Posts Tagged ‘diabetes prevention’

Your body obtains glucose from the food you take in, the liver and muscles also supply your body with glucose. Blood transports the glucose to cells throughout the body. Insulin, a chemical hormone, helps the body’s cells to take in the glucose. Insulin is made by the beta cells of the pancreas and then released into the bloodstream.

If the body does not make enough insulin or the insulin does not work the way it should glucose is not able to enter the body’s cells. Instead the glucose must remain in the blood causing an increase in blood glucose level. This high blood glucose level causes pre-diabetes or diabetes.

Pre-diabetes means that blood glucose level is higher than average but not high enough for a diabetes diagnosis. Having pre-diabetic glucose levels increases risk for developing type 2 diabetes as well as heart disease and stroke. Still, if you have pre-diabetes there are many ways to reduce your risk of getting type 2 diabetes. Moderate physical activity and a healthy diet accompanied by modest weight loss can prevent type 2 diabetes and help a person with pre-diabetes to return to normal blood glucose levels.

Symptoms of diabetes include excessive thirst, frequent urination, being very hungry, feeling tired, weight loss without trying, the appearance of sores that slowly heal, having dry and itchy skin, loss of feeling or tingling in feet, and blurry eyesight. Still, some people with diabetes do not experience any of these symptoms.

Diabetes can be developed at any age. There are three main types of diabetes: type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes is also referred to as juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes. It is usually diagnosed in children, teens, or young adults. In this type of diabetes, the beta cells of the pancreas are no longer able to produce insulin because they have been destroyed by the body’s immune system.

Type 2 diabetes is also referred to as adult-onset diabetes or non insulin-dependent diabetes. It may be developed at any age, including childhood. In this type of diabetes is the result of insulin resistance, a condition in which the body’s cells do not interact properly with insulin. At first, the pancreas is able to produce more insulin to keep up with the increased demand for insulin. However, it loses the ability to make up for the body’s cells inability to interact properly with insulin with time. The insulin is unable to help the cells take in glucose, this results in high blood glucose levels. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. An unhealthy weight contributed by a high calorie diet and lack of physical activity increases the risk for developing this form of diabetes.

African Americans, Hispanic Americans, American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Asian and Pacific Islanders are at especially high risk for developing Type 2 diabetes.

Gestational diabetes refers to the development of diabetes in the late stages of pregnancy. It is caused by hormones associated with pregnancy and a shortage of insulin. This form of diabetes goes away after the baby is born, but puts both the mother and child at a greater risk for developing type 2 diabetes in later life.

Diabetes is a serious disease and when it is not well controlled, it damages the eyes, kidneys, nerves, heart, gums, and teeth. Having diabetes makes one more than twice as likely as someone without diabetes to have heart disease or stroke.

It is important to keep blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol under control to avoid the serious complications associated with diabetes. Taking steps to control diabetes can make a large impact in the one’s health.

Risk Factors

Diabetes is a serious disease with no cure. Controlling blood glucose levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol can help prevent or delay complications associated with diabetes such as heart disease and stroke. Much research is being done to find ways to treat diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes is classified as an autoimmune disease. An autoimmune disease is the result of the body’s own immune system, which fights infections, turning against part of the body.

Currently, it is unclear what exactly causes the body’s immune system to turn on itself attacking and destroying the insulin producing cells of the pancreas. There are genetic and environmental factors, such as viruses, involved in the development of type 1 diabetes. Researchers are working to identify these factors and prevent type 1 diabetes in those at risk.

Type 2 diabetes is associated with being overweight, high blood presure, and abnormal cholestorol levels. Being overweight can contribute to one’s body using insulin correctly.

Other risk factors include:

• Having a family history of diabetes, perhaps in a parent, brother, or sister.
• Being of African American, American Indian or Alaska Native, Asian American or Pacific Islander, or Hispanic American/Latino descent.
• Having a history of heart disease.
• Having a history of gestational diabetes.
• An inactive lifestyle

Prevention

Modest changes in lifestyle can help prevent the development of type 2 diabetes in those at risk. Here are some helpful tips.

