top of page
Search

Type 1 vs Type 2 Diabetes- Key differences and myths

Updated: Jul 30

Photo Credit: Getty images. thinkinghealthwise
Photo Credit: Getty images. thinkinghealthwise

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic condition where the body cannot regulate blood sugar (glucose) properly. This condition may be either due to the inability to make insulin or use it effectively.

Millions live with diabetes, but not all diabetes is the same. Here’s a simple comparison to understand Type 1 and Type 2— their causes, symptoms, and treatments.


Type 1 Diabetes


Type 1 Diabetes occurs as a result of an autoimmune reaction that attacks the beta cells of the pancreatic islet. In other words, the pancreas cannot make insulin. Mostly occurring at early ages, later occurrences are also possible


Summary

  • Cause: Autoimmune reaction destroys insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas.

  • Onset: Often childhood or adolescence, but can occur at any age.

  • Insulin: Required for life, since the body produces no insulin.

  • Cause not linked to lifestyle.


Type 2 Diabetes


In a normal scenario, an increase in blood sugar would occur after your hunger is satisfied by eating. For homeostatic balance in the body, the blood sugar increase has to be decreased. Insulin is the hormone that does this job.


In Type 2 diabetes, although the beta cells of the pancreatic islet may make insulin, but they do not seem to respond normally to an increase in blood glucose, such that the beta cells do not release insulin (They are not able to properly detect the elevated blood glucose levels). Hence, blood sugar levels remain elevated. This form of diabetes tends to be more prevalent than Type 1.


Summary

  • Cause: The body becomes insulin resistant or doesn’t produce enough insulin.

  • Onset: More common in adults over 40, but rising in teens due to obesity & inactivity.

  • Insulin: May not be needed at first. Managed with lifestyle, oral meds, or insulin later.

  • Strong link to lifestyle factors (diet, exercise, weight).


Key Differences:

Features

Type 1

Type 2

Causes

Autoimmune

Insulin resistance

Insulin production

None

Reduced/ineffective

Onset age

Childhood/teen

Adulthood (but changing)

Treatment

Require insulin for life

Lifestyle, medication

Reversible ?

No

Sometimes (with lifestyle)



Key Similarities:


Symptoms (Type 1 and 2):

  • Excessive thirst

  • Frequent urination

  • Extreme fatigue

  • Blurry vision

  • Slow healing

  • Unexplained weight loss (more common in Type 1)


Treatment Goals (Type 1 and 2):

  • Maintain healthy blood sugar levels

  • Prevent complications (heart, kidney, nerve issues)

  • Support overall well-being through diet, movement, and monitoring


Key Takeaway:


Type 1 and Type 2 may share a name, but they’re very different conditions. Understanding the difference is key to managing, preventing, or supporting someone with diabetes.


Sources



bottom of page