What Is Diabetes? Breaking Down the Myths and Facts
Diabetes is one of the most prevalent chronic illnesses that affects millions of people around the world, yet is still poorly understood by many. Misinformation and myths surrounding diabetes can make it more challenging for the individual to manage the disease. This article is intended to help distinguish fact from misconception, and help people better understand what diabetes is and isn’t. What is Diabetes? Diabetes occurs when the body is unable to properly regulate blood glucose (sugar) levels. Glucose is the body's main source of energy and is transported from the bloodstream into cells with the help of a hormone called insulin, which is created and released by the pancreas. If insulin production is too low, or the body becomes resistive to insulin, too much glucose builds up in the blood, resulting in diabetes. There are three main types of diabetes: Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune condition in which the body's immune system destroys insulin-producing cells...