### Understanding Diabetes Diabetes affects how your body processes glucose, a type of sugar that is crucial for your health. Glucose provides energy for your brain, muscles, and other tissues. Without proper glucose levels, your body can't function well. ### Types of Diabetes There are two main types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2. - **Type 1 Diabetes**: This type affects about 5% of people with diabetes. Your body can't produce insulin, but with proper treatment and lifestyle choices, you can live a healthy life. It is usually diagnosed in people under 40, especially children and young adults. - **Type 2 Diabetes**: This is more common and your risk increases as you age, especially after 45. Your body becomes resistant to insulin, meaning it doesn't use it efficiently. Over time, your body can't produce enough insulin to maintain normal blood glucose levels. ### Risk Factors Several factors can contribute to type 2 diabetes, including age, family history, and lifestyle choices. ### Symptoms Symptoms of type 2 diabetes develop slowly and may include increased thirst, frequent urination, and fatigue. Some people may have no symptoms, making regular blood glucose screening important. ### Diagnosis To diagnose diabetes, doctors often use a fasting plasma glucose test. You'll fast for eight hours, then a blood sample will be taken. If your fasting blood sugar level is 126 mg/dL or higher, you may be diagnosed with diabetes. Another test involves drinking a sugary beverage and checking your blood sugar levels over two hours. ### Treatment Managing diabetes involves medication, a healthy diet, and regular exercise. Your doctor may prescribe oral pills, insulin injections, or both. Following a balanced diet and exercising for 30 minutes daily can help control blood glucose levels. ### Prevention To prevent diabetes, especially if you're over 40, maintain a healthy lifestyle. Eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and follow your doctor's advice for routine screenings. Adopting these habits can help you prevent diabetes and manage it if you have it.