• Maintain a healthy body weight. Being overweight has many negative effects on one’s health and can prevent the body from properly using insulin. It also can contribute to high blood pressure. Research shows that even a modest amount of weight loss can reduce one’s risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
• Make healthy food choices. What we put into our bodies has big consequences in our health and how our body functions. Eating healthy helps control body weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.
• Be active. Find a physical activity you enjoy and that gets your heart pumping, perhaps walking briskly, dancing, or yard work. Try to be physically active for at least 30 minutes a day 5 days a week – research shows that this helps to reduce the risk for type 2 diabetes.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Diabetes is sometimes referred to as a “silent” disease because people may not show any signs or symptoms. Symptoms of diabetes include: excessive thirst frequent urination, being very hungry, feeling tired, weight loss without trying, the appearance of sores that slowly heal, having dry and itchy skin, loss of feeling or tingling in feet, and blurry eyesight. Still, some people with diabetes do not experience any of these symptoms.

Symptoms for type 2 diabetes develop gradually, while type 1 diabetes develops more quickly.

Doctors use different tests to diagnose diabetes. Tests to diagnose diabetes and pre-diabetes include the fasting plasma glucose (FPG) test and the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). A random plasma glucose test allows doctors to diagnose only diabetes.

If any of these tests show that you might have diabetes, your doctor will need to repeat the fasting plasma glucose test or the oral glucose tolerance test on a different day to confirm the diagnosis.

Because type 2 diabetes is more common in older people, especially in people who are overweight, doctors recommend that anyone 45 years of age or older be tested for diabetes. If you are 45 or older and overweight, getting tested is strongly recommended.

Older adults are at higher risk for developing Type 2 diabetes, particularly if they are overweight. Doctors recommend that those over 45 years of age be tested for diabetes especially if they are overweight.

Diabetes is a serious disease that can lead to pain, disability, and death. Sometimes people have symptoms but do not suspect diabetes. They delay scheduling a checkup because they do not feel sick.

Despite the risk of diabetes due to age and weight status, people often delay having a checkup because they do not feel any symptoms. Sometimes, people experience symptoms do not realize that it may be diabetes. Still, diabetes is a serious disease which, if left untreated, may lead to hazardous complications and even death.

Often times, people are not diagnosed with diabetes until they experience one of its complications, such as heart trouble or difficulty seeing. Early detection can prevent or delay such complications, making checkups all the more important.

Treatment

There is no cure for diabetes, but with careful control of blood glucose level, as well as cholesterol levels and blood pressure, it can be managed.

People with type 1 diabetes use insulin injections, by shots or an insulin pump, to control their blood glucose levels. People with type 2 diabetes use oral medications, insulin, or both to control their blood glucose levels. In some cases of type 2 diabetes, a person can use diet and exercise alone to maintain appropriate blood glucose levels.

Managing your blood glucose includes several lifestyle changes. These include:

• Follow a meal plan that makes sense for you and how your body responds to the different foods that you eat.
• Incorporate physical activity into your daily life.
• Take the appropriate diabetes medicine and check your blood glucose levels in a manner that is consistent with your doctors recommendations is also key.

Treatment – Diet and Exercise

1.  HAVE A STRICT MEAL PLAN

It is very important to make healthy choices when it comes to choosing what food to eat.  This will keep your blood glucose level in the correct range.  When choosing a meal plan, pay attention to how your body responds to the types of food that you eat.

A meal plan will help you to achieve a healthy weight  as well as help control your blood glucose levels.  A dietitian can help clarify misconceptions about healthy eating as well as ease you and your family into a plan that fits your goals and lifestyle.  It is also important to consider the following things when developing your meal plan:

• your weight
• daily physical activity
• blood glucose levels
• medications

It is not necessary for diabetes to only eat particular foods.  Generally, foods that are good for everyone are also good for diabetics.  The following foods are ideal:

• Those that are low in fat, salt, and sugar.
• Foods that are high in fiber, such as whole grains, beans, fruits, and vegetables.

It is best that you consult with your doctor regarding your meal plans.  They can often give you the contact information of a dietitian or a diabetes educator who can help you to construct an appropriate meal plan.  Making healthy choices in your diet will help you achieve and maintain a healthy weight, control your blood glucose levels, and prevent heart disease. 

2.  STAY ACTIVE

It is very important for people diagnosed with diabetes to have a regular exercise program.  Research has shown better blood glucose levels in older adults and senior citizens who take part in a regular fitness program.

