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Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes: Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that detroys the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin, the hormone the body needs to fuel the body's cells. Without adequate insulin, glucose builds up in the bloodstream causing hyperglycemia, or high blood glucose levels, which can lead to ketoacidosis, coma and death. Similarly, the other extreme, hypoglycemia, or low blood glucose levels, occurs when there is either too much insulin or not enough glucose available. Untreated, hypoglycemia can also result in a potentially fatal coma. RETURN TO PREVIOUS PAGE >>> Type 1 diabetes cannot be reversed with diet and exercise; all people with Type 1 require insulin to stay alive. Type 2 diabetes is primarily a lifestyle-dependent disease. While genetics and family history play a role, these factors are not the sole determinates of whether the disease develops or not. Lack of exercise, poor diet, and excess weight increase the risk for Type 2. People predisposed to Type 2 who adopt and maintain a healthy lifestyle stand an excellent chance of never developing the disease. Type 2 diabetes is marked by insulin resistance--insulin produced by the pancreas cannot connect with fat and muscle cells to let glucose inside and produce energy, causing hyperglycemia. To compensate for the elevated glucose levels, the pancreas produces even more insulin. The fat and muscle cells detect this flood of insulin and become resistant to its effects. This resistance is the starting point for the simulataneously high levels of glucose and insulin in people with Type 2 diabetes. Sign on as a supporter of this bill and receive regular email updates. SIGN ON >>> |
