Top 10 Things to Know About Having Diabetes

Most of my friends and family know that I have type 1 diabetes. Many of them worry about me and share concerns but, sadly, most people are misinformed and often believe stereotypes about the disease. I am currently reading "The Everything Diabetes Book" and I would like to share the first page with you:

Top Ten Things You Should Know

About Diabetes

1. Eating sugar does not cause diabetes. And contrary to popular belief, people with diabetes can eat sugar in moderation, as long as it's figured in to their overall plans. (That means don't worry about me and my kids if you see us eating sugar.)
2. The terms "insulin dependent" (type 1) and "non-insulin dependent" (type 2) diabetes are obsolete. People with type 2 diabetes do require insulin sometimes.
3. Adults can develop "juvenile" (type 1) diabetes and kids can develop "adult-onset" (type 2) diabetes. (I developed "juvenile" diabetes at 18.)
4. Having "a touch" of diabetes is like being "a touch" pregnant. There is no such thing as borderline diabetes.
5. There is no "diabetic diet," only a new, healthier way of eating. (To me, this does not mean eating a bunch of "sugar-free" crap. Yuck! That stuff is so bad for you!)
6. Attending a diabetes education class and meeting with a registered dietitian are two of the most important ways you can start controlling your diabetes. (Just make sure that dietitian knows what they are talking about. I have yet to find one that does.)
7. People with diabetes can work out and play sports. Exercise lowers blood glucose (sugar) levels and is an important component of good diabetes management.
8. Diabetes is not a death sentence, but it can lead to serious, life-altering and life-threatening complications if not properly cared for.
9. Checking yourself frequently with a home blood glucose monitor can help prevent blood sugar emergencies and is an invaluable tool for learning how food and medication affect your disease.
10. People with diabetes -- Both adults and children -- are protected against discrimination in the workplace and at school by a number of federal laws. (Thank God!)

So anyway, there are a few basics... And a few notes with my thoughts. I am going to enjoy reading this book and learning more about the disease myself. I may type up things I learn and thoughts on the blog, for a couple of reasons: 1) So I can remember and have a little reference to look back at. 2) If I find something that I really think my friends and family should know about my condition I will share it on here. Happy Halloween!