A whole-person guide to diabetes

Woman wearing a cgm monitor seated at a table using a laptop computer in a brightly lit room.

You’ve heard of diabetes. But what exactly is it? How does it impact the body, and how can it be managed?

What is diabetes?

Diabetes is a condition that affects how the body processes sugar in the blood.

Illustration showing carbohydrates from food being converted into blood sugar

The human body breaks down the carbohydrates in food into blood sugar. 

Illustration showing insulin helping move blood sugar from the bloodstream into the body’s cells

Blood sugar is then carried from the bloodstream to the cells using a hormone called insulin.

Illustration showing blood sugar remaining in the bloodstream when insulin is absent or ineffective.

When insulin is not present or not effective to help the body remove blood sugar, it causes health complications.

Type 1 (most common)

  • The body does not produce insulin at all
  • Must be managed with insulin

Type 2 (less common)

  • The body produces insulin but does not use it properly
  • Lifestyle changes and/or medication may be required

What parts of the body does diabetes affect?

Because sugar runs in the bloodstream, diabetes can affect multiple organs.

Heart

Eyes (vision)

Hands and feet

Mental health

Kidneys

How do you manage diabetes?

150 minutes of exercise weekly

Follow balanced plate guidelines for meals

Stay hydrated with water each day

Manage stress

Monitor your blood sugar

Stay hydrated with water each day

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This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.