Understanding Diabetes

You likely know someone with diabetes, as an estimated 10.5% of the US population currently has the disease. But what exactly is diabetes? There are three types of diabetes: type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, and gestational diabetes.
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All types of diabetes have something in common: the body has trouble processing carbohydrates from your food. Normally, the body turns carbohydrates into glucose (sugar) that cells can use as energy. When you have diabetes, your body has a harder time using glucose for fuel. When glucose stays in your blood for too long, it can cause long-term health problems.

Type 1 Diabetes

An autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the pancreas. Eventually, the pancreas becomes so damaged that it can no longer make insulin, and daily supplementation of insulin is required. Type 1 used to be called “juvenile diabetes” because it is usually diagnosed in children and teens.

Type 2 Diabetes

Insulin no longer works as well, and your body has trouble moving glucose from blood vessels into cells, which is called ‘insulin resistance’. The pancreas responds by sending more and more insulin, and over time can become damaged as a result. Too much sugar is left in your blood which damages the body and can cause heart disease, blindness, kidney disease, and other serious health issues. Treatments include lifestyle changes, medication, and insulin supplementation.

Type 2 diabetes is by far the most common type of diabetes in the United States. Treatment includes eating balanced meals , getting regular physical activity, managing stress levels, and taking any medications prescribed by your provider.

Gestational Diabetes