Understanding Diabetes: A Simple Guide

What Is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic condition where the body can’t properly manage blood sugar (glucose). Glucose is an important energy source, and it comes from the food we eat. The hormone insulin helps move glucose from the blood into the cells.

When you have diabetes, either your body doesn’t make enough insulin or can’t use it properly. This leads to high blood sugar, which over time can cause serious health problems.

Types of Diabetes

• Type 1 Diabetes:
  The body’s immune system attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. People with Type 1 need daily insulin to survive.
• Type 2 Diabetes:
  The body becomes resistant to insulin, and over time, the pancreas can’t make enough. This is the most common form and is often linked to lifestyle and age.
• Gestational Diabetes:
  This happens during pregnancy and usually goes away after birth, but it increases the risk of developing Type 2 later.

Why Insulin Matters

Insulin is a hormone that helps keep blood sugar levels balanced. Without it, sugar stays in the blood, which can damage the heart, kidneys, eyes, and nerves.

People with diabetes often need to inject insulin or take medications to help their bodies use sugar properly.