Understanding Type 2 Diabetes
(also called “adult-onset diabetes” or “non-insulin-dependent diabetes”)
What is Type 2 diabetes? And who is at risk?
The most common form of diabetes is Type 2 diabetes. About 90 to 95 percent of people with
diabetes have Type 2. This form of diabetes is associated with older age, but today, many
children and adolescents are being diagnosed with the condition. Obesity, family history of
diabetes, previous history of gestational diabetes (diabetes that occurs during pregnancy),
physical inactivity, and ethnicity are other risk factors for developing Type 2 diabetes. About 80
percent of people with type 2 diabetes are overweight.
When Type 2 diabetes is diagnosed, the pancreas is usually producing enough insulin, but for
unknown reasons, the body cannot use the insulin effectively. This condition is called insulin
resistance. After several years, insulin production decreases. The result is the same as for
Type 1 diabetes—glucose builds up in the blood and the body cannot make efficient use of its
main source of fuel.
What are the symptoms of Type 2 diabetes?
The symptoms of Type 2 diabetes develop gradually. Their onset is not as sudden as in Type 1
diabetes. Symptoms may include:
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Fatigue
Nausea
Frequent urination
Unusual thirst
Weight loss
Blurred vision
Frequent infections
Slow healing of wounds or sores
Some people have no symptoms at all
How Is Type 2 Diabetes Treated?
Simply put, a healthy lifestyle may help prevent or control Type 2 diabetes. In fact, up to 90
percent of cases may be preventable through diet and exercise, according to a study published
in the September 13, 2001 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine.
Getting regular exercise like walking, cycling, or swimming, and eating a low-fat diet with lots of
fruits, vegetables and fiber can help many people control their condition without insulin shots or
pills. Diet and exercise are especially important for people who are overweight or obese.
According to a report in the June 2001 issue of Nursing Clinics of North America, losing just 12
to 30 pounds can greatly reduce a person's need to take medication for diabetes.
A healthy eating plan for a person with diabetes is the same as for anyone else. It should be
low in fat (less than 30 percent of calories from fat), and include lots of fruits, vegetables and
fiber. People with diabetes have to be extra cautious however. While no food is off-limits,
eating too many sugary or high-carbohydrate foods like candy or white potatoes, can send
blood sugar soaring. Anyone with diabetes should get help from a registered dietitian (RD) or
an experienced certified diabetes educator (CDE) to plan balanced meals.
Unfortunately for some, diet and exercise alone may not be enough to get blood sugar to a
normal level. If lifestyle changes don't lower a person’s blood sugar within a month or two,
his/her doctor may prescribe a pill that can help lower it.
Like those with Type 1 diabetes, persons with Type 2 should schedule regular checkups with
their doctor, especially routine A1C tests.
Diabetes is a serious condition. But the good news is worth repeating: About 90 percent of
cases of Type 2 diabetes may be prevented with proper lifestyle changes including a
healthy eating plan and regular exercise. For more information on preventing or controlling
diabetes, visit some of the resources listed below.
For more information on Type 2 diabetes, visit www.unicare.com.
Sources:
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National Institutes of Health - http://health.nih.gov/
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases - http://www.niddk.nih.gov/
World Health Organization – http://www.who.int/
“Type 2 Diabetes” by Chris Woolston, contributing editor for Consumer Health Interactive. Published by Consumer Health
Interactive May 28, 2003 - http://virginia.anthemhealth.com/topic/topic54330#8
This information is intended for educational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as medical advice. Please consult your
physician for advice about changes that may affect your health.