A fitness program offers many health benefits which are especially important for people with diabetes:

• It helps you reach and maintain a healthy weight
• It promotes insulin functioning to lower blood glucose
• It strengthens the heart and lungs
• It increases energy

It is always best to talk to your doctor before you start your exercise program.  Know that some exercises may not be safe for people with eye problems or high blood pressure such as weightlifting.  Request for a complete check-up from your doctor to ensure that you do not have any special problems associated with diabetes.  Your doctor can help you find exercises that are safe for you.

Make physical activity a part of your daily life.  Try different activities and look for ways to increase physical activity in your everyday life.  Try to get some sort of exercise every day for at least 30 minutes.  If you are new to exercising, start slowly and gradually increase the amount and intensity of your exercise.  Some of the activities you can try are:

• Walking
• Riding a bike
• Gardening
• Dancing
• Swimming
• Household chores

Medication for Diabetes

1.  INSULIN

Insulin is a liquid hormone that must be injected with shots or an insulin pump.  It is used to lower the blood glucose levels of people diagnosed with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.  This is taken when the body does not have enough of it.

2.  DIABETES PILLS

Diabetes pills are used in many cases of Type 2 diabetes when the body makes enough insulin but is not properly used by the body.  Some are taken once daily while others must be taken more often.  Your doctor will advise you on how you should take your pills.  If you are experiencing side effects from the pills, it is best that you immediately advise your doctor regarding this.

Finally, it is best to remember that diabetes pills should be used in addition to a healthy diet and exercise.  Other cases of type 2 diabetes do not require insulin or diabetes pills.  A healthy diet and regular physical activity is sometimes sufficient to treat their diabetes.

Monitoring Your Body

A blood glucose monitor can be used to keep track of your blood glucose levels.  It will help you detect the “highs” and “lows” of your glucose levels.  Logging these levels regularly in a diary will be helpful to get a better idea of how your treatment is going.  Some people must check their blood glucose levels several times a day while others check it once daily.   It is important that you seek the advise of your doctor as to how often you are required to test your blood.

1.   HYPOGLYCEMIA

A condition referred to as hypoglycemia results when glucose levels fall too low.  When this happens a person, may become shaky and confused.  Moreover, if a person’s blood glucose levels decreases too much, there is a high risk of fainting.

Following the treatment plan recommended by your doctor as well as monitoring your blood glucose levels can help you avoid “lows.”   Always check your glucose level.  If you find it is too low, you can increase it by taking in sugary foods or drinks such as fruit juice.

2.  HYPERGLYCEMIA

A condition referred to as hyperglycemia results when glucose levels are too high.  If blood glucose is too high, it can cause a person to go into a coma.  If you experience persistent “highs,” it is best that you discuss this with your doctor as you may need to adjust your treatment plan.

The ABCs of Monitoring Diabetes

It is important to note that people with diabetes are at especially high risk for developing heart disease and stroke. Always monitor your diabetes using your “ABCs.”

A. A1C OR AVERAGE BLOOD GLUCOSE

The A1C (A-one-C) test is a good measure of what your blood glucose level is most of the time. A test result lower than 7 is positive sign that your diabetes is under control. A test result that is greater than 7 means that blood glucose levels are too high.

If your A1C is too high, take action. Talk with your doctor about changing your treatment plan and lifestyle to reach your goal. Lowering your A1C to a healthy level, will help you avoid the complications associated with diabetes such as heart disease and kidney damage.

B. BLOOD PRESSURE

High blood pressure can lead to stroke, kidney disease, and other complications. Generally people with diabetes want to keep their blood pressure less than 130/80. Have your blood pressure checked at every doctor visit. If it is too high, talk with your doctor about how you can lower it.

C. CHOLESTEROL

Cholesterol, particularly LDL cholesterol, is a fat like substance that builds up in your arteries. If your cholesterol levels are too high it causes your arteries narrow. This can lead to heart disease or a heart attack. People with diabetes should try to keep their cholesterol less than 100. Have your doctor check your cholesterol, and if it is too high talk with him or her about how to reach your cholesterol goal.

Foot and Skin Care

High glucose levels and decreased blood supply to the limbs can cause severe nerve damage and loss of feeling. Unnoticed injuries can contribute to ulcers, which may lead to amputation.  Because of this, foot care is very important for people with diabetes.  Always check your feet every day for cuts, red spots, sores, infected toenails, and swelling and report any issues to your doctor.  Also be sure to have your feet checked at every time you visit the doctor’s office.

