November is American Diabetes Month - a time to raise overall awareness about diabetes, educate others about the risk factors, and highlight resources that exist to help those living with diabetes to manage the condition.
Type 1 diabetes is less common and classified as an autoimmune disease, and happens when the pancreas stops producing insulin. Those with Type 1 diabetes must take insulin to survive.
Type 2 diabetes is more common and can be controlled with self-management and lifestyle changes, but individuals often must also take medication in order to maintain normal blood sugar levels.
Consuming a healthy, well-balanced diet and engaging in regular physical activity is important for everyone - but especially those with, or at risk of developing, diabetes. For those with type 2 diabetes, it may help to control the condition and for those at risk of developing diabetes, regular physical activity and a nutritious diet are two lifestyle changes that may help slow or prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes entirely.
Common diabetes symptoms may include:
Hunger
Fatigue/being overtired
More frequent urination
Feeling more thirsty
Dry mouth
Itchy skin
Blurred vision
If you have any of those common symptoms, a visit with your MCMC provider can help rule out Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. MCMC's Direct Access Lab also offers low-cost lab tests that can be used to screen for and/or monitor diabetes and pre-diabetes, with no provider's order required.
Additionally, MCMC offers a diabetes education program, with a registered dietician and a diabetes educator on staff to provide guidance and support while you navigate living well with diabetes. Our team can assist with things such as nutrition/meal planning; self-management tools and strategies when it comes to medication/insulin, self-care/healthy coping, and monitoring blood sugar; and exercise plans. Call MCMC at (507) 836-6111 to learn more today!