INSULIN AND DIABETIC FACTS FOR THE LAYPERSON


There are many people who are diagnosed with diabetes and 
do not fully understand what is happening to their bodies.
This simple explanation is designed to help the layperson
understand the process of this illness.

What is diabetes mellitus?

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition which may be further
complicated by other conditions if not correctly managed.
Insulin is secreted by special cells in the pancreas. Insulin
works to control the amount of glucose (sugars) that we
consume.

Both sugars and starches like bread and cakes are broken
down during digestion to glucose. If the pancreas cannot 
produce insulin for whatever reason, blood glucose becomes
high and requires treatment.

Medical attention is needed to manage the problem. Depending
on the type of diabetes (1 or 2) , the person will require medical
management and teaching for the diabetes.

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