People with diabetes are likewise more likely to experience skin injuries and infections.  Always take good care of your skin.

The African American community is greatly affected by diabetes.  In fact, it is one of the leading causes of death in the African American community.  It is fifth on their list of leading causes and the death rate of those with diabetes are 27% higher than the white community.

There is a total of 2.8 million African Americans who have diabetes and this number is broken down as follows:

• One-third of those who have diabetes are unaware that they have the disease.
• Of the African Americans between the ages of 65 and 74, twenty five percent of them have diabetes.
• One in four African American women, over the age of 55, have been diagnosed with diabetes.

As of yet, we still do not know what causes diabetes.  However, researchers believe that both genetics and environmental factors determine the probability of who will develop the disease.

Heredity

Through research, it has been hypothesized that the African Americans and African Immigrants more likely to develop diabetes because of the “thrifty gene” which they have inherited from their African ancestors.  While this gene may have previously helped the Africans to make use of their food energy more efficiently during cycles of feast and famine, the absence of these cycles now make weight control a challenge for the African Americans and African Immigrants.

In addition to this genetic predisposition, impaired glucose tolerance is often associated with the genetic tendency toward high blood pressure.  There lies a higher risk for people with impaired glucose tolerance to have higher than normal blood glucose levels and to develop diabetes.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic condition for which there is no known cure.  It occurs when the body is unable to properly produce or use insulin.  The body needs insulin to process sugar, starches and other foods into energy.

Diabetics often suffer from low glucose (sugar) levels in their blood.  A person who has low blood sugar may experience or feel:

• disoriented
• dizzy
• sweaty
• hungry
• headaches
• sudden mood swings
• difficulty paying attention
• tingling sensations around the mouth.

Types of Diabetes

1.  PRE-DIABETES

A person has pre-diabetes when his/her blood glucose level is higher than normal but not high enough to be diagnosed a Type II diabetes.  Pre-diabetes can often be controlled by controlling blood glucose levels.  If you are successful in controlling pre-diabetes, there is a probability that you can prevent or at least delay the onset of Type II diabetes.  If left uncontrolled, pre-diabetes can cause damage to the heart and circulatory system.

2.  TYPE I OR JUVENILE-ONSET DIABETES

Type I diabetes is an autoimmune disease where the body produces little or no insulin.  This type of diabetes must be treated with daily insulin injections.  Type I usually strikes people under the age of 20 but can strike at any age.  Five to ten percent of African Americans who are diagnosed with diabetes are diagnosed with Type I diabetes.

3.  TYPE II OR ADULT ONSET DIABETES

Type II results from a condition where the body fails to properly use insulin.  People who have the early stages of Type II may be able to control the disease by changing their lifestyles.  However, in the later stages diabetic pills or insulin injections are often needed.

According to the American Diabetes Association, Type II is usually found in people who:

• are over 45 years old
• have diabetes in their family
• are overweight
• do not exercise
• have cholesterol problems.

Ninety to ninety-five percent cases of African Americans with diagnosed diabetes have this type of diabetes.

4.  PREGNANCY RELATED DIABETES OR GESTATIONAL DIABETES

Gestational diabetes is often associated with high glucose blood levels or hyperglycemia.  Gestational diabetes affects about four percent of all pregnant women.  While the disease usually goes away after delivery, women who suffer from gestational diabetes are at a higher risk for developing diabetes later in life.

Symptoms of Diabetes

The most common symptoms of diabetes include:

• excessive urination including frequent trips to the bathroom
• increased thirst
• increased appetite
• blurred vision
• unusual weight loss
• increased fatigue
• irritability

Complications from Diabetes

Diabetes is a serious disease and should not be ignored.  It can lead to many disabling and life threatening complications.  Some of the common complications that effect African Americans who have diabetes are:

1.  KIDNEY DISEASE

Up to twenty-one percent of people who develop diabetes will develop kidney disease.  According to the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois, it is the second leading cause of end stage kidney disease in African Americans and accounts for about thirty percent of new cases each year.

2.  AMPUTATIONS

Diabetes is the leading cause of non-traumatic lower-limb amputations in the United States. More than sixty percent of non-traumatic lower-limb amputations in America occur among people with diabetes.  In fact, according to Center for Disease Control (CDC), about 82,000 non-traumatic lower-limb amputations were performed among people with diabetes in 2001.  African Americans are almost three times more likely to have a lower limb amputated due to diabetes than whites.

