Diabetes is a condition in which the body cannot properly use fuel for energy. There are three main types of diabetes.

TYPE 1 DIABETES
Type 1 is usually diagnosed in children and adolescents and occurs when the pancreas is unable to produce insulin. Insulin is a naturally occurring hormone that is essential to ensure that the body’s energy needs are met. Approximately 10% of people with diabetes have Type 1 diabetes.

TYPE 2 DIABETES
Type 2 diabetes occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body is unable to use insulin effectively. Type 2 diabetes usually develops in adulthood, although the incidence is increasing in children from certain high risk populations.

GESTATIONAL DIABETES
The third type of diabetes is a temporary condition that occurs during pregnancy. It affects up to 3.5 % of pregnancies and is associated with an increased risk of developing diabetes for both mother and child.

PREDIABETES
Prediabetes is a condition that comes before Type 2 diabetes. Blood glucose levels are higher than normal but aren’t high enough to be called Type 2 diabetes. Similar to Type 2 diabetes people can have prediabetes and not know it. Weight loss and being physically active can reverse prediabetes and therefore prevent or delay the diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes.

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