02/12/2025
Diabetes is a chronic medical condition that currently affects 1 in 20 Australians.
There are three different types of diabetes –
Type 1, Type 2, and Gestational diabetes (which can occur during pregnancy).
Overall, there are a number of key differences between Type 1 and 2 Diabetes. These include:
•Their cause – Type 1 being an autoimmune condition vs type 2 being related to lifestyle factors
•Their prevalence – Type 1 accounts for only 10% of all diabetes, whereas type 2 accounts for 85%
•Who is at risk – e.g. Type 1 is more likely to affect children and teenagers, whereas Type 2 diabetes is more likely to affect adults, particularly those who are aged over 40 years old.
Unfortunately, there is no way to prevent type 1 diabetes, given researchers aren’t even aware of the exact cause. However, there are several ways you can reduce your modifiable risk factors for type 2 diabetes which include:
•Increasing physical activity, and aiming to meet the recommended exercise guidelines
•Eating a nutritious, balanced diet containing whole grains, fruits and vegetables, legumes, lean proteins, and reduced fat dairy
•Maintaining a healthy weight
•Reducing alcohol consumption
•Quitting smoking
If you suffer from T1 or T2DM or are at risk of developing it, touch base with an Exercise Physiologist to create a plan to increase your physical activity levels.
Source: Diabetes Australia
