MultiCare\u2019s Center for Diabetes Education<\/a>.<\/p>\nThat leads to questions \u2014 about diet, medications, the risk for complications and more. These questions are often most fully addressed in diabetes education classes. But a few frequently asked questions are briefly answered here.<\/p>\n
Will I have to give up sweets?<\/h3>\n
A healthful diet is crucial. It\u2019s low in saturated fats and trans fats. And it contains balanced portions of proteins and carbohydrates, including sugars.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s the carbohydrates that have the major effect on one\u2019s blood sugar level, but even simple sugars and sweets are allowed in limited amounts,\u201d Dr. Graf says.<\/p>\n
Why is exercise important?<\/h3>\n
Exercise can lower blood sugar levels and help with insulin resistance, which occurs with type 2 diabetes \u2014 the type often related to obesity. Insulin resistance means the body has a hard time using the insulin it makes.<\/p>\n
\u201cExercise can overcome much of that insulin resistance, as well as burn some of the calories we consume in our diet and store in our fat,\u201d Dr. Graf says.<\/p>\n
That can lead to weight loss, which in turn may lead to less insulin resistance. It may also improve high blood pressure and abnormal cholesterol levels, which often occur in people with diabetes.<\/p>\n
Will I need to take medication?<\/h3>\n
People with type 1 diabetes must take insulin. People with type 2 diabetes often can control their disease with proper diet and exercise. With time, though, they may need one or more medications.<\/p>\n
\u201cFrequently, even those with type 2 diabetes will eventually require insulin treatment to help control elevated blood glucose levels,\u201d Dr. Graf says.<\/p>\n
Will I be able to avoid diabetes complications?<\/h3>\n
Most people who follow their health care team\u2019s advice can have relatively healthy lives, says Dr. Graf:<\/p>\n
\u201cLiving with diabetes usually means making some lifestyle changes and some sacrifices,\u201d he says. \u201cBut these changes are usually for the better and can lead to a healthier and longer life.\u201d<\/p>\n
MultiCare offers support to people with diabetes<\/h3>\n
At MultiCare\u2019s Center for Diabetes Education, a team of registered nurses, registered dieticians and pharmacists specializes in teaching people with diabetes how to effectively manage their disease. We offer classes and support for adults, including pregnant women.<\/p>\n","protected":false,"gt_translate_keys":[{"key":"rendered","format":"html"}]},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Every year, 1.5 million Americans learn they have diabetes.<\/p>\n","protected":false,"gt_translate_keys":[{"key":"rendered","format":"html"}]},"author":123,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[87],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-4599","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-nutrition-wellness"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n
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