There are two forms of Diabetes Type I and Type II. Type II is the most common and represents up to 90% of all cases of Diabetes.

A key issue with Type II diabetes is that in the majority of cases it is defined as an age related health issue as its onset begins when adults reach their mid 40’s or older.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a disease where there is too much sugar (glucose) in the blood. Glucose enters your body from the foods you eat such as cakes, fruits, pasta and bread. Your body uses glucose as energy for everything you do.

The insulin peptide structure

Insulin is a hormone that is made in the pancreas when there is too much glucose in the blood. Insulin acts like a key that opens the doors that lets glucose move from the blood and into your cells. It is then used for energy.

When someone’s body loses its ability to produce Insulin, they have Type 1 Diabetes and when someone’s Insulin loses its ability to ‘open the door’ to their cells, they have Type 2 Diabetes.

Symptoms

• Frequent urination
• Dehydration
• Thirst

Problems caused by Diabetes

• Blindness
• Kidney failure
• Problems with legs and feet
• Death

Some facts about Diabetes…

Type 1 Diabetes

• Genetic (inherit from parents)
• Autoimmune condition (your immune system attacks your pancreas, leading to Diabetes)
• Begins when you are a kid
• Need to inject Insulin into your body everyday for treatment

Type 2 Diabetes

• Lifestyle (lack of exercise, obesity)
• Can happen at any age
• Need to live a healthier life, exercise more and sometimes take medicines for treatment.