Diabetes is a disease 1 that affects how your body regulates blood sugar and how well it breaks down the food you eat to use for energy. All types indicate a problem in your system to inadequately produce or respond to insulin, resulting in high blood sugar levels. Insulin is the hormone that helps alert the body to use blood sugar for energy in cells. When there is a lack of insulin, or the body doesn’t use insulin properly, too much glucose remains in the bloodstream and can cause significant health problems such as: Nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy) Heart disease Kidney disease Eye damage Hearing problems Depression Alzheimer's disease Skin conditions Most of these conditions happen when people with diabetes struggle with the disease over a long period of time. These conditions develop slowly but may increase over the duration of the disease.

Risk varies with each type. As with many health-related problems, being overweight, consuming a nutrient-poor diet, and not enough exercise can put you at a higher risk of developing the disease. Read on for some common types and factors that place people at greater risk.

What Is Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 2 is the most common diagnosis for this disease in the U.S. Approximately 90-95%¹ of cases are people with Type 2 diabetes. While usually seen later in life, it can sometimes occur in children and results from too much sugar in the bloodstream.

What Is Type 1 Diabetes?

Between 5-10% of people 2 are diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. This type is a chronic condition, also known as juvenile diabetes, usually seen in younger children and adolescents. It can come on quickly and with minimal warning.

What Is Gestational Diabetes?

Around 10% of women 3 who are pregnant are diagnosed with gestational diabetes every year in the U.S. For most pregnant women, it is a temporary condition that resolves once the baby is born. However, women with gestational diabetes need to be monitored week to week of pregnancy as it can affect the health of both the mother and child. The only way to know if this condition is present is through a blood test. Without treatment, problems may occur for the baby, such as: Excessive birth weight Low blood sugar at birth Increased risk of Type 2 diabetes later in life Preterm birth Respiratory distress syndrome

Is Diabetes Preventable?

In all instances of this disease, maintaining a healthy weight, eating well, and exercising can help prevent diabetes or, in the case of Type 1, delay the onset. While there is not much a person can do to prevent Type 1 since it appears to be related to genetics, there are ways to reduce risk factors and the likelihood of Type 2 and gestational diabetes by: Maintaining a healthy weight. If you are overweight, try to lose the weight and keep it off. Exercising. Try to get in more movement for at least 30 minutes, five times a week. Eating healthy most of the time . Choose more nutritious foods, and limit sugar and carbohydrates. Diabetes can have a severe effect on your health. Taking care of the things within your control is crucial in preventing or postponing the onset. Committing to a healthy lifestyle and monitoring your blood sugar levels are vital in preventing further complications. If you need care for diabetic wounds or dialysis due to diabetes-related kidney disease, contact our team today to learn how you can get the support you need.

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What Is Diabetes: Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

By: Haven Health | Last Modified: April 3, 2025

Just about everyone knows someone that is diagnosed with diabetes, is diagnosed themselves, or has heard that they might be at risk. While causes can vary, this very serious disease can create numerous complications to your health or can contribute to severe complications down the road, such as diabetic ketoacidosis. Which may have you wondering,…

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