When you have diabetes, your body doesn't properly manage blood sugar (glucose), its main source of fuel. To keep your blood sugar level on target and avoid problems with your eyes, kidneys, heart and feet, you may need to take medication. But you also need to monitor your blood sugar to see if it's too high or too low, so that you can get it back on track and prevent long-term health problems.
Diabetes is a chronic disease that can cause serious health complications, so it's important to take an active role in managing the disease. This series, produced in partnership with American Association of Diabetes Educators (AADE), reviews the AADE7 Self-Care BehaviorsTM, seven approaches to healthier behavior for people with diabetes.
Having diabetes does not mean you have to give up your favorite foods or stop eating in restaurants. In fact, there is nothing you can't eat. But you need to know that the foods you eat affect your blood sugar or blood glucose. By eating regular meals, thinking about the amount and types of food you eat, you can better control your diabetes and prevent other health problems.
