Type 2 Diabetes 101

The Cause of Type 2 Diabetes

Diabetes is a progressive disease and is diagnosed when an individual's glucose level (sometimes called blood sugar) is above normal.

Glucose -- from digested food -- is the main source of energy for the body's cells. When glucose enters the bloodstream, the pancreas releases insulin to help cells use glucose for energy.

In people with type 2 diabetes, the pancreas does not produce enough insulin to keep blood glucose levels normal. This causes several problems:

• Glucose continues to flow through the bloodstream but cannot be used by the cells.
• Over time, glucose levels increase while the cells don't get the energy they need.
• Left untreated, this can lead to complications such as neuropathy, heart disease, eye damage, and kidney disease.

Try these tips to lower your blood sugar.