diabetes

• Insulin is a hormone released by the pancreas when the concentration of glucose in the bloodstream is too high
• Insulin binds to cells throughout the body, instructing them to absorb excess glucose and convert it into glycogen
• This process helps to bring glucose levels back down to normal
• Type 1 diabetes:

  • Usually occurs in childhood or teenage years
  • Pancreas stops producing insulin or produces very small amounts
  • Main treatment is insulin injections into the abdomen or thigh after meals to regulate blood glucose levels
  • Amount of insulin needed depends on the meal's carbohydrate content and level of exercise
• Type 2 diabetes:

  • Generally happens to older people with unhealthy diets
  • Cells become resistant to insulin, leading to decreased glucose absorption
  • Giving insulin as a treatment is not effective
  • Main treatment is a healthy, low-sugar diet and regular exercise