No matter which type of diabetes you suffer from, the issue posed by this chronic medical condition remains the same: your body is unable to produce the required amount of insulin that it needs. This often results in nausea, dehydration, blurred vision, weight loss, fatigue and infections. But how does each type of diabetes differ?

Type 1 diabetes occurs because the body is naturally not able to produce enough insulin on its own. This type of diabetes develops very quickly and can be easily identified in people from a young age. This condition is believed to be an autoimmune problem, where the immune system accidentally targets its own tissues.

Type 2 diabetes, on the other hand, develops with age. This issue arises when your body stops producing its own insulin over time. Unlike type 1, type 2 takes a long time to develop.

Type 1 Diabetes Treatment Guidelines

Insulin:

This is the main type 1 diabetes treatment. If you have type 1 diabetes, you’ll have to take insulin every day as prescribed by a doctor. While some people administer insulin through a needle, others use an insulin pump.

Follow A Healthy Diet:

Consult with a dietician to develop a meal plan that will help to stabilize your blood sugar levels. Foods that are highly nutritious and low-fat, such as fruit, vegetables, and grains, are highly recommended. Try to limit your intake of refined carbohydrates, such as white bread and candy.

Regular Exercise:

By engaging in regular physical activity, your body will naturally balance its blood sugar levels. Make sure to get plenty of cardiovascular activity through activities such as running, cycling, and even walking the dog!

Blood Sugar Monitoring:

In order to know exactly how much insulin you need to take, you’ll have to check your blood sugar levels on a regular basis. The American Diabetes Association recommends checking your blood sugar before exercising, driving, meals, and before bed.

Type 2 Diabetes Treatment Guidelines

Metformin

This medication is the preferred type 2 diabetes treatment. Metformin helps to lower your blood glucose levels and improve how your body responds to insulin. Consult your doctor to learn if this is the right treatment for you.

Other Medication

Sulfonylureas is an oral medication that enables your body to produce more insulin. Thiazolidinediones, on the other hand, makes your body more sensitive to insulin. Your doctor will be able to recommend the best treatment option for you.

Control Your Weight

While it’s important to eat healthily like those who suffer from type 1 diabetes, you should also avoid overeating as this could affect your blood sugar levels. Avoid refined carbohydrates and animal fats as much as possible.

Exercise

Try to do about 30 minutes of aerobic exercise daily. This will help to keep your blood glucose levels in check.

Insulin Therapy

While this is a last resort for people with type 2 diabetes, insulin therapy can prove to be an effective type 2 diabetes treatment if all else fails.

The Bottom Line

No matter how severe your diabetes is, it’s important to remember that so long as you follow the right treatment guidelines, you can continue living a full and happy life while keeping this medical condition under control!

Type 1 Vs Type 2 Diabetes