About diabetes
Diabetes is a condition where the level of glucose in the blood is too high.
Glucose is made from the breakdown of carbohydrates we eat. The glucose is then absorbed from our gut into the blood system. Insulin is a hormone produced by beta cells in the pancreas. Insulin is needed to allow glucose to move from the blood into the body's cells, where it can be used for fuel for energy. Diabetes occurs when the insulin-making cells in the pancreas are unable to make enough insulin or when there is resistance to the effects of insulin.
Type 1 diabetes
In type 1 diabetes, the main problem is that the insulin-making cells in the pancreas are destroyed and not able to make enough insulin. Type 1 diabetes is mainly diagnosed in childhood, and is not caused by being overweight or eating sweet foods.
Type 2 diabetes
In type 2 diabetes, the main problem is that the body is not able to use the insulin effectively due to resistance to insulin. The insulin-making cells in the pancreas are able to produce insulin but the insulin is not able to work well because the cells in the body are 'resistant' to its effects. Sometimes, the pancreas becomes exhausted. This leads to not enough insulin production on top of the problem of insulin resistance. Type 2 diabetes often affects older people, especially if they are overweight.
Insulin and glucose monitoring
Tamariki (children) and rangatahi (young people) with type 1 diabetes need insulin therapy to replace the insulin that the body can no longer produce. Learn more about insulin including how to give it and store it.
Glucose monitoring measurements are important for tamariki and rangatahi with diabetes to monitor daily blood glucose control and allow insulin adjustment. It also helps to monitor and treat diabetes during exercise and illness and detect high or low glucose levels so treatment can be given if needed.
Keeping healthy with diabetes
Keeping healthy is important for all tamariki and rangatahi, especially those with diabetes. Learn more about healthy eating and exercise for your child with diabetes as well as how to support their emotional and mental wellbeing.
Type 1 and type 2 diabetes are lifelong conditions. Helping your child to live a healthy lifestyle can help minimise the long-term risks and complications for your child.
Diabetes and school
Tamariki with diabetes go to early childhood education and school and participate in all educational and social activities. By working closely with the early childhood education and school staff, diabetes can be safely managed in the school environment and your child can fully participate in education-based activities without discrimination.
Diabetes support
Financial support may be available because of your child's extra needs with managing diabetes. Learn about the different supports that are available for your child and whānau.
