We Know: All About Diabetes What is Diabetes? Diabetes, also known as diabetes mellitus, is a group of diseases characterized by high levels of blood glucose. This is caused by defects in the body's insulin production. Serious health complications and premature death can result. What is Adult-Onset or Type 2 Diabetes? Type 2 Diabetes, also known as Adult Onset Diabetes, usually begins as insulin resistance. It is a disorder where the cells do not use insulin properly. As the need for insulin rises, the pancreas gradually loses its ability to produce insulin. This is the most common form of diabetes. Who gets Type 2 Diabetes? Typically, Type 2 Diabetes is contracted by: older people obese people people who have a family history of diabetes people with a history of gestational diabetes people with impaired glucose metabolism inactive people African Americans Hispanic/Latino Americans American Indians Asian Americans Native Hawaiians Pacific Islanders Type 2 diabetes is increasingly being diagnosed in children and adolescents as well. What can I do to prevent Type 2 Diabetes? You can lower your risk of getting Type 2 Diabetes by making changes in your lifestyle. If you are overweight, losing 5 to 7 percent of your total body weight lessens your chances of getting diabetes, lowers your blood pressure, and controls your cholesterol levels. Exercise of any kind lowers your risk of getting Type 2 Diabetes. You should include 30 minutes of moderate physical activity five times a week. Following a healthy diet also can help. What kind of diet should a person with Type 2 Diabetes follow? Eat foods like salads, vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fish, beans, poultry, and other meats. Do not eat a lot of white sugar, honey, or molasses. Eat foods made with whole grains instead of white flour. Less than 30 percent of your total daily calories should come from fat with less than 10 percent from saturated fat. Carbohydrates should make up 50 to 60 percent of your total daily calories and include at least 20 grams of fiber. Consider seeing a dietitian or diabetic educator to help change your eating habits. How do people control Type 2 Diabetes? Type 2 Diabetes can be controlled in the same way it is prevented. Blood glucose can be lowered by following a careful diet and exercise program, losing excess weight, and taking oral medication. Can diabetes medicines help prevent or delay Type 2 Diabetes? Diabetes medicines are not as effective as diet and exercise. If you are at high risk for diabetes and have other medical problems, prescription medicine can be helpful.
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