12 Things You Didn’t Know About Diabetes

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There are many things going on in the world right now: GMO’s, alternative health issues, fluoride in the water, but one thing is certain, diabetes is at epidemic proportions around the globe. Almost everyone knows someone who is living with this condition.

The serious physical and mental health complications that are associated with both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are less widely known than some of the complications.

Keep reading and find out the top 12 things you probably don’t know about diabetes.

1. The Way You Talk About and Think about Diabetes Can Impact How You Manage It

When you use words like “high and low” blood sugar levels, rather than saying things like “good and bad”, can help how you think about diabetes. You might think it’s nothing more than a matter of semantics, but when you say things like “checking” your blood sugar, rather than “testing” your blood sugar, it makes it sound like less of a disease and more of a problem you are managing.

2. The Non-Financial Costs of Diabetes Are Huge

If you have diabetes, then you already know that it’s not simply about sugar. Most people automatically think of diabetes and sugar in one sentence, but the truth is that diabetes are much more complicated than that. Most people find that diabetes has a huge impact on their emotional, as well as their social wellbeing.

3. All Types of Diabetes have Their Own Problems

There are three basic types of diabetes: type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes. Although they all have one thing in common, (a lack of insulin), all three have different causes and different ways in which they must be managed. Type 2 diabetes will never turn into type 1, however, many of those with type 2 will need insulin injections at some point in their lives due to the natural way that this disease progresses.

4. Being Mindful Can Control Sugar Levels

Believe it or not, feeling in control and having a tool kit on hand to help you deal with things when they feel out of control can have a big impact on your life. Mindfulness teaches you to worry less about things you cannot control and to be more present in your daily life. This reduces feelings of anxiety and stress, which have a direct impact on diabetes. It is very important to stay healthy in all areas of your life and keep stress at a minimum. This includes adding exercise and relaxation techniques to your daily life.

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