Classification of Diabetes
In 1979, the American Diabetes Association adopted the following classification system:
-
Type 1: Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus (IDDM)
-
Type 2: Non-Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus (NIDDM)
In addition to these, there are two other recognized types of diabetes:
-
Gestational Diabetes, which develops during pregnancy
-
Secondary Diabetes, which results from other medical conditions or the use of certain medications
There is also a less common form known as Malnutrition-Related Diabetes, observed primarily in certain regions of India.
Type 1 – Insulin-Dependent Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is considered the more severe form of the disease. It occurs when the pancreas produces little to no insulin. Since insulin is essential for allowing glucose (sugar) to enter the body’s cells for energy, its absence leads to high blood sugar levels. Individuals with Type 1 diabetes require daily insulin injections to manage their metabolism and maintain normal blood glucose levels.
Type 2 – Non-Insulin-Dependent Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes, often referred to as adult-onset diabetes, typically appears in individuals over the age of 40. However, its incidence is rising among adolescents due to increasing rates of obesity and sedentary lifestyles. Because the symptoms are often mild or gradual, many cases go undiagnosed for years.
Although both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are characterized by high blood sugar levels, they arise from different underlying causes. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition, whereas Type 2 is more closely linked to lifestyle factors such as poor diet, physical inactivity, and obesity. Individuals with Type 1 diabetes depend on insulin therapy for survival. In contrast, many individuals with Type 2 diabetes can manage—or even reverse—their condition through a healthy diet, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight.
For more comprehensive information on diabetes, including diet therapy, treatment options, and diabetes-related products, you can visit the following websites:
