Types of Diabetes
There are three types of diabetes; Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 diabetes and Gestational diabetes. The most common types are the Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.
In type 1 diabetes, the body produces little or no insulin. This is because the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the cells responsible for the production of this hormone, Insulin [1]. These cells are called Beta-cells and they are found in the pancreas. This condition is usually detected in the early stage of a child’s life. As long as they are placed on medications and treated properly, their life-span will not be affected.
In Type 2 diabetes, the body produces little amount of insulin but the cells in the body become resistant to it. The Beta- cells of the pancreas may also become worn out and “tired’ of producing insulin. Due to this, there is a buildup of glucose in the blood and causes your blood sugar to be higher than the normal range.
It is usually seen in elderly people. Although, it may develop due to certain lifestyle factors such as; obesity, genetic factor, hereditary, old age. People with this disease can be treated but there is no permanent cure for it yet.
The third type of this disease is gestational diabetes [2]. This is seen in a pregnant woman. This disease may suddenly creep up in a pregnant woman who didn’t even have the disease before pregnancy. It is usually tricky because any mistreatment or negligence can harm both mother and child. The mother’s normal metabolism may or may not return to normalcy after delivery.