When you eat, the pancreas (a gland located near the liver) releases insulin into the blood stream. Insulin is required for the cells of the body to use sugar (glucose) as an essential source of energy. Diabetes occurs when the body cannot provide enough insulin or the cells become resistant to the insulin that is there. Obesity has been shown to be an important factor in the onset of adult-onset diabetes, also known as Type II or non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM). Diabetes, if not controlled, can lead to heart disease, kidney failure and blindness. Weight loss is a primary treatment. It has been shown that even a small weight loss can result in a significant improvement.

Patient Information on Diabetes

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