diabetes mellitus world

Control Your Type 2 Diabetes Through Diet & Exercise

2009-12-31T01:56:00.000-08:00

Type II diabetes is most common among people aged 40 years and over and accounts for 85-90% of all people with diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes is marked by reduced levels of insulin or the inability of the body to use insulin properly while Type 1 diabetes mellitus is a different disease that involves the failure of insulin production and is not discussed in this statement.

As someone who lives with type 2 diabetes, you must monitor your blood glucose and be sure to keep it in a healthy range through a combination of diet and physical activity.

Eating healthy foods, including physical activity in your daily routine and maintaining a healthy weight not only help you manage your Type two diabetes, they also prevent the condition from getting serious.

A type II diabetes is not rocket science. You will know what you should be eating and what you should be avoiding or eliminating from your diet after a consulting your dietitian or health care professional.

Eat real food. Get adequate protein. Avoid processed wheat, sugar, and high fructose corn syrup (HFCS). Simple.

If diet and exercise aren't enough, you may need diabetes medications or insulin therapy to manage your blood sugar.Your doctor may prescribe medications to decrease insulin resistance and although your body can still produce some insulin, you may also need to take an additional dosage.

Being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes isn't the end of the world, you can keep it control through type 2 diabetes diet as well as exercise.

Reference: Type 2 Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes Diet.

Diabetic Disease and its Complications

2009-12-30T01:53:00.000-08:00

Diabetic disease is a growing concern around the world, and early detection and diagnosis of these pathologies are critical in not only raising awareness among those at risk for disease, but also for developing treatments to help prevent the onset and progression of disease. Some times if this disease is severe enough and it can require aggressive intervention to treat the complications that it can bring about.

Diabetes mellitus is currently developing into one of the main threats of human health with an explosive increase in the number of people diagnosed with diabetes worldwide. Approximately 29 million Americans age 20 or older have diabetes. But many, almost one-third, don't know they have the disease and are at risk for vision loss, kidney failure, and increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

This degenerative disease can damage many of the body systems leading to such serious medical complications as heart disease (heart attack, stroke) blindness (due to retinopathy ) kidney damage, impotence in men, amputations from gangrene and/or from damage to nerves (neuropathy). In fact diabetics spend more time in the hospital for foot complications than for all other aspects of their disease combined. Foot gangrene is typically caused by a combination of limb ischemia (tissue death) as the result of arterial occlusive disease, most commonly atherosclerosis, injury and poor healing, usually combined with a superimposed infection.

Strong diabetic control, namely, stable blood sugars and tight low insulin, is most important in avoiding the terrible complications and end-stage processes of diabetes such as coronary heart disease, massive obesity, or renal disease requiring dialysis. By self monitoring blood sugar levels and by using multiple insulin injections or using an insulin pump, you can slow the development of diabetic retinopathy and other complications of diabetes.

The diabetic's disease is the failure of the body to produce sufficient insulin; the disease is not the individual's failure to stay on a diabetic diet. Although for diabetes (and all of us) the goal is still excellent glucose control, much more important is strict insulin control. With insulin levels, the lower the better. A normal fasting insulin level is less than 10 mIU/ml.

Diabetic disease is a condition that cannot be cured but with proper diet, exercise, and medical management its symptoms and complications can be controlled, allowing those who suffer its affects to live long and healthy lives.

Reference: symptoms and complications of diabetic disease, Diabetic Diet Plans

What Is Type Two Diabetes?

2009-12-29T01:02:00.000-08:00

Type two diabetes is by far the most common form of diabetes. Although it is more prevalent in African Americans, Latinos, Native Americans, and Asian Americans or Pacific Islanders, it seems to be growing rapidly throughout the world, especially where prosperity and the adoption of Western lifestyles are increasing, such as India and China.

Type 2 diabetes, which was previously called non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) or adult-onset diabetes, accounts for about 90% to 95% of all diagnosed cases of diabetes.

It is a lifelong disease that happens when the cells of the body can't use insulin the right way or when the pancreas can't make enough insulin.

Type II diabetes tends to develop gradually as people get older - usually after the age of 40. As early symptoms of this type of diabetes are subtle, it can bring about conditions ranging from kidney failure, to blindness and heart disease and complications that can lead to death.

Type two diabetes is very much a lifestyle form of the condition triggered by poor diet, lack of exercise and weight gain. So, it can often initially be managed with healthy eating and regular physical activity without oral or insulin medication if you take steps early on to change your lifestyle.

Lifestyle modifications such as weight loss and physical activity can also significantly prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes.

As type 2 diabetes is on the increase in all age groups, even among children of high school and grade school age, people should start diabetes prevention as early as possible.

Reference: Type 2 Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes Diet.

The Different Causes of Diabetes

2009-12-28T01:36:00.000-08:00

It's a lifetime condition and after you've developed it, you have to manage it with effective care and treatment ? this is diabetes. Knowing something about diabetes can help patients manage it better and be self-sufficient in their treatment. In most cases, knowing the causes of diabetes are the best way to prevent or manage it. Diabetes affects people in two ways, as Type I and Type II. Usually, Type I is associated with childhood diabetes and Type II with adult onset diabetes, although at present all variations of diabetes are commonly categorized under Diabetes Mellitus.

Type-I diabetes is related to our autoimmune function, in which our body suffers from an insulin deficiency, as the insulin producing cells in the pancreas get completely destroyed due to this malady. The exact causes of diabetes are unknown, especially of Type-I, but this disorder is generally attributed to specific viral or a bacterial infection of some kind, chemical toxins found in food items, or cow?s milk fed to infants.

The adult onset diabetes, or type II diabetes, is triggered by insulin resistance. Simply said, while the pancreas continues to produce insulin, the supposed-receptors for the produced hormones fail to accept them. By doing so, the body is fooled into thinking it's not producing sufficient quantities of insulin. As a result, the body keeps producing more and more insulin, tiring out the pancreatic cells. This gradually leads to constantly damaged insulin production. The causes of diabetes type II are diverse, and are associated with different possibilities.

The risk factors that are believed to be the main causes of diabetes in the type II category are advancing age, obesity and lack of physical exercise. Secondary factors include specific medications, pregnancy (often temporary and known as gestational diabetes) and existing illnesses related to the pancreas, such as pancreatitis.

There are many things we've heard about diabetes and if the generations before us are to be believed, the causes of diabetes include eating too much sugar and stress. But, studies and research show neither of these can develop diabetes directly, although they do have an impact in varied ways. Consuming heavy amounts of sugar can lead to obesity, which can in turn be a cause for developing diabetes. If you eat lots of sugary food and get enough exercise, the risk factor is much lower.

Stress is also not a reason to develop diabetes, although it's loosely considered to be among the causes of diabetes as a very remotely possible trigger to create an autoimmune process, which could lead to type I diabetes. Stress is mostly a problem for those who already have diabetes, as it can worsen the condition.

Diabetes cannot be classified as a disease and it is not infectious. It is generally attributed to individuals? unhealthy lifestyle and habits, and other causes of diabetes include genetic factors, which make it a hereditary problem. An individual with a family history needs to be careful about his lifestyle and get regular medical tests done to ensure his well-being. Diabetes requires some care and medical attention to be kept at bay, and if one does get afflicted, with proper medication and precautions, it can be kept under control.

Reference: www.online-diabetes-information.com, online diabetes information

Type of Diabetes - General Definition

2009-12-27T01:47:00.000-08:00

Diabetes (Diabetes mellitus) refers to the group of diseases that contribute to high blood glucose levels deserved to faults in either insulin escarpment or insulin carry out in the body.

Diabetes affects the manner in which the body handles carbohydrates, fats and proteins. If dropped, diabetes can have serious complications. The diabetic people have high blood sugar level. The symptoms of diabetes included 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.

There are three different types of diabetes:

Type I Diabetes (juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes): The reason for type I diabetes is due to pancreas inability to produce insulin.

Type II Diabetes (non-insulin dependent diabetes or adult onset diabetes): This diabetes is a result of body tissues becoming resistant to insulin.

Gestational diabetes (GDM): resembles type 2 diabetes in several respects, involving a combination of relatively inadequate insulin secretion and responsiveness. It occurs in about 2%-5% of all pregnancies and may improve or disappear after delivery. Gestational diabetes is fully treatable but requires careful medical supervision throughout the pregnancy. About 20%-50% of affected women develop type 2 diabetes later in life.

The injections by a syringe, insulin pump, or insulin pen deliver insulin, which is a basic treatment of type 1 diabetes. Diabetes and its discourses could stimulate a lot complicated ilnesses. If ignored, diabetes can contribute to several complications such as hurt to the kidneys, cardiopathy, heart damage, hypoglycemia (drastic reducing in glucose levels). Diabetes is a dangerous disease and there is no discourse of it. All the same, it can be landed under control by proper diabetes diet plan.

Reference: Hendrian Nurhadi, Diabetes Here!

Diabetes Complications - Complications associated with Diabetes Disease

2009-12-26T01:34:00.000-08:00

Just like any other diseases, diabetes has complications. In fact, diabetes has a mortality rate of around 200,000 deaths in the United States alone, that is according to the Centers for Disease Control. Most deaths were attributable to diabetes complications mainly because the fatalities lacked awareness.

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder in which there is inadequate metabolism of glucose in the blood because of a reduced production of insulin. This results in excessive glucose in the blood which has an adverse effect on the entire body. Diabetes mellitus results in complications which affect the heart, kidneys, eyes, gums, nerves, skin, extremities, gastrointestinal system and the brain. This article deals with the Ayurvedic treatment of different complications resulting from diabetes.

Diabetes complication doesn't just materialize from one moment to the next. It is a process that accumulates itself after years of body decay. If a person maintains a stabilized sugar level, there is no reason whatsoever to suffer from diabetes complication. In order to combat this future state, the best way to do it is with self-control.

Diabetes complications and thoughts on them is the most difficult part of coping with this condition. It is common knowledge that at least 40% of type 2 diabetics will acquire another disease because of it. But this does not need to happen. There are things one can do to prevent these from coming or at least delay their onset and/or progress.

Heart disease - the complications of diabetes makes the risk of heart disease higher in people with diabetes.

If you have this disease, there are things you can do to minimize your risk of suffering further complications. People with diabetes have a higher chance of heart disease, kidney failure, teeth and gum diseases, and blindness. This is a very serious disease that requires respect and concern. If it is not managed, it will take its toll on your health.

Diabetes can damage this filtering system making the tiny blood vessels unable to do their filtering job. When these are blocked, the impurities stay in the blood and some of the proteins and nutrients are lost in the urine. That is why the doctor checks the urine to see if valuable protein is lost.

Unfortunately, no matter how diligent a person is about their day to day treatment, other complications will occur over time. This is especially so for people with type 2 diabetes because there is a good chance that they have been living with the condition for many years before it was diagnosed. One common complication is problems with the feet, in particular, foot ulcers. This article will discuss why this is such a common complaint for diabetics and how they can avoid such problems.

Reference: Natural Cures for Diabetes, Diabetes Natural Treatment

Diabetes Guide: What Is Diabetes Ketoacidosis?

2009-12-25T01:08:00.000-08:00

Diabetes has become a common disease among people all over the world today. To combat the wide spread wings of diabetes, several modes of treatments have come up. But diabetes is not just a single disease. It comes in a package of its several forms. Of them the most deadly one is Diabetic Ketoacidosis.

Diabetic ketoacidosis is also known as DKA. Diabetic Ketoacidosis is not triggered by itself. It is a consequence for an another diabetes. When diabetes mellitus goes untreated, it takes the shape of Diabetic ketoacidosis. If not taken care of properly, DKA can prove fatal to your life.

In a nut shell, Diabetes Ketoacidosis can be linked to an impaired glucose cycle that begins with the deficiency of the insulin enzyme in your body. If your diabetes goes undiagnosed you can suffer from this condition. And even if you are aware about your diabetic condition but still not taking any proper medication, then no body can stop you to fall in the trap of diabetic ketoacidosis. This form of diabetes is so much dangerous that if kept unnoticed the morality rate can be high as 100 percent.

It has been found that diabetic Ketoacidosis mainly occurs with type 1 diabetes. The reason being the fact that it is related to the circulating insulin disorder. On the other hand, it is less common in type 2 diabetes patients because type 2 diabetes is related to the cells insensitivity to insulin and not to the shortage of it.

Despite having high amount of glucose in the blood, the liver in your body will behave in a way as if your body is starving of glucose. In this case the liver will be forced to produce another type of fuel to fulfill the metabolic functions of your body. As a result the liver will be forced to use the body's triglycerides to produce glucose. This glucose that will be produced will be used by the brain to carry on the functions. In this whole process, ketone bodies are produced as a by-product that help to process the fatty acids.

But like any disease, diabetic Ketoacidosis does have a treatment to it. The treatment mainly consists of the hydration process. Hydration lowers the osmosis property of the blood while replacing the lost electrolytes in it. In the process, insulin is also replaced which results in the production of glucose and potassium in the cells.

But still, prevention is better than cure. If you maintain a proper record of your glucose levels in the blood, the chances of you suffering from this disease remains bleak.

Reference: http://www.diabitieslife.com/diabetes/,http://www.diabitieslife.com/diabetes/blogs/diabetes-diet.htm

Stress And Diabetes: What To Know For Your Diabetes Management

2009-12-24T01:05:00.000-08:00

Stress is any undue strain caused by a difficult situation. It can be physical, such as an illness or injury, or it can be mental, which is generally the kind of stress we hear about. Stress changes your hormone levels, and as diabetes management relies on hormone regulation (particularly insulin), stress affects diabetes management.

When the body is stressed, it enters a “fight or flight” state, where hormones are secreted that allow the body to access more energy from the body’s store. Two examples of stress hormones are adrenaline and glucocorticoid (steroid hormones). Some people with diabetes do not have a proper fight or flight response. Insulin does not allow the stress hormones access to the glucose, and so the elevated glucose circulates in the blood. Stress can increase blood glucose levels.

Stress not only increases blood glucose levels hormonally, it also leads to less healthy lifestyle choices. People might eat out more when they are stressed, or they might turn to comfort foods. These less healthy meal choices in turn lead to poor glucose control.

Stress can also affect how much a person exercises. If a person stops exercising, they will be unable to control their blood glucose, just as if they take less care of their diet. Lack of sleep and irregular sleeping patterns can also cause the body stress.

Stress hormones are designed to fight short-term situations. Some stressors in our lives, however, are long-term (such as illness, divorce, or other psychological situations). It is unhealthy to have stress hormones circulate in the body for a long time.

Sometimes it is an aspect of diabetes that can cause stress. If you find an element of your diabetes management is causing you stress, speak to your health care team. They can help support you in your blood glucose monitoring, diet, and with your medication, as well as with your other concerns.

There are many different ways to reduce stress. Although if you are feeling stressed, it might seem impossible to calm down, try to keep some of these relaxing ideas in mind. It might be helpful to write out some of these ideas, or to write yourself reminders of techniques you can use to cheer yourself up.

Try deep breathing. Simply taking four or five deep breaths will help your respiration and circulation enter a more relaxed mode.

Take some time for you. Choose something that is a treat for you: a massage, a crossword, a long walk, and make that extra time to do it. Even if you are stressed, take the time to take care of yourself. Healthy diet, exercise, and time for yourself will dramatically lower your stress levels.

Get your friends and family to support you. If they know that you are feeling stressed, they can help you find ways to cope. If you think you need to, then consult a professional.

Sometimes, reaching out to help a friend will be something that can help you relieve stress. Doing something nice for someone else makes you feel better about yourself, and so can help you feel less stressed. However, don’t take on other people’s problem. Simply do something small to make their day.

It is the small things that can help you manage your stress. Begin by smiling, which releases endorphins. Try laughing. Hug somebody. These small things which will make your day brighter will also make your diabetes management easier.

Reference: The Guide to Diabetes

A Diabetes Blood Test Will Determine Whether Or Not You Have Diabetes

2009-12-23T01:02:00.000-08:00

Diabetes is a disease, which is induced by high levels of sugar in the blood. With diabetes, the body cannot break down the sugar in the blood by itself. So to break down the sugar, extra insulin will be required at regular intervals. A specialized diet is also incorporated, which would control the blood sugar level in the body. This disease should be detected by means of a diabetes blood test. And the sooner the better.

How Diabetes Happens in the Body

A normal healthy person will have the capacity to break down any amount of sugar that is consumed with the help of insulin which is a hormone created by the pancreas. However with a diabetic person, the pancreas doesn't generate enough insulin and/or the body develops a resistance to insulin.

Either way, the blood doesn't obtain the adequate amount required to break down the sugar into glucose, which is then absorbed by the tissues, liver and muscles. A diabetic person will have a very large quantity of unabsorbed glucose in the body. With a diabetes blood test, it is easy to detect the presence of this disease.

The 3 Types of Diabetes

A lot of people do not realize that there are 3 types of diabetes and all the 3 types can be detected by a simple diabetes blood test.

Type 1 diabetes: this type typically starts early in childhood. This is a very dangerous disease and it will require regular insulin injections throughout a person's life.

Type 2 diabetes: this is the most common type of diabetes, which over 90% of the people have. This diabetes develops in the adult stage. It typically takes more time for a person to recognize the signs and/or diagnose it. This type of diabetes is rising rapidly because of our inactive lifestyle, the junk food we consume and the lack of exercise in our daily routine.