3.  BLINDNESS

Diabetics can develop a condition called Diabetic Retinopathy, a disease affecting the blood vessels of the eye, which can lead to impaired vision and blindness.  It is the leading cause of new cases of blindness in people between 20 to 74 years of age.  Statistics show that up to 24,000 people lose their eyesight each year because of diabetes.  African Americans are twice as likely to suffer from diabetes related blindness.

4.  HEART DISEASE

People with diabetes are up to four times more likely to develop heart disease than  people who do not have diabetes. Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) is more common in diabetics and can lead to increased risk of heart attacks, stroke, and poor circulation throughout the body.

Diabetes Risk Factors

You have a greater risk for developing diabetes if you have any of the following:

• Obesity
• Family history of diabetes
• Pre-diabetes
• Low physical activity
• Age greater than 45 years
• High blood pressure
• High blood levels of triglycerides
• HDL cholesterol of less than 35
• Previous diabetes during pregnancy or baby weighing more than 9 pounds

It would be best for you to contact your physician if you have any of the risk factors mentioned above.  Have a blood glucose test and discuss with your physician the lifestyle changes you can take to lower your chances of developing diabetes.

Public Health community events for type 2 Diabetes prevention.

I am looking for ideas for events for the prevention of Type 2 Diabetes.  Such as a wellness expo etc…

A few decades back, diabetes was an uncommon disease.  Today, however, there are an estimated 143 million people who are affected by the disease and that number is fast increasing.  In fact, it is estimated that by 2020, over 220 million people are expected to be living with diabetes.

In the United States alone, the numbers for diabetes are as follows:

• 18.2 million people (6.3% of the population) are living with diabetes
• 13 million people have been diagnosed with diabetes
• 5.2milion (or nearly one third) are unaware that they have the disease

It is worthy to note that in developed countries, most patients of diabetes are over sixty years old while the patients affected in the developing countries are young and considered to be in the prime of their life.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes Mellitus is derived from the Greek word “Diabeinein,” which means to pass through describing copious urination, and Mellitus, a Latin word meaning “sweetened with honey.”  Putting these two words together signify sweetened urine or sugar in urine.

Diabetes is a disease where the body is unable to produce or to utilize the insulin.  The insulin is a hormone which the body needs to be able to control the rate in which sugar, starch and other foods are converted into glucose.  This is what the body needs to provide us the energy we need.

After a meal, the liver stores the glucose from the meal as glycogen and releases it into the blood in between meals.  The role of insulin is to control the storage and release of glucose.  It ensures that the amount of glucose in the blood at every particular time does not go beyond or below the normal range.

Insulin is required by the body to help maintain the blood glucose level within the normal range (60-100mg/dl).  This value is called the Fasting Blood Glucose.  It would be worthy to note that despite the body’s several demands for glucose in different situations, the blood glucose levels rarely exceeds this value.

Types of Diabetes

There are five classes of diabetes according to the World Health Organization (WHO):

1.  Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus (IDDM) or Type I Diabetes

Type I diabetes is not common and accounts for only 10% of all diabetes cases.  It was initially called Juvenile onset diabetes because it only affects adolescents and young adults.   It is caused by a sudden failure of the pancreas to produce insulin.  It’s symptoms are:

thirst

polyuria (passing large amount of urine)

diuresis

weight loss

2.  Non Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus (NIDDM) or Type II Diabetes

Type II is the most common type of diabetes and accounts for over 80% of all cases.  It is usually found in adults and the elderly.  This type of diabetes usually develops unnoticed over a long period of time.  It is characterized by insufficient insulin, deficient insulin in the blood or the inability of the body to utilize the insulin that is present.  This is called insulin resistance.  It often goes by undetected because of its slow and gradual occurrence and only gets noticed when one or more of its long-term complications appear.

Unlike in Type I Diabetes, the insulin in the blood of a Type II diabetic may be normal or even high.  However, due to insulin resistance, it lacks the desired effect.  This is prevalent among obese people.

3.  Gestational Diabetes

This type of diabetes only occurs during pregnancy and disappears after delivery, usually within three weeks. An estimated 3% of all pregnancies are accompanied by gestational diabetes.  Almost half of these patients are prone to developing permanent diabetes later in life.

