If you’re confused about type 1 diabetes and type 2, you’re not alone. While both are associated with elevated blood sugar, type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas stops producing insulin. There is no known cause for type 1 diabetes, which is an autoimmune disease that can strike at any age. This is a lifelong illness that requires the use of insulin.
By contrast, type 2 diabetes occurs if the body doesn’t make enough insulin. This can occur due to age, weight, and heredity. It can be a slow form of disease progression that can be controlled with diet and exercise in order to manage blood sugar levels. Medication can also be used to manage insulin production and control glucose levels in the blood.