Which type of Diabetes Mellitus is characterized by the pancreas not producing enough insulin?

Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus is characterized by the pancreas not producing sufficient insulin due to an autoimmune destruction of the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. This chronic condition typically manifests in childhood or adolescence but can develop at any age. Since the body is unable to produce adequate amounts of insulin, individuals with Type 1 diabetes must rely on external insulin administration to maintain proper glucose levels.

In contrast, Type 2 Diabetes is often associated with insulin resistance, where the body's cells do not respond effectively to insulin, while the pancreas may still produce insulin. Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy and is usually temporary, where some women may not adequately produce insulin to handle the increased glucose levels brought on by pregnancy hormones, but it does not result from a lack of insulin production in the same way as Type 1 diabetes.

Thus, Type 1 is the distinct form of diabetes where insufficient insulin production is the primary issue, making it the most accurate choice in this context.