Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels by signalling cells in your body to absorb glucose from the bloodstream, so it's important for healthy glucose levels. In type 2 diabetes, either the pancreas makes too little insulin, or cells have become insensitive to insulin’s effects. As a result, sugars build up in the blood and can't enter into cells, creating what's known as “high blood sugar”. Often, type 2 diabetes goes unnoticed because there are few symptoms at first. The following warning signs may precede diagnosis: fatigue; weight loss; blurred vision; frequent urination; increased thirst; nausea; vomiting; and trouble concentrating. Type 2 diabetes has many other risks associated with it including heart disease and stroke that can come about without proper treatment. It is important for you to understand what type 2 diabetes is. Signs and Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes Type 2 diabetes is a disease in which either the pancreas makes too little insulin, or cells have become insensitive to insulin's effects. As a result, sugars build up in the blood and can't enter cells, creating what's known as "high blood sugar". Often, type 2 diabetes goes unnoticed because there are few symptoms at first. The following warning signs may precede diagnosis: fatigue; weight loss; blurred vision; frequent urination; increased thirst; nausea; vomiting; and trouble concentrating. Type 2 diabetes has many other risks associated with it including heart disease and stroke that can come about without proper treatment. It is important for you to understand what type 2 diabetes is. Types of Diabetes Diabetes is a complex disease that affects the body by causing blood sugar levels to become too high. There are two major types of diabetes, type 1 and type 2. Type 1 diabetes occurs because the pancreas doesn't produce enough insulin, the hormone needed to regulate blood sugar levels. Type 2 diabetes is caused when either your pancreas doesn't make enough insulin or cells in your body become resistant to its effects. Type 2 diabetes can also occur when something alters your body's ability to use insulin properly, like an infection or obesity. Other risk factors for type 2 diabetes include family history, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. Causes of Type 2 Diabetes There are many factors that can cause type 2 diabetes, some of which are diet, obesity, genetics, and age. Studies show that people with type 2 diabetes have lower levels of insulin in their bodies because the cells are not reacting to it properly. This lack of insulin production has caused the cells to become insensitive to it. Type 2 diabetes is also linked to diet because high-calorie foods can lead to weight gain and obesity over time. With more weight on the body, how the body metabolizes food changes. The pancreas produces more insulin to compensate for high blood sugar levels. Risk Factors The risk factors for type 2 diabetes are identical to the risk factors for obesity. It is possible to reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes by maintaining a healthy weight and exercising regularly. Type 2 diabetes has many other risks associated with it including heart disease and stroke that can arise without proper treatment. Treatment Rather than ‘curing’ type 2 diabetes, recent research has suggested that the condition can be reversed for some people by significantly lowering their carbohydrate intake, increasing exercise levels and extensive weight loss. Foods that are high in fiber and protein can help to regulate blood sugar levels. Some people may need medication such as Metformin to help control their blood sugar levels. Others may also need insulin injections. There is a new study that shows how you can lower your blood sugar quickly without restricting carbs or exercising; view it here. Conclusion If you are worried about your risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes, the first step is to see your primary care doctor. They will diagnose you with type 2 diabetes if you have a fasting blood glucose level of 126mg/dL or higher. Your doctor may also order an oral glucose tolerance test to diagnose type 2 diabetes. There are two main types of diabetes - type 1 and type 2. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder that usually occurs in children or young adults. It is caused by an inability to produce insulin. Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body can't produce enough insulin, or can't use insulin as well as it should. There are certain risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes. These factors may include obesity, lack of physical activity, high blood pressure, heart disease, and having an immediate family member who has type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes can be treated with lifestyle changes, medication, and insulin therapy. The most important thing about treating type 2 diabetes is to start doing it right away. Failure to treat type 2 diabetes can lead to serious complications such as blindness, kidney failure, and heart disease.