Types of Diabetes

Type 1

Type 1 Diabetes

This type of diabetes usually affects children and younger adults but can affect people of any age. In type 1 diabetes, the body makes little or no insulin. This lack of insulin keeps sugar from entering cells and being used as energy, causing blood sugar levels to remain high.

People with type 1 diabetes always have to take insulin shots. This type only affects 5-10% of all people with diabetes.

Type 2

Type 2 Diabetes

This type usually affects adults over age 40 but can occur in younger people as well. More young people are getting type 2 diabetes due to unhealthy eating, lack of exercise, and being overweight.

With this type of diabetes, the body does not make enough insulin or can't use the insulin it makes. This is called insulin resistance. People with type 2 diabetes might be able to manage it with diet and exercise. If this is not effective, pills and/or insulin could be necessary. 90-95% of people with diabetes have type 2.

Gestational

Gestational Diabetes

This type of diabetes occurs during pregnancy and usually goes away after the baby is born. It is caused by the placenta making hormones that work against the mother's insulin and cause blood sugars to rise. Undetected or untreated gestational diabetes can cause problems for the mother and her baby.