Diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by high blood sugar levels due to a deficiency or ineffectiveness of the hormone insulin, which is produced by the pancreas. This hormone is responsible for regulating the level of sugar in the blood, and its deficiency leads to the accumulation of glucose in the blood, causing many health issues.
There are two main types of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 is usually diagnosed in childhood or youth and is the result of the immune system attacking the insulin-secreting cells of the pancreas. Type 2 is more common, occurs mostly in adults, and is largely associated with an unhealthy lifestyle, such as obesity and physical inactivity. Controlling blood sugar levels through a healthy diet and regular exercise is key to managing diabetes and preventing its complications.