Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body processes blood sugar (glucose), which is the body’s main source of energy. When the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot use insulin effectively, blood sugar levels rise and may lead to serious health complications. Diabetes is linked to heart disease, kidney problems, nerve damage, and vision loss, making effective management critical for long-term health.
At Shine Health and Wellness in Pasadena, CA, Dr. Kimberley Shine takes an integrative and functional medicine approach to diabetes management. She goes beyond prescriptions and lab numbers to uncover underlying factors such as nutrition, stress, and hormonal imbalances. Her personalized care plans empower patients to stabilize blood sugar, reduce complications, and live healthier, more balanced lives.
Types of Diabetes
Different forms of diabetes require different treatment approaches. The main types include:
- Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune condition where the body does not produce insulin.
- Type 2 Diabetes: The most common form, often linked to insulin resistance, lifestyle, and genetics.
- Gestational Diabetes: Develops during pregnancy and may increase the risk of Type 2 diabetes later in life.
- Prediabetes: Higher-than-normal blood sugar levels that signal an increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
Shine Health and Wellness provides tailored management for each type, helping patients understand their condition and take control of their health.
Symptoms of Diabetes
Common signs that may indicate diabetes include:
- Frequent urination
- Excessive thirst or hunger
- Fatigue or low energy
- Blurred vision
- Slow-healing wounds
- Numbness or tingling in the hands and feet
- Unexplained weight changes
Because these symptoms can be subtle or develop gradually, many people remain undiagnosed until complications arise.
How Diabetes Is Diagnosed
Accurate diagnosis is key to effective treatment. At Shine Health and Wellness, evaluation may include:
- Blood Tests: Measuring fasting glucose, hemoglobin A1C, and oral glucose tolerance.
- Comprehensive Lab Panels: Assessing cholesterol, triglycerides, and kidney function.
- Lifestyle Review: Identifying dietary habits, sleep quality, and activity levels.
- Functional Medicine Testing: Exploring inflammation, hormone balance, and gut health, all of which can impact blood sugar regulation.
This thorough approach ensures that every patient receives a care plan tailored to their unique needs.
Diabetes Management Options
Effective diabetes management combines medical care, lifestyle support, and ongoing monitoring. At Shine Health and Wellness, treatment plans may include:
- Medication Management: Prescribing and adjusting medications or insulin therapy as needed.
- Nutritional Counseling: Developing personalized meal plans to stabilize blood sugar and support overall health.
- Lifestyle Coaching: Encouraging exercise, stress reduction, and better sleep habits.
- Weight Management: Offering medical weight loss strategies when appropriate.
- Supplement Support: Recommending vitamins and minerals that aid in blood sugar control.
- Functional Medicine Approaches: Addressing root causes such as inflammation, hormone imbalances, and gut health.
- Regular Monitoring: Using advanced tools like body composition analysis and lab testing to track progress.
Why Choose Shine Health and Wellness?
Kimberley Shine, MD, has more than a decade of medical experience and a passion for providing individualized care. She understands that diabetes affects every patient differently and takes the time to listen, educate, and collaborate with each person. By focusing on root causes as well as symptom management, Dr. Shine helps patients feel informed and empowered in their health journey.
Take Charge of Your Blood Sugar Health
Diabetes doesn’t have to control your life. With expert care and a personalized plan, you can manage your condition and protect your long-term health. Call Shine Health and Wellness in Pasadena, CA, at 626-317-0207 to schedule a consultation.