Type of Diabetes
There are three most common types of diabetes:
Type 1 Diabetes
In type 1 diabetes the body attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells;
as a result no insulin is produced. We still do not fully understand why
this happens although based on current research and scientific evidence
we know that it is not related to our diet or lifestyle. About 5-10% of
all people with diabetes have type 1 diabetes.
Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. In people with type
2 diabetes, either the body does not produce adequate levels of insulin
or it is unable to use the insulin being produced effectively (also known
as insulin resistance). As a result, the glucose starts building up in
the blood stream leading to high blood glucose. We now know that a variety
of genetic and environmental (lifestyle) factors together increase our
risk for type 2 diabetes. This form of diabetes was typically seen in
people above the age of 40, however, in the last decade or so an increasing
number of children are developing type 2 diabetes.
Gestational Diabetes
This form of diabetes develops during pregnancy and is a result of the
body not being able to produce enough insulin to cope with the additional
bodily changes and demands that normally occur during pregnancy. Women
are usually diagnosed in the late second-early third trimester of their
pregnancy. However, a few women may get diagnosed early on in their pregnancy
and it could be that they had underlying diabetes or insulin resistance
before they became pregnant – but weren’t aware of it.
All women with gestational diabetes have an increased risk of developing
type 2 diabetes later in life and are encouraged to get tested for diabetes
or prediabetes every 3 to 5 years.
Have you heard about a condition called Pre-Diabetes?
Before people develop type 2 diabetes, they may have a condition called
"prediabetes", which means their blood glucose levels are higher
than normal but not high enough yet to be diagnosed as diabetes. Long-term
damage to the body, especially the heart and circulatory system, may be
occurring during prediabetes. People with prediabetes you should be checked
for type 2 diabetes every one to two years.
Diabetes Treatments:
When you have diabetes the goal is to maintain blood glucose at a healthy
level to prevent future complications and keep your diabetes in control.
A diabetes care team can work with you to create a Diabetes Treatment
plan that includes:
- Nutrition- Whether you have Type 1, Type 2, or Gestational Diabetes, it
is not only important to be aware of what you eat but, also how much and
when you eat.
- Physical Activity – Daily Exercise is one of the most important parts
of maintaining your blood glucose levels. It is recommended to partake
in 30 minutes of moderate exercise every day to avoid the risk of future
complications.
- Medication - When prescribed, pills or insulin may need to be taken. To
control Type 1 Diabetes insulin must be taken through injections or an
insulin pump.
- Monitoring - It is necessary to frequently monitor yourself to see how
your diabetes treatment plan is working to meet your target blood glucose goals
For more information please visit the
American Diabetes Association.
The Mary & Dick Allen Diabetes Center is dedicated to making a positive
difference in the lives of people with diabetes through its clinical,
education and
support services. Innovative and customized programs at the Allen Diabetes Center
include “Sweet Success,” a program tailored for women who have diabetes while pregnant;
pediatric diabetes services, a multicultural program and the
Herbert Family Program for Young Adults with Type I Diabetes.