Learning the lingo or the health literacy of diabetes may seem like another complicated step to deal with after learning that you have diabetes. It is easy to understand the feelings of being overwhelmed after your diagnosis. How will you ever have time for health literacy?

The Health Resources & Services Administration explains that health literacy is that degree or level at which people have the capacity to obtain, to process, and to understand the basic health information that is needed to make appropriate health decisions. Health literacy is more important than you may realize, which means that you need to become well-educated about diabetes, and to understand the lingo.

Researchers that conducted a study referred to health literacy as one concept that has the capacity to influence the health outcomes among patients who have diabetes. The American Diabetes Association explains that limited health literacy among people who have diabetes is associated with worse diabetes outcomes. Many other sources stress the importance of health literacy as it relates to diabetes.

You are not alone if you feel overwhelmed and do not think you can remember any more terms or instructions. Your health care team helps to make sure that you are able to manage your diabetes. Let them know when you do not understand something about diabetes or about your treatment plan. Ask for printed information if you want to read information on your own time. There are tools available online that can help you with health literacy. The American Heart Association provides links to several tools, including patient information sheets, a blood pressure tracker and steps to reduce your risk of having a heart attack or stroke.