<|im_start|>system
You are a helpful AI assistant.<|im_end|>
<|im_start|>user
Hey, Assistant, I am currently working on a nursing school assignment and would really appreciate your help in comparing and contrasting type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Could you first define them at a 5th grade reading level and tell me the key differences between them?<|im_end|>
<|im_start|>assistant
Diabetes mellitus is a medical condition that affects how the body processes sugar (also known as glucose) in the blood. There are two main types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2.

Type 1 diabetes, also called juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes, is a condition in which the body's immune system attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels in the body. People with type 1 diabetes need to take insulin injections or use an insulin pump to manage their blood sugar levels.

Type 2 diabetes, also called adult-onset diabetes or non-insulin dependent diabetes, is a condition in which the body becomes resistant to the effects of insulin, or doesn't produce enough insulin to properly regulate blood sugar levels. This type of diabetes is often associated with lifestyle factors such as obesity, inactivity, and poor diet.

Here are some key differences between type 1 and type 2 diabetes:

Type 1 diabetes usually develops in childhood or adolescence, while type 2 diabetes typically develops in adulthood.
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition that requires insulin treatment, while type 2 diabetes can often be managed with lifestyle changes and oral medications, but may also require insulin.
People with type 1 diabetes typically have to monitor their blood sugar levels more frequently and carefully than those with type 2 diabetes.
Type 2 diabetes is often associated with obesity, while type 1 diabetes is not.
Type 1 diabetes is less common than type 2 diabetes, accounting for only about 5% of all diabetes cases.<|im_end|>
<|im_start|>user
How does sugar get in the blood?<|im_end|>
<|im_start|>assistant
Generally, carbohydrates in food are broken down by the digestive system into sugar, which then enters the blood. At relatively low concentrations, the glucose is transported through the mucosal lining into the epithelial cells of the intestine by active transport via SGLT1, a co-transporter of sodium and glucose. First, the Na+/K+ ATPase transports 3 sodium ions out into the blood, while bringing in 2 potassium ions using energy from ATP, creating a downhill sodium ion gradient from the outside to the inside. The SGLT1 then uses the energy from the gradient to transport glucose inside. The glucose is then transported into the blood by facilitated diffusion via the transporter GLUT2. At high concentrations, the active transport of glucose is saturated, and other mechanisms might be involved in the absorption of glucose. However, it still needs further research. 
Galactose is transported in the same way as glucose via the same transporters, while fructose is transported entirely by facilitated diffusion. The absorption of fructose is much slower than glucose and is quantitatively limited.<|im_end|>
<|im_start|>user
How can we reduce the risk of being affected by type 2 diabetes?<|im_end|>
<|im_start|>assistant
To reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, you can adopt several healthy habits and make lifestyle changes. Remember that it's never too late to start making healthier choices for your well-being. By adopting these healthy habits and making lifestyle changes, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes:

1. Maintain a healthy weight: Excess body weight, especially around the waist, can increase the risk of Type 2 diabetes. Losing weight if you're overweight can significantly reduce your risk.

1. Eat a balanced diet: Choose whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit sugary foods, refined carbohydrates, and processed foods, which can cause blood sugar spikes.

1. Exercise regularly: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, such as brisk walking or swimming, per week. You can also include muscle-strengthening exercises like lifting weights or doing bodyweight exercises, as they can help improve insulin sensitivity.

1. Control portion sizes: Avoid overeating by practicing portion control. This can help you manage your weight and prevent blood sugar spikes.

1. Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol intake can contribute to weight gain and increase the risk of diabetes. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation. That generally means up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men.

1. Don't smoke: Smoking can increase the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Quitting smoking can improve your overall health and reduce your risk for many chronic diseases, including diabetes.

1. Regular check-ups: Keep track of your blood sugar levels and get regular check-ups, especially if you have a family history of diabetes or other risk factors.

1. Manage stress: Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga, as stress can negatively impact blood sugar levels.

1. Get enough sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Poor sleep can disrupt the hormones that regulate glucose metabolism and increase the risk of Type 2 diabetes.<|im_end|>