Type 2 diabetes affects the way the body uses food. It is the most common type of diabetes, affecting about 15 million Americans. It usually occurs in people over the age of 45. With Type 2 diabetes, the body does not make enough insulin or it makes insulin but cannot use it properly. Without enough insulin, the body cannot move blood sugar into cells.
Sugar builds up in the bloodstream and can be dangerous.
Type 2 diabetes can sometimes be controlled with diet and exercise alone. But because it strikes late in life, these personal habits are already formed and deep-rooted and can be difficult to change. If a loved one has diabetes, the more you know about habits, motivations, likes and dislikes, the more you will be able to help the individual make positive changes to his or her lifestyle. Keep in mind that individuals who have successfully made lifestyle changes also have an excellent chance of using these additional treatments as needed. Exercise regularly and eat a good diet.