 2 diabetes do not produce enough insulin for the transfer of glucose into their cells. Type 1 used to be called “juvenile diabetes” and Type 2 was called “adult-onset diabetes,” but with the growing rate of childhood obesity, more children are being diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes.

Q: Is diabetes serious?

A: Diabetes was the seventh-leading cause of U.S. deaths in 2017. It is also the main cause of kidney disease and amputations. If you have Type 2, you can reduce your health risks by controlling the condition. Q: Is there a special diet for people with diabetes? A: Not necessarily. Most people, even those without the condition, should eat a diet low in saturated fat, sugar and sodium, and high in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.

Q: I’m not overweight. Do I even need to worry about this?

A: Obesity is not the only risk factor for diabetes, and many people diagnosed with it are not overweight. That’s why it’s important to have your glucose levels tested during your annual physical.

 

If you need to find an in-network doctor, use the Horizon Blue app or visit HorizonBlue.com/doctorfinder. We want you to get the care you need, when you need it. Sources: American Diabetes Association, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention