You have probably already heard about type 1 and type 2 diabetes since they are two of the most common types. And although we will talk about those in this post, we’d also like to cover two more common types; prediabetes and gestational diabetes. 

Type 1

Known as a chronic condition in which the pancreas produces little or no insulin. Type 1 diabetes is most common in adults than children. Your body breaks down the carbs eaten into blood sugar and uses it for energy. About 1.25 million Americans have type 1 diabetes and it is estimates that 40,000 will be newly diagnosed with this type of diabetes each year (American Diabetes Association). This disease is manageable, like we mentioned on our previous post. Talk to your doctor to create a treatment plan for you. 

Type 2

Known as a chronic condition that affects the way the body processes blood sugar (glucose). Higher levels of blood sugar are known as hyperglycemia and the improper use of insulin in your body is called insulin resistance. With this type of diabetes – if treated and making recommended lifestyle changes – you can be able to prevent or delay complications. While lifestyle changes make a huge impact, prescribed oral medications and insulin are part of treatment. Over time, high blood sugar levels may hurt your eyes, kidneys, nerves, or heart. 

Prediabetes

Is a condition where your blood sugar is high, but not high enough to be type 2 diabetes. Even though it is not high enough to reach type 2 diabetes, it sure leads up to it as well as heart disease. You can prevent from developing diabetes by losing weight, consistent physical activity, and cutting back on calories and saturated fat. These changes do not have to be big; you can start by parking further when you go to the store and starting your meals with leafy greens. 

Gestational diabetes

A form a high blood sugar affecting pregnant women. Although studies have not reported what causes gestational diabetes, the American Diabetes Association reports that the hormones in the placenta block the action of the mother’s insulin in her body – known as insulin resistance. This can scare a lot of new moms, but this type of diabetes does not cause the birth defects that are seen in babies of mothers who were already diagnosed diabetes prior to becoming pregnant. Nevertheless, untreated or poorly controlled can hurt the baby and lead to macrosomia, or a “fat” baby. 

Symptoms to watch for;

  • Feeling thirsty 
  • Feeling very hungry after your meals
  • Blurry vision
  • Tingling, pain, or numbness in the hands/feet (type 2)
  • Weight loss although you eat more (type 1)
  • Extreme fatigue
  • Urinating often
  • Cuts/bruising slow to heal
  • Overweight (prediabetes)
  • Patches of dark skin