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Miriam E. Nelson, Ph.D Responds:
Miriam E. Nelson, PhD, of Tufts University and the best-selling author of the Strong Women book series, responds: There are many misconceptions about this disease, but the most common is probably related to the difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes often affects children, but adults can develop it too.
With type 1 diabetes, the body is unable to make insulin. It's an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the cells that make and release insulin. As a result, too much glucose collects in the blood. Type 2 is the more common form of diabetes and is most often related to lifestyle factors. With type 2 diabetes, the body still makes insulin but the cells aren't able to use it efficiently. This insulin resistance also leads to a buildup of glucose in the blood.
A diet rich in whole grains, vegetables, fruits, low-fat and nonfat dairy, and lean protein is important for managing both types of diabetes. Exercise--both aerobic and strength training--may also help prevent, delay, or manage type 2 diabetes and control both types by helping people maintain healthy body weights and by decreasing insulin resistance.
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Miriam E. Nelson
Ph.D
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