Diabetes
What is Diabetes?
- Diabetes is a chronic disease in which your body either can’t produce or can’t properly use the insulin it produces. Insulin’s role is to regulate the amount of glucose (sugar) in the blood.
- Approximately 11.7 million Canadians are living with diabetes or pre-diabetes.
Type 1 Diabetes
- ~ 10% of diabetics are Type 1
- Also known as insulin-dependant diabetes
- Generally develops in childhood or adolescence
- Need to inject or use insulin pump to regulate.
Type 2 Diabetes
- ~ 90% of diabetics are Type 2
- Most commonly developed in adulthood
- Can be managed with healthy eating and regular exercise.
- May require medication or insulin therapy
Pre-Diabetes
- Blood sugar levels are higher then normal but not yet high enough for type 2 diagnosis.
- Can be managed with healthy eating and regular exercise.
Hypoglycemia
Defined as having a blood sugar level below 4 mmol/L
Cause: improper medication dosage, nutritional deficit, or increase in activity
Treatment: eat or drink fast-acting carbohydrate (15mg) (glucose tabs, juice, sugar water, etc)
Hyperglycemia
Characterized by a blood sugar level of 11mmol/L or higher.
Cause: can result when food, activity and medications are not balanced
Treatment: adjust meal plan, physical activity and/or medication
Treatment:
At North 49 Physical Therapy, we recognize that managing diabetes goes beyond tracking blood sugar levels; it is a holistic journey to improved health. This journey thrives in a supportive environment where healthy habits flourish, from nutritious meals to enjoyable activities. Our committed team provides personalized strategies to enhance your well-being, encouraging daily movement and fostering a community that inspires change.
If you’re unsure where to begin or would like more information, schedule an appointment with our kinesiologist to embark on your journey. Together, we can navigate the complexities of diabetes and help you embrace a vibrant lifestyle filled with energy and vitality, ensuring you not only move better but also live better.
