Type 1 diabetes is normally treated by insulin injections (up to 4 injections daily), as well as diet and regular exercise.Type 2 diabetes is treated with lifestyle changes such as a healthier diet, weight loss and increased physical activity, Tablets and/or insulin may also be required to achieve normal blood glucose levels.

The main aim of both treatments is to achieve blood glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol levels as near to normal as possible. This, together with a healthy lifestyle, will help improve wellbeing and protect against long terms damage to the body. Because diabetes has so many complications, it is important that diabetic sufferers wear some sort of ID tag for diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes develops quickly and symptoms are normally very obvious. Type 2 diabetes develops slowly and symptoms are usually less severe. Many people are unaware that they have the disease. Diabetes has many different symptoms like weight loss, excessive hunger, thirst, frequent urination, dehydration, leg pain when walking, fatigue, dizziness and itching. The cause of diabetes is unknown, but genetics and environmental factors, like obesity and lack of exercise can play a part.

Self blood glucose monitoring can be done with glucose meters. A diabetic can thereby obtain immediate feedback on how well any diabetes treatment is working and make adjustments accordingly. Different types of glucose meters are available on the market.

As alternative treatments for diabetes, acupuncture and biofeedback (guided imagery) have been used. Herbal and natural treatments include chromium supplements, ginseng, magnesium and vanadium. Although positive results have been reported with the use of these supplements, long term effects, potential side effects and safe dosages cannot be confirmed.

Gestational diabetes
Pregnant women who have never had diabetes before but who have high blood sugar (glucose) levels during pregnancy are said to have gestational diabetes. Gestational diabetes affects about 4% of all pregnant women.

The causes of gestational diabetes are uknown. However, it could be related to the placenta and hormones. The placenta supports the baby as it grows. Hormones from the placenta help the baby develop. But these hormones also block the action of the mother's insulin in her body. This problem is called insulin resistance. Insulin resistance makes it hard for the mother's body to use insulin. She may need up to three times as much insulin.

Because gestational diabetes is dangerous for the mother and baby. Treatment must be started quickly. Treatment for gestational diabetes aims to keep blood glucose levels equal to those of pregnant women who don't have gestational diabetes. Treatment for gestational diabetes always includes special meal plans and scheduled physical activity. It may also include daily blood glucose testing and insulin injections. Treatment for gestational diabetes helps lower the risk of a cesarean section birth that very large babies may require.