Diabetes mellitus, or simply diabetes, is a group of metabolic diseases in which a person has high blood sugar, either because the pancreas does not produce enough insulin, or because cells do not respond to the insulin that is produced.[2] This high blood sugar produces the classical symptoms of polyuria (frequent urination), polydipsia (increased thirst) and polyphagia (increased hunger).
There are three main types of diabetes mellitus (DM).
- Type 1 DM results from the body's failure to
produce insulin, and currently requires the person to inject insulin
or wear an insulin pump. This form was previously referred to as
"insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus" (IDDM) or "juvenile
diabetes".
- Type 2 DM results from insulin resistance, a
condition in which cells fail to use insulin properly, sometimes
combined with an absolute insulin deficiency. This form was
previously referred to as non insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus
(NIDDM) or "adult-onset diabetes".
- The third main form, gestational diabetes occurs
when pregnant women without a previous diagnosis of diabetes develop
a high blood glucose level. It may precede development of type 2
DM.
Untreated, diabetes can cause many complications. Acute complications include diabetic ketoacidosis and nonketotic hyperosmolar coma. Serious long-term complications include cardiovascular disease, chronic renal failure, and diabetic retinopathy (retinal damage). Adequate treatment of diabetes is thus important, as well as blood pressure control and lifestyle factors such as stopping smoking and maintaining a healthy body weight.
All forms of diabetes have been treatable since insulin became available in 1921, and type 2 diabetes may be controlled with medications. Insulin and some oral medications can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugars), which can be dangerous if severe. Both types 1 and 2 are chronic conditions that cannot be cured. Pancreas transplants have been tried with limited success in type 1 DM; gastric bypass surgery has been successful in many with morbid obesity and type 2 DM. Gestational diabetes usually resolves after delivery.
Books on Food for Diabetics
desserts! Eat Dessert, Lose Weight! * Hot New Product Ultimate Diabetic Cookbook! Gluten Free Low Glycemic Cookbook For Diabetics & Allergy Sufferers