Diet and exercise play key roles in controlling diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic condition in which blood sugar levels rise higher than normal. There are two types of diabetes, and each presents its own challenges. The most common form, type 2, represents over 90 percent of diagnosed patients and presents itself most frequently in overweight adults with a family history of diabetes.

In type 2 diabetics, the body’s insulin can be ineffective. This malfunction initially causes the pancreas to create a surplus of insulin. Over time, the pancreas cannot make enough effective insulin to keep blood glucose levels normal.

Conversely, type 1 diabetes is typically diagnosed in children and young adults and occurs when the body does not produce a sufficient supply of insulin. Only 5 to 10 percent of diabetics are type 1.

Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes can have long-term health consequences. The good news is, diabetes — especially type 2 — is a disease that can be controlled by lifestyle modifications

http://www.kentucky.com/2013/08/03/2747706/diet-and-exercise-play-key-roles.html

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