4.  Diabetes Insipidus

5.  Bronze Diabetes

What Causes Diabetes

Currently, there are still no clear cause for diabetes.  However, there are certain risk factors which increases one’s chances of having diabetes.  For example, indolent and well-fed populations are 2 20times more likely to develop type II diabetes than active and lean population of the same race.

Below are the following risk factors:

1.  OBESITY

Of the patients diagnosed with Type II diabetes, it is estimated that three quarters of these patients are obese. The patient’s lifestyle has a strong influence on this.  Indolent and affluent lifestyles seems to greatly contribute to this.  Moreover, a 10kg weight loss can reduce fasting blood sugar level by almost 50md/dl while an active lifestyle with frequent exercise is known to increase Insulin sensitivity.

It is important that you monitor your Body Mass Index (BMI) as obesity is based on these values.  This is computed by dividing the body weight (in Kilograms) by the square of height (in metres).  For adults, a BMI less than 25kg/m2 is preferred.  25 29kg/m2 is considered overweight and above 30kg/m2 is considered obese.

2.  FAMILY HISTORY

The chances of having diabetes is greater for people who have a family history of diabetes.  If diabetes runs in your family, it is essential that you adapt a healthy lifestyle and constantly monitor your blood sugar level.

3.  AGE AND RACE

The onset of Type II diabetes usually occurs in patients who are over 40 years of age.  However, do note that the probability increases for those who have a family history of diabetes, are obese and probably leading sedentary lifestyles.Moreover, diabetes tends to be more prevalent among certain races such as Africans, African Americans, Latinos, Native Americans and Asian Americans. Belonging to any of the races is a risk factor in itself.

4.  HISTORY OF GESTATIONAL DIABETES

A woman who has had a history of gestational diabetes also increases her chances of developing permanent diabetes later in life.

Pre-Diabetes

Diabetes is a disease that is managed through your lifetime once you have acquired the disease.   While there is no known cure for this, you can however, prevent it from happening to you.

Understand that diabetes is almost always preceeded by pre-diabetes.  This is when your blood glucose level is higher than normal but not high enough to be considered diabetes.  To prevent diabetes, it is important that you take time to monitor your blood glucose levels regularly.  You can do this through a test called Fasting Blood Glucose.  This test measures the amount of glucose (sugar) in one’s blood before taking any meal for the day.   It is measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl).

A value below 100mg/dl is generally accepted to be normal, while a value greater than 100mg/dl but less than 120mg/dl is considered as pre-diabetes.  If you have been diagnosed with pre-diabetes, you need to take urgent steps to reduce your blood glucose or risk acquiring a life long diabetes.

Pre-diabetes is a serious medical condition.  Fortunately, it can still be reversed by making changes in diet pattern and increasing physical activity.

Tips to Reduce Your Risk of Diabetes

It should also be emphasized that the racial and genetic factors which puts people at risk of having diabetes are still beyond human comprehension and control.  Therefore, it is best to reduce all human controllable factors to the barest minimum.  Most of these factors have to do with social occupational and diet habits.

The following tips can help reduce your diabetes risk:

1.  Maintain an average body weight

Reducing body fat and maintaining an average body weight is essential to avoid diabetes.  Keep in mind that obesity seems to be the single most significant factor in diabetes. The ideal body mass index (BMI) is as follows:

• Males – less than 25kg/m2
• Females – less than 24kg/m2

2.  Engage in an Active Lifestyle

A sedentary and affluent lifestyle puts you at a greater risk of acquiring diabetes.  It is recommended that you increase your physical activity by engaging in simple dynamic exercises such as brisk walking.  Do this on a regular basis.

Keep in mind that exercise has a lot of benefits.  It…

• reduces bodyweight and fat
• increases functionality of the heart
• reduces the chances of diabetes
• boosts emotions and healthy living

3.  Cut down on your alcohol intake

Alcoholic intake of more than 2 units per day has been shown to adversely affect the body. And since alcohol is very addictive, it is better to complete cut off alcohol from your lifestyle.

4.  Do not smoke

Cigarette smoking and alcohol have been related to several diseases.  When you stop smoking, you reduce the chances of several other ailments apart from diabetes.  Keep in mind that cigarette smoke has been shown to contain several poisonous substances.

