Living with diabetes can be frustrating, but understanding the basics of how it occurs at the first place can make management much easier. In this article, we’ll explore the two most common types: Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. You’ll learn how each type happens, from the role of insulin to the impact on blood sugar levels. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or supporting a loved one, this guide will help you with the knowledge to navigate your diabetes journey confidently.

How insulin and blood glucose work?

When you consume food, the carbohydrates is broken down into glucose (sugar) in the digestive system. Then glucose enters the bloodstream, providing energy to cells. Normally, the pancreas will produces insulin, acts as a "key" to allow glucose to enter cells. This process helps regulates blood glucose levels by enabling cells to absorb glucose. However, sometimes pancreas does not function properly or you develop insulin resistance, that the body cannot keep blood glucose steady, cause diabetes eventually. 

What is Type 1 diabetes?

Type 1 diabetes is a condition where your body cannot produce insulin. It usually starts in children and young adults. Yet it’s not possible to prevent or cure Type 1 diabetes because it’s caused by an issue with the immune system, you can still manage it effectively and live a healthy life through regular insulin therapy, monitoring blood glucose levels, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle. This type makes 10% of all diabetes cases. 

What is Type 2 diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes, the most common type of diabetes (90% of all diabetes cases), is different. It occurs when the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or when the insulin doesn’t work properly. It’s more common in older adults and people who are overweight, and most importantly, you can often prevent it by:

• Keep a healthy body weight (BMI between 18.5-24.9)
• Stay physically active with at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week
• Eat a healthy diet and avoid sugar and saturated fat
• Quite smoking

Hyperglycemia (High blood sugar)

Hyperglycemia is when your blood sugar climbs too high - often above 7mmol/L before meal or 11mmol/L 2 hours after eating. Chronic high blood sugar levels can cause various health risks, including permanent damage to the nerves in your hands and feet; Vision loss; Kidney and heart disease. Here are some common symptons of high blood sugar:

• Constant thirsty
• Frequently urinating
• Abnormal tiredness
• Blurred vision
• Weight loss

Cause of high blood sugar

Common causes of high blood sugar in people with diabetes include:

• Experiencing stress
• Consuming excessive sugary or starchy foods
• Leading a more sedentary lifestyle than usual
• Skipping or forgetting doses of diabetes medication

Hypoglycemia (Lower blood sugar)

Low blood sugar is usually you blood sugar is below 4 mmol/L. Here are some symptoms of low blood sugar:

• Hunger
• Feeling dizzy
• Feeling anxious or nervous
• Sleepy
• Feeling tired or weak
• Feeling confused
• Sweating
• Shaking
• Tingling lips
• Heart palpitations
• Pallor skin
• Dizzy or lightheaded

How to treat low blood glucose?

Use the 15/15 rule:

1. Consume 15 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates to raise blood glucose.
2. Wait 15 minutes, then recheck your blood glucose.
3. If still below 3.9 mmol/L or 70 mg/dL or not trending up on your CGM, consume another 15 grams of fast-acting carbs.
4. Once blood glucose is above 3.9 mmol/L or 70 mg/dL or trending up and no meal is planned soon, eat a protein and carbohydrate snack (e.g., cheese crackers) to prevent further drops.

Here are some common fast-acting carb:

1 cup of milk, 1 small fresh fruit (apple, orange, peach, pear), half banana, 2 small cookies, 1/2 cup ice cream

Embrace a healthy lifestyle with diabetes

Living with diabetes can feel tough, but you’re doing great! Every small step—like checking your blood sugar or eating balanced meals—helps you thrive. You don’t need to be perfect, just keep going with kindness toward yourself. For additional support and tailored advice, consult your healthcare provider, as they can offer personalized strategies to help you manage your condition effectively.