Your body needs blood sugar, also called glucose, for energy. Instead of using this energy all at once, insulin — a hormone — stores that energy until it’s needed. When insulin isn’t working properly, it may lead to excess glucose in the blood.
With type 1 diabetes, the body may attack and destroy the cells that make insulin. Because of this, it’s an autoimmune condition that may have nothing to do with diet or lifestyle choices.
With type 2 diabetes, people become insulin resistant — their bodies make insulin, but are unable to use it properly. You are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes through a diet high in fat, calories and cholesterol and an inactive lifestyle. Unlike type 1 diabetes, it is possible to delay or prevent type 2 diabetes.