What is diabetes?

Diabetes, also known as diabetes mellitus, is a condition that affects how the body uses glucose, a sugar we use as a source of energy. Once glucose is released from the food we eat and enters the bloodstream, your body releases a hormone called insulin. In the UK, 4.6 million people are living with diabetes, 1.1 million of those are undiagnosed and over 12 million are at increased risk of type 2 diabetes.*

Type 1 diabetes

Generally develops in people under the age of 40. The symptoms can develop suddenly and include shaking and sweating, thirstiness and weight loss. Treatment is with insulin, as well as a healthy diet and exercise.

Type 2 diabetes

Usually develops in people over 40. With less obvious symptoms it develops relatively slowly and often goes unnoticed. It can be treated successfully with a healthy balanced diet and physical activity, and sometimes the addition of tablets or insulin injections may be necessary