Basics of Diabetes
Q: What is the main difference between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes?
A: Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, while Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic disorder where the body becomes resistant to insulin.
Q: Which of these is NOT a common symptom of diabetes?
A) Frequent urination
B) Blurred vision
C) Increased thirst
D) Sudden weight gain
A: Sudden weight gain
Q: Why is it important for people with diabetes to control their carbohydrate intake?
A: Carbohydrates directly affect blood sugar levels, and managing their intake helps keep blood sugar stable.
Q: What is a common long-term complication of poorly controlled diabetes that affects vision?
A: Diabetic retinopathy (damage to the blood vessels in the retina)
Q: True or False: People with diabetes cannot eat sugar.
A: False. People with diabetes can eat sugar in moderation, but they need to carefully monitor their blood sugar levels.
Q: Which hormone is produced by the pancreas to help regulate blood sugar levels?
A: Insulin
Q: What is a common test used to diagnose diabetes?
A: A blood test called the A1C test.
Q: Which of these foods is a good source of fiber that can help manage blood sugar levels?
A) White rice
B) Whole wheat bread
C) French fries
D) Soda
A: Whole wheat bread
Q: What can regular exercise help reduce in people with diabetes?
A: Blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and the risk of heart disease.
Q: True or False: Only overweight people get Type 2 diabetes.
A: False. While obesity is a risk factor, Type 2 diabetes can affect people of all body types.
Q: What is the condition called when the blood sugar level is higher than normal but not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes?
A: Prediabetes
Q: What does an A1C test measure?
A: The average blood sugar level over the past 2-3 months.
Q: What is the Glycemic Index (GI)?
A: The Glycemic Index is a scale that ranks carbohydrate-containing foods based on how they affect blood sugar levels.
Q: What is neuropathy, and why is it a concern for people with diabetes?
A: Neuropathy is nerve damage that can cause pain, tingling, and numbness, particularly in the feet and legs.
Q: True or False: Type 1 diabetes is caused by eating too much sugar.
A: False. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease and is not caused by sugar intake.
Q: What is the normal range for fasting blood sugar levels?
A: 70–99 mg/dL
Q: What are some signs of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a serious complication of Type 1 diabetes?
A: Fruity-smelling breath, nausea, vomiting, and rapid breathing.
Q: What is the recommended daily amount of fiber for people with diabetes?
A: At least 25–30 grams of fiber per day.
Q: What is the most effective way to prevent Type 2 diabetes?
A: Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and eating a balanced diet.
Q: True or False: If you have diabetes, you should avoid exercise.
A: False. Exercise is actually beneficial for people with diabetes, helping to control blood sugar levels.
Q: What does the term "insulin resistance" refer to in Type 2 diabetes?
A: Insulin resistance occurs when the body's cells don't respond effectively to insulin, leading to higher blood sugar levels.
Q: Which of the following blood sugar readings on a glucose meter would indicate diabetes?
A) 120 mg/dL
B) 200 mg/dL after eating
C) 100 mg/dL after fasting
D) 140 mg/dL during fasting
A: 200 mg/dL after eating (one of the diagnostic criteria for diabetes).
Q: What is the "plate method" for controlling portion sizes for meals in diabetes management?
A: It suggests filling half the plate with non-starchy vegetables, a quarter with lean protein, and a quarter with carbohydrates.
Q: What is the primary purpose of a foot exam for people with diabetes?
A: To check for signs of infection, poor circulation, or nerve damage that could lead to serious complications.
Q: True or False: Insulin is a cure for diabetes.
A: False. Insulin is a treatment that helps control blood sugar, but there is currently no cure for diabetes.