In both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, the main problem is that there is a high level of blood glucose because the body is unable to utilize it. But what causes the blood sugars to be elevated in diabetes? What is the main cause of diabetes? Read on.
In Type 1 diabetes, which starts in childhood, the fundamental causes of diabetes pertain to the fact that there is no insulin being produced in the body. This hormone is normally produced by the pancreas, a small organ in the abdomen. For some unknown reason in Type 1 diabetes, the pancreas fails to make insulin. The end result is that there is a lack of insulin, which causes marked elevations in blood glucose. But why the pancreas does not make insulin is not yet well understood.
Despite extensive research, several theories exist as to why the pancreas fails to make insulin. The most common theory is that the body’s own defense immune cells (autoantibodies) attack the pancreas because they recognize it as foreign. It is believed that an infection in childhood may lead to cellular changes in the pancreas, which is then attacked by the body’s white cells. Not all people with Type 1 diabetes have these so-called autoimmune antibodies. The bottom line is that in Type 1 diabetes, insulin is not produced by the pancreas.
In Type 2 diabetes, one of the causes of diabetes is that, while the pancreas does make insulin, the body does not respond to it like it should, and the glucose levels remain high in the blood. At this point, the pancreas makes even more insulin to lower the blood sugars, but eventually, the organ fails and wears out. The individual will then have too much glucose in the blood, a condition known as prediabetes.
In prediabetes, the levels of glucose are high but not high enough to make the diagnosis of diabetes. Type 2 diabetes occurs when insulin production increases, but there is resistance to insulin and the individual will present with signs and symptoms of diabetes. When blood sugars stay at elevated levels for too long, it can lead to several physical complications, including atherosclerosis, as well as causing your pancreas to fail.
Several risk factors increase the risk of developing diabetes. They include the following:
Overall, Caucasians have the lowest risk of developing diabetes.
What is the main cause of diabetes? If you have been told you have diabetes, the best advice is to consult with a healthcare professional. The earlier you learn how to manage your blood sugar levels, the better the quality of life you may be able to have. Cano Health has many programs, all aimed at helping guide seniors to a better life with better health. Contact Cano Health today to learn more about one of their programs, including educational courses, nutrition courses, and Laughter Yoga.
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