Guidelines for Diabetes

Diabetes is a condition in which the body does not produce the hormone insulin, or the body ignores the insulin it produces. The body must have and use insulin to survive. Diabetes is a chronic condition and is life-threatening if not treated correctly. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) has developed national guidelines for treating diabetes.

Diagnosis

ADA guidelines recommend a diagnosis of diabetes be made based on symptoms, a fasting glucose greater than 126, a random glucose greater than 200, and a Hemoglobin A1c (HgA1c) test result greater than 6 percent.

Medication

ADA guidelines recommend short- and fast-acting manufactured insulin for insulin-dependent diabetics. Those who are non-insulin dependent may take oral medications that help the body better use insulin.

Diet

ADA guidelines recommend maintaining a healthy weight with lots of fruits and non-starchy vegetables (dark colored), fish, lean meats, non-fat dairy, whole grains, dried beans and water. The ADA says that no food is "off-limits" as long as it is a part of a balanced diet.

Exercise

ADA guidelines recommend daily exercise to make the body more sensitive to insulin. Exercise burns more glucose, reduces the amount of insulin or oral medication needed, maintains a healthy weight, lowers blood pressure, builds stronger bones and helps to manage stress.

Warning

Poorly controlled diabetes can lead to heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, hypertension, eye damage, nerve damage, poorly healing injuries, frequent hospitalizations, coma and death.

References

• American Diabetes Association

Resources

• ADA Information