Imagine what it would be like if your body lacked the ability to convert properly the foods you eat to give you the energy you need. For the more than 16 million Americans living with diabetes, that challenge is a daily reality. However, though uncontrolled diabetes can be life-threatening, through careful monitoring of diet and exercise, those with diabetes find no limitations to what they can do.

Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or has trouble producing and using insulin. Insulin is a hormone that converts carbohydrates and other foods into the energy needed to fuel the body’s cells. It also "unlocks" these cells of the liver, muscles and other tissues to allow the body to store the nutrients produced. As a result, excess glucose, or sugar, and valuable nutrients build up in the blood. The first symptoms of diabetes often include frequent urination, excessive thirst or blurred vision.

There are three types of diabetes:

Unfortunately, the signs of diabetes—which also can include fatigue, slow healing wounds or bladder and other infections—often go unrecognized until they’re combined with one of the more serious complications of the disease. It is estimated that nearly one third of all persons with diabetes are unaware of it. This is a serious concern, since those with diabetes are more likely than others to suffer from certain other conditions, including cardiovascular disease, blindness, kidney failure or nerve and tissue damage.

Today there are more options than ever before for treating diabetes. Some people find that they can reduce or eliminate their symptoms completely with proper diet and exercise. Others help their bodies produce or use insulin better with the addition of medicines taken as pills. Those who cannot control diabetes through these measures may need daily insulin injections to help maintain healthy blood glucose levels.

The proper treatment plan requires a willingness to learn about the disease and its therapies, as well as a close partnership with your physician. Alliance Primary Care offers several benefits for patients who want more information about controlling their diabetes. These include access to a diabetes nurse specialist for office or individual education and a dietitian for help in establishing proper nutritional guidelines. Taking care of diabetes is a lifelong process. By discovering the latest management techniques and the continual advances in the treatment of this disease, you’ll not only reduce your risk for complications but also maintain a healthier, more active lifestyle.

Dr. Marjorie Jenkins practices internal medicine at the Alliance Primary Care office at 1207 Springfield Pike in Wyoming. She attended medical school at East Tennessee State University and completed her residency at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center. Dr. Jenkins is accepting new patients. For an appointment, call (513) 821-1089.