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Type 1 vs. Type 2 Diabetes

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 Diabetes is one of those conditions that most people have heard of, but not everyone really understands. When someone says they “have diabetes,” it could mean a few different things, because there are actually multiple types. The two most common are Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Even though they sound similar and both involve problems with blood sugar, they’re actually pretty different in how they start, how they work, and how they’re managed.                                Photo Source : Omega Hospital                                  Type 1 diabetes is often described as an autoimmune condition. That means the body’s immune system, which is supposed to fight off viruses and bacteria, accidentally attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Because of this, the pancreas stops making insulin entirely. Insulin i...

Steps To Reduce Diabetes Risk

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  Reducing the risk of diabetes might seem complicated, but it’s actually something most people can work on just by making a few everyday changes. One of the biggest things that affects your chances of getting diabetes is the way you eat. Choosing meals that aren’t packed with sugar and processed ingredients can make a huge difference. It doesn’t mean you have to give up all your favorite foods, but swapping in more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help your body manage blood sugar more easily. Even drinking water instead of soda or super-sweet drinks can be a step in the right direction.                                Picture Credits: Arkana Laboratories                            Another important part of lowering your risk is staying active. You don’t have to become an athlete or spend hours at the gym. ...

What Is Diabetes

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  What Is Diabetes? Diabetes is a long-term health condition that affects how the body uses blood sugar, or glucose. Glucose is important because it gives our bodies energy, and insulin is the hormone that helps move that glucose from the blood into the cells. When the body doesn’t make enough insulin or can’t use it correctly, the glucose stays in the bloodstream instead of being used for energy. This causes high blood sugar, which can lead to serious health problems if it isn’t managed. Over time, diabetes can affect the heart, kidneys, nerves, and even a person’s vision.                                Photo Credit - CDC Types of Diabetes There are three main types of diabetes: Type 1, Type 2, and gestational diabetes. Type 1 diabetes happens when the immune system attacks the pancreas and stops it from producing insulin. People with Type 1 need insulin every day to survive, and this type usually d...