Type 2 diabetes is a long-term condition in which blood glucose levels become too high because the body does not use insulin effectively and, over time, may not produce enough insulin to meet its needs. It can develop gradually, which means some people have few or no obvious symptoms at first.
What does insulin do?
Insulin is a hormone made by the pancreas. It helps glucose move from the bloodstream into cells, where it can be used for energy. In type 2 diabetes, cells become less responsive to insulin. The pancreas initially tries to compensate by producing more, but this may become insufficient.
Possible symptoms
Symptoms can include increased thirst, frequent urination, unusual tiredness, blurred vision, recurrent infections, slow-healing wounds and unexplained weight loss. These symptoms are not specific to diabetes, so testing is important rather than trying to diagnose yourself.
How is diabetes tested?
Clinicians may use tests such as fasting blood glucose or HbA1c, which reflects average blood glucose over the preceding months. The appropriate test and diagnostic thresholds depend on the clinical situation. People who are pregnant are assessed differently for gestational diabetes.
Why management matters
Persistently high blood glucose can damage blood vessels and nerves. Over time, diabetes can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, eye problems, foot complications and other health problems. Regular monitoring helps identify changes before complications become more serious.
Treatment is individual
Management can involve nutrition, physical activity, weight management where appropriate, stopping smoking, medicines that lower glucose, and sometimes insulin. Blood pressure and cholesterol are also important because cardiovascular risk is a major part of diabetes care. There is no single eating pattern that is suitable for everyone; treatment should take account of medications, kidney function, other conditions, preferences and access to food.
Everyday checks that matter
Keep scheduled blood tests and reviews, take medication as prescribed, and ask how often your eyes, kidneys and feet should be assessed. If you monitor glucose at home, make sure you understand your individual target range and what to do when readings are unexpectedly high or low.
Know the urgent warning signs
Severe drowsiness, confusion, persistent vomiting, significant dehydration, difficulty breathing or loss of consciousness require urgent medical assessment. People taking insulin or certain glucose-lowering medicines should also know the symptoms and treatment of hypoglycaemia.
A condition that can be managed
A diagnosis of type 2 diabetes can feel overwhelming, but management is not about perfection. Consistent follow-up, appropriate treatment and sustainable changes can substantially reduce the risk of complications. Ask your healthcare professional to explain your results, targets and treatment plan in terms you understand.
This article provides general information and is not a substitute for individual medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Where low-carbohydrate and ketogenic diets fit
Lower-carbohydrate eating can be one option for type 2 diabetes, but it is not required and it is not a cure. A 2021 systematic review of randomised trials found improved remission outcomes at six months under some definitions, with less clear advantages at twelve months. Results depended on how remission was defined, including whether medication was allowed. Low carbohydrate and ketogenic diets were not interchangeable across the studies, and the findings do not establish benefits for an all-meat diet.
Before reducing carbohydrate substantially, ask the prescriber to review insulin and sulfonylureas because low blood glucose can occur. SGLT2 medicines need specific advice: ketoacidosis can occur even without very high glucose. Never change doses on your own. Food access, enjoyment, kidney function and long-term nutritional adequacy should help decide the plan.
Your next appointment checklist
- Bring your medicine list and glucose readings, if you monitor them.
- Ask for your HbA1c target and when to repeat the test.
- Agree on what to do for low glucose, illness or missed meals.
- Check when your feet, eyes, kidneys, blood pressure and cholesterol need review.
- Choose one realistic food or activity change and an agreed review date.
Sources and further reading
Related support
Explore our practical resources and community support. For nutrition questions, browse Keto & Metabolic Health.
Sources checked 22 September 2026. General education; individual care should be discussed with a qualified healthcare professional.
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