In type 1 diabetes, which affects 5% of all diabetics, the body's immune system turns against beta cells in the pancreas that produce the insulin needed to regulate blood sugar. Type 1 diabetics typically must take daily insulin via injection to remain healthy.
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of the disease and is often linked to obesity. In type 2 diabetes, either the body doesn't produce enough insulin-a hormone needed- for the body to convert blood sugar into energy for cells-or the cells ignore the insulin. If left untreated, complications that can result include heart disease, blindness, and nerve and kidney damage, according to the American Diabetes Association.
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