Diabetes is a chronic medical condition that causes high levels of sugar, or glucose, in the bloodstream. This happens when the body is unable to produce or use insulin effectively. Insulin is a hormone created by the pancreas. Insulin acts like a set of keys that attaches to the body’s cells and allows glucose to enter where it can be used for fuel. About 11% of Americans have some form of diabetes.

Types of Diabetes

All types of diabetes can lead to high levels of sugar in the blood.

Are you are one of the almost 80 million Americans who have been diagnosed with prediabetes? If so, consider it a warning sign. It’s important to make changes as soon as you can to help prevent or slow the development of diabetes.

Most people who develop Type 2 diabetes start with prediabetes, also known as impaired fasting blood sugar. Fasting blood sugar levels are elevated, between 100 and 125mg/dl, and Hemoglobin A1c 5.7-6.4%,