Gestational diabetes – This type of diabetes is basically a temporary disease and it generally develops when a woman is pregnant.

The Most Common Symptoms Of Diabetes: Things to Look for

All types of problems can develop when a person suffers from diabetes. Excessive thirst, occasional blurry vision, continuous fatigue and never-ending hunger with weight loss. Type 2 diabetes can occasionally make men impotent.

If a person suspects that diabetes may be present in their body, a diabetes blood test should be implemented asap, so that a suitable treatment can be started to keep the disease in check.

Reference: http://www.diabetes-info-blog.com/the-best-diabetes-diet

Diabetes Fatigue: When Managing Diabetes Seems Like Too Much

2009-12-22T01:13:00.000-08:00

Diabetes is a chronic disease that will need to be managed over the course of a lifetime. Some patients get “diabetes fatigue” or “diabetes burnout” from the stress of having to manage their diabetes every day.

Type 1 diabetes can be managed with exercise, diet, and insulin injections. Type 2 diabetes can sometimes be managed simply with diet and exercise, though sometimes other medications are recommended. Regardless, it can be difficult to constantly measure and regulate what one eats and how one exercises.

It can be the most difficult to keep your diet under control when you are particularly busy. Then it can seem easier to buy processed and package foods that are less healthy but that can sometimes seem more comforting. Fitting in workout times in a busy schedule can also seem daunting. Other times that can also make it difficult to manage diet and exercise are the holidays, such as Christmas, when overindulging is encouraged.

Most diabetics will, at some point, experience diabetes fatigue, when they simply no longer want to manage their diabetes. There are some ways to get over this fatigue that will help you maintain your diabetes management program. Managing your blood sugar levels will also help prevent long-term complications. So, if you are feeling down at the prospects of managing your diabetes, consider these hints.

1. Mix it up!

Because exercise is an integral part of managing diabetes, you probably exercise five times a week. If you are tired of swimming lengths, take up cycling. Try doing a different exercise each day a week. If you have an exercise that you love (perhaps tennis? running?), you can do it as many times as you want. If you get bored of doing the same exercise, then try to switch it up to keep your interest.

Keeping a steady blood glucose level doesn’t mean that you have to keep a boring diet. If you try new foods, you will find new favourite dishes. Take a cooking class to learn how to make curry, or Thai food, or another kind of food that you don’t normally eat. Or perhaps treat yourself when you are at the grocery store and buy that exotic fruit that you wouldn’t get every time.

2. Use the Buddy System.

Find a friend that you can go and exercise with. This means that you will be getting your exercise in, but you will also have someone to help motivate you. You don’t have to have a buddy who is a diabetic, either. You just want someone who is sympathetic to your situation and who wants a good work out.

You might even consider getting a personal trainer to help you with your workouts. If you can’t get a trainer, at least you can find a friend who will advise you on how to exercise properly.

3. Pamper yourself.

Take some time to do something that you want to do, and that will make you feel relaxed and happy. Often having high stress levels creates higher blood glucose levels. So head to the spa or get a massage and take a few moments for yourself.

4. Plan your meals…or don’t.

You might find it easier to keep to your diet if you have a meal plan that can help you go to the grocery store and get all the ingredients that you need. But if it gets too busy to plan your meals, consider getting the healthy pre-packaged options at the store, such as pre-packaged salads, or pre-skewered kebabs from the deli section.

If you have a craving for desserts, find some desserts with fewer calories and less sugar that you can eat. Oftentimes you can satisfy a craving without having to ruin your diet.

5. Let People Know.

Tell your friends, family, and coworkers about your diabetes. Although they all probably know someone with diabetes, they might not understand how it functions and affects your life. If you help them understand the importance of keeping your blood sugar levels in range, they can help you by making healthier choices when they are with you too.

6. Talk it Through.

If you have chronic diabetes burnout, or if you simply feel that you can no longer handle managing your diabetes at all, call a professional. Getting a referral from your doctor can help this expense be covered through your insurance. A counselor can listen to your troubles and help you identify the problem spots that you can work on to get through the diabetes fatigue.

7. This too shall pass.

Although right this second it might be hard to deal with your diabetes and the idea of diabetes, most diabetics go through phases. Sometimes diabetes management seems like simple second nature. Other times it seems difficult and forced. Just recognize that feeling upset or depressed about your diabetes is natural, and something that you will be able to get through.

Reference:The Guide to Diabetes

Natural Diabetes Remedies: Solution For Diabetes?

2009-12-21T01:58:00.000-08:00

Diabetes management is not an easy task. Keeping your blood sugar levels within the needed range can be difficult, and insulin injections can sometimes be a hassle in certain situations. Maybe it is for these and other reasons that you have been looking for different alternative ways of keeping your diabetes under control. Many diabetics have tried to use natural remedies to help with their disease management, and many of them have experienced positive results. It is understandable to feel skeptical about natural resources to treat diabetes, since many companies and businesses make outrageous false claims about the results you can achieve with their natural products.

Although the truth is that natural remedies may not cure your diabetes completely of replace your need for insulin shots or pills, they can possibly help you manage your glucose levels and keep your diabetes under control. Let us take a look at three natural remedies that have made a positive impact on diabetes.

Chromium

Chromium is an essential mineral found in many foods that we eat on a daily basis. This trace mineral helps burn carbs and fats, but its main function is to increase insulin efficiency when controlling blood glucose levels. Although people with diabetes usually have low levels of chromium, this is not believed to be a cause for diabetes.

Chromium picolinate is the form of chromium usually sold as a supplement, because it is easier for the body to absorb. Recent studies have shown that chromium has helped people with diabetes and insulin resistance, but it has not been a complete cure for diabetes.

Although it seems like trying this supplement would be a smart thing to do, you must be careful. Other studies have shown that chromium can increase your risk for heart disease, and the truth is that no one really knows what amount is safe to take in supplement form. You should never exceed 120 micrograms.

If you are thinking about giving chromium supplements a shot, do your research. Make sure the company you buy the products from is reliable, and always consult with your doctor before trying out new treatment options.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a spice derived from the bark of an evergreen tree, which is native to India. Its active ingredient has been proven to act like insulin and lower blood glucose levels. In medical studies, cinnamon has also been proven to lower bad cholesterol levels. Another great benefit of cinnamon is that it helps neutralize free radicals, dangerous chemicals which are elevated in diabetics. Neutralizing these free radical will help reduce or eliminate risk of serious complications.

Calcium

Calcium is a very important mineral found in the human body, and deficiencies in it have been linked to diseases like diabetes, cancer, heart disease and osteoporosis. Studies have shown that people with high intakes of calcium reduced their risks of type 2 diabetes by a significant percentage.

Having a daily intake of calcium in dietary or supplement form is very important to good health and to avoid serious diseases, including diabetes.

Conclusion

These are just a few natural remedies that you could use to aid in the battle against diabetes. Although these remedies may not completely cure your diabetes or replace your need for insulin shots, they may help you stay healthier and avoid the serious complications that diabetes can cause.

Reference: www.yourlifewithdiabetes.com

Lose the Fat Diabetic Diet and Exercise Plan

2009-12-20T01:06:00.000-08:00

Back in March of 2005 the results of the Diabetes Prevention Program were released by the American Diabetes Association. This study was conducted nationwide at 25 medical centers and tracked thousands of potential diabetics who were given a lose the fat diabetic diet and exercise plan. Everyone in the study group was pre-diabetic, meaning they all suffered from high blood sugar levels that were higher then normal but not in the diabetic range. Half of all people diagnosed with pre-diabetes will eventually become type 2 diabetics if left untreated.

There were two groups of people is this study. One half of the participants were given only dietary recommendations to follow. The other half were given the same diet but were also asked to exercise 5 times a week for at least 30 minutes per day.

The results of this study were unexpected. Those pre-diabetics who exercised along with following the diabetic diet reduced by 58% their risk of developing diabetes. The reason for this was simple; they lost weight because of these lifestyle changes. Researchers found that exercising and losing weight had the direct effect of lowering blood sugar levels to normal, which wasn't thought to be possible.

It is thought that weight loss for those with pre-diabetes helps prevent the onset of diabetes but it also helps to reverse the damage to insulin producing cells caused by obesity. Depending on how much you weigh it was found that losing 5% to 7% of your body weight can make a difference.

The key to this diet is eating healthy foods that not help the pre-diabetic lose weight but also keep the weight off. The American Diabetes Association recommends a daily diet that consists of the following.

* Grain - 6-11 servings per day (Bread, Cereal, Rice, Pasta)
* Vegetables - 3-5 servings per day
* Fruits - 2-4 servings per day
* Milk - 2-3 servings per day
* Meat - 4-6 ounces per day (Meat, eggs, fish, dried beans, nuts and peanut butter)
* Fats, Sweets, Alcohol - Occasional treats

Not only is this diet recommended for diabetes but it is also endorsed by the American Heart Association to help combat the risks for heart disease. This points out how important it is to eat healthy and follow a fat loss diabetic diet and exercise program.

Reference: Diabetic Diet Plans by clicking here.

Diabetes Diet Guidelines * Time To End The Confusion of What to Eat

2009-12-19T01:02:00.000-08:00

For the diabetic, knowing what to eat, what foods to avoid, and how to achieve and maintain a healthy weight can seem very difficult.

To complicate matters even worse, there is no specific diet for diabetics. Help is available to make sure you have the information you need to learn and understand about diabetes diet guidelines.

Not following diabetes diet guidelines, is a common mistake made by most diabetics. Many diabetes don't understand the needs of diabetes diet guidelines…or how closely tied to good diabetic control the food you eat can be.

The American Diabetes Association has what's called the Diabetes Food Pyramid. Designed much like the revised (2005) version of the USDA's Food Pyramid, this pyramid provides excellent information and diabetes diet guidelines to help you gain control of your blood sugars, your weight, and your diabetes.

Gain Better Control Of Your Diabetes Today Using Diabetes Diet Guidelines

The diabetes food pyramid is divided into six groups. The size of the groups varies. The larger the group, the more servings per day of foods within that group should be consumed.

Grains and starches (carbohydrates) is the largest group. This includes foods such as rice, pasta, breads, and cereals, potatoes, corn, peas, and some beans. The recommended number of servings per day is 6-11. Most people should use the lower number of servings.

The next group is vegetables. Vegetables are naturally low fat. This makes them a good food choice for everyone. Spinach, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflowers, carrots, tomatoes, lettuce, and cucumbers are examples of vegetables in this group. Please note the more starchy vegetables like potatoes, corn, and others are in the grains and starches group. The recommended number of servings per day for this group is 3-5.

The middle layer of the Diabetes Food Pyramid is fruit. This group also contains some carbohydrates. Berries, melons, apples, bananas, peaches, grapes, and other fruits are found in this group. The recommended number of servings is 2-4 per day.

Following the fruits is the milk group. This includes milk and milk products. For those trying to reduce their weight and cholesterol choose low-fat dairy products. Recommended servings are 2-3 per day.

Almost at the top of the pyramid is the meat group. The meat group includes chicken, beef, turkey, fish, eggs, dried beans, cheese, and peanut butter. You only need 4-6 ounces servings per day.

At the top of the pyramid are the fats, sweets, and alcohol group. This group should be avoided. Most recommend keeping your portion sizes small and only having these foods on special occasions.

While diabetes diet guidelines do have some basic principles the best meal plan for you can only come by consulting with a nutritionist, with diabetes experience. Nutritional needs of diabetes vary from person to person. For example, a thin type 1 diabetic with kidney disease won't have the same needs as an overweight type 2 diabetic

By evaluating your needs individually, diabetes diet guidelines can be established especially to meet your specific health and weight needs. A nutritionist will also be able to help you learn to make good choices when dining out, during holidays, and other "special times." The nutritionist will also be able to factor in your likes and dislikes to create the best diabetes diet guidelines for your particular situation.

Don't think of the diabetes diet guidelines as a diet. Think of it as your ticket to better control…and a healthy and happy life.

Reference: www.4HealthConcerns.com

Diabetes Diet and Calorie Counter

2009-12-18T01:58:00.000-08:00

Diabetes is one of the most common health problems nowadays. With the lack of time and consideration towards eating habits, the victims of diabetes are increasing day by day. Upon diagnosis of diabetes, doctors probably used to mention that proper and extra attention should be taken care towards nutrition and diet.

To control diabetes, best remedy is to control eating habits. Whether you have diabetes or not, diet should always be healthy and diabetes resistive. If you are diagnosed with diabetes, managing the diet becomes essential like anything. Nutrition experts say that if you are battling diabetes, then eating right can save your life. It is much wiser to adopt a habit to upgrade ourselves about diabetic diet, health and nutrition tips, how to control diabetes and how to check diabetes.

How should I plan my Diabetic Diet?

As everyone is not the health expert and cannot judge what to eat and how much to eat, so here they can found certain tips about how can they plan their diabetic diet.

Eat more starches – include bread (wheat), cereal and starchy vegetables in your daily diet. Aim for six servings a day or more. For example, have cold cereal with nonfat milk or a bagel with a teaspoon of jelly for breakfast. Another starch-adding strategy is to add cooked black beans, corn or garbanzo beans to salads or casseroles.
Eat five fruits and vegetables every dayHave a piece of fruit or two as a snack, or add vegetables to chili, stir-fried dishes or stews. You can also pack raw vegetables for lunch or snacks.
Move to sugar free diet – Avoid intake of excessive sugar in the diet.
Eat sugars and sweets in moderation include your favorite sweets in your diet once or twice a week at most. Split a dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth while reducing the sugar, fat and calories.
Beware of food with high calorie – Avoid intake of junk food containing high calories and resulting in over weight.
What I can do to target my blood glucose level on target?
One could supplement the effort of diet control for controlling diabetes through proper eating habits with the following extra beneficial health tips:
Manage your diet
Exercise regularly
Quit smoking and alcohol
Check blood glucose level regularly
Follow your Doctor’s advice

How can Calorie Counter help in controlling Diet?
When it comes to control diabetes, along with managing eating habits, similarly important is to test the calorie intake to control the weight and causes of diabetes complications.

To check the daily intake of calorie, now there is no need to rush to the Doctor or health expert again and again and even it causes inconvenience. As science has developed so far, one can find many instruments or devices to check calorie intake at home. These devices can be easily located by the name of Calorie Counter.

A calorie counter is a device by which one can count daily calorie intake to manage the weight. It helps in calculating daily caloric requirement that needed to be met with the help of calorie chart and diet plan advised by the dietician.

Reference: http://www.coheso.com/diabetes-d.html, http://www.coheso.com/

Amazing Diabetic Diets For You

2009-12-17T01:50:00.000-08:00

For people diagnosed with diabetes, this is an indication that your body is unable to make or process insulin, leading to high sugar levels in your body. Hence, a great amount of attention should be paid to your diet to ensure that you control the amount of sugar in your blood levels, keeping it low and stable whilst getting the required carbohydrates intake. There is no one diet for people with diabetes, but diabetic diets will ensure that you take your lifestyle and health needs into consideration and help to forestall any further complications.

A general and quick guide for diabetic diets should include a limit on sugar and carbohydrate consumption, eating regular meals with emphasis on fruits and vegetables, and consuming less fat and alcohol. Diabetic diets should include more starches such as bread or cereals, and fruits and vegetables are strongly recommended as they reduce the absorption of glucose in your body as they contain soluble fibers. You should pay a visit to a dietitian to develop a meal plan that is suitable to your body's needs and caters to your personal taste.

Weight control is important for people with diabetes as a healthy weight indicates an improvement in control of your blood sugar levels. Whilst maintaining a healthy weight is important for everyone, a diabetic diet is not a diet plan for losing weight, but one that focuses on a healthy lifestyle. If you suffer from diabetes, smoking and alcohol consumption should be halted as it causes complications to your condition. These include blood flow problems, increased cholesterol levels, heart attack risks and low blood sugar levels.

A diabetic diet that works for you should not mean complete abstinence from sugar, carbohydrates and fat. Amazing diabetic diets are those that allow moderate consumption of carbohydrates once or twice a week. This allows you to indulge in your favourite ice cream or chips, by employing carbohydrate counting. This will help you to maintain your carbohydrate levels by planning your meals and snacks so that you do not exceed your limit. Keep track of your carbohydrate consumption every day by writing down the number of grams of carbohydrates consumed.

Low carbohydrate diets are popular diabetic diets, as they advocate a low carbohydrate consumption, limit sugar levels and processed foods. It is important for people on a diabetic diet to look out for foods that contain hidden sugar in the forms of preservatives or sauces, as they can lead to overly high blood sugar levels without your conscious knowledge. Proteins are also essential to a diabetic diet, and are available through consumption of meat, eggs and oilseeds which have high protein content.

Diets such as the Atkins Diet which are high in fat are a strict no for people with diabetes. Instead, focus on a diabetic diet which is suitable for you. Whilst it can be difficult to make the transition into a strict diet, it is possible to maintain your health and blood sugar levels without compromising too much on the foods that you enjoy

Reference: http://www.insiderdietsecrets.com

Top 5 Diabetes Diet Tips for Creating Healthy Meal Plan

2009-12-16T01:38:00.000-08:00

Diet plays a key role in controlling your blood sugar. A healthy-eating plan tailored to your needs will do that and more. Majority of people affected with diabetes are overweight or obese. In fact, your risk of getting diabetes increases the more weight you put on.

