Boston , MA —The odds are that you or someone you know has diabetes or is at risk of developing the disease. The number of Americans with diabetes currently tops 18 million, or roughly 1 out 15 people, with many more at risk. Having diabetes requires adapting to a new way of life. Eating a meal, planning a vacation, or going for a run requires forethought and planning. Two new special health reports from Harvard Health Publications, Diabetes: A Plan for Living and Healthy Eating for Type 2 Diabetes , offer a plethora of advice on how to live successfully with diabetes.

Diabetes: A Plan for Living helps people with diabetes (both type 1 and type 2) better manage the disease. The report includes the basics of how the body metabolizes sugar, the tools of diabetes control, and the fundamentals of nutrition and exercise. Readers also receive up-to-date information on new products, medications, and techniques that may further help people with diabetes. Additionally, the report includes practical strategies for staying healthy that include practicing good foot and skin care, visiting a dentist regularly, and receiving annual eye exams. Most importantly, readers will see it's not just possible to live with diabetes; it's possible to live well.

One of the most frequent questions people with diabetes ask, is “What can I eat?” Myths abound regarding diabetes and food. Healthy Eating for Type 2 Diabetes provides advice on developing a diet strategy to prevent or treat the most common form of diabetes, type 2.

More specifically, readers will learn about the components of a healthy diet, how to work with a dietician, how to develop a meal plan, and how to fit physical activity into a diabetes plan. Additionally, tips on recognizing portion distortion, making wise choices while dining out, and staying on track with weight-loss plans are included. The report also contains 40 original recipes that will help you cook meals that are diabetic-friendly.

Diabetes: A Plan for Living and Healthy Eating for Type 2 Diabetes are available from Harvard Health Publications and can each be purchased for $16 at www.health.harvard.edu or by calling 1-877-649-9457 toll-free.