Which type of diabetes is characterized by the body’s receptors not accepting insulin?

Type 2 diabetes is characterized by insulin resistance, meaning the body's cells do not respond effectively to insulin. In this condition, although the pancreas produces insulin, the receptors on the target cells (such as muscle and fat cells) are unable to use the insulin efficiently. This results in elevated blood glucose levels because glucose cannot enter the cells properly.

Over time, as the body tries to overcome resistance, the pancreas may also fail to produce enough insulin, contributing further to the problem. Type 2 diabetes is often associated with lifestyle factors, such as obesity and physical inactivity, and it typically develops later in life compared to other types of diabetes.

In contrast, Type 1 diabetes stems from an autoimmune response that destroys insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas, leading to little or no insulin production. Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy and generally resolves after childbirth, while pre-diabetes is a state where blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to qualify for a diabetes diagnosis.