What is diabetes mellitus?

Diabetes mellitus is indeed a chronic condition that significantly impacts the body's ability to process food for energy. This condition primarily involves issues with insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps regulate blood sugar levels. In diabetes, the body either does not produce enough insulin or cannot use insulin effectively, leading to elevated blood glucose levels. Over time, high blood sugar can cause various complications affecting different body systems, making it essential for individuals diagnosed with diabetes to manage their condition through lifestyle changes, monitoring blood sugar levels, and in many cases, medication or insulin therapy.

The other options do not accurately reflect the nature of diabetes mellitus. It is not limited to the elderly population, as it can affect individuals of all ages, including children and adolescents. Diabetes is also not merely a temporary condition related to diet; it is a long-term health issue that requires ongoing management. Lastly, diabetes is not a mild condition that resolves on its own; it often requires significant lifestyle adjustments and medical care to prevent serious health complications.