28 May 2009

What Is Type 2 Diabetes?
• Diabetes makes it hard for the body to turn food into energy after meals
• Glucose comes from the food that is eaten, and is the main source of energy for the body
• People with diabetes have too much glucose (sugar) in the blood

The Role of Insulin
• The body requires the hormone, insulin, in order to turn food into energy and to lower
blood glucose
• People with diabetes have problems making enough of insulin or using it properly
• Insulin is made in the pancreas, a large gland behind the stomach
• Glucose needs insulin to enter the body’s cells where glucose can be used for energy

Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes
1. More tired
2. Hungrier Than Usual
3. Thirstier Than Usual
4. Blurred Vision
5. Need to Urinate More Often

Complications of Type 2 Diabetes
1. Eye damage, called retinopathy, is caused by damage to the blood vessels of the retina, and may cause blindness
2. Heart disease
3. Stroke
4. Kidney damage
5. Nerve damage, called neuropathy, can cause tingling or numbness in the hands and feet
6. Foot ulcers and unhealed wounds, possibly requiring surgery

What Can You Do?
Eat Right and Be “Carb Smart”
• Whole grain bread
• Fruits and vegetables
• Fish (2 or 3 times a week)
• Low-fat dairy foods
• Lean meats

Keep Active
30 Minutes a Day
Before starting a new exercise routine, ask your health care team to find out which activities will be right for you.

For further reading, pleasr download the full poster…

DT2_Poster.pdf (English – pdf – 238 Kb)