13 things to know about diabetes

Myths and truths about diabetes, lifestyle factors and how to avoid developing Type 2 diabetes

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Around 3 million people in the UK have diabetes. Thanks to increasing obesity levels, Type 2 diabetes is on the increase. Here's what you need to know about the different types of diabetes, lifestyle factors and what you can do if you're at risk of developing diabetes.

1. Contrary to popular opinion, there are more than two types of diabetes. The main types and the most common are Type 1 and Type 2. Other types of diabetes include gestational diabetes that can occur temporarily in pregnant woman, diabetes MODY (Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young) and diabetes LADA (Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults).

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2. Diabetes occurs when there is too much glucose in the blood, because the body cannot use it properly due to a lack of insulin. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas to allow glucose to enter the body's cells. When you have diabetes, your body doesn't produce any insulin (Type 1), or insufficient insulin (Type 2) to make this happen. 

3. Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body can't produce any insulin at all. It can develop at any age but usually appears before the age of 40 and is most common in childhood. It is treated by daily insulin doses, usually taken by injection.

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4. Type 2 diabetes means the body's ability to produce insulin is reduced, or the insulin produced does not work properly. It usually appears after the age of 40, is related to lifestyle factors including diet, and is generally treated with a healthy eating plan and increased exercise, though occasionally insulin and/or medication are also required.

5. Obesity and lack of physical activity are two of the most common causes of Type 2 diabetes. But not everyone with Type 2 diabetes is overweight. Ethnicity also plays a part and being of south Asian, Chinese, African-Caribbean or black African origin (even if you were born in the UK) puts you at a higher risk.

6. Type 2 diabetes is on the rise. Once the preserve of the elderly, it is increasingly becoming more common in children, teenagers and adolescents.

7. Pre-diabetes occurs if your blood glucose level is higher than normal, but not high enough to be diagnosed with diabetes – this is also referred to as fasting glycaemia or impaired glucose tolerance. It can progress to Type 2 diabetes unless you make lifestyle changes, such as switching to a healthier diet, losing weight if overweight and taking regular exercise.

8. It's a myth that people with diabetes cannot eat sugar.  While a healthy balanced diet is recommended – one that is low in fat, salt and sugar – it is not necessary to cut sugar completely from the diet.

9. Misconceptions about food and diet are common among those diagnoed with diabetes. For example, you should AVOID food labeled 'diabetic' or 'suitable for diabetics'. These foods often contain high levels of calories and fat, can affect blood glucose levels and may have a laxative effect. Instead, follow a healthy balanced diet; get more information on what you can and can't eat here:

Type 1 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes

10. You can calculate your risk of getting diabetes simply by knowing your height, weight and waist measurement; start your risk assessment here.

11. Lowering your blood sugar is key for Type 2 diabetes sufferers. There are many aids to help you do this, some as simple as just keeping a record of what you eat. Find out more here.

12. People with diabetes do not eventually go blind, are as safe to drive a car as anyone else, are no more likely to get colds and flus and can cut their own toenails!

13. High profile supporters and campaigners include celebrities and their family members who have been diagnosed with either Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, such as Sir Steve Redgrave, Rosemary Conley, Eamonn Holmes and Brian Cox. 

Find out more about available support, as well as fundraising, campaigning and volunteering on the Diabetes UK website.

Written by Bernadette Fallon

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