So controlling your diet can be the key to reducing the risk of diabetes as well as improving your symptoms if you are already affected by this disease people often refer to as "the silent killer."

Everybody knows that maintaining a good diet is a healthy choice for every person. But for diabetes patients, this statement means something more significant than the recent fad over healthy living.

For diabetes patients, having a healthy diet means eating in a way that reduces the risk for complications that are commonly associated with their conditions, including heart disease and stroke. For them, a healthy diet could mean the difference between die-abetes and live-abetes.

Eating healthy involves eating a wide variety of foods that encompasses the whole diet spectrum of vegetables, whole grains, fruits, non-fat dairy products, beans, lean meats, poultry, and fish.

No, you do not have to eat all of that, but a little bit of this and that enough to balance the three basic food groups (Go, Grow, and Glow) is what you should aim for.

Tip #1: Preparing a Meal Plan

When you go on a diabetes diet, the first things you need to do is to prepare a meal plan. This will serve as your guide to how much and what kinds of food you can choose to eat at meals, and even at snack times if you wish to include that.

Now, be sure that your meal plan fits in with your schedule and eating habits. That way you will not be likely to ruin your diet simply because your work schedule conflicts with your meal schedule.

Keep in mind your end-goal: To keep your blood glucose in levels that are easy enough to maintain.

In addition to that somewhat myopic diet goal for diabetes, you also want to follow a meal plan that will help you improve your blood pressure and cholesterol levels as well as keep your weight on track.

All these - blood pressure, cholesterol and weight - are factors that contribute to the worsening of your diabetes symptoms, so controlling them could very well mean controlling your diabetes.

When preparing a meal plan, be sure to balance uptake and down take - that is, food and exercise, respectively. Additionally, your doctor may have prescribed you with insulin or oral medications to help you manage your condition.

Take those medications into account as well when you plan your meal plan, making sure that the food is balanced with the drugs. The whole thing sounds like it's a lot of work but with a few suggestions from your physician and/or dietician you can start building a meal plan that is best for you and your condition.

Tip #2: Use the Diabetes Food Pyramid

The Diabetes Food Pyramid, released by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is composed of six food groups (arranged according to how much you should eat from the least to the most and based on carbohydrate and protein content):

• Fats, sweets, and alcohol
• Milk
• Meat, meat substitutes, and other proteins
• Fruits
• Vegetables
• Grains, beans, and starchy vegetables

Fats, sweets, and alcohol are the one food group that diabetes patients should avoid.

The problem with diabetes involves a certain malfunction in the way our bodies make use of glucose in the blood. It is either there is too much glucose in our blood because we ate too much food rich in sugar so that the hormone responsible for regulating glucose - insulin - is unable to cope. Or, our cells are defective so that even though we have enough insulin to handle the job, our cells do not respond.

In order to control the levels of glucose in the blood stream, controlling diabetes diet is important. The intake of fats, sweets, and alcohol and other generally "unhealthy" foods should be minimized and only for special treats.

As for the rest of the food groups, here are the serving sizes recommended by the American Diabetes Association:

• Meat and Meat Substitutes: 4-6 oz. per day and divided between meals. This is equivalent to ¼ cup cottage cheese, 1 egg, 1 tbsp peanut butter, or ½ cup tofu.
• Milk: 2-3 servings per day
• Fruit: 2-4 servings per day
• Vegetables: 3-5 servings per day
• Grains and Starches: 6-11 servings per day, equivalent to 1 slice of bread, ¼ of a bagel, or ½ of an English muffin or pita bread.

Use this Diabetes Food Pyramid only as a guide in planning your meals. If you want a more individualized option, consult your dietician.

Tip #3: Draw Lines on Your Plate

Another good way to ensure that you are eating a balanced diet is to draw a line across your plate. It could only be an imaginary line. As you sit there for a meal, the exercise might even prove to be fun.

The first step, of course, is to imagine that you are drawing a line through the center of your plate. Then, divide one of the halves into two.

Then, fill this section with grains or starchy foods, such as rice, pasta, potatoes, corn, or peas.

The other section should comprise your meat and meat substitute group - meat, fish, poultry, or tofu.

Next, fill half of your plate with non-starchy vegetables. You can place there broccoli, carrots, cucumbers, salad, tomatoes, and cauliflower.

Last, add a glass of milk and a small piece of roll, and eh voila! You are ready to eat.

Tip #4: Reading Food Labels

With food labels, it all comes down to the Nutrition Facts. It's that list of nutrition information found on the package of foods sold in the grocery store. Reading food labels can help you make wise choices about the foods you buy. The labels will tell you what ingredients were used, the amount of calories, and other pertinent information essential to a diabetes patient.

For instance, a typical food label would contain the total amounts per serving for the following nutrients:

• Calories
• Total fat
• Saturated fat
• Cholesterol
• Sodium
• Total carbohydrate
• Fiber

Use the nutrition facts found in food labels to compare similar types of foods and buy the one that contains fewer calories, lower fats, cholesterol, etc.

Pay close attention to free foods like sugar-free gelatin desert, sugar-free ice pops, sugarless gum, diet soft drinks, and sugar-free syrups. Just because they are called "free" does not mean they are entirely free of calories so don't be overconfident. Instead, read the label. Most free foods should have less than 20 calories and 5 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Another thing, "no-sugar added" means no sugar was added during the manufacture and packaging of the foods. The ingredients do not include sugar. However, the food may be high in carbohydrates still so be sure to read the label carefully.

Fat-free foods could still mean that they contain lots of carbohydrates. Often, they contain almost the same amount of calories as the foods they replace so be sure to pay attention to the label. Buying fat-free foods instead of regular foods does not necessarily mean that you are making a wise choice.

Tip #5: A Word about Sweets
Now, you know that sweets are generally discouraged among diabetes patients. However, having diabetes does not necessarily mean that you cannot have sweets. Imagine how bad life can be for the sweet tooth with diabetes. But as long as you keep your intake of sweets in moderation, there is no reason you have to eschew sugar from your life forever. After all, glucose (sugar) is still the most basic source of energy that the body needs.

So sweeten your foods with these following options:

• Sugar and other sweeteners with calories: honey, brown sugar, molasses, fructose, cane sugar, and confectioners sugar

• Reduced calorie sweeteners: erythritol, hydrogenated starch hydrolysates, isomalt, lactitol, maltitol, mannitol, sorbitol, and xylitol

• Low calories sweeteners: ascelfume potassium, aspartame, saccharin, and sucralose

Research has overturned the long standing belief that sugar caused diabetes. The new studies show us that sugar has in fact the same effect on blood glucose levels as other carbohydrates like bread and potatoes. Based on this discovery, experts agree that a diabetic can now consume sugar as long as they incorporate it into their meal plan the way they would with any ordinary carbohydrate-containing foods.
Now that you have been pointed to the right direction with these tips to improve your diabetes diet, you can go ahead and live a healthier, fuller life where nothing - no carb nor sweets - is denied you, as long as you keep it all in moderation.

Reference: Diabetes Information Guide

Diabetes Guide: A Very Quick And Brief Sneak Peek On Diabetes

2009-12-15T01:56:00.000-08:00

Of all the afflictions of modern living, diabetes is one that is most common in this century. This unique disease is an affliction that sometimes goes undetected in people for a long while before one actually spots it. It is also a disease that does not confine one to bed rest like a bout of flu, or a viral infection. It shows no outward symptoms like pain or swelling or cough or discomfort. The only suspicion aside this illness is an unnatural craving for sweet things, which again, often gets dismissed as a weakness for sweets or as possessing a sweet tooth. Also, this love for the sugary stuff is not an invariable accompaniment of the disease.

The cause of this disease is the lack of insulin in our body. This hormone is essential for the body to get energy from the food that we eat. So a diabetic may have a hearty appetite and not benefit nutritionally, from the food that he or she consumes. The disease is not limited to a particular age group and even children can be afflicted by it. That is why medical science has categorized diabetes into two major types. Type I diabetes is a form where the body stops producing insulin altogether. This form usually starts in children. The Type II form of diabetes is the category in which some insulin is produced by the body but this insulin is not used properly by the body.

Being a disease that one has to live with for a lifetime, the best way to manage diabetes is to bring about a change in the lifestyle of the individual. Besides medication, diabetes is a disease that has extensive mental and physical implications. Persons suffering from this disease need to be aware of the symptoms of depression and remain in a healthy state of mind. Joining a support group is a big step ahead in remaining healthy despite having diabetes.

Reference: http://www.diabitieslife.com/diabetes/

How Diabetic Diet Can Help You Keep Your Diabetes In Check

2009-12-14T01:35:00.000-08:00

Everyone knows the benefits of eating a healthy and balanced diet. This is especially the case for diabetics and there are a number of diet requirements that a diabetic person may need to eat more of or less of, to help manage their diabetes. As every person is different, there is no one form of diet that fits every diabetic.

Most diabetics have diabetic diet guidance. Even though there is no set diabetic diet that all diabetics need to follow, there are a few guidelines that apply to everyone. Maintaining a healthy weight is extremely important for diabetics and this can be achieved, in part, by eating a healthy diabetic diet. If a diabetic does not keep their weight down, it can lead to their symptoms worsening. Of course, it isn't just diabetics who need to watch their weight.

Diabetes results from glucose levels in the blood being too high and consuming excess sugar can cause problems. A diabetic can eat most things, but depending on the severity and type of diabetes that they have, it is necessary to eat certain foods in moderation. This applies to sugar, carbohydrates and certain types of fats. Alcohol should always be drunk in moderation, but it is even more important for anyone on a diabetic diet to cut down on their consumption.

There is no need for a diabetic to give up their sweet treats completely, just cut back on the amount of cookies and cakes they eat. However, excess consumption of one form of sugar in particular, fructose, does need to be avoided. Fructose is fruit sugar and is found in very high amounts in fruit juices. A diabetic diet should include a maximum of one small glass of fruit juice on a daily basis. Fructose is also classed as a simple carbohydrate along with lactose, from milk and sucrose, regular sugar. These all need to be eaten in modified amounts on any type of diabetic diet.

Complex carbohydrates, unlike simple carbohydrates, are an essential part of any diet including a diabetic diet. These are broken down in the body to produce energy. Brown rice, whole-wheat pasta and whole-wheat bread are some of the best sources of complex carbohydrates.

A diabetic diet also needs to help prevent other diseases and conditions apart from the diabetes itself. Kidney problems and heart disease are just two examples. It is essential to ensure that the diabetic diet does not include too many saturated fats, which could bring on other medical conditions. The body does need some fat intake to function correctly but this can be found in sunflower oil, olive oil, vegetable oil, and other unsaturated fats.

If you are diabetic, there is no reason why you cannot have the majority of the foods that you love. The key is to eat some of them in moderation and increase the healthier foods. You are sure to feel a difference in yourself and see a difference in your general health. Of course, your diabetes will also be far better managed.

Summary:

Reference: Diabetic Diet

Some Issues To Be Aware Of In A Diabetic Diet

2009-12-13T01:32:00.000-08:00

Diabetes can be controlled effectively by taking exercise regularly and eating a healthy diet. The two main issues that need to be considered by anyone on a diabetic diet are sugar and fat intake. Constant weight monitoring is essential to prevent excessive weight gain as this can contribute to a number of problems.

Medication, Exercise and a Diabetic Diet

There is medical evidence that regular exercise can actually help prevent a person contracting diabetes as well as controlling it. The muscles in the body use up glucose during exercise, which leads to a reduction in the overall levels of sugar in the blood. The minimum recommended amount of exercise for it to be effective is 20 minutes taken three times a week. It is important to consult your medical practitioner before you take up a new form of exercise, especially if you have existing health problems apart from diabetes.

Exercise, on its own, is not sufficient to help control diabetes, which means that a diabetic diet should also be followed. Much of the advice that a dietician will give regarding a healthy diet applies to both diabetics and non-diabetics alike. The key is moderation in all things. However, a diabetic diet does have an emphasis on reducing the amount of sugary foods, especially cakes and cookies, and increasing the complex carbohydrate intake by eating more brown rice and whole-grain foods.

Medication is often not necessary to control diabetes as regular exercise and a diabetic diet is sufficiently effective. There are some diabetics for whom this is not enough and medication is needed. The majority of diabetic medications are taken orally. A diabetic may be prescribed one medication or a combination of different medications to properly control their diabetes.

The five main classifications of diabetic medication that may be prescribed are:

Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors
Biguanides
Meglitinides
Sulfonylureas
Thiazolidinediones

Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors

This group of diabetic medications slow down the rate at which sugar is absorbed in the digestive tract. However, it is rarely prescribed on its own as it has potentially serious side effects, including stomach and bowel problems.

Biguanides

Overweight diabetics are most likely to be prescribed this form of diabetic medication as it can help with controlling their weight as well as their diabetes. They cause the insulin to be used more effectively by the body than normal. Side effects are normally minor but can include nausea and diarrhoea. Biguanides can be prescribed on its own or combined with other medication.

Meglitinides

This types of diabetic medication is particularly effective for maintaining low blood sugar levels after eating, especially if a diabetic diet is being followed. The tablets are taken with food and have few, if any, side effects.

Sulfonylureas

By far the most frequently prescribed type of diabetes medication, this helps with insulin production in the body. Although there are few side effects for most people they cannot be taken by anyone with a sulpha medication allergy.

Thiazolidinediones

Perhaps the least used type of diabetic medication, this increases the sensitivity of cells to insulin. There are few or no known side effects with this form of medication.

The majority of diabetes can be controlled by taking one or more of the above oral medications. However, there may be cases where diabetics need to inject insulin. This is especially the case if the pancreas has ceased producing insulin completely as in Type 2 diabetes.

Effective diabetes management can usually be achieved by adhering to a sensible diabetic diet and exercise on a regular basis. In fact, this is often sufficient for most diabetics. It is important to consult with your medical practitioner on a regular basis and monitor your blood sugar levels. He can prescribe some of the many diabetic medications, if necessary. If you are in any doubt whatsoever regarding meal plans for a good diabetic diet or anything else related to your diabetes, you should always seek medical advice. However, the internet has a wealth of articles that you can read to keep yourself well informed about your condition.

Summary:

Reference: Diabetic Diet

Diabetic Diet Facts

2009-12-12T01:29:00.000-08:00

Initially diabetes management and control may involve dietary changes alone. Diet is a vital component in your overall diabetes control program and to keep blood sugar levels under control, a diabetic diet strikes a balance among the carbohydrates, fats, and protein you eat, when you control your body functions through exercise and by using a diabetic diet, your pain and agony seems to diminish.

A diabetic diet must be a well-balanced meal plan tailored to your individual needs, tastes, activity level and life style, and its goal is to provide all the calories and nutrients the diabetic needs while keeping blood sugars as close to normal as possible. Diabetes is not a life sentence to a rigid and restrictive menu plan.

The diabetic diet basically involves limiting your carbohydrate intake in order to control your glucose levels. The recommended carbohydrate content of diabetic diet is 60%, fat content 30-35%. Another important characteristic of a diabetic diet is to eat regularly, at the same times each day, and to eat a consistent amount of calories each day; the diabetic diet is not only for diabetics: it is an excellent, balanced alternative for anyone.

Since the diabetic diet is one which is low in saturated fat and cholesterol, look for cookbooks that emphasize low-fat cooking, the diabetic diet is a bit stricter and calls for avoiding grains and fruit but you have about 30g of carbs daily. The ideal diabetic diet is also good for cholesterol with its emphasis on low fat, high complex carbohydrate and high fiber.

The most important aspect of the diabetic diet is meal planning, your meal plan should be adjusted to take into account carbs sugars and fat in the diabetic food, the general principle is to control body fat means less sensitivity to Insulin, which keeps the blood sugar level in check.

Carbohydrate Counting offers suggestions and tips about how to eat carbohydrates while maintaining your insulin needs and diabetes control, by following a consistent diet control, a diabetic patient ought to be able to maintain good health in general, but you should remember that an effective control of diabetes requires an integrated approach which also includes exercise, weight control and a good diabetic diet.

When you have diabetes, your medications are your best friends, as they will help you keep your condition under control, remember that one of the main goals for a diabetic diet is to lower your weight and maintain it, to put it in simplified words, diabetic diet is a balanced healthy diet plan which is vital for Diabetes treatment.

The diabetic diet is aimed at helping to control blood sugar levels, the less fluctuation, especially rapid release of glucose into the blood, the better, an adherence to a diabetic diet is an important aspect of controlling elevated blood sugar in patients with diabetes mellitus.

Reference: http://www.about-diabetics.info/Articles/Diabetic_Diet_Plan.php

The American Diabetic Diet

2009-12-11T01:25:00.000-08:00

Over 1 million Americans are diagnosed with diabetes every year and over 200,000 deaths are attributed to the disease. If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, or if you simply want to take better care of how you eat, it is to your benefit to follow the American Diabetic Diet in order to keep your diabetes under control.

Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetics must learn to follow a diabetic diet plan in order to stay healthy. When following the right meal plan, such as the American Diabetic Diet, diabetic patients are able to effectively control their blood sugar without the need for medications.

The reason the American Diabetic Diet is so highly effective is because it comprises all food groups. The American Diabetic Diet plan recommends food high in mono unsaturated fats or polyunsaturated fats and low in saturated fats. Most of the calories recommended in the American Diabetic Diet come primarily from carbohydrates, second from fats, then from proteins.

The American Diabetic Diet is to be followed daily and carries the following recommendations:
-5 portions fresh fruit and vegetables (spinach, broccoli and carrots)
-6 portions whole grains (cereals, bread and pasta)
-2 portions (meat, fish or chicken)
-Dairy products (eggs, skim milk, non-fat cheese, yogurt even low-fat ice cream)

Everyone's make-up is different, so too are their bodily requirements. Some require high calorie consumption. The American Diabetic Diet accommodates this group of people.

The American Diabetic Diet plan for the people requiring 1200-1600 calorie consumption includes:
-Three portions fruits and vegetables
-Two portions milk, yogurt and meat
-Three portions of fats
-Six portions of starches

The American Diabetic Diet plan for people requiring 1600-2000 calorie consumption includes:
-Three portions fruits
-Four portions vegetables
-Two portions milk, yogurt and meat
-Four portions of fats
-Eight portions of starches

The American Diabetic Diet plan for diabetic people requiring 2000-2400 calorie consumption include:
-Three portions fruits
-Four portions vegetables
-Two portions milk, yogurt and meat
-Five portions of fats
-Eleven portions of starches

Popular belief is that diabetic people are not to eat sweets. This is not always the case. The American Diabetic Diet recommends eating sweets but in limited amounts. It is important to eat low-calorie sweets or artificial sweeteners as a substitute for sugar.

The American Diabetic Diet plan is helpful not only for people suffering from diabetes, but for everyone. People who have diabetes have the same nutritional needs as everyone else. The need for regular exercise is also the same for those with diabetes as it is for those without.

Incorporating exercise and the American Diabetic Diet, along with individually prescribed medications, are essential for managing diabetes. By having a well-balanced diet and choosing the right types of foods, the diabetic can move their blood sugar back towards regular levels. Controlling blood glucose levels is the primary goal of the American Diabetic Diet.

Be healthy and live a longer, happier life through the American Diabetic Diet. Prior to implementing the American Diabetic Diet, please consult your health care physician.

Reference: http://www.diabeticsource.org

Diabetic Diets

2009-12-10T01:23:00.000-08:00

After being diagnosed with diabetes, one has to come to terms with it and make a few changes to their lifestyle. At the most, they will be put on a new diet plan. One does not have to skip meals or avoid eating food that one has always loved completely in order to follow a diet plan. In fact, skipping meals only increases the sugar levels in one’s body.

For instance, fried, pureed or oily items can increase one’s blood sugar levels. Choose foods items that can act as a healthy substitute to these such as low fat dairy, meat substitutes, green vegetables and fruits.

A diabetic diet is a balanced diet featuring fresh fruits, vegetables, fats, proteins and most dairy products. Although diabetes cannot always be completely cured, it can be brought under control. It is essential to moderate one’s food intake and do regular exercise in order to maintain a healthy diet.

Eating fibrous food items can also reduce one’s weight considerably. These also help reduce the sugar levels in turn. Some instances of fibrous foods are oat bran, beans, rice bran, and cereals and so on. Garlic helps keep diabetes at bay. It is rich in potassium, zinc and sulphur and helps reduce blood-sugar levels.

Avoid salty foods, as they can increase sugar levels. Since one might already get enough salt from vegetables or other natural foods, they should reduce its intake.

Last but not least one should be constantly in touch with a physician who can help them to not only prepare an effective diet, to also take steps to keep their diabetes under control.

Reference: Dietsreviewedonline.com

Mayo Clinic: Broccoli May Reverse Fatal Diabetes Complications

2009-12-09T01:13:00.000-08:00

The Mayo Clinic, one of world’s leading medical institutions, reported recently that broccoli may help diabetics with a number of complications, including vascular and coronary disease and cancer. These are hot topics, we have people constantly asking for the details of a diabetic diet.

An active ingredient in broccoli, known as sulforaphane, produces enzymes that protect blood vessels by reducing tissue damaging substances triggered by high blood sugar levels. Supplements were born from studies like this.

Technically referred to as ‘activation of NF-E2-related factor-2reversal of biochemical dysfunction of endothelial cells induced by hyperglycemia linked to vascular disease’, broccoli, in short, helps prevent vascular disease in diabetics.

A major complication of Type 2 diabetes, vascular disease, if left unchecked, can lead to heart disease, strokes, damage to small vessels of the eye (blindness), kidney failure and circulation to extremities, leading to possible amputation.

Sulforaphane works by activating genes that regulate antioxidant and detoxifying enzymes.

Additional broccoli studies confirm that other compounds in this vegetable help boost genes that prevent damaged genetic information from passing to future generation cells, helping to reduce cancer.

One cancer risk in particular, prostate cancer, was found to be cut by 45% in men who ate just one broccoli serving per week.

The most recent study linking a diet rich in brassica vegetables (broccoli) was conducted at the University of Warwick (England) and first reported in Diabetes, a British medical journal.

Diabetics are five times more likely to develop cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes, than non-diabetics.

High blood sugar levels in diabetics are directly linked to damaged blood vessels, which, in turn cause these related disease complications.

Professor Paul Thornalley, lead researcher on the Warwick study noted that “our study suggests that compounds such as sulforaphane from broccoli may help counter processes linked to the development of vascular disease in diabetes.”

Brassica oleracea species or broccoli is part of the cabbage family, dating back to Ancient Rome.

Grown in cool weather climates, this green vegetable is high in natural Vitamin C and soluble fiber containing multiple nutrients with strong anti-cancer properties including Vitamin B6, Folate, Potassium, Vitamin B2, Vitamin K and others.

It can be found in three commonly grown types. The most familiar in the United States is Calabrese with green heads and thick stalks. Other varieties include Roamesco broccoli, which is yellow-green in color, and purple cauliflower, with a head shaped like cauliflower.

For highest nutritional values, broccoli should be steamed or eaten raw as boiling dramatically lowers anti-cancer compounds.

In addition to the growing body of research showing the beneficial value of broccoli in reducing cardiovascular problems and cancer, it has also been shown to enhance the immune system, with anti-viral, anti-bacterial activities. It all leads to how supplements support the weaknesses in our daily diets.

Reference: http://www.provenresultshealth.com/

Choose a Good Diabetes Diet for you

2009-12-08T01:54:00.000-08:00

Diabetes is an increasingly common disease in the modern era, and has been dubbed an epidemic by the World Health Organisation (WHO). Although it is still unknown why the disease has increased so much recently, it is known that this disease. It is caused by a malfunction of the beta cells located in the pancreas. The beta cells produce a hormone, which is known as insulin, which helps to lower levels of blood sugar in the body. When a person has diabetes the beta cells are destroyed or the body has an inability to properly use the insulin. Many people have the disease but are cut off from reality. Many people have become aware often of poor management, or treating the disease. This can lead to many problems. Immediate problems may include diabetic coma induced. In the long term there could be problems with the circulation, the nervous and cardiovascular system within the body. Part of the treatment of diabetes is correct, eating food and insists on a diabetic diet. This article will discuss the issues related to a diet for diabetes.

Carbohydrates make up a large part of many peoples diets because they provide energy, in the form of glucose in the body. But too many carbohydrates will cause the blood sugar in a diabetic high and causing problems. Thus, a diet for diabetes carbohydrates understanding how to work. Great emphasis in a diabetic diet is for the amount of carbohydrates and calories consumed at each meeting.

Simply, the simple carbohydrates should be avoided or consumed as a treatment in the event of an emergency. Simple carbohydrates include such things as soft drinks, chocolate and sweets and candy. Invited simple: it is easy to break the body and enter the bloodstream quickly. This is the reason why many people think that sweet foods are bad for diabetics. So much so that they are because they cause spikes in blood sugar levels, but it can be managed and occasionally (as hypo) the recruitment of sugar is needed.

The opposite of simple carbohydrates and complex carbohydrates. It is things like rolled oats are difficult to distribution, and allow the blood sugar more slowly. Due to the slow analysis, the blood sugar level is easier to manage, which is the desired affect any treatment of diabetes.

Besides the monitoring of the type of carbohydrates consumed a diet for diabetes is a very healthy option that might benefit anyone. In fact, it is often the case that if a family member has diabetes whole family can take advantage of types of food they eat, which is an unlikely positively on the product of disease. The diet focuses on eats fruits, vegetables and whole grains. The food options are limited and do not allow the individual to follow his diabetic food pyramid for guidance. The pyramid of food breaks foods containing carbohydrates, proteins and fats. It gives suggestions on what kind of food they fall into these categories and amounts of each to be consumed every day. The diabetic diet stresses the times that a person eats. We have always in all similar times each day and take a regular snack between main meals.

A diet for diabetes will help you manage the levels of insulin and you can lower the risk of suffering long-term diabetic complications.

Reference: Diabetes Symptoms, Diabetes Diet

How to Control Diabetes - Steps You Need to Know in Treating Diabetes Effectively

2009-12-08T01:10:00.000-08:00

If you are afflicted by the diabetes disease, chances are you will spend the rest of your life coping on how to control the dreaded disease. A person has diabetes if the blood sugar level is higher than the normal level.

Diabetes are categorized into three types namely: type 1, type 2 and gestational. If you are diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, your body is not producing insulin, hence, insulin injection is needed. In type 2 diabetes, the body is not making the right insulin or insulin is not properly used. Treatment may start with oral medication but may eventually lead to insulin injection. Gestational diabetes occurs in pregnant women and disappears when the mother gives birth. The mother is already susceptible to developing type 2 diabetes as the years pass by.

How to control diabetes is by knowing the disease, its management and the necessary routine care.

Have a Sound Knowledge about the Disease:

1. The objective is to attain a less than 7% average in the A1c test to prevent complications like kidney failure, blindness and nerve damage. The hemoglobin A1c test is the average glucose level in the blood for the past 3 months.

2. Keep your blood pressure at the ideal 130/80. Having a high blood pressure can cause kidney disease, heart attack and stroke.

3. Constantly check the LDL (bad) cholesterol level which should be maintained at less than 100 as well as the HDL (good) cholesterol level which should remain above 40. When there is build up of LDL cholesterol, it may clog the blood vessels. HDL (good) cholesterol helps in purifying the blood.

Things to Consider in Managing Diabetes:

1. In eating, always follow the diabetes meal plan prepared by the dietitian. Take note that they may consist of the following foods:

a. Nutritional foods such as fish, fruits and vegetables, skinless chicken or turkey, lean meat, whole grains, dry peas or beans and low-fat or skim milk.

b. Foods that does not contain too much salt or too much fat.

c. Fruits that are fibrous, breads or whole grain cereals, rice, crackers, pasta.

2. Engage in regular exercise for about 30 to 60 minutes daily in order to improve blood circulation and insulin reactivity.

3. Be more conscious of your weight because too much fat in the body impairs the effectiveness of insulin.

4. Seek advice from your diabetes counselor or the rest of the diabetes team in case you are feeling down.

5. Avoid too much stress since it has a tendency to raise blood sugar level.

6. Stop smoking to allow for a healthier immune system. .

7. Take your medications religiously and as prescribed by the doctor even if you are feeling good.

8. Observe proper foot hygiene since the blood circulation is already impaired causing wounds to take longer time to heal.

9. Observe proper dental hygiene all the time to prevent mouth sores and other complications.

10. Take the initiative to learn how to take the blood glucose level by yourself and record the figures in a logbook for your doctor's evaluation.

11. Have your blood pressure checked regularly to detect early signs of possible heart attack or stroke.

12. In case blurred visions take place, report this condition to the doctor immediately.

Observe the Routine Check-ups:

1. See your doctor even at least twice a year to treat new problems that may arise.

2. Have your A1c tested at least two times a year.

3. Be sure to have a test or examination of the following even once a year: cholesterol, foot, blood fat (triglyceride), eye, dental, urine and blood. Have your yearly flu vaccination.

How to control diabetes will be very tedious and annoying, but this is the only way for a diabetes sufferer to have a longer life.

Reference: http://www.minusdiabetes.com

Metformin and Diabetes - What Diabetics Should Know

2009-12-07T01:58:00.000-08:00

Metformin can be used alone or in combination with other medicines to treat Type 2 Diabetes mellitus. It is not used to treat type 1 diabetes.
First of all what does this medicine do in the human body.

Metformin helps to control the amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood. It does this in three main ways:
1.It decreases the amount of glucose you absorb from the food you eat and
2.It decreases the amount of glucose made by your liver.
3.Metformin also helps your body to respond better to insulin natural or injected.

Only your doctor can tell you how much Metformin and how many times a day you need to take. Do not take more or less of it than what your doctor has prescribed. Metformin controls diabetes but does not cure it. Continue to take metformin even if you feel well. Do not stop taking metformin without talking to your doctor.

Not everyone who takes metformin is a Type 2 diabetic. Metformin may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor for more information regarding this.

Once you start eating metformin you cannot start eating whatever food you like and stop doing any exercise. Diabetes treatment can only work when the person who has diabetes eats the medicines on time and also eats the correct amount of the correct food at the correct time and exercises at least 30 min a day 5-7 days a week.

In case you forget to take a dose take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Metformin may rarely cause a serious, life-threatening condition called lactic acidosis.
Drinking alcohol increases your risk of developing lactic acidosis or may cause a decrease in blood sugar. Ask your doctor how much alcohol is safe to drink while you are taking metformin.
Side effects from metformin include a change in taste, loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting, abdominal bloating or gas, diarrhea, or skin rash. These may occur during the first few weeks of taking the medication but are seldom long-lasting. Taking the medication with food and starting out with a low dose help reduce side effects. The dosage can be gradually increased as side effects diminish.

Metformin may rarely cause low blood sugar levels or hypoglycemia.
Your doctor will tell you what you should do if you develop hypoglycemia. He or she may tell you to check your blood sugar, eat or drink a food or beverage that contains sugar, such as hard candy or fruit juice, or get medical care. Follow these directions carefully.
The following are symptoms of hypoglycemia:

1.shakiness
2.dizziness or lightheadedness
3.sweating
4.nervousness or irritability
5.sudden changes in behavior or mood
6.headache
7.numbness or tingling around the mouth
8.weakness
9.pale skin
10.hunger
11.clumsy or jerky movements

If hypoglycemia is not treated, severe symptoms may develop. Be sure that your family, friends, and other people who spend time with you know that if you have any of the following symptoms, they should get medical treatment for you immediately:

1.confusion
2.seizures
3.loss of consciousness

Therefore who should not use metformin? In a nut shell, it should not be used by those who use more than two ounces or two drinks of alcohol everyday day, who have congestive heart failure, or who have significant kidney, liver, or lung disease.

The advantages of metformin are that it has a much short action time and has a much lower risk for severe side effects and is quite safe for use by anyone who is otherwise healthy. In fact, in the major UKPDS study, it was the only drug that reduced diabetes-related death rates, heart attacks, and strokes.
Metformin lowers fasting blood glucose levels by an average of 25%, postprandial blood glucose up to 44.5%, and the HbA1c by an average of 1.5%. Metformin reduces raised plasma insulin levels in cases of metabolic syndrome by as much as 30% and reduces the need for injected insulin in Type 2s by 15 to 32%.

Metformin possesses some distinct advantages in treating diabetes. Excess glucose produced by the liver is the major source of high blood sugars in Type 2 diabetes and is typically the reason for high blood sugars on waking in the morning. Metformin reduces this overproduction of glucose. It helps in lowering the blood sugar, especially after eating, with no risk of hypoglycemia when used alone. Modest improvements in cholesterol levels are also seen. The 10 year UKPDS Study of over 3,000 people with Type 2 diabetes found that those who were placed on metformin had a 36% decrease in overall mortality and a 39% decrease in heart attacks.
Because metformin shuts off the liver's excess production of glucose, it reduces the amount of injected insulin needed to control the blood sugar in both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. People with Type 2 diabetes who are on insulin usually are advised to lower their insulin doses prior to starting metformin. The full improvement in glycemic control and cholesterol levels may not be seen until 4 to 6 weeks of use have passed.

Reference: control diabetes

Diabetes Management - Implementing The Proper Methods and Tools

2009-12-05T01:41:00.000-08:00

In order to avoid long-term complications such as amputation, blindness and damage to the different body organs, diabetes management is a serious undertaking that every afflicted person should handle. The objective is to maintain the blood sugar level within the bounds of the standard level and this requires the help of dedicated healthcare professionals.

Tips on diabetes management:

1. Dietitians play a vital role in the planning of a balanced diet. The consistency of the daily foods to eat should be there, taking into consideration the proper nourishment factors. Improper food intake coupled with medication may result to low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) or promote excessive eating that can elevate the level of blood sugar (hyperglycemia).

2. Regular exercises from 30 to 60 minutes a day will improve the sensitivity of the body to insulin and the muscles can use the extra glucose for energy. Exercise should be properly coordinated with the doctor in case any changes in the diabetes treatment plan becomes necessary. Discontinue the exercise regimen if you experience shortness of breath, chest pain or dizziness and report the matter immediately to your doctor.

