Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. In type 2 diabetes, either the body does not produce enough insulin or the cells ignore the insulin. Insulin is necessary for the body to be able to use glucose for energy. When you eat food, the body breaks down all of the sugars and starches into glucose, which is the basic fuel for the cells in the body. Insulin takes the sugar from the blood into the cells. When glucose builds up in the blood instead of going into cells, it can cause two problems:
- Right away, your cells may be starved for energy.
- Over time, high blood glucose levels may hurt your eyes, kidneys, nerves or heart.
While diabetes occurs in people of all ages and races, some groups have a higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes than others. Type 2 diabetes is more common in African Americans, Latinos, Native Americans, and Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders, as well as the aged population. (ADA ,2009) Also, if you have had a baby weighing over 10 pounds, or have had gestational diabetes, you are at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Type 1 Diabetes is a genetic condition which requires a trigger to set it off. You must be on insulin the rest of your life, because the body will not make any more. But people with type 1 diabetes can live long, healthy active lives if they take good care of themselves, eat healthy and control their blood sugar levels.
