What Are the Different Types of Diabetes?

People can get diabetes at any age. There are three main kinds:

• Type 1 Diabetes
  Usually first diagnosed in children, teenagers, or young adults. With this form of diabetes,
  the pancreas no longer makes insulin because the body’s immune system has attacked and destroyed it. Treatment includes taking insulin injections.
• Type 2 Diabetes
  The most common form of diabetes that can develop at any age – even during childhood. This form of diabetes usually occurs in overweight individuals and is due to the body not making enough insulin or not being able to use the insulin being made. Initial treatment includes diabetes medications (pills) along with diet changes, and exercise.
• Gestational diabetes
  Gestational diabetes is caused by the hormones of pregnancy or a shortage of insulin.
  Although this form of diabetes usually goes away after the baby is born, a woman who has had it is more likely to develop type 2 diabetes later in life.

What Is Pre-Diabetes?

Pre-diabetes is a condition in which blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not high enough for a diagnosis of diabetes. However, many people with pre-diabetes develop type 2 diabetes within 10 years. With modest weight loss and moderate physical activity, you can delay or prevent type 2 diabetes and even return to normal glucose levels.