3. Medications if taken properly and in the right dosage are considered as effective tools in diabetes management. Read the label for the right storage as well as check the date of expiry. If other illnesses are being treated aside from diabetes, discuss the matter with your doctor. There maybe some contra-indications in the new drug prescribed if taken simultaneously with the diabetes medication.

4. In case of illness, the body produces more hormones which will raise the level of blood sugar thereby rendering insulin as ineffective. Always focus on the medications and the meal plan. Never buy over-the-counter medications as it may contain a high dosage of sugar; e.g. cough syrups.

5. A diabetes medication combined with alcohol can make the blood sugar very low. Instead of the liver producing the needed stored sugar to neutralize the lowering of the blood sugar, it will be diverted in metabolizing the alcohol. It can result to damaged nerve and eye disease. If there is a doctor's approval to drink alcohol, it is best to count the calories of your drink. Indulge only in dry wines and light beer because of their low calorie and carbohydrate contents if compared to the regular alcoholic beverages.

6. Look for consistencies in the blood sugar level a week before the menstrual period. The blood sugar level is usually affected during this period so that changes in the meal plan, medications and exercise will be adjusted. Menopausal stage can also influence the outcome of the level of the blood sugar.

7. When you are drained of energy or under stress which is normal for people with diabetes, the tendency is to refrain from the set diabetes program. This will not only worsen the diabetic condition because the production of insulin might be affected. Be sure to handle stress through proper relaxation. Further, try any sports activities like bowling, swimming, basketball, just to name a few, in order to deviate from the usual scenario.

Diabetes is a disease that is attached to you on a permanent basis. There may be no cure but there is the diabetes management methods and tools to make life easier if you will strictly adhere to them. Some diabetics have rebelled against this while some do not care at all. The rest however, do their best to adhere. The decision to choose remains in you, but it is best for you to decide wisely.

Reference: http://www.minusdiabetes.com

Diabetes Type 2 - Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

2009-12-04T01:56:00.000-08:00

Unlike people with type 1 diabetes, people with type 2 diabetes produce insulin; however, the insulin their pancreas secretes is either not enough or the body is unable to recognize the insulin and use it properly. This is called insulin-resistance. When there isn't enough insulin or the insulin is not used as it should be, glucose (sugar) can't get into the body's cells. When glucose builds up in the blood instead of going into cells, the body's cells are not able to function properly.

THE CAUSES OF DIABETES TYPE 2

The exact mechanism that causes the disease is not known. There may be an autoimmune response to insulin or to the molecules on the cell surfaces that the insulin connects to. However, these lifestyle factors can cause the disease:

-Too high consume of sugar and fat
-Over-weight
-Too less exercise over many years.

Therefore diabetes type 2 can be prevented by a right diet and with regular exercise.
The primary cause of Type 2 diabetes is insulin resistance. If blood sugar (glucose) cannot be properly absorbed by the body’s cells because of insulin resistance, it builds up in the bloodstream instead (high blood sugar levels), leading to potentially more serious health problems. Insulin resistance plays a major role in the development, continuation, and complications associated with Type 2 diabetes.

People with type 2 diabetes have cells that don't respond effectively to insulin. As a result of this inability to use insulin, glucose in the bloodstream goes unused, and can build to dangerous levels. This insulin resistance is pronounced in people with type 2 diabetes who are overweight or obese. Over time, type 2 diabetics may progress from having adequate or even greater than adequate amounts of insulin to insulin deficiency, as the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas “burn out.” This is why type 2 diabetics have blood sugar levels that become more difficult to control, and require increasing medication with time.

The symptoms of diabetes

When a person with type II diabetes develops high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia), they may experience symptoms such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, increased appetite, weight loss, blurred vision, fatigue, headaches, occasional muscle cramps and poor wound healing. However, there are a lot of people with type II diabetes who do not show symptoms and don't even know they have it.

# Increased thirst
# Increased hunger (especially after eating)
# Dry mouth
# Frequent urination

Treatment

For both types of diabetes, treatment is generally emphasized over curing the disease; as to date there are no universal cures available for diabetes. However, with certain changes in lifestyle, it is possible to control diabetes outbreaks. In fact, treating diabetes is extremely important for a variety of reasons; not least of which is that there are many other illnesses that are linked to diabetes, such as like heart disease, kidney disease and foot and eye problems.

When a person is first diagnosed with diabetes, the doctor’s goal is to lower the glycemic index or the blood glucose level as this can have ill effect on other body parts. This can be achieved by adhering to a diabetes diet, getting regular exercise and maintaining a healthy body weight.

Reference: Health and Fitness Blog Directory, Home Remedies Directory

Control Diabetes - Steps You Need to Know in Treating Diabetes Effectively

2009-12-03T01:39:00.000-08:00

Diabetes And Alcohol - The Ugly Twins

2009-12-01T01:20:00.000-08:00

The main objective of a diabetic patient is to control his sugar level. The food and beverages that we consume will have an effect on that control. Some food and beverages have even a bigger effect. Alcohol is one of them, and has a direct influence on diabetes management.

Alcohol should be wisely used. Alcohol has a dehydrating effect on the body, so keep that in mind. Alcohol is very high in calories, which can lead to increase in bodyweight and blood fat levels. People with poorly controlled diabetes should not drink alcohol altogether.

It is recommended that those with diabetes avoid drinking excessive amounts of alcohol. Guidelines for diabetics and alcohol consumption are as follows: one to two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women. Those over 65 should also only allow themselves one drink per day.

Alcohol moves through the bloodstream quite easily without ever being metabolized in the stomach. Without giving the liver the proper amount of time to break down the alcohol, it will move to other organs in the body and eventually build up in the bloodstream. Your body can only break down one ounce of alcohol per hour.

Many times people will drink more beverages on a party, than eating food. Diabetic patients can develop hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) in such situations. Alcohol tends to lower blood sugar even more.

Generally, when diabetics are experiencing low blood sugar levels, the liver changes the stored carbohydrates in the body into glucose. This glucose in the bloodstream slows down the 'low glucose' reaction that the body is having.

So, what is happening when you are taking alcohol? When a diabetic person experiences low glucose levels while drinking alcohol, the trouble lies in that the liver, reacting to the alcohol that has built up in the bloodstream as a toxin, will go on red alert and stop producing glucose in order to cleanse the body of the alcohol. Therefore, drinking on an empty stomach is not recommended.

Drinking just one alcoholic drink can impair judgment enough to make a critical mistake in diabetes management. Diabetics should make sure that there is someone with them who knows what to watch for should a low blood sugar reaction occurs. Hypoglycemic episodes can be easily confused with being tipsy. Remember hypoglycemia can happen some hours after a drinking session.

A bracelet, necklace or identification card stating medical conditions should be worn at all times and glucose tablets should be kept nearby also. It is recommended that diabetics not take naps or fall asleep without having a snack or meal first and to check glucose levels first thing in the morning.

Keep to sensible drinking levels. Alternate an alcoholic drink with a low calorie mixer. Don't drink on an empty stomach - enjoy a meal before or with your drink. You may need to eat a bigger, starchier meal before the party. Adjust your insulin before you drink.

Red, dry or medium-dry white wines are acceptable in moderation as are dry sherries and dry light beers, such as lagers and light ales; these are fermented with 'low residual sugars' and are perfect for moderate consumption. Hard liquors such as whiskey, gin or vodka can be mixed with sugar free or diet mixers.

Sweet wines, ports and sherries have high residual sugar contents, as do heavy and/or dark sweetened beers such as stout and porters. Wine coolers, hard liquors mixed with regular sodas and cocktails in general should be avoided by diabetics.

Reference: http://www.thediabetesdoc.com

Diabetes Complications – Know Before it Grabs You

2009-11-30T01:33:00.000-08:00

Diabetic is a growing concern around the world and currently developing as one of the major threats for human health with an explosive increase in the number of people diagnosed with diabetes worldwide. Approximately 29 million Americans age 20 or older have diabetes. But almost one-third even don’t know that they have the disease and are at risk for vision loss, kidney failure, and increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

Diabetes complication doesn’t just appear from one moment to the next. It is a process that accumulates itself after years of body decay. If a person maintains a stabilized sugar level, there is no reason whatsoever to suffer from diabetes complication. In order to combat this future state, the best way to do it is proper diet, exercises, concern medicines and regular blood sugar check ups.

Diabetes can damage many of the body systems leading to such serious medical complications as heart disease (heart attack, stroke) blindness (due to retinopathy) kidney damage, impotence in men, amputations from gangrene and/or from damage to nerves (neuropathy).

Another major complication of diabetes is foot gangrene. It is typically caused by a combination of limb ischemia (tissue death) as the result of arterial occlusive disease, most commonly atherosclerosis, injury and poor healing, usually combined with a superimposed infection.

Ways to Prevent Diabetes Complications

To prevent diabetes complication, you need to take care of your diet first. If you have been recently diagnosed with diabetes, very likely your health, obesity level, and normal diet are not very good. Most adults diagnosed with diabetes have a very common history of eating too many harmful foods and having a very poor diet practices.

You need to take proper care of every bit of food that you put in your mouth. You need to ask yourself if that food is going to provide your body the nourishment it needs or deplete your body of its needs. You will need to follow a diet for diabetics. A good diabetic diet is a diet that is good for anyone who wants to nourish the body and have plenty of energy whether or not they have diabetes.

Regular exercises and yoga are also important part of avoiding diabetes complications. Exercise is just as important as a good diabetes diet in preventing or reversing complications of diabetes. It is also important to consider your food intake, along with your activity and its effect on your insulin.

Researches have shows that people that are having trouble keeping diabetes control often are lacking in daily exercise. On the other hand, diabetics who exercise regularly have little trouble when it comes to balancing their insulin intake and their food.
Disclaimer: The reader of this article should exercise all precautionary measures while following instructions on the home remedies from this article. Avoid using any of these products if you are allergic to it. The responsibility lies with the reader and not with the site or the writer.

Reference: Nick Mutt, Home remedies for diabetes, Diabetes supplement

Diabetes Complications Could Spell Trouble

2009-11-29T01:23:00.000-08:00

Diabetes is very serious and may be undiagnosed for years, in the case of type 2 diabetes, were as type 1 diabetes can, almost immediately, be serious and even life threatening, although some cases, as with type 2, may also go undiagnosed for years.

As with any disease, the earlier that diabetes is dianosed, the better. So it is very important to be aware of the symptoms of diabetes.

These complications can, if left untreated, include blindness, . To avoid these consequences, many treatments can and should be given which help to give the chance of a normal life to any person who suffers from this condition.

In the long term, again if untreated, more serious diabetes complications include infarction, amputation, renal diseases and even death. However there are many treatments which allow a diabetic to lead a healthy life.

Before the discovery of insulin, type 1 diabetes was fatal. Now with f insulin and other remedies people with type 1 diabetes can live a long and fulfilling life. In addition to the current treatments, on going research and testing will likely bring about improved treatment, if not the possibilty of a cure and prevention.

Complications

In western countries if a person's diabetes is not looked after properly their diabetes is probably the main cause of blindness and renal disease.

Kidney damage is another common complication from diabetes. Diabetic nephropathy is damage to the small blood vessels in the kidneys. This causes protein to leak into the urine. Eventually the kidneys lose their ability to clean and filter the blood. Dialysis may be needed to filter the toxins from the bloods.

Diabetics are more prone than most people to specific oral (gum diseases) and gynecological infections because the bacteria involved in these infections like "sugar".

The feet of a diabetic person are particularly fragile and prone to problems.

Sores, or rashes, may not heal and can lead to abscesses, even gangrene; this then often leads to amputation of the infected limbs.

Chronic hyperglycemia gradually damages the small blood vessels of the kidney and the eyes as well as the nerves over a period of time especially if the person's diabetic state is not well looked after. This eventually causes over the years a failing of these specific organs.

Blood vessels can become blocked, meaning that the heart and lungs, etc, are not receiving an adequate blood supply. The person can even die when this occurs.

Acute complications of diabetes type 1 are usually fainting or coma caused by hyperglycemia. This also occurs when the person is suffering from hypoglycemia, both conditions respectively are due to insulin not injected or an insufficient dose being given.

It is occasionally hard to tell if a diabetic person is hyperglycemic or hypoglycemic. One excellent method of determining which state they are in is to smell their breath. If the person is in a hyperglycemic condition, it will smell very sweet. This is due to ketones in the body being burned as fuel.

Long-Term Complications

Includes blindness. Damage is done to the retina by diabetes and is the leading cause of blindness.

Kidney damage from diabetes is the leading cause of kidney failure in the United States.

People with diabetes already are at higher risk of cardiovascular problems, kidney disease, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol levels.

Arteries building up with fatty plaques can cause peripheral vascular disease or decreased circulation in the arms and legs.

Damage can be caused to the nerves in the nervous system. This can lead to chronic diarrhea, uncontrollable heart rate, high blood pressure, and paralysis of the stomach.

Acidic ketosis occurs when the body can't use glucose as fuel anymore. (Sugar can not penetrate the cells because of an insulin absence). The cells are then attacked, causing abnormally massive degradation in ketones which are toxic waste for the human body. Untreated, it evolves into a coma and can cause premature death.

In men, nerve damage may also result in impotence. Diabetic neuropathy can affect the nerves that lead to the penis that allow for penile erection. If the penis is not receiving the blood flow it needs because of nerve damage, it can cause erectile dysfunction or impotence.

These complications should be enough to compel you to avoid complications if possible. Take care of your body and controlling your diabetes, eat healthy, exercise, and get the rest you need.

Reference: Diabetes Including Symptoms, Signs, Dietary Information and Treatments

Diabetes And Genetics. Do We Have An Answer For It?

2009-11-28T01:10:00.000-08:00

Although many diagnosed with diabetes have the disease somewhere in their family medical history, diabetes is not a disease that is inherited in any simple pattern.

First of all, Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes do not have the same causes. However, there are two factors that are involved in both: there must be an inherent predisposition for the disease and there must be a trigger for it.

Proof that genes alone are not enough to get diabetes can be found in the case of identical twins. Identical twins have identical genes, yet in cases where one twin is diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes there is only a 50% chance that the other twin will also develop the Type 1 diabetes. If the diagnosis is Type 2 diabetes, then the risk goes to 3 out of four for chance. A mixture of nature and environmental factors make it impossible to determine who will get diabetes and who will not.

Type 1 Diabetes

When it comes to Type 1 diabetes, people generally need to inherit risk factors from both sides of their family. These risk factors are very prevalent in Caucasian segments of the population. Still, even those who are at risk do not always get diabetes, prodding researchers to dig deeper into what possible environmental triggers there are that set off the disease.

Type 1 diabetes is known to occur more often in winter than in summer and therefore has researchers believing that cold weather is a possible trigger. Viruses are also suspected as a trigger as well as other auto-immune diseases. (Diseases in which the immune system attacks the body's tissues.)

Type 2 Diabetes

Of the two types of diabetes, Type 2 has the stronger genetic base but depends a great deal more on environmental factors. The genetic predisposition for Type 2 diabetes mixed with those living in a Western lifestyle is an infamous cocktail for developing this disease. As is such with the great majority of the Western diet and lifestyle, too much fat and refined carbohydrates and not enough fiber coupled with inactivity has birthed this disease into epidemic proportions. As obesity rises, so do reports of diabetes. In comparison, those living in areas of the world that are not Westernized do not develop Type 2 diabetes despite their high genetic risk.

Gestational Diabetes.

Gestational diabetes, diabetes that develops during pregnancy, has no clear genetic or environmental triggers. Although women who develop the disease are more likely to have a family history of diabetes, it is unclear what other non-genetic factors play a role. Women who put off having children until their later years and women who are overweight seem to be the most common groups to be diagnosed but this is not always the case.

So what is the conclusion here? You can have the genetic risk, environment, and the lifestyle triggers, and still not develop diabetes. The other side is also true. Diabetes can develop without many of the triggers.

The only thing that we as a human race can do is limit the triggers for diabetes as much as we can. Eat healthy, exercise regularly, keep our weight under control and hope that our genes are in our favor.

Reference:http://www.thediabetesdoc.com

Diabetes Complications, The Silent Killer.

2009-11-27T01:05:00.000-08:00

The complications from diabetes can have devastating effects on your health, if proper care of ones health is not maintained.

Heart Disease

Diabetes is well known for being the cause of heart related problems. Large amounts of sugar in the blood can cause a significant amount of damage to a body's systems- especially blood vessels.

Unhealthy lifestyles coupled with diabetes can up the chances of complications and lead to other health problems such as coronary heart disease and stroke.

Middle aged persons with Type 2 diabetes have been shown to have as much chance of having a heart attack as the person who does not have diabetes at all but has had at least one heart attack. Hardening of the arteries, or atherosclerosis, is always a prescription for a possible heart attack.

Take a diabetic with high cholesterol and the risk becomes that much greater. Even further, diabetics who have had one heart attack are very much at risk for another.

Women with diabetes are much more likely to develop some sort of heart disease than women without the disease.

