What Is Diabetes?
A clear, calm explanation of the types, risk factors, symptoms, and complications — and how movement helps.
The Four Types
Type 1
An autoimmune condition where the body produces little or no insulin. Requires insulin therapy.
Type 2
The most common form — the body becomes resistant to insulin or does not produce enough.
Prediabetes
Blood sugar is elevated but not yet in the diabetic range — often reversible with lifestyle.
Gestational
Develops during pregnancy and usually resolves after, but raises future risk.
Common Risk Factors
Family History
Genetics play a meaningful role in Type 2 risk.
Inactivity
Sedentary lifestyles reduce insulin sensitivity.
Weight & Diet
Excess weight and high-glycemic diets increase risk.
Age
Risk rises with age, especially after 45.
Blood Pressure
Hypertension often accompanies metabolic dysfunction.
Sleep & Stress
Poor sleep and chronic stress affect glucose regulation.
Diagnosis: Blood Glucose & A1C
Diabetes is diagnosed by measuring blood glucose and A1C — a three-month average of blood sugar. Understanding these numbers is the first step to controlling them.
- A1C below 5.7% — normal
- A1C 5.7%–6.4% — prediabetes
- A1C 6.5% or higher — diabetes
- Fasting glucose and random glucose tests provide additional insight
Potential Complications
Neuropathy
Nerve damage causing numbness, tingling, or pain — often in the feet.
Retinopathy
Damage to the blood vessels of the retina affecting vision.
Kidney Disease
Reduced kidney function over time from sustained high blood sugar.
Cardiovascular
Increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
The Good News
Regular, personalized exercise improves insulin sensitivity, supports healthy blood sugar, and reduces the risk of complications. Movement is medicine — and it is never too late to start.
Ready to Move Better and Live Longer?
Start with a comprehensive metabolic assessment designed around your health, your goals, and your body.