As a result the amount of glucose in the blood rises to abnormally high levels. If left untreated or if badly controlled, diabetes can lead to heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, blindness and lower limb amputation.

But you can take control of diabetes

If you manage your diabetes well, you can greatly cut your risk of developing these complications. There are two types of diabetes.

In Type 1 diabetes the body doesn't produce insulin, the hormone that controls the amount of glucose in the blood. It usually begins before the age of 40 and is treated with insulin.

In Type 2 diabetes the body doesn't produce enough insulin, or what it does produce doesn't work properly. It usually affects people over 40 and can be treated with healthy eating and physical activity alone, although it often requires tablets and sometimes insulin.

Both types are equally serious.

Our mission is to improve the lives of people with diabetes and to work towards a future without diabetes

• Our Diabetes UK Careline is the only dedicated diabetes helpline in the country, with experienced counsellors who can talk to you about any aspect of your diabetes. We can also provide interpreters for people who want to communicate in languages other than English.
   
• With information about healthy eating, physical activity, medication and every other aspect of living with diabetes, our wide range of books and leaflets
  can help you learn how to live a full and healthy life. Many of our publications are free.
   
• Our comprehensive and easy to use website offers the latest news and information about healthy eating (including recipes), medication, research breakthroughs and everything you want to know about diabetes.
   
• Our national and regional offices organise local events for people with diabetes. They provide a local point of contact, and work with the NHS to improve services.

Membership of Diabetes UK supports you with helpful and clear information through our regular magazine, Balance.

You can manage your diabetes by keeping yourself informed, eating a healthy diet, being physically active and, if you take tablets or insulin, taking your medicines as prescribed. If you do this, you can lead a normal, active life.

For a free copy of the Diabetes UK leaflet telephone:
0800 585 088

Diabetes - It's Serious