Let's keep this short and sweet, but not too sweet. We previously discussed, what it means to have Diabetes but how does it feel. People with diabetes typically feel tired.... ALL THE DAMN TIME. The body is constantly seeking a balance between the sugar in the body and the amount of insulin that is made. So naturally, there are some imbalances. The two common imbalances when it comes to Diabetes are high blood sugar (hyperglycemia)  and low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). 

High Blood Sugar (Hyperglycemia)  - occurs when you have too much sugar (glucose) in the blood and not enough insulin. I know what you're thinking, I just described diabetes and threw in a new big word. Not to confuse you but high blood sugar is not always the result of diabetes. It can also happen from stress and illness.Unlike diabetes, stress and illness are generally temporary.  So, how do people typically feel with high blood sugar?

You may feel:

• Extra Thirsty 
• Pee a lot
• Hungry (even after eating)
• Headaches
• Blurred vision
• Tired

High sugar levels are not safe if left untreated and can lead to a diabetic coma (ketoacidosis). A diabetic coma is life-threatening so it needs to be treated as soon as possible. 

Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia) - occurs when you have too much insulin but not enough sugar. This can happen if you take oral medicine for diabetes or give yourself injections of insulin and do not have enough sugar (glucose) in the body. This can also happen even if you do not have diabetes and usually is fixed with juice and candy. 

You may feel: 

• Shakiness
• Jittery
• Nervous 
• Confused 
• Sweating 
• Weakness

Low sugar levels are also unsafe and if untreated and can lead to seizures and coma. 

While these symptoms are common for most people, it's not one size fit all. Different strokes for different folks. The key to anything is balance. Remember to check your blood sugar everyday if you have diabetes.  And watch your sugar intake. 

Our next post explores the 61 names for SUGAR that are commonly listed in the things we buy and eat!