Table of Contents
Barbie is causing a conversation once more. This time, a doll wearing an insulin pump reflects real children and adults living with type 1 diabetes. It's a powerful reminder that despite more than 30 million Americans suffering from diabetes, there's still much confusion about what this condition actually means.
People still ask questions like:
Can I cure type 1 diabetes? Can I reverse diabetes? What is the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes?
Ur Medical Endocrinologist Dr. Suzanne Meadrich and Dr. Britta Svolen, an endocrinologist at Golisano Children's Hospital, help to resolve these common misconceptions and explain how to stay healthy regardless of your diagnosis.
What is the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes?
Both conditions affect how the body handles sugar (called glucose), but it can cause different causes.
Type 1 diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the cells in the pancreas that make insulin. Usually it is diagnosed in children, teens, or young adults. People with type 1 diabetes must take insulin every day. Other important facts:
It is often diagnosed in children and teens (but adults can also get it).
Is type 1 diabetes genetic? In part, family history can increase risk
It is managed for insulin
Type 2 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is more common and compensates for 90-95% of cases of diabetes, and occurs when the body is unable to use insulin properly or earning enough. It is often diagnosed later, but it can also be diagnosed in children and teens. Other important facts:
It often appears gradually in adults
It can occur when your body resists insulin or does not use it well
It is closely related to family history, weight and lifestyle
Controlled with healthy diet, exercise, medication or insulin
Can type 2 diabetes be changed to type 1?
It's not accurate. There are different causes for the two types. However, type 2 may require treatment with insulin. Insulin may be similar to type 1 care, but remains a different disease.
Is diabetes caused by eating sugar?
Eating sugar does not cause diabetes, but over time, too many sugar (and therefore calories) can contribute to weight gain and increase the risk of type 2 diabetes. Diabetes is how the body produces and uses insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps move sugar from the blood to the cells of the body for energy.
Can type 1 diabetes be reversed?
Type 1 diabetes cannot be reversed or stiffened, but it can be managed with proper care. If diabetes-specific antibodies are detected early, new immunotherapy may delay the onset of the condition.
Can type 2 diabetes be reversed?
In some cases, definitely! Weight management, healthy diet and healthy lifestyle can lead to normal blood sugar levels even without medication. However, it does not mean “the other way around.” Most people still need regular monitoring to prevent it from coming back.
Dispels the myth of diabetes
Myth: “Diabetics can't enjoy delicious food.”
Truth: Everyone can eat well – and enjoy it. Balance is everything. Focus on lean protein, nuts, whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Look at the portion size and limit the sugar-like drink. Consider working with a registered nutritionist to develop a plan that will help your body and taste buds.
Myth: “Fruits are always healthy freedom.”
Myth: “If you have diabetes, you always need a shot of insulin.”
Truth: Depends on type.
Type 1: Insulin is essential and is used immediately. Type 2: Not everyone needs insulin. Many people manage their blood sugar levels through lifestyle changes and medications. However, over time, insulin may be added if other options are not sufficient.
Myth: “Everyone with diabetes will ultimately become blind, or need to be amputated.”
truth: Uncontrolled diabetes can cause eye, kidney and nerve problems. However, proper care and condition management can prevent or delay these issues. What can help:
Myth: “Gestational diabetes can cause harm to babies.”
Promoting a healthy lifestyle
Center for Community Health & Prevention also offers programs that help you manage and maintain a healthy lifestyle. You can become healthier and stay healthier by making small meaningful lifestyle changes that can be maintained over time.
Center for Community Health & Prevention Program
