Diabetes

Diabetes is a disease in which the body doesn’t produce or effectively use insulin, a hormone your body needs to convert sugar and other foods into energy. As a result, sugars (glucose) can build up in the blood, leading to serious medical problems including heart disease and stroke.

There are two main types:

Type 1:
The pancreas makes little or no insulin, and daily insulin injections are required to survive.

Type 2:
The body doesn’t make enough insulin or it can’t efficiently use what it does make. This is the most common type. Nearly 95% if adults with the disease have Type 2. This form can be treated through lifestyle changes such as diet, weight loss and exercise, or through the use of oral medications and/or insulin injections.

There is another condition, called “pre-diabetes,” in which the blood glucose is higher than normal, but not high enough to qualify as Type 2.

If you have this condition, you are at risk of developing Type 2 later in life. As with Type 2, lifestyle changes are the most effective way to manage the condition and to prevent further progression.

If the disease runs in your family, you are at greater risk of developing it. Get your blood glucose levels checked once every three years beginning at age 45 or based on your doctor’s advice.

Ask about Aspirin
The American Diabetes Association recommends aspirin for nearly all diabetics to reduce their risk of heart attack, stroke and related complications. Talk to your doctor about whether an aspirin regimen is right for you. Looking for deals on aspirin? If you have a CVS, Walgreens in your area, be sure to check this website for deals before you head out to the store. Of course, you’ll need to buy a membership.

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