My doctor has said that I don't need insulin injections to treat my Type 2 diabetes, but I know that people with Type 1 do need insulin; so is Type 2 "better" than Type 1?

No, and No. Any type of diabetes is serious and can lead to serious complications if not treated and managed properly. And you're wrong about Type 2 diabetes – some sufferers don't need insulin, but some do need it, and even if you have Type 2 and don't need it now, there is still a chance you may need to start injecting yourself with insulin at some point in the future.

So does my diabetes mean that I can't play sports?

No, not at all! Diabetics are encouraged to exercise as part of the management of their condition. British Olympic Gold medal winner Steve Redgrave is diabetic; many people who run every year in the New York and London marathons are diabetic. But just in case there are limitations in your particular case, you should check with your healthcare professional.

Can I still drive a car?

Research has shown that diabetics who keep good control of their diabetes are no less dangerous when driving a car. Unfortunately legislation in some countries has followed the myth that diabetics are unsafe, so you had better check the law in your country before heading out on the road. Also, remember that you must tell your insurer about your diabetes, and in some countries you will have to inform the national driving authority.

Do I have to prepare myself for a lifetime of colds, flu, and so on?

No – diabetics are no more likely to get a cold or other illness than anyone else. But diabetics are advised to get flu jabs because any infection that you do get could interfere with your blood sugar control.

Okay, but now am I stuck with having to eat special diabetic foods from now on?

Not at all. Special diabetic food is not better for diabetics – such "special" foods will still affect blood sugar levels, still contain fat and calories, are usually more expensive, and sometimes have a laxative effect. Instead, you should follow a healthy diet that is low in fat, sugar, and salt, should include starchy foods like bread and pasta, and should include plenty of fruit and vegetables.

I can't understand the blood sugar levels! Some places talk about less than 10, others talk about more than a hundred!

That's because different places use different units. This web site generally uses the "mmol/l" unit, but we try to mention the other unit, "mg/dl", in parentheses too. If you want to convert from mmol/l to mg/dl, simply multiply by 18.

But what is the right level for me?

Unfortunately that is something that even healthcare professionals do not always agree on. You should listen to what your doctor says and stick with that.