1.4 million Americans are diagnosed with diabetes every year.1 However, it’s possible to live a healthy and happy life with diabetes.
Diabetes can be diagnosed in any one at any age. Whether Type 1, Type 2 or gestational diabetes, we can help you understand what your type of diabetes means for your lifestyle.
The roles of glucose and insulin
Carbohydrates from food are your body's main fuel source. During digestion, carbohydrates are broken down into sugars, also known as glucose. Glucose enters your body's cells with the help of insulin. Insulin is a hormone produced in the pancreas that allows your body to use sugar for energy or to store it for future use.
When you have Type 2 diabetes, your body doesn’t use insulin effectively or doesn’t make enough insulin. This causes blood sugar levels to increase. Sugar in the blood is unable to enter your cells, causing an increase in your blood sugar. You can think of diabetes as an “insulin problem” and not a “sugar problem.”
What is Type 1 diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition. Commonly referred to as juvenile diabetes, this condition can be diagnosed at any age. In Type 1 diabetes the body attacks itself, destroying the cells in the pancreas that make insulin. This condition cannot be prevented by diet or exercise.
What is Type 2 diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes, sometimes called adult-onset diabetes, is when the body is not producing or using insulin properly. Unlike Type 1 diabetes, you may be able to prevent or delay the onset of Type 2 disease through lifestyle changes. Attention to diet and exercise are just two factors that may prevent diabetes.
What is Gestational diabetes?
Gestational diabetes is caused by hormones produced during pregnancy which can make insulin less effective. This condition is referred to as insulin resistance. Gestational diabetic symptoms disappear following delivery. The lifetime risk of Type 2 diabetes among people with prior gestational diabetes is high — estimated at 50% to 60%.
A diabetes diagnosis does not need to slow you down. And you don’t need to do it alone. Call us toll-free at 1-877-692-2059, TTY 711.