## Does diabetes affect only those who eat sweets? There are two types of diabetes. The main cause of type 1 diabetes is insulin deficiency caused by damage to the beta-cells of the pancreas, and sugar and sweets have nothing to do with it. For type 2 diabetes, the main risk factors are high BMI and obesity. With type 2 diabetes, the connection between the disease and love of sugar is already traceable. In addition, sweets, as well as starchy foods such as potatoes and white bread, cause dangerous spikes in blood sugar levels, which over time can provoke the disease. ## Can diabetics eat sweets? Yes, but ===in small quantities. People with [diabetes](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarydisease?id=43) are better off choosing desserts with artificial sweeteners such as sucralose, erythritol, allulose, stevia, and monk fruit. These sweeteners don't raise blood sugar levels as much as regular sugar. People with diabetes can have sweets with sugar every once in a while, but they should be eaten in small quantities and in combination with nutrients that help slow digestion such as fiber, protein, and healthy fats. > Sweeteners should only be introduced into the diet with the approval of your doctor. ## Do diabetics need to follow a diet if they take medications and insulin shots on time? A sensible diet is necessary to keep diabetes under control. Poor eating and lack of insulin can lead to a dangerous drop in blood sugar levels called hypoglycemia. On the contrary, overeating can lead to sugar levels that are too high, which is no less dangerous. To operate normally, the body needs to receive the full complex of vitamins and minerals. ## Can diabetics drink alcohol? It is better to avoid alcohol. However, if you still plan to drink, choose drinks that are low in sugar–for example, dry wine and prosecco. Only consume alcohol with meals and slowly, as a large quantity of drinks can lead to immediate complications. In addition to sweet drinks (liqueurs, sweet wines, and sherry), avoid beer and cider as they are high in carbohydrates and spike blood sugar levels. ## Can women with diabetes have babies? Most women with diabetes give birth to healthy babies and have healthy pregnancies. However, it is important to plan the pregnancy carefully, taking into account all the individual characteristics of the condition, and to be under constant medical supervision. > Women with diabetes should do the following before getting pregnant: > - Bring the level of HbA1 to the recommended level (below 6.5 %) > - Take folic acid before pregnancy and up to the 12th week, which will help prevent birth defects > - Have the kidneys checked, as people with diabetes are at a higher risk of diabetic nephropathy, which can cause a serious complication of pregnancy called pre-eclampsia > - Undergo an ophthalmologic examination ## What kind of checkup is necessary for someone with diabetes? - Blood sugar level [(HbA1c test)](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarybiomarker?id=38) every 3-6 months - HbA1c test every 3 months if the reading rises, and every 6 months when the condition stabilizes - Check regularly for loss of sensation in your feet and keep an eye out for ulcers, cuts, bruises, or infections - Monitor your blood pressure, [cholesterol](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarybiomarker?id=57) levels, kidney health, BMI and waist circumference - Have your eyesight checked every 1 to 2 years – if you feel it has deteriorated, see your doctor immediately