Managing Diabetes

A diabetes diagnosis is frightening, to say the least. Your head is swarming with questions and you don't even know where to begin dealing with the multitude of emotions you are feeling.

Whether you're battling type 1 or type 2 diabetes, the first 30 days are key to helping you deal properly with the disease.

In the next 30 days, you can expect to:

* Prepare a self-care plan for managing diabetes.
* Learn how to educate yourself and your family properly about the disease.
* Keep your sex life steamy, despite diabetes complications.
* Realize that diabetes is not a death sentence, and there are millions of people who are successful at managing the disease.

On your first day, schedule an appointment with a diabetes educator. He or she will be able to provide you with specialized information about your condition and put you in contact with the experts you will need, including a dietitian and a podiatrist. And remember to check with your health-care professional before trying any of the diet or exercise changes mentioned in our tips.

DID YOU KNOW? Actress Halle Berry, tennis star Hamilton "Ham" Richardson, and even 15-year-old pop-singing sensation Nick Jonas of the Jonas Brothers all have diabetes.