5.  Develop good eating habits

• Cut down on fatty food and junks
• Consume more fish and poultry (without the skin is better).
• Garlic reduces blood pressure cholesterol; add it to your meal plan once in a while.
• Cut the number of eggs you consume to 3- 4 eggs weekly.  It is better to boil them than to fry them.
• Reduce salt intake to less than 5.8 grams daily.
• Eat more vegetables and fibre rich food, especially fruits.

6.  Constantly monitor your fasting blood glucose

One of the things that you need to do when you are diagnosed with diabetes is to understand what the disease is all about.  It is normal to feel afraid when diagnosed with diabetes.  You will feel better once you know what it is and how to deal with it.  Keep in mind that diabetes is a serious disease and should be treated immediately.

What Diabetes Means

When you have diabetes, your body loses the ability to use insulin properly and in some cases, loses the capability to create sufficient insulin that your body needs.

Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas.  It helps you move glucose (sugar) from your bloodstream into the cells of your body to produce the energy needed for the body to function.  Without insulin, the sugar cannot enter the cells and this results to the sugar build up in the bloodstream.

The Different Types of Diabetes

1.  PRE-DIABETES

Pre-diabetes is a condition in which people have a higher than normal level of blood sugar but not high enough to be considered diabetes.  When you are diagnosed with pre-diabetes, it is highly recommended that you adapt a change in lifestyle to prevent Type 2 diabetes.

2.  TYPE 1 DIABETES

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease.  The immune system attacks the beta cells in your pancreas, which produces the insulin.  When the immune system attacks the pancreas, this causes the pancreas to:

• lessen the amount of insulin it makes; or
• stop making insulin at all

This type of diabetes is more common among whites than it is among people of other races.

3.  TYPE 2 DIABETES

Type 2 diabetes is the most common type of diabetes.  In fact, in the United States alone, more than 20 million people are affected by this condition.

Type 2 diabetes occurs when your body cannot properly utilize the insulin that it produces.  This condition is called insulin resistance.  This usually happens when you are overweight and body fat makes it harder for the body to use the insulin your body produces.

There may be other risk factors, including aging, physical inactivity, race, family history of type 2 diabetes, etc.

4.  GESTATIONAL DIABETES

Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy when blood sugar levels are higher than pre-pregnancy levels. While the cause of this type of diabetes is still unknown, some experts believe that the hormones produced by the placenta interfere with the mother’s capacity to use her own insulin.

If this type of diabetes is not carefully controlled, the baby may be affected. Fortunately, gestational diabetes is usually caught in an early stage and the baby does not suffer any complications.

Testing for Diabetes

There are two different test which can determine the type of diabetes a person has.  These are:

• The FPG test (Fasting Plasma Glucose) – measures the glycemia level after fasting for an eight hour period.
• The OGTT (Oral Glucose Tolerance Test) -  measures the glycemia level after drinking a standardized drink, rich in glucose. Glycemia levels are then tested several times over a period of four hours.

What To Do When You Have Diabetes

While being diagnosed with diabetes can be frightening, others have opted to look at this as an excellent opportunity to adopt healthier habits.  Take control of your health, choose the right treatment for you and implement it immediately.

If you are a Type 1 diabetic, you will need insulin each and every day. If you have type 2, gestational or pre-diabetes, you probably will not need insulin.

Remember that it is vital that you keep your glycemia level under control.  Maintaining it in the correct range is the first mandatory step.  Scientific studies have consistently shown that attaining this goal helps minimize the risk of complications.  Strict blood sugar control drastically reduces the chances of suffering most of the diabetes-related complications such as kidney, eye and nerve diseases.

Another important issue is the way you deal with food.  Healthy eating habits can help diabetics control their weight and their diabetes easily.  Opt for the low Glycemic Index (GI) diets which help maintain body weight and blood sugar in the right levels. It is also important for the diabetic to follow a heart-healthy diet with high complex carbs content, high fiber and low fat content, to prevent hypertension and high cholesterol.

Keep in mind that no matter what type of diabetes you have, you do not need to live a miserable life full of restrictions and sufferings.  Improve your condition with the appropriate lifestyle modifications including diet, weight control, exercise and nutritional supplements.

Controlling Diabetes

People with Type 1 diabetes can control their disease with a combination of a healthy diet, frequent exercise, the appropriate nutritional supplements, and of course insulin.

