Diabetes

What are the types of diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects your ability to convert food into energy. Every time you eat, a portion of that food gets converted into glucose, a type of sugar. Glucose travels through your bloodstream to nourish cells in all parts of your body. 

For glucose to enter your cells, a hormone called insulin is necessary. Your pancreas produces all the insulin your body needs, and people with diabetes either don’t produce enough insulin or can’t make proper use of the insulin that is produced. 

There are two primary types of diabetes:

Type 1 diabetes

People with Type 1 diabetes have an autoimmune condition that damages their pancreas and prevents insulin production. It’s a rare form of diabetes that is life-threatening without supplemental insulin therapy. 

Type 2 diabetes

This is the most common form of diabetes and is linked to excess weight. People with Type 2 diabetes either can’t make sufficient insulin or can’t make efficient use of the insulin they’re able to produce. 

Gestational diabetes 

Some pregnant women develop gestational diabetes, but the condition resolves after childbirth. Women who have gestational diabetes carry an elevated risk of developing Type 2 diabetes for the rest of their lives. 

How is diabetes treated?

There are many ways to treat diabetes, and a personalized approach is necessary to find the right fit for your needs. Some people need to take supplemental insulin using injections or a pump. Learning how to monitor your blood glucose is an integral part of insulin therapy. 

There are also medications you can take to manage diabetes. Some drugs make your tissues more sensitive to insulin, while others reduce the volume of glucose your liver produces or helps your body more effectively utilize insulin. 

It often takes a combination of medications to achieve optimal results. Have patience as you work with your practitioner to find the right treatment for your needs. Aggressive management of diabetes can prevent serious health complications, as well as improve your quality of daily life. 

What can I do to prevent diabetes?

The best way to prevent Type 2 diabetes is to embrace a healthy diet. Consuming a variety of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins will nourish your body and help you maintain a healthy weight. 

It’s also important to get enough exercise. You don’t have to run a marathon or take up competitive sports, but simply adding a daily walk to your routine is often enough to keep you healthy. 

Unlike many health problems, Type 2 diabetes is easy to screen for with a simple blood test. Coming in for routine physicals allows your health team to check for high blood glucose, which is the primary indicator of Type 2 diabetes.

When you’re ready to learn more about your risk level for diabetes and steps you can take to prevent or manage the disease, booking an appointment at Officium Health is fast and easy online or by phone.