diabetic types - #17943

You’re right, there are several types of diabetes, and getting familiar with them can definitely be a bit overwhelming. The most common types are type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, usually diagnosed in children and young adults, but it can appear at any age. It requires life-long insulin therapy. Type 2 diabetes, which your grandmother had, is more common and often develops in adults, though it’s increasingly seen in younger people. It usually starts with insulin resistance, where the body doesn’t use insulin properly, eventually leading to higher blood sugar levels. This type can often be managed with lifestyle changes, possibly followed by medication or insulin if necessary.

In addition to these, there’s prediabetes, which you’ve been diagnosed with, meaning your blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet at the level to be classified as diabetes. It’s a critical stage where lifestyle modifications like improving diet, increasing physical activity, and losing weight can drastically reduce your risk of progressing to type 2 diabetes. Another type to note is gestational diabetes, which occurs during pregnancy and is a risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes later on.

You might hear about other varieties like monogenic diabetes or secondary diabetes, but these are less common. Knowing the signs of diabetes is important—they include increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and blurred vision. You asked if you need to strictly adhere to a specific diet; while it’s important to focus on balanced meals low in saturated fats, sugars, and refined carbs, many people still enjoy occasional treats as part of a balanced diet plan. Making small, sustainable changes can be key, rather than restricting yourself drastically. Monitoring your blood sugar, as your doctor should have advised, is important to keep track of how your body responds to different foods and activities, offering valuable insights that can guide your lifestyle choices.

If you’re concerned about progressing to type 2 diabetes, take steps like incorporating more physical activity into your routine and paying attention to portion sizes. Understanding carbohydrate content and how different foods affect your levels is a great start—it might be helpful to work with a nutritionist for personalized guidance. If you notice any concerning symptoms, or if monitoring shows significant glycemic variability, you should discuss this with your healthcare provider promptly as they can give further directions on management or required interventions.