It all starts with the metabolism of glucose which is a type of sugar. Diabetes is capable of devastating nearly every system the body. Our every move and thought is powered by glucose which we get from the food we eat. But the human body can’t use glucose without insulin which is a hormone produced by the pancreas. There are two types of diabetes and in both cases the diabetes results from insulin’s in ability to function properly.

When insulin loses the ability to process sugar the cells of the party begin to star and sugar accumulates to toxic levels in the bloodstream. This condition is called hyperglycemia. In an effort to flush out the excess sugar in urine, the body draws water from tissues. The result is excessive urination. Because so much water is leaving the body so quickly, the individual becomes extremely dehydrated. Desperate for energy, body begins to burn stored fat. This abnormal metabolic activity causes ketones which can result in a fruity aroma of the breath.

The ketones make the blood dangerously acidic. The body attempts to expel the excessive acid through exhalation of the breath, but it’s not possible to exhale quickly enough. This condition which is called diabetic ketoacidosis can eventually lead to coma and death if not treated quickly.

The body requires insulin, salt, and liquids to counter the effects of dehydration and ketoacidosis. The right mixture of these elements is both critical and tricky especially in young children. The fluids are generally administered intravenously but too much fluid or too much salt in the fluid can result in swelling of the brain.

Blood sugar tests are performed and monitored to make sure the blood sugar is going down and to adjust the levels of the insulin, salt and fluids being administered. Blood sugar levels can generally be measured quickly with a drop of blood and a glucose strip but when diabetic ketoacidosis sets in the blood sugar is too high to register on the glucose strip and the blood work must be done in the hospital laboratory.

Life with diabetes definitely is not without its inconveniences but many people live fairly normal lives despite having diabetes. Diabetes treatment includes daily monitoring of blood sugar and insulin injections. The diabetic is trained to do all this him or herself as you could imagine having to see a doctor every day for diabetic treatment.

Diabetics are also restricted in what they can eat. Obviously since diabetes has to do with the body’s ability to process sugar, sugar intake is limited. Other special dietary considerations as provided by a physician need to be adhered to as part of diabetic treatment. The best diet for a diabetic is not much different than that of a non-diabetic. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables and less fast food and junk food. Drink plenty of water and less soda and alcohol. The same health principles apply to diabetics but the consequences of not living and eating healthily can be much more severe for a diabetic.