Three types of diabetes

Type 1 occurs when the body attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. Generally affecting young people, type 1 diabetes requires a person to use insulin daily in order to control his or her blood-sugar levels.

Type 2 diabetes develops more gradually and typically affects people later in life. It is the most common form of the disease. It starts when the body becomes more resistant to insulin, reducing its ability to regulate blood sugar.

Over time, this leads to an increase in blood-sugar levels that, if ignored, can lead to major health problems.

Gestational diabetes is another type that affects roughly 4% of all pregnant women. Gestational diabetes tends to go away after the pregnancy, but it can increase your risk of getting diabetes later in life. If you have diabetes, talk to your doctor, nurse, and diabetes educator.

They will help you learn more about how to control your blood glucose, blood pressure, and blood lipids, and teach you preventive care for your eyes, kidneys, and feet by maintaining a healthier lifestyle through proper diet and increased activity partner in your health-care team. It's your diabetes and your life.