Warning signs of a heart attack are:

- Chest pain spreading to shoulders, neck or arms.
- Chest pressure, tightness, burning or a heavy feeling in the chest.
- Irregular heart rate
- Impending doom feeling.
- Light headedness.
- Fainting, nausea, sweating or shortness of breath.
-Sweaty skin.
- Paleness
- Anxiety or nervousness

Stroke

The brain is very much dependent on oxygen to keep it alive. The brain needs a network of blood vessels in which to pump oxygen rich blood. Through this network of vessels will the vital parts of the brain been feed. Without that the brain tissues will die.

Diabetics are three times more likely to have a stroke than those who does not have the disease. As diabetes is more common in the African American community, this accounts for the reason that they suffer a sizeable amount of the population's strokes every year.

Ischeamic stroke is characterized by an insufficient flow of blood and oxygen to the brain tissues and is the most prevalent type of stroke for those with diabetes. The risk for this type of stroke is peaking for younger men and older women.

A stroke is an emergency situation that requires immediate medical intervention and warrants a trip to the emergency room of a hospital. The sooner the stroke victim receives medical care, the sooner any damage can be assessed and the condition stabilized.

Reference: http://www.thediabetesdoc.com

Diabetes And Obesity. Is There A Link?

2009-11-26T01:13:00.000-08:00

Over half the population of the United States of America is obese or suffers from the effects of being overweight. Without surprise, among this cross section of the populace there are greater instances of diabetes. Although it has not been pinpointed as to whether obesity causes diabetes or vice versa, it is common knowledge that where one is found so will be the other. It is because of this that the US is in the midst of a wide epidemic in incidences of this disease.

It is a fact that most cases of obesity result from irregular diets and inactivity. For that reason it means that obesity is a risk factor that can be reversed with a healthy diet and moderate exercise. In turn it will have a considerable effect in reducing the chances of getting or even managing diabetes.

The associations with not only diabetes and obesity but also other conditions that enter the arena such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, asthma, and arthritis are impossible to ignore.

Studies have shown that those who incorporate a mere 30 minute walking session into their day can decrease their risk of Type 2 diabetes and obesity by almost half. Yet, millions of Americans remain critically overweight and the cases of diabetes continue to rise.

The over consumption of refined sugars and carbohydrates that are the staple of the American diet are clearly involved in this epidemic as is the predisposition towards inactivity. Americans spend a great number of free times in front of the TV or on the internet when they could be out participating in at least 30-45 minutes of vigorous activity per day.

Obesity and diabetes- as well as the complications of obesity and diabetes- have overwhelmed the medical system. The negative influence of these diseases only antagonizes and complicates other medical conditions. Even the simplest of procedures from dental work all the way up to post operative healing become of greater concern as diabetic and overweight patients with hypertension are more likely to experience complications.

Obesity isn't just a cosmetic problem; it's very much a health problem as well. If you are overweight, you are more likely to develop health problems, such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, certain types of cancer, gout (joint pain caused by excess uric acid), and gallbladder disease. Being overweight can also cause problems such as sleep apnea (interrupted breathing during sleep) and osteoarthritis (wearing away of the joints). The more overweight you are, the more likely you are to have health problems.

Non insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (type 2 diabetes) is the most common type of diabetes. It is a major cause of early death, heart disease, kidney disease, stroke, and blindness. Overweight people are twice as likely to develop type 2 diabetes as people who are not overweight. You can reduce your risk of developing this type of diabetes by losing weight and by increasing your physical activity.

As we read the above information, it shows us that there is a very well developed link between obesity and diabetes. The two conditions together link you as the patient even closer to many more health problems.

Reference: www.thediabetesdoc.com

What Are the Two Types of Diabetes? - Facts About Type I and II Diabetes Exposed!

2009-11-25T01:27:00.000-08:00

What are the two types of diabetes? This question may be troubling you for quite a long time. Well, I have the answer. The two main types of this deadly disorder are Type1 or Juvenile diabetes and Type 2 diabetes.

Facts About Type I And II Diabetes

- Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of this disease. It is caused due to ineffective insulin, which fails to maintain the blood glucose levels in our body. Mostly older people suffer from this problem but nowadays, even kids and teenagers are found to be suffering from this disease due to obesity. Irregular eating habits and erratic lifestyle can cause this problem.

- People are falling under its grip due to excess intake of sugar, which consequently destroy the blood sugar levels in our body. Too much indulgence in junk food and excess alcohol consumption may cause any of two types of diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is also a hereditary problem in some families.

- Proper nutrition is very important in order to get rid of this disease. We should be very careful in choosing our diets. Sometimes wrong consumption of diets can aggravate this problem that may cause blindness and decomposition. The problem can be even fatal.

- Type 1 diabetes is mostly caused due to lack of insulin in our body. Generally, these type of diabetes affects kids. That's why it's known as Juvenile diabetes. When the pancreas stops to produce insulin in your body, your blood sugar limits rise up. Taking insulin injections and medications can control them

- In this case your immune system gets infected and it fights against your body. It attacks your pancreas and prevents the production of insulin in the body. Symptoms like losing weight suddenly, tiredness and blurry vision are usually seen in these two types of diabetes.

Keeping one's weight & height in proportion can Control Diabetes. For most diabetics, losing 5-7 pounds of weight can dramatically slow the progression of the disease.

Reference: DietforDiabetics.org/Free_Trial

You Can Heal Your Type 2 Diabetes

2009-11-24T01:24:00.000-08:00

Because type 2 diabetes is a condition, not an illness, you can heal your type 2 diabetes. The good news is that it is not difficult to do.

Healing is not the same as curing. Healing is something your doctor cannot do for you; it can only come from within you and is the process by which you become whole again. Put another way, it is your lifestyle choices - especially your choices about your diet and taking physical activity.

Making small, but important changes to your lifestyle can result in significant improvements to your type 2 diabetes condition and is preferable to taking medication. Taking insulin shots is not a substitute for a healthy diet, taking exercise and weight control all of which are required to heal your type 2 diabetes. Taking insulin shots may help you manage your condition, but does not deal with the real causes of your type 2 diabetes.

When you are over weight, insulin works less effectively in your body especially if you tend to store excess fat on your waist. The reason for this is that fat stored around internal organs is different to fat deposited on your hips. This fat allows fatty acids and hormones to leak into your circulation, which then act as a signal to your body that your fat stores are full. Consequently, fat cells make fewer insulin receptors and absorb less glucose, causing your blood sugar levels rise.

Fat stored around your internal organs is easier to lose than fat on your waist or hips, but both can be reduced. So, what changes do you need to make to your lifestyle to heal your type 2 diabetes?

#1. Start a healthy diet

Replace high fat and processed foods with a balanced diet. A diet for people with type 2 diabetes should be low in fat (especially saturated fat and trans fats), moderate in salt and sugar, with meals based on whole grain foods, vegetables and fruit. Aim to eat five portions of different fresh fruits and vegetables each day.Type 2 diabetes sufferers who practice food combining have reported significant progress in stabilizing and then starting to reverse the effects of their condition.

#3. Take regular exercise

According to the US Diabetes Prevention Program (USDPP), while some medications may delay the development of diabetes, diet and exercise work better. The USDPP also found that in addition to a healthy diet, just 30 minutes of moderate exercise each day coupled with a 5 to 10% reduction in body weight resulted in a 58% reduction in diabetes.

By making these simple changes in your lifestyle you can arrest the progress of your type 2 diabetes and, over time, heal it. In so doing you get the spin off benefits of reducing the risks of obesity, heart disease, raised cholesterol levels and high blood pressure.

#3. Drink plenty of water

Keeping your body hydrated assists in maintaining your energy levels and keeping your blood flowing properly. Drinking more water is a huge aid in fat loss.

Reference:Robert Reddin,here

Common Causes of Diabetes

2009-11-23T13:22:00.000-08:00

Pre-diabetes is among several causes, it is a condition where blood sugar is high but not enough to be diagnosed as diabetes. If not realized early the patient is at risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Infection of pancreas-when pancreas doesn't make enough insulin, when sugar builds up in your blood stream instead of moving to the cell.

Weight- if your waist is 35 inches and above then you are at a risk.

Stress-any emotional, financial and physical strains can trigger to its development.

Being in-active-those people who are inactive have high risk than those who exercise twice or three times a week. This doesn't mean you have to go to gym to lift weight, but even a simple brisk walking in the evening or in the morning for 30mins can help.

Age- recent studies shows that 80% of most cases are aged 45 and above, and so the risk increases as you get older.

Family history-it is important to become acquainted with you family tree. If any of your parents or any of your close relative that you have blood relation have ever been diagnosed with diabetes then you at risk of the same since this genes cam be passed unless you reverse it by using some preventive measure and change lifestyle.

Race-it unclear why but blacks, black American, Latinos, Native Americans and Asian Americans are more prone to it than others in the whole world.

Gestational diabetes-if you developed gestational while pregnant or baby weighed more than 9 pounds you have increased risk.

Polycystic ovary syndrome-for those women who have (pcos) which is characterized by irregular menstrual cycle, excess weight or obesity are at high risk.

High blood pressure- research shows there is link between hypertension and diabetes.

High level of low density cholesterol.

High level of triglyceride fat in the blood.

Improper nutrition-continuous consumption of low fiber and protein diet can increase your risk.

Gender-elderly men are more prone to it than female of the same age.

Reference: Causes Of Diabetes, Causes Of Diabetes

3 Ways to Prevent the Onset of Type 2 Diabetes

2009-11-22T01:29:00.000-08:00

Type 2 diabetes is a symptom of a pancreas that is so damaged it cannot produce the insulin your body needs. The main causes are diet and lifestyle. It is a serious condition that can cause a number of complications, some of which may even be fatal if not handled properly. But you can prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes, or at least greatly reduce your risk of getting it simply by taking these three steps:

#1.Tackle your poor diet
Replace high fat and processed foods with a balanced diet. A diet for people with diabetes should be low in fat (especially saturated fat and trans fats), moderate in salt and sugar, with meals based on whole grain foods, vegetables and fruit. Try to eat five portions of different fresh fruits and vegetables each day.

Type 2 diabetes sufferers who practice food combining have reported significant progress in stabilizing and then starting to reverse the effects of their condition.

#2. Drink plenty of water

Keeping your body hydrated assists in keeping your energy levels up and keeping your blood flowing properly. Drinking more water is a huge aid in fat loss, and reducing obesity. Being seriously over weight greatly increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

#3. Take regular exercise

According to the US Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP), while some medications may delay the development of diabetes, diet and exercise work better. The DPP also found that in addition to a healthy diet, just 30 minutes of moderate physical activity a day coupled with a 5 to 10% reduction in body weight resulted in a 58% reduction in diabetes.

There is no need to go to the expense of joining a gym or buying any exercise equipment. Swimming or walking at a brisk pace is adequate exercise. The key point is to elevate your heart rate slightly for 20 to 30 minutes while you exercise. Introduce variation into your exercise routine, that way you will not get bored with it and the effects on your diabetes condition will be more noticeable.
You are not powerless to prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes. All you need to do is have a more active, healthy lifestyle. By taking these three steps not only will you feel better physically and emotionally, you can also prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes

Reference:

According to the US Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP), while some medications may delay the development of diabetes diet and exercise work better. The DPP also found that in addition to a healthy diet, just 30 minutes of moderate physical activity a day coupled with a 5 to 10% reduction in body weight resulted in a 58% reduction in diabetes.

There is no need to go to the expense of joining a gym or buying any exercise equipment. Swimming or walking at a brisk pace is adequate exercise. The key point is to elevate your heart rate slightly for 20 to 30 minutes while you exercise. Introduce variation into your exercise routine, that way you will not get bored with it and the effects on your diabetes condition will be more noticeable.
You are not powerless to prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes. All you need to do is have a more active, healthy lifestyle. By taking these three steps not only will you feel better physically and emotionally, you can also prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes

Reference: Robert Reddin,here

Introduction To Diabetes

2009-11-21T01:19:00.000-08:00

Diabetes is a growing health problem in the world today. Did you know that approximately 20.8 million children and adults are diagnosed with diabetes in the United States alone? These numbers are growing every day. The exact cause of diabetes is not clear, however, lack of exercise and obesity are huge factors in the development of diabetes. This article will give some general information about diabetes.

Glucose is considered the body's fuel. We get glucose from the foods that we eat. It is not just sugar alone that is converted into glucose, but also starches and carbohydrates are chemically broken down into glucose. Without glucose your body would not function. All muscles and major organs in your body need glucose. But how does the glucose get to the proper destinations?

Insulin is the hormone that distributes the glucose to the liver, fat cells and muscles. A diabetic does not produce enough insulin or for some reason, his body is not able to process it effectively. When this happens the glucose stays in the blood and produces high blood sugar.

Diabetes can be classified into the following three types:

Type 1 Diabetes

In type 1 diabetes the body produces little or no insulin and daily injections of insulin are necessary to sustain life. This type is usually present from childhood and is also called insulin dependent diabetes.

Type 2 Diabetes

It is the more common type of diabetes and usually develops in adulthood. With type 2 diabetes, the body is unable to effectively use the insulin produced. Most type 2 diabetics are managed by diet and oral medications.

Gestational Diabetes.

This type develops during pregnancy and usually goes away after the birth of the baby.

It is important to know the risks factor of diabetes. One of the biggest risks factors is a family history. If you have a parent or sibling with diabetes, your chances of developing diabetes are very good. Also being over 45 years of age, being obese, having poor eating habits or being of African American or Native American descent can increase your chance of becoming a diabetic.

If you have any of the above risk factors, be aware of the warning signs of diabetes. Contact you doctor if you have any of these signs and symptoms:

- Increased appetite

- Increased thirst

- Frequent urination

- Slow healing cuts or infections

- Increased amount of infections

- Blurry vision

If you are diagnosed with diabetes, treatment will usually involve diet changes and oral medications. In more severe cases, insulin injections may be prescribed.

Diabetes is manageable if the proper treatment regimen is followed. Talk with your doctor and a good diabetic educator. Have your doctor set you up an appointment with a registered dietician. She can show you what you can and cannot eat on a diabetic diet. Check your blood sugar levels frequently. Educate yourself about all the treatment options out there. Lose weight and become more active. Getting a diagnosis of diabetes is no reason to stop living.

Reference:The Truth About Diabetes.,

Use Diabetes Blood Test to Keep Blood Glucose Levels Normal

2009-11-20T01:17:00.000-08:00

A diabetes blood test can mean one of two things. This is the first test run by a healthcare provider to determine whether you have diabetes. After a diagnosis has been made, you as an individual, will continue to administer your own diabetes blood tests.

Let's first discuss when a person should consider having a diabetes blood test to determine if they have the disease. Some common symptoms of diabetes are excessive thirst, occasional blurred vision, fatigue and constant hunger combined with weight-loss. If you notice these symptoms in yourself or someone you love, you need to consider seeing a healthcare provider.

Monitor the symptoms for a couple of days. Track and log the symptoms along with your activities surrounding these days. These activities would include when you went to sleep, woke up and exactly what you did that day. This may seem like an overkill but it will help you to inform your doctor of the onset of the symptoms. Even though they will most likely run a diabetes blood test for you, they may notice other patterns that may suggest something other than diabetes.

If you have diabetes, it could be one of three different types. Type-1 diabetes, this is when your body does not produce enough insulin to digest the sugar in your body. Type-2 diabetes is usually found in adults and is generally caused from lack of proper nutrients and exercise. Gestational diabetes only occurs in pregnant women. It is something that will be tested on every pregnant woman and even if positive, it goes away after birth.

After the original diabetes blood test was run and your healthcare provider informs you that you have diabetes. Your doctor will help guide you in the right direction when it comes to diet, exercise and blood testing materials. All of these are crucial to your health once you have the disease but the daily blood testing is the most tedious and educational piece of the puzzle.

Running a daily diabetes blood test on yourself helps you learn what foods and activities do to your glucose levels. Maintaining healthy normal blood sugar levels is your overall goal as a diabetic. Allowing your glucose level to rise too high or become drastically low can cause you to go into diabetic shock or even a coma. If this happens over a long period, more severe side effects could occur, like kidney failure, amputations.

Monitoring your daily sugar levels not only helps you and your healthcare provider with your particular situation, but it can lead to advancements in the disease. If enough patience monitor and manage sugar levels, doctors may be able to determine deeper root causes of the disease. Better dieting plans can be created, more effective exercise rituals can be implemented and many other possibilities.

Whether you think you may have diabetes or you already know you do, diabetes blood tests are crucial. Diabetes is a common disease and it is popping up more frequently today. The quicker you find out you have diabetes, the quicker you can get it under control and keep blood glucose levels normal. The more adamant that you are, about maintaining and monitoring your sugar levels, the better overall control you have over your health. The ultimate result is to live healthier and try to prevent further disease or side effects from shortening your life.

Reference: http://www.stopprediabetes.com

Pre-Diabetes - The Calm Before the Storm

2009-11-19T01:13:00.000-08:00

Remember when the medical world identified pre-hypertension to better monitor your blood pressure? The new buzz: Pre-Diabetes concerns a similar condition pinpointing people who are at severe risk for getting diabetes. Because diabetes silently invades your body, early detection and corrective action are critically important.

The goal with identifying pre-diabetes is to prevent the onset of diabetes from ever happening.

