Other Types of Diabetes

While Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes are the most common, there are other forms of diabetes. There are common features such as high blood sugar, risk of complications and the need for lifestyle and medical management, although each type has unique causes and characteristics

🤰Gestational Diabetes

General Informations

• Occurs during pregnancy, usually in the second or third trimester
• Caused by hormonal changes that reduce insulin sensitivity
• Typically resolves after delivery but increases the mother's risk of Type 2 diabetes later in life.

Symptoms

• Often no noticeable symptoms, but sometimes increased thirst or urination.

Diagnosis

• Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) during pregnancy.

Treatment

• Diet and exercise are first-line therapy.

• Blood glucose monitoring is essential.

• Insulin or oral medications may be used if lifestyle measures are insufficient.

Complications

• For the baby: large birth weight, low blood sugar at birth, increased risk of obesity.

• For the mother: higher risk of preeclampsia and future Type 2 diabetes.

Diet Recommendations & Mindful Eating

• Focus on balanced meals with slow-release carbohydrates, lean proteins, non-starchy vegetables, and healthy fats.

• Mindful eating and regular monitoring are key to preventing blood sugar spikes.

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🧬 Monogenic Diabetes (MODY & Neonatal Diabetes)

General Information

• Caused by single-gene mutations affecting insulin production.

• Less common than Type 1 or Type 2.

• Often diagnosed at a young age, sometimes mistaken for Type 1 or Type 2.

Treatment

• Some types respond well to oral sulfonylureas instead of insulin.

• Blood sugar monitoring is still important.

Complications

• Similar to Type 1 and Type 2 but often milder if treated properly.

Diet Recommendations & Mindful Eating

• Follow general principles: balanced diet, portion control, and mindful eating.

• Focus on foods that stabilize blood sugar.

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⚕️ Other Secondary Diabetes

General Information

• Caused by other medical conditions (pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, hormonal disorders) or medications (like steroids).

• Can occur at any age depending on the underlying cause.

Treatment

• Focuses on treating the underlying condition along with blood sugar management.

• May include oral medications or insulin depending on severity.

Complications

• Generally similar to Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.

• Risk depends on duration of high blood sugar and underlying disease.

Diet Recommendations & Mindful Eating

• Balanced meals, protein, vegetables, healthy fats, and moderate fruits remain key.

• Mindful eating and monitoring help reduce glucose fluctuations.

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✅ Common elements across all types

• High blood sugar can lead to heart, kidney, eye, nerve, and foot complications.

• Balanced diet, portion control, and mindful eating are important for all types.

• Blood glucose monitoring is essential, whether the patient uses insulin, oral medications, or lifestyle measures.

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