Diabetes can affect pretty much anyone, and it can have a huge impact on your life. Whilst some people are able to control diabetes well through diet and physical activity, other people may require regular medication, injections and monitoring of blood glucose levels.

There are two main types of diabetes, although there are other kinds too. Type 1 diabetes is an auto-immune disease that causes the body to attack the pancreas. Type 2 diabetes is a high level of insulin resistance, with a potentially low level of insulin production.

Insulin is a hormone that is produced by the pancreas. It moves sugar (or glucose) out of the blood stream and into the cells, where it is used as a fuel. With little or no insulin produced, or a high resistance to its effects, the blood glucose level in the body rises.

Having a high concentration of blood glucose can lead to a variety of complications and health issues, and can be as extreme as causing a coma or death.

Following the links below will give you more in-depth information on different aspects of diabetes