Type I Diabetes (Autoimmune)
What it is:
- An autoimmune disease — the body attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas
Key points:
- Usually starts young (but can happen at any age)
- Body produces little or no insulin
- Requires lifelong insulin therapy
Typical signs:
- Rapid onset
- Weight loss
- Excess thirst & urination
- Fatigue
Management:
- Insulin injections or pump
- Blood glucose monitoring
- Careful carb balancing
Type II Diabetes (Metabolic)
What it is:
- A metabolic condition — the body becomes resistant to insulin
Key points:
- Usually develops later in life (but increasingly younger)
- Body still makes insulin, but it doesn’t work effectively
- Strongly linked to lifestyle + genetics
Typical signs:
- Gradual onset
- Often unnoticed for years
- Fatigue, blurred vision
- Increased thirst
Management:
- Diet (e.g. lower carb approaches like keto)
- Exercise
- Weight loss
- Sometimes medication or insulin
Side-by-Side
| Feature | Type I | Type II |
|---|---|---|
| Cause | Autoimmune | Insulin resistance |
| Insulin | None/very low | Present but ineffective |
| Onset | Sudden | Gradual |
| Age | Often young | Usually adult (now shifting younger) |
| Reversible? | ❌ No | Often manageable / reversible |
| Treatment | Insulin required | Lifestyle ± medication |
Simple way to think about it
- Type I:No insulin — key is missing
- Type II:Insulin exists — lock is jammed
One important note
Even though keto is widely used for Type II:
- It should be approached carefully
- Consult a medical professional
- Especially if medications are involved