What Is Type Two Diabetes?

Type two diabetes is by far the most common form of diabetes. Although it is more prevalent in African Americans, Latinos, Native Americans, and Asian Americans or Pacific Islanders, it seems to be growing rapidly throughout the world, especially where prosperity and the adoption of Western lifestyles are increasing, such as India and China.

Type 2 diabetes, which was previously called non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) or adult-onset diabetes, accounts for about 90% to 95% of all diagnosed cases of diabetes.

It is a lifelong disease that happens when the cells of the body can't use insulin the right way or when the pancreas can't make enough insulin.

Type II diabetes tends to develop gradually as people get older - usually after the age of 40. As early symptoms of this type of diabetes are subtle, it can bring about conditions ranging from kidney failure, to blindness and heart disease and complications that can lead to death.

Type two diabetes is very much a lifestyle form of the condition triggered by poor diet, lack of exercise and weight gain. So, it can often initially be managed with healthy eating and regular physical activity without oral or insulin medication if you take steps early on to change your lifestyle.

Lifestyle modifications such as weight loss and physical activity can also significantly prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes.

As type 2 diabetes is on the increase in all age groups, even among children of high school and grade school age, people should start diabetes prevention as early as possible.

Reference: Type 2 Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes Diet.