Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes, previously known as juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes, is usually first diagnosed in children, teenagers, or young adults. In this form of diabetes, the beta cells of the pancreas cease to manufacture insulin due to the body’s immune system having attacked and destroyed them. Treatment for type 1 diabetes involves administering insulin shots or using an insulin pump, making sensible food choices, regular exercise, controlling blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and for some, taking aspirin daily.

Type 2 Diabetes

Previously known as adult-onset or noninsulin-dependent diabetes, type 2 diabetes is the commonest form of diabetes. Type 2 diabetes can develop at any stage in life, including childhood. This particular form of diabetes typically starts with insulin resistance, a condition in which fat, muscle, and liver cells are unable to properly use insulin. In the beginning, the pancreas manages to meet the added demand by producing more insulin. Eventually, however, it fails to maintain enough insulin in response to meals. People who become overweight and physically inactive are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes. Treatment includes taking diabetes medicines, making sensible food choices, regular exercise, controlling blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and for some, taking aspirin daily.

Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes is caused by the hormones of pregnancy or a shortage of insulin.  This type of diabetes is developed by some women in the later stages of pregnancy. After the birth of the child this particular form of diabetes often goes away, however, the mother is at greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes at some stage later in life.