How do you know if you need testing for pre-diabetes? Good question. The truth is- You may not know. It's our human nature to wait until our body produces a pain or ache before we visit the doctor's office. With pre-diabetes, noticeable symptoms like frequent thirst and urination may not occur until the disease has progressed and is already causing considerable damage to your body. Most Type 2 diabetics don't have symptoms because the onset of diabetes is so slow.

Your physician can determine if you have pre-diabetes with two common tests. The fasting plasma glucose test (FPG) and the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). Both require an overnight fast.

The good news is that you can likely prevent diabetes with early detection and proper care.

Don't wait 'til it hurts. Ask your doctor about diabetes and have your blood sugar checked several times a year.

Reference: http://hope4diabetes.com

Effective Herbal Supplements For Diabetics

2009-11-18T01:09:00.000-08:00

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease, which is caused by the inability of the pancreas to manufacture insulin, or to utilize the insulin produced in the proper way.

This disease is considered the 7th leading cause of death among Americans; and over 15 million Americans suffer from one form or another of this disease. Diabetes has also been linked to causing impotence and digestive problems. It is important to note that controlling blood pressure and blood glucose levels, plus regular check-ups, can help reduce the risks of such complications.

Types Of Diabetes

There are two main classifications of diabetes, type I and type II. Type I diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes affects about 10 percent of people with diabetes. In type I diabetes, the pancreas makes almost no insulin.

Type II diabetes, or non-insulin-dependent diabetes, was previously called "adult-onset diabetes" since it was usually discovered after age 40. However, with increasing levels of obesity and sedentary lifestyle, this disease is now affecting more and more adolescents, and even children below 10 years old.

The Elements In Effective Diabetes Treatment

Effectively treating diabetes treatments can include many elements, as traditional and alternative treatments are available. A health treatment that is not classified as standard western medical practice is commonly called an "alternative."

Alternative therapy covers a wide spectrum of disciplines that include everything from diet and exercise to mental conditioning and lifestyle changes. Specific examples of alternative methods include acupuncture, guided imagery, chiropractic treatments, yoga, hypnosis, biofeedback, aromatherapy, relaxation, herbal remedies, massage and many others.

Promising Herbal Supplements For Diabetics

Health experts are hopeful that someday, there may be a safe, potent and proven herbal remedies for diabetes. Tomorrow's doctors may even be able to carefully prescribe standard doses of fenugreek to their diabetes patients. In addition, according to the September 1, 2000, issue of American Family Physician, the following supplements show good promise to warrant extensive, in-depth studies:

- Alpha lipoic acid. This acid is found in potatoes, broccoli, and liver. The antioxidant may help slow the nerve damage that affects a lot of diabetes patients. A study of 328 patients revealed that three doses of alpha lipoic acid, taken intravenously, substantially reduced pain, numbness and tingling associated with diabetes-related nerve damage.

- Garlic. This famous herb helped relieved diabetes -- in rats. Human trials, however have still been inconclusive.

In one such study, garlic didn't fare any better than a placebo pill. The study included only 20 patients, and it's possible that a wider trial would gather proof that garlic works for humans as well as rodents.

In another study, scientists noted garlic compounds protected low-density lipoproteins from degeneration and noted that these compounds may benefit diabetics and patients with heart disease. Lipoproteins ferry cholesterol to where your body needs it. Diabetics usually have an imbalance of lipoproteins that can lead to heart disease.

- Chromium picolinate. Patients with type 2 diabetes excrete more chromium than healthy people, and the loss of this important mineral could make it harder for the body to respond to insulin. Initial studies have suggested that chromium supplements can help people with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes control their blood sugar levels.

Reference:Prime Herbal - http://primeherbal.com

Diabetes and its Management

2009-11-16T01:06:00.000-08:00

Diabetes Mellitus is one of the most costly burdensome chronic diseases of our time and is condition that is increasing in epidemic population in the whole world. The complications resulting from the diseases are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality and are associated with failure of various organs such as the eyes, kidneys and nerves. Diabetics are also at a significantly higher risk for coronary artery disease, peripheral vascular disease and stroke and they have a greater likelihood of having hypertension dyslipidemia and obesity.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a serious disorder of the glands, of pancreas to be exact, called Madhumeha in Ayurveda. It is one of the most insidious disorders of the metabolism and, if left undiagnosed, may lead to rapid emaciation and ultimately death.

What are the types of Diabetes?

According to Ayurveda Diabetes is of two types: Diabetes Mellitus- Insulin dependent Juvenile Diabetes (IDDM-Type I) in which the body is unable to produce insulin and Non Insulin Dependent Adult Onset Diabetes (NIDDM-Type II) in which the pancreas produces insulin, but it is insufficient for reducing the blood glucose to normal levels.

What are the common symptoms of Type- 1 Diabetes?

Some of the common symptoms of Type- 1 Diabetes are:

Excessive Thirst
Frequent urination
Unexplained weight loss
Irritability
Weakness
Fatigue

What are the common symptoms of Type- 2 Diabetes?

Some of the common symptoms of Type- 2 Diabetes are:

Loss off weight
Numbness in hands or feet.
Uncontrolled infections
Pain in the limbs
Inflammatory chest infections
Dimness of vision, contrast
Excessive thirst
Body weakness

What are the different tests for Diabetes?

Urine Test: Some chemicals are added to a few drops of urine. Colour change indicates presence of glucose in urine.

Blood Test: In this, blood is taken to test the glucose level. This is more accurate test to confirm diabetes

Which parts of my body are affected by Diabetes?

Blood Vessels: Higher level of glucose damage the blood vessels. As a result of this most of the diabetic complications occur in blood vessels.

Heart: Diabetes affects the heart by: Increasing the amount of fat in blood and increasing the amount of homocysteine in blood.

Kidney: In diabetes because of increased levels of glucose, kidneys have to do extra work to retain essential substances and separate waste products to produce urine. This affects the small blood vessels and their capacity to filter. After many years of work, it leads to kidney failure.

Eyes: Diabetes affects blood vessels of the eyes. Damage to these blood vessels leads to eye problems like: Damage to retina, Cataract or total loss of vision

Foot: Damage to blood vessels reduces blood flow to the feet and increases risk of developing foot ulcers and infections.

Nerves: High glucose level for a long time damages nerves. Nerve damage reduces sensation in some parts of body which may lead to: Numbness and tingling, Fainting and dizziness

How do I know if my diabetes medicines are working?

Learn to test your blood glucose. Ask your doctor about the best testing tools for you and how often to test. After you test your blood glucose, write down your blood glucose test results. Then ask your doctor teacher if your diabetes medicines are working. A good blood glucose reading before meals is between 70 and 140 mg/dL.

Ask your doctor about how low or how high your blood glucose should get before you take action. For many people, blood glucose is too low below 70 mg/dL and too high above 240 mg/dL.

One other number to know is the result of a blood test your doctor does called the A1C. It shows your blood glucose control during the past 2 to 3 months. For most people, the target for A1C is less than 7 percent.

Home Remedies for Diabetes:

The best remedy for this disease is the bitter gourd, better known as ‘karela’. Eat this vegetable as often as you can or have at least one tablespoon of karela juice daily to reduce blood sugar levels in your blood and urine.

Amla, due to its vitamin C content is effective in controlling diabetes. A tablespoon of its juice, mixed with a cup of fresh bitter-gourd juice, taken daily for two months will secrete the pancreas and enable it to secrete insulin.

Take ten tulsi leaves, ten neem leaves and ten belpatras with a glass of water early morning on an empty stomach. It will work wonders in keeping your sugar levels under control.

The leaves of Butea tree are very useful in diabetes. They reduce blood sugar and are useful in glycousia.

Take two teaspoons of powdered Fenugreek seeds with milk. Two teaspoons of the seeds can also be swallowed whole, daily.

Eat 10 fresh fully grown curry leaves every morning for three months. It prevent diabetes due to heredity factors. It also cures diabetes due to obesity.

Reference: http://www.ayurvediccure.com/diabetes.htm

Reverse Your Diabetes Today! Is There A Cure For Type 1 And Type 2 Diabetes?

2009-11-15T01:01:00.000-08:00

Diabetes is a condition in which sugar is not properly absorbed by the body. Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes share one central feature: elevated blood sugar (glucose) levels due to insufficiencies of insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas.

Globally the incidence of diabetes is expected to exceed 250 million people by 2025 - resulting in 35 million heart attacks, 13 million strokes, 6 million episodes of renal failure, 8 million instances of blindness or eye surgery, 2 million amputations and 62 million deaths -that is a measure of the scale of the problem. While diabetes belongs at the top of the healthcare agenda, it has yet to be given that position.

According to the American Diabetes Association, there are 21 million diabetics in America; with another 54 million people having pre-diabetes (placing them at high risk for developing Type II diabetes). This equates to 75 million Americans having diabetes, or being at high risk.

Most doctors believe that diabetes is incurable... that's what they've been taught. The best you could hope for - according to what they learned in medical school - is to "control" this disease with medication and insulin.

And they're right... Diabetes is incurable if you follow most doctors' advice of merely suppressing your diabetes symptoms with pharmaceutical drugs. While prescriptive medications can help you "artificially control" your blood sugar, they do nothing to get at the root cause of the disease.

As we all know, prescription drugs (hypoglycemics) simply mask symptoms. They do not cure; actually they exacerbate the problem as they weaken your immune system. What is meant to help you out only make matters worse.

Sadly, diabetics taking drugs are 2.5 times more likely to die from heart disease than those treated by diet alone. And again, then there are the side effects of medication. These include liver problems (jaundice), anemia, skin rashes and sometimes, death.

Both oral anti-diabetes drugs and insulin are not health-friendly options. They hasten the onset of aging, and damage your liver, heart and other organs among other complications.

But there is a solution. Diabetes is curable. However, it is not cured by treating symptoms with drugs that only perpetuate the condition. Please understand, prescription drugs are the largest orchestrated fraud in human history.

The solution is to address the root cause of diabetes by stimulating your body to restore your pancreas and naturally produce more insulin, without the complications or side-effects of drugs and medications.

Why don't we hear about this information from the American Diabetes Association? The truth is, the American Diabetes Association are benefiting hugely from the current trend in diabetes. They are funded by pharmaceutical companies who would lose out if people reversed there diabetic conditions.

The treatment of Diabetes brings in over $10 Million Dollars every single hour of the day to Doctors, Pharmaceutical companies, and testing supply businesses. With that kind of money at stake Big Pharma is going to extreme lengths to silence information about natural cures and alternatives for treating diabetes.

But the truth is that reversing diabetes is not only possible, it is likely if you are willing to put forth the effort and follow some simple, proven steps. Everyday now more and more diabetics are finding that they can literally reverse this disease.

Reference:http://www.reverse-diabetes-today.com

Cure Diabetes: Calling For Double Trouble!

2009-11-14T01:58:00.000-08:00

Diabetes!!!

Open your eyes to the catastrophic effects of Diabetes. The mere thought of Diabetes brings so many questions and fears into our mind .Few people realize that thorough understanding and knowledge about diabetes can help tremendously in effective long term management. Diabetes is actually deficiency of Insulin(A Hormone secreted by small gland called Pancreas) which converts sugar into energy) or the low ability of the body to use insulin. Thus glucose levels in blood tend to remain persistently raised. Diabetes is responsible for development of various complications later in life. Diabetes welcomes Heart Diseases too like heart attacks and strokes (Double Trouble). Alone in US, more than 16 million people are suffering from Diabetes. People who are suffering from Diabetes are at more risk to Heart problems and Kidney Failures. Diabetes and its side effect occur among people of all ages.

What actually happens?

With the lack of Insulin in the body, glucose and fats are not converted into energy and they remain as it is the Bloodstream and with time contribute to Health diseases.

You can be Diabetes victim due to following reasons

a) Obesity definitely leads to Diabetes .

b) Individuals with impaired glucose tolerance or have high fat content in their blood

c) It can get transferred to you through your parents or ancestors.

d) Women who deliver babies weighing more than 9 pounds are susceptible to Diabetes.

e) Certain ethnic groups are more prone to Diabetes. Eg Mexican, Puerto Rican Americans and Cuban Americans can easily develop Diabetes.

Signs of Diabetes!!

a) Weakness and Fatigue

b) Frequent Thirst and urination

c) Quick loss of weight

d) Feeling hungry

e) Blurring of vision

g) frequent infections

h) numbness in limbs

Reference: http://www.weightloss-health.com

The Cure For Type 2 Diabetes

2009-11-12T01:56:00.000-08:00

I want to take the time to talk to you about the cure for type 2 diabetes. I'm not sure if you're exactly familiar with the mechanics of what makes up this problem, but it is all about insulin in the body. It's either the body not properly responding to insulin or it is unable to produce the insulin. The problem with this is that people are forced to regulate the sugar in their blood. They have to check it throughout the day, this is why you may have seen people pricking their fingers to get this reading. If diabetes isn't dealt with, it can lead to more serious side effects, such as losing the use of limbs and even going blind. I'm going to show you the cure for type 2 diabetes, so you can get past this.

Refined sugars are the biggest part of this problem. This is the type of sugar that you find in candy and other sweet things. As your body digests this sugar, your insulin levels will spike up very high and very fast. Than a short period later, they'll come to a crashing low. If you take other natural forms a sugar, they'll go up and stay at a moderate level for long periods of time. It's this refined sugar that has been causing a lot of the problems with diabetes.

The cure for type 2 diabetes involves the pancreas. Some doctors believe that the entire reason people run into this trouble is that the pancreas can't properly process the insulin. By building up the health of this organ, you can solve this problem.

Reference:Natural Cure For Diabetes.

Natural Remedies For Diabetes

2009-11-11T01:04:00.000-08:00

Life is too short to spend diagnosing the diseases. But there are certain diseases like diabetes that cannot be ignored at any cost. Minor physical problems that do not affect your lifestyle can be easily sidelined, but when these problems totally change your whole life, then what will you do. And to combat with such physical disorders, what you need is total and right awareness about them.

Here, we are going to discuss- what is diabetes after all. Diabetes is a disease in which your body stops producing insulin which is highly necessary for your health. Insulin is a hormone that converts the sugar, starch and other food into energy that you need to live in your daily routine. Though the real cause behind diabetes is still a mystery, yet both genetics and environmental factors are held responsible for its occurrence. And these factors are obesity and lack of exercise.

In United States alone, 7% of the total population is said to have diabetes, which is really alarming. Its highly unfortunate that still millions of Americans do not even know that they have diabetes. And this is very threatening thing for the future of the country.

But it can be controlled if diagnosed at an earlier stage, i.e. pre-diabetes. There are several tests for pre-diabetes and diabetes.

Diabetes Testing

Who says diabetes cannot be cured? Let it be made clear, that it is curable but with the right diagnosis. But it can only be controlled if diagnosed at an earlier stage, i.e. pre-diabetes. There are several tests for pre-diabetes and diabetes.

There is Fasting Plasma Glucose Test (FPG) or an Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) and both are used for both the diseases. But normally, FPG is recommended as it is easier, faster and cheaper to perform.

According to this test, if your fasting blood glucose level is between 100 and 125 mg/dl, then you have pre-diabetes. And if more than 125 mg/dl then you have diabetes. And according to OGTT Test, your blood glucose level is measured after a fast and also two hours after you drink a beverage rich in glucose. And now if your glucose level measures between 140 and 199 mg/dl, then you have pre-diabetes. And if at 200 mg/dl or more, then its diabetes.

These two tests are the most considered ones and that are easier or you can say, much economical to perform.

After diagnosis, if you are found lucky to have no diabetes, then congratulations! But unfortunately, if the reports are in positive, then you need to have the prescribed treatments. And if you do not believe in or cannot afford or do not want to go for the expensive and so-long treatments, then here are the natural remedies for diabetes.

Reference: http://www.top54u.com.

The Juvenile Diabetes Cure

2009-11-10T01:42:00.001-08:00

I here to talk to you about the juvenile diabetes cure that can help you cure this problem. Diabetes is really one of those problems that is a lot worse than what most people think. They see people pricking their fingers to get some blood and they assume that's as bad as it gets. This is a problem where your body has problem producing insulin or properly responding to insulin as a stimulus. It gets a lot worse than having to check your blood's insulin levels. If this gets out of hand, you can go blind, lose limbs and even die. It is an extremely serious problem and there is very little you can do about it. I'm going to show you the juvenile diabetes cure, so you can get past this problem.

Processed sugars are the real problem. A lot of people say that it is genetic and it's passed on by your parents. That may be true, but it is the sugars that people are eating that cause huge spikes and crashes in the bodies insulin. It's only a matter of time when these rises and crashes would result in a body that just doesn't seem to respond to it anymore.

The juvenile diabetes cure is actually quite simple. A doctor Robert O. Young has discovered that the pancreas could be having problems. It is the organ designed for the process of insulin and it could have been damaged by acids. All you have to do to cure this problem is to get the pancreas back up to a healthy state.

Reference: Natural Cure For Diabetes.

