About Diabetes

Definition of Diabetes

Diabetes is a condition where the body either doesn't produce enough insulin or can't use it effectively. Insulin is a hormone responsible for converting sugar, starches, and other food into energy necessary for daily activities.

There are three main types of diabetes:

Type 1 Diabetes
Type 2 Diabetes
Gestational Diabetes

While the exact causes of diabetes are not entirely understood, a combination of genetic and environmental factors contribute to its development. Some risk factors, like genetics, cannot be changed, but others are within our control. Obesity, lack of physical activity, and unhealthy lifestyle choices are significant factors that increase the risk, especially for type 2 diabetes.

By making healthier choices and maintaining an active lifestyle, it is possible not only to reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes but also to better manage all types of diabetes.

Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas either stops producing insulin or produces very little. Insulin is essential for allowing glucose, also known as blood sugar, to enter cells and be used for energy. Without sufficient insulin, cells are deprived of the sugar they need, causing glucose to build up in the bloodstream. This excess sugar can be harmful and may lead to complications affecting the eyes, heart, blood vessels, nerves, and kidneys

Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that occurs when the body's cells become resistant to insulin or when the pancreas doesn't produce enough insulin. Insulin is responsible for helping glucose, or blood sugar, enter cells to provide energy. When insulin can't function properly, sugar remains in the bloodstream instead of being used by the cells. Over time, high blood sugar levels can lead to serious damage to the eyes, heart, blood vessels, nerves, and kidneys

Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes is a temporary condition of insulin resistance that typically develops midway through pregnancy. It occurs when hormonal changes or the pancreas' inability to produce enough insulin lead to elevated blood sugar levels. This condition affects women without a prior history of Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes and generally resolves after childbirth. However, women who experience gestational diabetes are at a higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.

In addition to gestational diabetes, a small number of diabetes cases are linked to specific genetic syndromes, surgeries, chemical exposures, medications, malnutrition, infections, viruses, or other illnesses. Elevated blood sugar during pregnancy can also pose risks to the developing baby.