Diabetes 101

Publish Date February 12, 2024 4 Minute Read
Author Richie Santucci, RDN, LD, CDCES, NCSF-CPT, RYT-200
Expert Advice

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a term used to refer to a group of conditions, including Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 diabetes, gestational diabetes and prediabetes. Each of these conditions affect the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels. This can happen when the pancreas doesn't produce enough insulin or the body can't use the insulin it produces effectively. Either of these causes can lead to dangerously high blood sugar levels, resulting in subsequent health challenges. Managing most types of diabetes involves a balance of medication, diet and exercise to keep blood sugar in check.

Types of Diabetes

Learning more about the different types of diabetes and their unique risk factors, symptoms and treatment options can help you make informed adjustments to your diet, lifestyle or care plan. If you suspect you have diabetes, talk to your healthcare provider to address your concerns.

Prediabetes

This early form of diabetes can develop into Type 2 diabetes if left untreated, and it’s often accompanied by weight gain, elevated blood pressure, excess insulin secretion and insulin resistance. While it’s estimated that 1 in 3 adults (or 98 million Americans) are prediabetic, prediabetes can be managed effectively with lifestyle adjustments, like incorporating more movement and exercise and making sure your body gets the fiber and protein it needs each day.

Type 1 Diabetes

Also known as juvenile-onset diabetes, Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition that results in the destruction of the beta cells of the pancreas, which produce insulin. It often develops in childhood, though a growing number of people are developing it later in life. This is called latent autoimmune diabetes (LADA), which accounts for around 10% of Type 1 diabetes cases.

Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes accounts for 95% of known cases of diabetes. While it’s also referred to as adult-onset diabetes, it can occur at any age. It’s characterized by different levels of insulin resistance. With diet and lifestyle changes, Type 2 diabetes can go into complete remission, resulting in normalized blood sugar levels.

Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy. While the exact cause of gestational diabetes is not fully understood, it’s believed to be brought on by a combination of hormonal, metabolic and genetic factors that affect how insulin (the hormone that regulates blood sugar) is produced and used during pregnancy. Gestational diabetes usually goes away after childbirth, but it can pose risks for both mother and baby during and after pregnancy, including an increased likelihood of cesarean section, high birth weight and an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes later in life. Regular prenatal care is essential for the early detection and effective management of gestational diabetes, which may include monitoring blood sugar levels, maintaining a healthy diet and using insulin or other medications to control blood sugar levels.

Diabetes Symptoms

The onset of symptoms may vary depending on the type of diabetes. In people with Type 1 diabetes, the onset of symptoms can be very sudden, while symptoms may develop more gradually over time for people with Type 2 diabetes. Make an appointment with your healthcare provider if you notice any of the following symptoms:

  • Increased thirst
  • Frequent urination
  • Increased hunger
  • Unintended weight loss
  • Fatigue
  • Blurred vision
  • Slow-healing sores
  • Frequent infections
  • Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
  • Areas of darkened skin, usually in the underarms and neck
  • Elevated fasting and 2-hour post-meal blood glucose levels
A Hemoglobin A1C test is performed to diagnose prediabetes. This blood test measures your average blood sugar levels over a period of 3 months, and allows you to monitor blood sugar levels management. A higher Hemoglobin A1C can indicate poor blood sugar control, complications, and type of diabetes diagnosed.

Preventing Diabetes with Lifestyle Adjustments

While not all types of diabetes are preventable, you can decrease your risk of developing prediabetes and Type 2 diabetes by making a few lifestyle adjustments:

    Regular movement increases your body’s sensitivity to its own insulin and helps you maintain a healthy weight, reducing your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Talk to your healthcare provider before making changes to your exercise regimen.

    To further support your body’s sensitivity to insulin, make sure you’re eating the appropriate number of calories to maintain a healthy weight.

    High-fiber diets can slow down the body’s absorption of sugar, leading to more stable blood glucose levels. Additionally, fiber-rich foods contribute to weight management, reducing the risk of obesity (a key factor in the development of Type 2 diabetes).

    High intake of these fats is associated with inflammation and metabolic dysfunction, contributing to the development of Type 2 diabetes. Choosing healthier fats can support overall cardiovascular and metabolic health, lowering your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

Managing Symptoms with Lifestyle Adjustments

If you have diabetes, the following lifestyle adjustments may help you manage your symptoms. For more information, talk to your healthcare provider:

  • Blood Glucose Monitoring - You can minimize the possible long-term effects of diabetes, including heart disease, kidney failure, neuropathy, blindness and others, by stabilizing your blood sugar levels. Routinely monitoring these levels helps you and your healthcare provider adjust your care plan as needed. Keep in mind that your Hemoglobin A1C goals will vary slightly depending on your age, other medical conditions and comorbidities.
  • Adherence to Medications & Regular Checkups - Your healthcare provider will recommend the appropriate medications, including insulin if needed. Proper adherence to these treatments will help ensure stabilized blood sugar levels over time. Keep up to date with checkups and recommended screenings to stay on top of your care plan.
  • Following a Diabetic Diet - With diabetes, your nutrition needs are unique, and meeting your recommended carbohydrate, protein, fat and fiber intake will help you manage your symptoms and feel your best. In most cases, people with diabetes can benefit from focusing on a diet of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean protein, low-fat dairy and beans, peas and lentils. Eating regular meals and snacks throughout the day can also help keep your blood sugar levels stable. Check out our Dietitian’s Pick Recipes for some healthy ideas.
  • Increasing Physical Activity - Studies have shown that staying active throughout the day is key to both preventing and managing diabetes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week. That’s at least 30 minutes per day. Break up each hour you spend sitting with about 5 minutes of moderate activity like going for a short walk, using the stairs or even exercises that can be done in place.

If you need help implementing a healthy diet and lifestyle routine, schedule an appointment with a Kroger Health registered dietitian, our nutrition expert, for personalized guidance and ways you can modify your diet to prevent diabetes.

Disclaimer: This information is educational only and is not meant to provide healthcare recommendations. Please see a healthcare provider.

Richie Santucci, RDN, LD, CDE, NCSF-CPT

Richie Santucci (RDN, LD, CDE, NCSF-CPT) has a nutrition philosophy of eating a diverse diet by incorporating various plant-based foods. As a former wrestler, boxer and mixed martial arts athlete who overtrained for many years, Richie realized the importance of nutrition. This led to his creation of a specialized diet program to support muscle recovery. A jack-of-all-trades, Richie is a multi-instrumentalist musician who has recorded a full album and produced two music videos.

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