The most severe form of diabetes is type 1, or insulin-dependent diabetes. It is also called "juvenile" diabetes because type 1 diabetes usually develops in children and adolescents, although it can develop at any age.
With type 1 diabetes, the body's immune system attacks part of their own pancreas. Scientists are not sure why. But the immune system works badly, it sees the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas as strange and destroys them. This attack is known as "auto-immune" disease.
The most common form of diabetes is called Type 2, or non-insulin-dependent diabetes. This is also called "Adult Onset" diabetes, as it typically becomes after the age 35. However, a growing number of younger people are now developing type 2 diabetes. People with type 2 are able to produce part of their own insulin. Often it is not enough. And sometimes insulin will try to serve as the "key" to open the cells of the bodies so as to enter the glucose. But the key will not work. The cells are not opened. This is called insulin resistance.
Diabetes Management is a challenge every day. There are so many variables to consider – food, exercise, stress, general health, etc. – that keeping blood sugar levels in the desired range is an act of constant equilibrium.
You don't need a gym, you just need some type of physical activity. Even just a walk down around your neighborhood can prove helpful.
Knowing how many carbs you eat can tremendously help you. Carbohydrates are broken down into glucose, and eating too many carbs can make your blood sugar level rise. For this specific reason, keeping track of your carb intake is very helpful.
Blood glucose levels, or blood sugar level, is a huge factor in controlling your diabetes. Lifestyle changes such as exercise, a new diet, etc can greatly effect your blood sugar levels. So monitoring these levels regularly is highly recommended.
Diabetes greatly increases your chance of having coronary heart disease, attacks, and even strokes. Maintaining a healthy heart is key. Choosing the right foods such as lean meats and low fat dairy products help. Increasing intake of beneficial fats and limiting trans fats also helps. Eating fish high in Omega 3 fatty acids a few times a week and increasing your intake of dietary fibers also helps. Food high in fiber include whole grain breads, cereals, vegetables, and fruits.
It is very important to limit the sodium in your diet. Try replacing your sodium with natural herbs and spices to give your foods a nice taste. Stay away from the salt shaker!