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YOUR DIABETES GUIDE

Understanding Diabetes Starts Here

Simple, trusted information to help you better understand diabetes and take an active role in managing your health.

Understanding Diabetes

Learn what diabetes is, how blood sugar works, and why managing it matters.

What Is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a condition in which the level of glucose (sugar) in your blood becomes too high. Glucose is an important source of energy for your body, and insulin helps move glucose from your blood into your cells.¹ ²

How Blood Sugar Works

When you eat, your body breaks down carbohydrates into glucose. Insulin, a hormone made by the pancreas, helps glucose enter your cells to be used for energy. When there is not enough insulin or your body cannot use it effectively, glucose can build up in the blood.²

Type 2 Diabetes

In Type 2 diabetes, the body does not use insulin effectively and, over time, may not produce enough insulin to keep blood glucose within a healthy range. Managing Type 2 diabetes involves ongoing care and regular follow-up with your healthcare team.¹ ²

Know Your Numbers

Understanding your health measurements can help you have more meaningful conversations with your healthcare professional.

Blood Glucose — Blood glucose monitoring shows your glucose level at a particular point in time and can help you and your healthcare team understand how your diabetes is being managed.³

HbA1c — HbA1c is a blood test used to assess your glucose levels over a longer period of time. It gives different information from an individual blood glucose reading.¹ ³

Blood Pressure — Blood pressure is another important part of your overall health. Diabetes and high blood pressure can both contribute to cardiovascular risk, so your healthcare team may monitor both as part of your care.² ⁴

Your targets are personal.

Ask your healthcare professional what blood glucose, HbA1c and blood pressure targets are appropriate for you.

Your Treatment Journey

Managing diabetes is a journey. Understanding your condition, monitoring your health, following the treatment plan agreed with your healthcare professional, maintaining healthy habits, and attending regular follow-ups all play a role in your care.³

Understand → Monitor → Follow Your Treatment → Live Well → Follow Up

Living Well With Diabetes

Healthy Eating — Making balanced food choices can be an important part of living well with diabetes.

Physical Activity — Regular physical activity can support your overall health and diabetes management.

Daily Routine — Building your medication, monitoring, meals and activity into a consistent routine can make everyday diabetes management easier.

Make the Most of Your Next Doctor Visit

A little preparation can help you get more from your next appointment.

Before your visit, consider writing down:

□ Your recent blood glucose readings

□ Any questions about your treatment

□ Any difficulties you have had following your treatment plan

□ Changes you have noticed since your previous visit

□ Questions about food, activity or your daily routine

Bring your questions with you—your healthcare team is there to help you understand your care.

Medical Content Review

This educational content has been medically reviewed.
Last reviewed: Aug 2026

References

1. American Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee. Diagnosis and Classification of Diabetes: Standards of Care in Diabetes—2026. Diabetes Care. 2026;49(Suppl 1).

2. American Heart Association. What is Diabetes? Last reviewed June 30, 2026.

3. American Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee. Glycemic Goals, Hypoglycemia, and Hyperglycemic Crises: Standards of Care in Diabetes—2026. Diabetes Care. 2026;49(Suppl 1).

4. American Heart Association. 2025 High Blood Pressure Guideline: Top Things to Know. Updated August 14, 2025.

Medical Disclaimer

The information provided on this platform is intended for health education and awareness purposes only and does not replace consultation with your doctor or healthcare professional. Always follow your healthcare professional’s instructions regarding your treatment.