What is Diabetes
Diabetes is a medical condition where the body doesn't produce enough insulin or any insulin at all, or the insulin that is produced, doesn't work properly (insulin resistance).
Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that the body needs in order to move glucose from the bloodstream into the cells where it's used as fuel. If the body is not producing insulin, or the insulin the body does produce is not effective, then the levels of glucose become too high and this has important implications for one's health.
There are two different types of diabetes, namely Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes:
- Type 1 Diabetes: Insulin is not produced at all
- Type 2 Diabetes: There is insufficient insulin produced or the insulin produced is not working properly
There is no cure for diabetes but the good news is it can be treated and managed. The treatment depends on whether it is Type 1 or Type 2. You need to work closely with your medical support team and understand that a lifelong lifestyle change is necessary where healthy eating and moderate exercise make a difference to the disease and strict managing of your insulin levels is crucial.
*This article is for information purposes only and is not medical advice. Always follow your doctor’s medical advice and seek medical help when necessary.