Diabetes is one of the most common diseases in the world. In fact, the World Heath Organization estimates that 347 million people worldwide have diabetes. The United States is at the top of the list of countries with high rates of diabetes. Approximately 10% of Americans have diabetes. It is estimated that 1 in 3 Americans will have diabetes by the year 2050.

Over 30 million people in the United States have diabetes. Diabetes occurs when the body is unable to produce the proper amount of insulin. Insulin is produced in the pancreas; it helps the body regulate the amount of glucose in the blood. There are three types of diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder. The body’s immune system destroys cells in the pancreas that help the body to produce the correct levels of insulin. Approximately 5-10% of diabetes patients have Type 1 diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body develops insulin resistance. At first, the pancreas produces too much insulin. As a result, the pancreas stops producing insulin because it can’t keep up with the demand. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes; 90% – 95% of patients have Type 2 diabetes.

Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy, when the body fluctuates in hormone production. Unlike Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, gestational diabetes is a temporary condition.

Signs of Diabetes
Diabetes has many symptons, such as:

• excessive thirst and hunger
• frequent urination
• drowsiness or fatigue
• dry, itchy skin
• blurry vision
• easy bruising and slow-healing wounds
• neuropathy (loss of feeling in the ankles or wrist nerves)

Acupuncture can help reduce the symptoms of diabetes. Needles can be inserted [NEED SPECIFIC LOCATIONS].

Moxibustion is another part of acupuncture therapy that can help improve digestion and fatigue. Moxi sticks are made of mugwort, which can improve digestion, as well as circulation.