When the ‘key’ called insulin fails (Insulin Failure):
The food we eat is digested and turns into glucose (sugar) in the blood. Insulin is a hormone that helps transport this glucose to cells and turn it into energy. It is produced by an organ called the pancreas.
In Type 1: The pancreas is unable to produce insulin. This happens because the body’s own immune system attacks the pancreas.
In Type 2: Although the pancreas produces insulin, our cells do not respond to it (Insulin Resistance). The pancreas is unable to produce the required amount of insulin and sugar accumulates in the blood.
Obesity and Fat (The Role of Adipose Tissue):
The fat that accumulates, especially in the abdomen, is not something that is idle. It causes chronic low-level inflammation in the body. This inflammation prevents insulin from doing its job (Insulin Resistance). That is why obesity is said to be the main cause of diabetes.
Lifestyle changes:
The amount of refined sugar and carbohydrates (carbohydrates) in the food we eat these days is very high. These release glucose into the blood very quickly. This puts a lot of stress on the pancreas. And when combined with lack of exercise, the body is unable to use glucose.
Genetic factors (Genetic Predisposition):
A person’s DNA may contain the risk of developing diabetes. If your parents or close relatives in the family have diabetes, you are more likely to develop diabetes than others.
Stress and hormones (Stress):
When excessive mental stress increases, hormones such as cortisol increase in the body. These increase blood sugar levels and reduce insulin action.
