Vitamins, Minerals, and Natural Products

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is diabetes?

  Diabetes is a chronic disease that results from the body's inability to sufficiently produce and/or properly use insulin, a hormone that regulates the way glucose (sugar) is stored and used in the body. The body needs insulin to use sugar as an energy source. There are several forms of diabetes: type 1, type 2 and gestational diabetes.

• What is pre-diabetes?

  Pre-diabetes occurs when blood glucose (sugar) levels are higher than normal, but not high enough for a diagnosis of diabetes. Glucose is the main sugar found in the blood and the body's main source of energy. If left untreated, more than half of the people with pre-diabetes will have type 2 diabetes within 8 to 10 years. Pre-diabetes can be prevented, and is most common in people over the age of 40 and in people who are overweight. Pre-diabetes can be managed, or in some cases reversed, through healthy lifestyle choices.

• What is type 2 diabetes?

  Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body no longer produces enough insulin, or has difficulty using the insulin it produces, causing sugar to build up in the blood. Over time, if uncontrolled, this damages blood vessels and nerves and can result in severe complications including: blindness, heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, nerve damage, amputation, and erectile dysfunction. Adopting a healthier lifestyle can help prevent or control type 2 diabetes, and can significantly reduce your risk of heart disease, and stroke. It can also contribute to your overall well-being and quality of life.

• How is diabetes diagnosed?

  Diabetes is diagnosed by measuring blood glucose (sugar) levels. However, there are a variety of different ways to test for diabetes. Your healthcare provider can identify which test is best for you.

• Who is at-risk?

  If you have one or more of the following factors, you may be at risk of developing type 2 diabetes:

  • Pre-diabetes
  • Overweight or obesity
  • Age (people 40 years of age or older are at higher risk)
  • High blood pressure
  • Physically inactive
  • Family history of diabetes
  • Member of some ethnic populations including South Asian, East Asian, Aboriginal and Black
  • History of gestational diabetes
• What are the symptoms of type 2 diabetes?
  • Unusual thirst
  • Frequent urination
  • Unplanned weight change (gain or loss)
  • Extreme fatigue or lack of energy
  • Blurred vision
  • Frequent or recurring infections
  • Cuts and bruises that are slow to heal
  • Tingling or numbness in hands or feet
  • Trouble getting an erection

  If you have any of these symptoms, reach out to your Rexall Pharmacist or healthcare provider. Good management can prevent, or delay complications associated with living with diabetes.