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The Differences Between Type I and Type II Diabetes

Diabetes is a disease that affects about 5 percent of the worlds population, with Western countries having a much larger infection rate. In diabetes, the bodies pancreas does not properly produce insulin, which is a hormone used to absorb glucose in the body, or it does not properly use the insulin it has. There are two types of diabetes, which are characterized by how the bod uses insulin.

In Type I Diabetes, the body does not produce enough insulin or in some cases, it does not produce any insulin at all. As a result, if left unchecked, glucose begins to build up in the bloodstream. Glucose, which is a type of sugar, is used by the body to produce energy. If the body can not properly absorb the glucose, it is forced to turn to other sources of energy, potentially creating a build up of toxins, such as acetone.

Typically, Type I Diabetes will develop in childhood and adolescence, usually before the age of 30.

For those with Type 1 Diabetes, a healthy diet is very important to maintain, however insulin shots will be required to prevent glucose from building up and to provide the body with an adequate and safe supply of energy.

Approximately five to 10% of those with diabetes in the United States suffer from Type 1 Diabetes.

Type II Diabetes is the most common type of diabetes and is characteristic of an insulin immunity. The body still produces insulin, however, it does not properly use it and instead develops insulin resistance.

Primarily, Type II Diabetes affects people over the age of 40 and is much more common among those who are overweight. Type II Diabetes is often present for a long time, but it goes unnoticed by the individual for many years.

In some cases Type II Diabetes develops during pregnancy. This is referred to as gestational diabetes and the mother is typically given insulin to ensure both she and the baby remain healthy. After childbirth, gestational diabetes will typically go away. However, the women is much more likely to develop Type II diabetes as she becomes older.

Maintaining a healthy diet is very important for those with Type II diabetes, especially those who are overweight. Often, regular exercise and dietary planning will go a long way to treating this type of diabetes. However, oral drugs and in some cases insulin shots might also be required.

Approximately 95% of people with diabetes suffer from Type II Diabetes.

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