The content in this article should not be taken as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider regarding your individual health needs.
Think of type 2 diabetes (T2D) as a tricky puzzle that happens when your body has a hard time using insulin properly. Insulin is a super-important hormone that helps keep your blood sugar levels in check. When we eat, our bodies turn complex carbs into glucose, which gives us the energy to do all the things we love. The pancreas then releases insulin, which works like a key to let glucose into our cells to be used as fuel.
With type 2 diabetes, there are two primary issues:
- The pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin
- The body’s cells respond poorly to insulin, and eventually it can’t produce enough, which can increase blood sugar levels
Who is at risk for type 2 diabetes?
Several factors can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. These include:
- History of prediabetes or gestational diabetes
- Genetics
- Older age
- Obesity
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Smoking
- Certain ethnic backgrounds such as Native American, Asian, Hispanic, and Black communities, which all have higher-than-average rates of type 2 diabetes.
And while type 2 diabetes is often thought of as an adult condition, it’s becoming increasingly common in children and adolescents.
Type 2 diabetes culprits: genetics, lifestyle, and environment
The development of type 2 diabetes is often a result of a combination of factors. For instance, poor diet, lack of physical activity, and chronic stress can all contribute to the onset of insulin resistance. Genetics also play a significant role, meaning that if diabetes runs in your family, you might be at higher risk.
Type 1 vs. type 2 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is different from type 1 diabetes, which is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Without insulin, the body can’t properly use glucose for energy, so people with type 1 diabetes need to take insulin daily to manage their blood sugar levels and stay healthy. Type 2 diabetes, especially in its early stages, is often managed without insulin. This often involves a combination of healthy eating, regular exercise, weight management, and sometimes medication to help keep blood sugar levels in check.
How is type 2 diabetes managed?
Managing type 2 diabetes often involves a combination of lifestyle modifications and medications. Key lifestyle changes include adopting a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing stress. Using a biosensor to monitor glucose levels is a great way to keep track of how well these strategies are working. In addition to lifestyle changes, there are various oral or injectable medications that help manage glucose levels effectively.
Did you know?
Unlike blood glucose meters that measure glucose levels in the blood, glucose biosensors measure glucose in the interstitial fluid in the surrounding cells just beneath your skin.
Living a full, healthy life with type 2 diabetes
Finding out you have type 2 diabetes can be overwhelming, and it's natural to feel a bit anxious or even embarrassed. But with the right knowledge and tools, you can manage it effectively and even thrive. Many people with type 2 diabetes lead full, active lives by making some lifestyle changes and following their treatment plans. If you think you might be at risk or are noticing any symptoms, it’s important to chat with your healthcare provider. They can offer personalized advice and support to help you stay on track, live your healthiest life, and feel optimistic about your future.
Curated & reviewed by: Kristyn Milburn
MSN, NP-C, BC-ADM, CDCES
MSN, NP-C, BC-ADM, CDCES
Kristyn Milburn is a dedicated nurse practitioner and diabetes care and education specialist, holding board certification in advanced diabetes management.
