Information regarding diabetes and day-to-day living with the disease.

Prediabetes is common and found in people who have a blood sugar level that is higher than normal but not high enough to be considered diabetes. If you have been diagnosed with prediabetes, you are more at risk to getting Type 2 diabetes, and having cardiovascular disease or stroke. This condition can be reversed without medication by increasing your physical level of activity and a modest weight loss. Don't underestimate what losing weight can do for your body.

Studies show that unless a healthy weight is maintained and an exercise program is not followed, 20 percent of those diagnosed with prediabetes will possibly develop diabetes within ten years.

Diabetes is an indirect cause of over 200,000 deaths each year and over a million new cases are reported each year. The numbers keep increasing, largely because of increasing numbers who are obese or overweight. These same people do not get the proper amount of exercise

Simply by starting a healthier eating plan, and exercising at least four times a week for 30 minutes, you can reduce the risk of developing diabetes. People with diabetes have a harder time fighting off infections and infections can make your blood sugar level hard to control.

Hypoglycemia or low blood sugar is a problem that occurs when too much insulin is in the system. Missing a meal, having too much alcohol, medications for other health concerns, or exercising more than normal may cause headaches; dizziness, tremors, and sweating are common signs of hypoglycemia. If levels get too low, seizures or fainting may occur.

The exact opposite of this is a serious condition called hyperosmolar hyperglycemic nonketotic syndrome. When this happens, high levels of blood sugar build up. The body tries to get rid of it by passing it out with the urine. This can lead to severe dehydration that may lead to seizures, coma, and death. Stress, injury, stroke, and steroids irritate this problem. Patients who have Type 2 diabetes sometimes fail to control their diabetes, or become dehydrated, stressed, become injured or have a stroke.

Diabetic ketoacidosis is another serious condition when hyperglycemia causes a build up of ketones. These acidic wastes can build up in the body and do serious harm. This condition can be caused by missing insulin injections but can also be caused by medical emergencies, stress, or infection. Stroke and heart attacks can also cause ketones to build up in the body

If you have diabetes, know what the complications are and remember you can control your diabetes, or even reverse it by following a healthier diet, and beginning a moderate exercise program. Take small steps and gradually add more to your exercise program as your stamina increases. Start out with a healthier diet by reducing your intake of refined sugar and adding fresh vegetables and fruit.