Supporting Friends and Family

Even though many people have diabetes, most of us know very little about it. As a result, people with diabetes spend a lot of time educating the people close to them, and clearing up many myths about the disease.

For example, did you know....

•   People with diabetes are able to eat sweets? They just need to incorporate them into the meal plan recommended by their doctors.

•   Women with diabetes can have healthy pregnancies and healthy babies? But they do need to work closely with their doctors before and during the pregnancy.

•   People with diabetes can play sports, or take on any challenge they aspire to? There are a lot of famous people with diabetes. In fact, diabetes self-care teaches a level of responsibility and self-control that may actually help people become more successful.

Certainly, diabetes can be frustrating. But it doesn't have to stop anyone from having an active, satisfying life. It does require a person with diabetes to understand their own limits, test and manage their blood sugar everyday, eat wisely, and exercise regularly. That's a lot easier when the people around them help out.