Diabetes And Me... Life With Purpose!

Types of Diabetes

There are three main types of diabetes. They are type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes.

Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes, formerly called juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes, is usually first diagnosed in children, teenagers, or young adults. In this form of diabetes, the beta cells of the pancreas no longer make insulin because the bodys immune system has attacked and destroyed them.

Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. People can develop type 2 diabetes at any age. This form of diabetes usually begins with insulin resistance, a condition in which fat, muscle, and liver cells do not use insulin properly. At first, the pancreas keeps up with the added demand by producing more insulin. In time, however, it loses the ability to secrete enough insulin in response to meals. People who are overweight and inactive are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes. In pre-diabetes, blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be characterized as diabetes. However, many people with pre-diabetes develop type 2 diabetes within 10 years. Pre-diabetes also increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. With modest weight loss and moderate physical activity, people with pre-diabetes can delay or prevent type 2 diabetes.

Gestational Diabetes
Some women develop gestational diabetes late in pregnancy. Gestational diabetes is caused by the hormones of pregnancy or a shortage of insulin