Living with Diabetes

What is Type 2 Diabetes?

When you eat, your food is broken down into a sugar called glucose.

Glucose gives your body the energy it needs to work. But to use glucose as energy, your body needs insulin.

When you have type 2 diabetes, your body does not make enough insulin or use it well.

Since your body’s cells can’t use the glucose from your food as energy, the glucose stays in your blood, where it can cause serious problems.

Want to know more? The animated character, "Type 2 Lou" will provide you with a lively and informative explanation about diabetes.

You Can Manage Your Diabetes

There is no cure for type 2 diabetes, but it can be managed. Balancing the food you eat with exercise and medicine (if prescribed) can keep your blood glucose in a healthy range.

Many people with diabetes live long and healthful lives.

 

Who’s on My Diabetes Care Team?

Your diabetes care team may include:

• your doctor
• nurse
• dietitian
• pharmacist
• diabetes educator
• any other health care provider working to help you care for your diabetes.

And remember, you and your family and friends are the most important members of your diabetes care team. 

Next:  Taking Care of Your Diabetes