Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body regulates blood sugar, or glucose. Glucose is an important source of energy for our cells, and insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, helps regulate the amount of glucose in the bloodstream. In diabetes, there are two main types: type 1 and type 2.
Type 1 diabetes, also known as insulin-dependent diabetes, occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Without sufficient insulin, the body cannot effectively transport glucose to the cells, leading to high blood sugar levels. People with type 1 diabetes require daily insulin injections or an insulin pump to manage their blood sugar levels. This type of diabetes usually develops in childhood or adolescence, and its exact cause is still unknown.
Type 2 diabetes, on the other hand, is more common and typically develops in adulthood, although it can also occur in children. In type 2 diabetes, the body either doesn't produce enough insulin or becomes resistant to its effects. Risk factors for type 2 diabetes include obesity, physical inactivity, family history, and certain ethnicities. Unlike type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes can often be managed through lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, weight loss, and medication if necessary.