“Sugar diabetes,” referring to excess glucose in the blood, comes in two varieties, type 1 and type 2. What’s your type?

Type I

 Type 1 diabetes tends to occur during childhood or adolescence but can develop in adulthood. Once called “juvenile diabetes,” the pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin or any at all. Your body requires this hormone to convert glucose into energy, and without it, sugar levels will rise.

Although the cause isn’t known, genetics appear to play a role, as do certain viruses.

Type 2

 In type 2 diabetes, the body doesn’t regulate or process glucose properly. When the cells don’t react to insulin, sugar accumulates in the blood. Once called “adult-onset” diabetes, it’s increasingly being seen in children.

Genetics may increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, but weight and lifestyle also are major factors.

Identifying Your Type

 While it’s more common to develop type 2I as you age, only a physician can determine for sure. Your practitioner will use a glucose tolerance test and an A1C evaluation.

Your doctor can determine the type of diabetes you have. Keep in mind that treatment is tailored to the type you have.