Type 2 Diabetes

Diabetes is a disease that affects over 20 million Americans each year. Diabetes is characterized by an improper use or production of insulin that results in the body not processing or using glucose. Glucose is a type of sugar that is responsible for providing energy for the body. Diabetes is divided into several classifications. Type 2 diabetes, or non-insulin dependent diabetes, is a very common type of diabetes.

In Type 1 diabetes, the body does not produce any or only trace amounts of insulin. This is different than Type 2 diabetes, which typically is characterized by a resistance to insulin and a high blood sugar level. The body is either not producing enough insulin or is not using it properly. Since the cells of the body are not responding properly to insulin, it is said they have an insulin resistance. Insulin is used by the body to process and use sugar which in turn is used to create energy.

There is no known cure for Type 2 diabetes and it is by far the most common type. It is found in nearly 90% of all diabetes cases in the United States. While there is defiantly proof that genetics play a part in Type 2 diabetes, the exact cause is unknown. There are links between lifestyle choices and diabetes such as obesity and diet, and there are many theories as to its exact cause. These theories have a good deal of weight, because at early stages Type 2 diabetes can be largely controlled by eating properly and exercising.

Typically Type 2 diabetes is easier to treat than Type 1 diabetes. When caught early, treatment of Type 2 diabetes typically starts with reducing carbohydrates and weight loss. Through continued diet management and exercise the effects of this type of diabetes can be controlled. It has been suggested that the exercise does not need to be extreme, but merely consistent. A combination of aerobic and resistance training is thought to help control the glucose levels.

Type 2 diabetes often goes undetected for many years and as a result is increasingly common in people over the age of 40. In these cases and in severe cases, antidiabetic drugs are used to help control the diabetes. There are many different types and some are taken orally. Some of these drugs work by increasing the sensitivity of the body's tissue to insulin. If these types of drugs stop working then insulin therapy is started. Others increase the amount of insulin produced or force the liver to retain more glucose. These types of drugs are often ineffective or even dangerous for those with Type 1 diabetes.

Diabetes can greatly affect a person's life, but it can usually be controlled in some manner. It is always a good idea to periodically take a blood test to ensure everything is in order. If you are diagnosed with diabetes do not give up, because many people live happy and productive lives with diabetes. It will however require you to pay more attention to your body and the actions you take.