On the other hand, people with other types of diabetes may be able to keep their glycemia under control and even reverse their diabetes with just diet, exercise and supplements.  These are the three fundamental pillars of any diabetes treatment.

Statistics show that around 8% of the people in the United States have diabetes.  This number easily translates to approximately 16 million people.  Further, the American Diabetes Association estimates that every year, diabetes accounts for the following:

• 178,000 deaths
• 54,000 amputees
• 12,000-24,000 cases of blindness

If neglected, diabetes can cause serious health complications, ranging from blindness to kidney failure.  And because of all these complications, it is predicted that diabetes will exceed both heart disease and cancer as the leading cause of death.

Symptoms of Diabetes

The symptoms of diabetes include:

• excessive urination
• excessive thirst and hunger
• sudden weight loss
• blurred vision
• delay in healing of wounds
• dry and itchy skin
• repeated infections
• fatigue and headache

Two Types of Diabetes

There are two different types of diabetes:

1.  TYPE I DIABETES

This is also known as juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes. It is responsible for 5-10% of cases of diabetes.  It is more common in Caucasians and it runs within the family.

Type I diabetes is caused by a pancreatic inability to produce insulin.  The pancreatic cells which secrete the hormones, are destroyed by the body’s own immune system.  This is probably because the body mistakes it for a virus.  Viral infections are thought to be the trigger that sets off this auto-immune disease.

As a result, the body cells starve because they no longer receive the hormonal prompt to take in glucose. If left untreated, this will lead to death within a few months.

While most Type I diabetics are young, do note that this type of diabetes can develop at any age.  You can have yourself checked through a blood test which shows the presence of anti-insulin/anti-islet-cell antibodies.

2.  TYPE II DIABETES

This is also known as non-insulin dependent diabetes or adult onset diabetes.   It accounts for 90-95% of all cases.  While Type II is generally hereditary, it is unlikely to develop in normal-weight individuals eating a low- or moderate-carbohydrate diet.

The following groups are more likely to develop this type of diabetes:

• Obese, sedentary individuals who eat poor-quality diets based on refined starch.  As these constantly activates pancreatic insulin secretion, they become prone to develop insulin resistance.
• Native peoples such as North American Indians whose traditional diets did not include refined starch until its recent introduction by Europeans have extremely high rates of diabetes.
• Blacks and hispanics are also at higher risk.

This type of diabetes is a result of body tissues becoming resistant to insulin.  Often, while the pancreas is producing more than average amounts of insulin, the body cells have become unresponsive due to the chronically high level of the hormone. Eventually, the pancreas may exhaust its over-active secretion of the hormone and the insulin levels fall to below normal.

This type of diabetes can lead to health complications over several years and cause severe disability and premature death.

This type of diabetes is found primarily in one age group.  Usually in people over 40 years of age.  However, with the rise of childhood and teenage obesity, the Type II diabetes is appearing in children as well.

Complications of Diabetes

As had been mentioned several times, diabetes can lead to life-threatening complications if not properly managed.  Some complications include:

• kidney damage (nephropathy)
• heart disease
• nerve damage (neuropathy)
• retinal damage and blindness(retinopathy)
• hypoglycemia (drastic reduction in glucose levels).

Diabetes also damages blood vessels, especially smaller end-arteries, leading to severe and premature atherosclerosis.  People with diabetes are also prone to foot problems as their feet lose sensation.  This condition is called neuropathy and affects approximately 10% of patients.  Foot injuries become common to diabetic and often go unnoticed.  These injuries do not heal because of poor circulation through the small arteries in the foot. Gangrene and subsequent amputation of toes or feet is the consequence for many elderly patients with poorly-controlled diabetes.

Controlling Diabetes

Sadly, there is no permanent cure for diabetes.  However, strict dietary monitoring and insulin injections can help control Type I diabetes.  Implanted pumps which release insulin immediately in response to changes in blood glucose are in the testing stages.

Since Type II diabetes is largely caused by diet, in theory it should be easily preventable and managed.  In practice though, many diabetic and obese people without diabetes find it difficult to adhere to a healthy diet much more lose weight.  As a result, they are frequently treated with drugs which restore the body’s response to insulin and in some cases, they are injected with insulin.

If you suspect you have diabetes or are in a high risk group, please see your doctor and have yourself tested.