What is the difference?

[LuisMac]

I have a family member who has diabetees type 2. Can anyone let me know the major differences in the two different types. Also will supplements that work with one type work with another?

[Anita Ramsetty, MD]

HI,
I think the general information given by our member on the forum "Mary" is overall correct. The other thing to mention is that sometimes Type 2 can be managed quite well on oral medications and never require insulin, whereas some require insulin form the start. Each individual is quite different,as can be their diabetes course.

In regard  to supplements, because the diseases are quite different especially at the start, it is not likely that any supplements will work for both. I am not sure what you refer to as "supplements"--I assumed herbal medications and vitamins. There is not a great deal of good study data backing any of those medications for either type of diabetes. Cinammon showed some promise but that is now in question again after a study released late last year. Chromium is being formally studied and I know there are some studies coming out of the east in regard to ginseng. But right now none are formally well accepted in the medical field.

Hope this helps.
Take care.

[Mary1994]

Type 1 diabetes is considered an autoimmune disease; the body's immune system attacks the islet cells in the pancreas, which produce insulin.  Eventually all the islet cells die, and all of the body's insulin needs must come from injections or a pump.  When caught early, there may be some residual insulin production left ... there have been some studies trying to preserve some insulin function in Type 1 diabetics, but I don't think they've been successful.

Type 2 diabetics do not have their islet cells destroyed by the body.  They often have insulin resistance which means their muscles can't use insulin effectively.  Often they are overweight which puts a burden on their pancreas to supply enough insulin.  Exercise can improve how their muscles handle insulin, so that is VERY helpful.  Losing weight lowers the amount of insulin required by the body, so that can be helpful.  If the Type 2 diabetes is ignored, the islet cells eventually may eventually put out very little insulin.  Then insulin by injection or a pump is required.

Both my grandmothers were type 2 diabetics, both overweight.  One eventually required insulin injections, and the other did not.  The one who didn't need insulin used pills instead, and watched her diet a little better than the other.

My forensics coach in high school became a type 2 diabetic; he didn't believe his doctors when they told him to make healthy changes to protect his circulation, his kidneys and his heart.  So he ignored the advice and ate what he wanted.  The last time I talked to him, he was having trouble with his eyes and his legs (poor circulation).  I haven't talked to him for several years, so I hope he modified some habits to help his body heal.  

I am diabetic from cystic fibrosis - a mixture of type 1 and type 2.  Exercise helps me greatly.  I avoid rice - that's a problem food for me.  I don't know if cinnamon helps or not.  I can't use pills, I use insulin.  I measure my blood sugars often, but I use my forearm instead of my fingers - it doesn't hurt on my arm, but my fingers hurt a lot.  I give myself food breaks sometimes - at holidays - but I try to watch my diet most of the time.  After all, I want to live for a long time, but I also want to be healthy so my life is more enjoyable.  

I am not a doctor; I'm an electrical engineer.  So I think what I've written is true, but read on the internet and talk to your doctor - and if you don't get good answers, ask another doctor.  Information is very important.  Good luck!