Nutrition and Wellness/Diabetes Education Department

Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is the most common type of diabetes. It can occur at any age but is most common after age 40. In most cases, type 2 diabetes can be prevented or reversed by making lifestyle changes.

In type 2 diabetes the blood sugar rises because the body is not efficiently using the hormone insulin, or is not producing enough insulin. Insulin is a hormone, made by the pancreas, that is needed to move sugar (glucose) out of the bloodstream and into the cells for energy.

Type 2 diabetes can progress slowly with sometimes no symptoms. Complications of the disease can begin before you even know you have it. That is why yearly check-ups with your doctor are important.

Treatment of type 2 diabetes includes - healthy eating, exercise, and possibly medication. This is a lifelong condition with the treatment changing over time. By making lifestyle changes the risk of complications decreases significantly and it is possible to live a long, healthy life.

Whether you are newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or have had it for many years, meeting with a Certified Diabetes Educator can help get you on the right track. Our team has up to date knowledge on all of the therapies available to assist you in achieving your blood sugar goals. We offer individual and group education and topics can be tailored to meet your specific needs. Now available, with physician order, is the iPro Continuous Blood Sugar Monitor. The monitor is worn for 72 hours and measures the blood sugar every 5 minutes – this information can help your healthcare team make the best treatment recommendations. Call 225-3221 for more information or to schedule an education appointment.

Movie - A basic definition of type 1 diabetes. (27 seconds)

Insulin: The Movie
Describes how the body breaks food into sugar and uses sugar as a source of energy (51 sec)