Type 1 Vs. Type 2 Diabetes

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Introduction

    A lot of the time, people who don't have diabetes, don't even know there are two types of diabetes.  I have been compared to type 2 diabetics, but the reality is, the two different types just aren't managed the same.  Through this article, I hope to clear up the main differences between the two.

Type 1

    Type 1 diabetes is a hereditary disease.  It occurs because the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the Beta cells in the pancreas that produce insulin.  The immune system gets confused and doesn't recognize these Beta cells.  Thus, the Beta cells are destroyed, and the pancreas no longer can produce insulin.  There is no currently available cure for type 1 diabetes: only methods of treating the disease.

Type 2

    With Type 2, there is something different that occurs.  The pancreas still produces insulin, but the body is resistant to it (in other terms, the body can't absorb or use the insulin).  The insulin is there for the body to use, but the body isn't able to absorb the insulin.  Most of the time, this disease can be cured through weight loss and diet changes as type 2 diabetes is usually caused by obesity.  

Reflection

    You can see the fundamental difference between the two types of diabetes is whether or not the body can produce insulin or not.  Both types usually use some sort of insulin injection, but there is a main difference in how the two times are treated.  The goal of aiding with type 2 diabetes is to lose weight and eat healthier in order make the body no longer resistant to the insulin that is already there.  With type 1, there is no insulin in the first placed so injections or an insulin pump are needed.



For a more scientific explanation of the differences, click here to view the diabetes.org.uk site.
Alternatively, click here to view the healthline.com site.



If you have any questions about the difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes or want more information about my experience, feel free to contact me!  This is done by clicking the "Contact" link at the top of the page and filling out the form. Or you can always leave a comment below!

If you are interested in purchasing merch such as t-shirts, a mug, and a hat from DiabeticDecipher, use the link provided to view useful, everyday products branded with a logo made by DiabeticDecipher!  

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