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Diabetes made clearer

Start with what matters.

A simple guide to what diabetes is, the signs to look for, the main types and where to get professional help.

The basics

What is diabetes?

Diabetes is a condition that causes the level of glucose—sugar—in your blood to become too high.

Your body uses a hormone called insulin to help move glucose from your blood into cells for energy. Diabetes happens when your body does not make enough insulin, makes none, or the insulin does not work properly.

Know the signs

Common symptoms

Feeling thirsty all the time
Peeing more than usual
Feeling very tired
Losing weight without trying
Do not self-diagnose. Ask for an urgent GP appointment or contact NHS 111 if you or a child has symptoms. Call 111 if asking about a child under five.

Understand the difference

Main types of diabetes

Type 1

The immune system attacks the cells that make insulin. It can develop at any age and cannot currently be prevented. Treatment includes taking insulin and checking blood glucose.

Type 2

The body does not make enough insulin or the insulin does not work properly. Risk is influenced by several factors, and lifestyle changes can sometimes reduce the risk or delay its development.

Gestational

High blood glucose that develops during pregnancy. It usually goes away after birth, but it needs to be detected and managed to reduce risks for parent and baby.

Everyday life

Living well with diabetes

Diabetes does not have to stop you living a full and active life. The right plan depends on the type of diabetes and your individual needs, so work with your diabetes care team.

  • Take insulin or other medicines exactly as agreed with your care team.
  • Learn how food, movement, stress and illness affect your blood glucose.
  • Attend your regular health checks, including eye and foot checks when offered.
  • Ask for emotional support if the condition feels difficult or overwhelming.

Common questions

Things people ask

Can type 1 diabetes be prevented?

No. Type 1 diabetes is usually caused by an autoimmune response and cannot currently be prevented.

Can type 2 diabetes be prevented?

Not every case can be prevented, but some people can reduce their risk through changes such as eating a balanced diet, being physically active and maintaining a healthy weight.

Is there a special “diabetes diet”?

There is no single diet that works for everyone with diabetes. Healthy, balanced food choices matter, but individual advice should come from your diabetes team or a registered dietitian.

Can I live an active life with diabetes?

Yes. People with diabetes take part in sport, travel, work and everyday life. Planning and advice from your care team can help you exercise safely.

Free DAF resources

Download and share.

Explore original Diabetes Awareness Foundation campaign resources. These archive materials have not been updated as current clinical guidance; use the NHS and Diabetes UK links below for up-to-date health information.

Cover of A Guide to Diabetes
PDF guide

A Guide to Diabetes

A simple introduction to diabetes designed for easy community sharing.

Download the guide
DAF 500ml Water Challenge campaign
12-page PDF

The #500ml Water Challenge

Read the original campaign booklet and see how DAF used a simple challenge to create awareness.

Download the booklet

Trusted health information

This guide is written for awareness, not diagnosis or treatment. For current medical information, use the NHS diabetes guide and Diabetes UK.