Is also known as Diabetes Mellitus

Seen as a syndrome that affects metabolism

Results in hyperglycemia or abnormally high levels of blood sugar or glucose.

Glucose in the blood is controlled by insulin which is produced in the pancreas.

Types of Diabetes include:

1.)   Diabetes Mellitus Type 1
2.)   Diabetes Mellitus Type 2
3.)   Gestational Diabetes

Diabetes Type 1

Is a form of diabetes mellitus

Also known as “juvenile“, “childhood“, and “insulin-dependant” diabetes.

Is as result of an autoimmune disease

Pancreas cells are often destroyed

Children are often affected by type 1 diabetes, but, adults can also be affected.

Symptoms of Type 1

   -    Glucose in urine   [Glycosuria]
   -    Increased frequency to urinate
   -    Increased thirst
   -    Weight loss
   -    Fatigue

Causes:

   -    Overall cause is generally unknown

Diabetic Diet
     -      moderation of carbohydrates
     -      moderation of caloric intake
     -      Glycemic index
     -      Low Carb diet

Insulin is required

Diabetes Type 2

Is a form of diabetes mellitus

Also called or referred to as “adult-onset diabetes”.

Is fundamentally different then type 1 diabetes

Involvement of diabetes type 1 is associated with a resistance to insulin or a decrease in sensitivity to glucose

Potential causes:
  -   Obesity
  -   Age
  -   Genetics
  -   Environmental exposures

Treatment is several oral medications and occasionally insulin is required

Gestational Diabetes

It is very similar to Diabetes Mellitus Type 2

Is when the glucose tolerance of the women is abnormal due to pregnancy or during pregnancy.

Therefore, if an individual is diabetic prior to pregnancy - then they would not be considered to have gestational diabetes.

Although the individual may not be aware that they have diabetes prior to pregnancy and are learning about it during their pregnancy.

Occurs only during pregnancy and can be seen in up to 5% of all pregnancies.

Symptoms and problems tend to resolve once the baby is delivered.

May lead to induction of labor or cesarean section.

Treatment for Diabetes

Is largely dependant on type of diabetes

  -  Insulin for type 1 and 2

  -  Oral medications for type 2

  -  Delivery of fetus for gestational

Exercise and dieting can drastically improve the risks and complications that are associated with diabetes.

There is no cure for diabetes