Type 2 diabetes is also called “adult onset diabetes” because it usually develops after the age of 40. Unfortunately, due to lifestyle changes over the last few decades, more young people are being diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. Most people with Type 2 diabetes have been overweight for a long time. This can lead to insulin becoming less effective, which is called “insulin resistance”. They then have to produce more and more insulin to control their blood glucose level. Eventually, they can no longer produce enough insulin, their blood glucose level begins to rise and they may need insulin therapy.
Type 2 diabetes is also called late onset diabetes as the onset usually takes place after the age of 35. In Type 2 diabetes, the ability to produce insulin does not disappear completely. But the body becomes increasingly resistant to insulin, so tablets are needed to balance this. The pills used for treating Type 2 diabetes do not contain insulin, but act by increasing the body’s sensitivity to insulin, or by increasing the release of insulin from the pancreas. Diet and management of obesity are also very important when treating Type 2 diabetes. It is rare for insulin injections to be necessary in the early stages of Type 2 diabetes. Although Type 2 diabetes is also called non insulin-dependent diabetes, many people need treatment with insulin at a later stage in much the same way as people with Type 1 diabetes.
What causes Type 2 diabetes?
Contrary to what some people think, Type 2 diabetes is not infectious, therefore you can’t catch it. It is also not caused by eating too much sugar. However, sweet foods are high in calories and can lead to weight gain. You are more likely to develop Type 2 diabetes if you have any of the following risk factors.
- you are overweight, particularly around your middle
- you have a parent or close relative with Type 2 diabetes
- you smoke
- you do not eat a nutritious diet
- you have a history of high cholesterol and other fats in your blood
- you have a history of heart problems
How is Type 2 diabetes treated?
Although most people with Type 2 diabetes will eventually need insulin therapy, there are lots of ways to help postpone this for as long as possible. Diabetes healthcare teams usually recommend one or more of the following measures to help control Type 2 diabetes.
Change what you eat - Aim for smaller portions of foods that are low in fat and carbohydrates (such as sugar, bread, pasta and potatoes).
Take regular exercise – Try walking or jogging. Involving your friends in activities and taking part in team sports will make it more fun.
Metformin treatment – This is the main drug treatment for high blood glucose for people with Type 2 diabetes.
Glitazones – These are a newer form of drug treatment that can’t be used in children.