The Best Way Of Preventing Diabetes

2009-11-09T01:30:00.000-08:00

Diabetes can be prevented or, in some cases, delay the start of diabetes by taking charge before it advances from what is known as the pre-diabetic stage to being a full-blown illness. Pre-diabetes refers to the stage where you have higher-than-normal blood glucose, but not high enough to be classified as diabetes. Pre-diabetes can lead to type 2 diabetes if nothing is done to overturn the condition. A recent study called the Diabetes Prevention Program indicates that persons with pre-diabetes can stop type 2 diabetes from beginning, by increasing their physical activity and changing their eating habits.

Changing eating habits and beginning an exercise program has been proven to be an effective method of preventing the growth of pre-diabetes. Pre-diabetes can be reversed that is, sugar levels can be returned to normal with medication, diet, and exercise, meaning you can do something to ward off imminent, full-blown diabetes. What exactly is pre-diabetes? It is the sign to developing type 2 diabetes and refers to higher than usual glucose in the blood.

It is important to know that pre-diabetes can lead to type 2 diabetes, if left untreated. Fortunately, a recent study has shown that moderate exercise and a change to healthier ways of eating can help prevent pre-diabetes and possibly diabetes itself. Age also plays a role, as the older you are, the more likely you are to develop pre-diabetes

People whose ethic background includes African, Native American, Latino, and Asian are particularly prone to developing diabetes. If you belong to one of these groups and are older than forty-five, it would be a good idea to get tested for pre-diabetes or diabetes.

Doctors can tell if you are pre-diabetic by performing two standard tests, the results of these tests will verify whether you have pre-diabetes, type 2 diabetes, or if you are diabetes-free.

The test is normally done in the morning, and the patient is advised not to consume anything after 10 PM the previous night, you will then have the glucose tolerance test to measure your blood glucose level after an overnight fast, your blood glucose levels are then checked two hours later, if the range is between 140 and 199 mg/dL (milligrams per deciliter), you will be considered pre-diabetic. These levels are also a sign that you may develop type 2 diabetes soon after.

If your test is positively as having pre-diabetes, it is essential to take annual tests so that you catch developed diabetes in its early stages. Early diagnosis is truly the easiest way to get the disease under control before too much harm has been done to vital organs.

Exercise can return blood sugar levels to normal ranges. Preventing or delaying the onset of diabetes is your responsibility; make the lifestyle changes needed to improve your health today.

Thirty minutes of reasonable activity joined with weight loss is recommended by the American Diabetes Association as the best way of minimizing the risk of becoming pre-diabetic. Even if you are not in the grouping of people that are more subject to pre-diabetes or diabetes itself, appropriate health care and physical activity are very important regardless.

Controlling your health is dependent on the changes you make in your daily way of life. While avoiding serious illness is one motivation to having a physical lifestyle, in general good health and long-lasting mobility are two other good incentives.

Reference: http://www.lionel1.com/pain_relief/ http://www.xfactor-leona.com

Juvenile Diabetes Cure

2009-11-08T01:39:00.000-08:00

I wanted to take the time to talk to you about the juvenile diabetes cure. This is a horrible problem for people to have and it is twice hard for children to have it. Diabetes is a condition where the body is unable to properly produce insulin or isn't able to properly respond to insulin. A lot of people don't view this as a serious problem. They assume a person just has to check their blood sugar through the day and that's about it. This is a really dangerous problem. Diabetes can lead to blindness and can lead to a person losing their limbs. It is extremely dangerous problem people have. I'm going to share with you the juvenile diabetes cure.

The main culprit of this problem is all the refined sugar that is in our food. It's almost impossible to find something without it. A lot of people like to blame genetics on this problem and genetics probably does, but if people weren't eating the amount of refined sugar to begin with, there wouldn't be a problem. What happens with this sugar is that it causes the insulin in the body to spike and than crash. Normally it can handle that, but when it is done over and over again for a while it starts to become unresponsive.

The juvenile diabetes cure is actually quite simple. A doctor has recently discovered that the pancreas could be damaged. This is the organ that is meant to process all the bodies insulin. To cure the diabetes, you must heal the pancreas.

Reference: Natural Cure For Diabetes.

How to Recognize the First Signs of Diabetes

2009-11-07T01:28:00.000-08:00

Prevention is better than cure. This saying is especially true in the case of diabetes. Diabetes if recognized early can be treated far more easily than if left until later stages. There are some first signs of diabetes that can tell you whether you suffer from this condition disease or not.

The American Diabetes Association has recognized some early signs of diabetes and they are as follows:

One of the major first signs of diabetes is an increased urination frequency. This increase in the urination frequency is caused by the high blood sugar (or glucose) levels in our body. This increased level also raises the amount of blood flowing through the kidneys. This in turn results in more frequent urination.

Usually this increase in urination frequency is ignored as caused by a higher intake of liquids. However this should be treated seriously and it should be reported to a doctor. Apart from an increase in urination, your thirst will also increase. These two things are very much related. This is because such frequent urination can bring the body close to dehydration, which in turn results in a constant feeling of being thirsty.

Feeling hungry all the time could also be one of the early signs of diabetes. This is caused by either the complete absence of insulin in the body or its inability to perform its function properly. The purpose of insulin in our body is to actually transport the glucose from the blood right into the cells. Insulin also carries glucose to the cells which is primary source of cellular energy. The non functional or absent insulin causes a less supply of glucose in the cells. This leads to a feeling of being hungry all the time as the cells have not received any energy.

An unexplained weight loss is yet another early sign of diabetes. This is a very ironic situation as the diabetics usually tend to eat more. However the real reason behind this problem is the shortage of energy in the cells. Because of shortage of energy the body has to cannibalize itself. It starts breaking the muscular mass to produce enough cellular energy. This unexplained weight loss is often coupled with fatigue. This fatigue is caused by significant decrease in cellular energy. The lack of energy and fatigue can result in irritation and depression.

Another prominent sign is eye problems. The problems are usually caused by the increased blood volume from high blood sugar levels. This can cause the lens of the eyes to swell. This causes even more severe eye problems. So you see there are many things you can look out for which could indicate the condition. If any of these first signs of diabetes start to appear, it is time to visit the doctor and get a complete checkup performed. As mentioned earlier, prevention is better than cure.

Diabetes doesn't have to so be difficult to live with. Get all the facts on diabetes you need and make life a little easier.

Reference: facts on diabetes, Gestational Diabetes Diets

Beginning Signs Of Diabetes - First 8 Warning Signs Of Diabetes

2009-11-06T01:26:00.000-08:00

Diabetes is a serious condition that is lifelong and life threatening if not treated with respect. In the United States alone, it is estimated that over 20 million individuals suffer from this disease. Of those, it is estimated that at least 6 million have not been diagnosed. That is a lot of people that have diabetes and are not aware they have this disease.

What are the beginning signs of diabetes to look for ?

Many individuals discover they are diabetic only when they visit their family doctors for other ailments. It are these early warning signs of diabetes that many people attribute to other conditions.

1. Frequency of urination - This happens when blood sugar levels are raised, increasing the amount of blood flowing through the kidneys. Many people, as they get older, will experience increased urination problems. They write this condition off as growing older. When diabetes is the cause, it needs to be diagnosed. Left untreated, diabetes can lead to the kidneys failing and shutting down.

2. Extreme hunger - Because of the lack of insulin the body is not producing, the body receives signals it is hungry. This symptom is experienced when the body's energy is deficient from not receiving enough insulin from the blood stream to the cells.

3. Unexplained, or sudden weight loss - When the body is not receiving enough cellular energy, the body begins to break down it's own fat and muscle to replace the energy, the body is lacking.

4. Fatigue - Feeling tired and rundown is caused by the decreased energy levels.

5. Depression and irritability are no experienced as a result of the above symptom the body is going through because of the diabetes.

6. Extreme thirst is also triggered due to the diabetes depleting the body of energy.

7. Impaired vision can also be experienced as a symptom of diabetes when more blood volume leads to the eye's lens swelling. When diabetes is left untreated, blindness can be experienced.

8. Loss of feeling or numbness, usually in the feet, legs, arms or hands areas of the body. Experiencing any of these symptoms in any of these areas can be a warning sign of diabetes.

If you are experiencing any of the beginning signs of diabetes, you should get tested. Testing for diabetes is also recommended for individuals that are over forty-five years of age and overweight. Diabetes and pre-diabetes testing is diagnosed by checking the blood glucose levels of a person's blood.

These symptoms and others will progress in time and get more critical if the diabetes is present and goes undiagnosed and untreated. These beginning signs of diabetes should not be ignored. As this disease progresses, more complications will arise, putting your life in jeopardy.

This is not a disease that will go away by itself. Diabetes will only progress if not treated. In the United States, diabetes is sixth leading cause of death. To learn more about this disease, you can contact the American Diabetes Association online.

Reference: What Are the Causes of Diabetes, Diabetes Type 2 Natural Treatment

Diabetes: Different Types & Common Myths

2009-11-05T01:23:00.000-08:00

According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or properly utilize insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is required to convert sugar, starches, and other food into energy needed for daily life. While nobody knows for sure what causes diabetes, research does show that genetics and environmental factors such as obesity and lack of exercise play roles.

In order to determine if a patient has pre-diabetes or diabetes, health care providers conduct a Fasting Plasma Glucose Test (FPG) or an Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT). The ADA recommends the FPG because it is easier, faster, and less expensive to perform. If the results of a FPG show a fasting blood glucose level between 100 and 125 mg/dl then this signals pre-diabetes. A fasting blood glucose level of 126 mg/dl or higher indicates diabetes.

In the OGTT test, a person's blood glucose level is measured after a fast and two hours after drinking a glucose-rich beverage. If the two-hour blood glucose level is between 140 and 199 mg/dl, the person tested has pre-diabetes. If the two-hour blood glucose level is at 200 mg/dl or higher, the person tested has diabetes.

There are also several types of diabetes: type 1, type 2, gestational, and pre-diabetes.

Type 1: the body does not at all produce insulin.

Type 2: the body does produce insulin, but either it is not enough insulin or the body cannot use it properly.

Gestational: this affects about 4% of pregnant women; abnormal glucose levels result from hormonal changes in pregnancy

Pre-diabetes: this occurs when the person's blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes.

According to the American Diabetes Association, here are ten myths to be aware of:

Myth #1 You can catch diabetes from someone else (since there are no viruses/bacteria involved, it cannot be "spread")

Myth #2 People with diabetes can't eat sweets or chocolate (as long as the diabetes is under control, then it cannot hurt in moderation)

Myth #3 Eating too much sugar causes diabetes (there is a combination of lifestyle and genetic factors involved such as obesity)

Myth #4 People with diabetes should eat special diabetic foods (healthy eating habits for diabetics are the same for everyone)

Myth #5 If you have diabetes, you should only eat small amounts of starchy foods, such as bread, potatoes and pasta (portion size is what's important)

Myth #6 People with diabetes are more likely to get colds and other illnesses (if the diabetes is well-controlled, then there is nothing to worry about)

Myth #7 Insulin causes atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) and high blood pressure (no strong scientific evidence supports this)

Myth #8 Insulin causes weight gain, and because obesity is bad for you, insulin should not be taken (scientific evidence shows that benefits outweigh the risks)

Myth #9 Fruit is a healthy food. Therefore, it is ok to eat as much of it as you wish (a dietician can tell someone the amount, frequency, and types of fruits to eat)

Myth #10 You don't need to change your diabetes regimen unless your A1C is greater than 8 percent (the ideal range is less than 7 percent)

Reference: Andrew Martinez

Diabetes - What is Type 2 Diabetes?

2009-11-04T01:21:00.000-08:00

Type 2 Diabetes is by far the most common type of the disease accounting for 90-95% of all cases. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) estimates that 21 million Americans have diabetes and that only two thirds of them even know it. Type 2 starts in middle age or later. It is growing so rapidly because of the epidemic in obesity not only in the US but all over the world. There is no cure but there is plenty you can do to prevent it and then control it.

Type 2 is a chronic condition that affects the way your body metabolizes sugar the main source of fuel. When people eat food, it is broken down into a sugar known as glucose, which is then released into the blood where it is carried to cells inside the body. Insulin is made by the pancreas to help the cells use the glucose from the blood.

People with Type 2 Diabetes have insulin resistance which prevents insulin from processing glucose properly. Soon more and more insulin is produced to overcome the resistance. During the later stages of the disease as the resistance increases, the blood glucose increases to above safe levels, but the body can't use it properly and the body actually starves for more energy.

If left untreated and again most people don't know they have it, disastrous results are sure to come. It increases risk for eye, nerve, blood vessel, heart, and kidney problems.

Many people diagnosed with Type 2 are obese and have a sedentary lifestyle. Just getting older is also a risk factor, because as we age our resistance to insulin can rise too. 21 percent of people over 60 have diabetes-a scary statistic!!

The most important thing to remember, if you are diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes is that it is possible to control your diabetes instead of letting it control you. But it is in your hands.

Reference:Jack Krohn , DIABETES

Americans with Disabilities Act - Diabetes

2009-11-02T01:18:00.000-08:00

In June of 1999, the supreme court limited the way the Americans with Disabilities Act can be applied to
those suffering from diabetes, (referred to as the Sutton trilogy).

Prior to the June 1999 decisions, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the federal office that enforces the ADA, held that diabetics claiming disability under the law had to be evaluated on their condition without corrective measures. For example those with diabetes could still claim a disability that diabetes was controlled through medications, and without them they would suffer major life activities such as caring for oneself, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning, and working.

The American Diabetes Association has expressed great concern over the Supreme Court's interpretation of the Americans with Disabilities Act claiming that it unfairly constrains diabetics who are trying to control their condition with medication. If a diabetic does not attempt a medical remedy of the condition, the ADA does not apply, since in most instances, diabetes can be improved with medical intervention. However, by successfully controlling a diabetic condition with medication and the individual is not restricted from a major life activity, then the individual also loses the protection of the ADA. Complications of diabetes, such as diabetic retinopathy or diabetic neuropathy can in themselves affect a person's ability to work. An employee suffering from diabetes might require an individualized break schedule in order to check blood sugar, take insulin, or eat, which in turn might fall under the category of a "reasonable accommodation" on the part of the employer.

Surprisingly, in a large number of diabetes cases brought before the judicial system, the employer actually admits that the action being challenged was taken because of the person's diabetes. The case then revolves around whether the person was covered by the law (under the definition of disability) and, if so, whether the person"s diabetes would create a direct threat to others. However, in other cases the employer doesn't admit that it was motivated by the person's diabetes and, in such cases, the employee needs to provide direct or indirect evidence that proves that discrimination did occur.

Due to the ruling handed down in 1999, the American Diabetes Association advises members to look at both federal and state laws. Many states have disability discrimination laws that are more comprehensive than federal law.

Reference: Type 2 Diabetes Diet Information.

The American Diabetes Association Views Herbs and Nutritional Supplements Unnecessary

2009-11-01T01:14:00.000-07:00

The American Diabetes Association provides a great deal of wonderful information concerning dietary and lifestyle factors that affect the condition. The only area of information in which they are lacking has to do with questions about vitamin supplements and herbs to help stabilize glucose levels. The information here should help you make an informed decision about supplementation.

What Vitamins Will Help?

According to the American Diabetes Association, you "probably" don't need to take vitamin supplements. There are a number of organizations, health care professionals and dietary experts that would disagree. In fact, a number of respected scientists believe that the insulin producing cells in the pancreas can be regenerated with the proper dietary supplementation.

Malnourishment and severe nutritional deficiencies are rarely seen in the industrialized nations of the world. But, that does not mean that you are getting all of the nutrients that you need for excellent health from the foods that you eat.

Vitamin and mineral deficiencies can cause problems with glucose control. The American Diabetes Association agrees with that statement. But, they, like many other organizations, feel that you can get all of the nutrients that you need every day, simply by eating a wide variety of foods.

That's highly unlikely. For one thing, the level of nutrients in even our fruits and vegetables is not what it once was. For another, most people eat a lot of prepared, packaged or processed foods, which further reduces the food's nutritional value. Many experts feel that everyone needs a good daily nutritional supplement.

Are there Herbs that Will Help?

According to the American Diabetes Association there is not enough data on any herb to recommend its use. There are hundreds of research reports concerning the promising results and lack of side effects seen with herbal medicines.

The real problem is that the majority of research conducted in the United States is sponsored by pharmaceutical companies in search of synthetic compounds that can be patented. Herbs and other naturally occurring compounds cannot be patented, so there will never be enough data to satisfy scientists and researchers.

In some cases, there have been as many clinical studies on the safety and efficacy of a specific herb, as there have been on a new drug. The drug data is always respected, even though those same drugs may be withdrawn from the market next month or next year, because of unwanted, sometimes critical side effects.

How do I Choose a Brand?

It is true that the quality and content of a product can vary. If you are currently taking medication, you need to discuss possible interactions with your pharmacy or a naturopathic MD. Conventional medical doctors are not well informed about new research concerning herbs and vitamin supplements. Naturopathic MDs must be up to date and better informed. They can also help you with a "complete" treatment plan.

When you do decide to "take action", choose a supplement manufacturer that uses effectiveness through proper formulations and coatings. Also, be sure that they test each batch for purity. Just so you know, I like the American Diabetes Association; I just thought you should have a little more information.

Reference:http://www.diabetes-type-two-info-guide.com

Diabetic Retinopathy and What You Need to Know

2009-10-31T01:10:00.000-07:00

Definition: A complication of Diabetes, resulting in damage to blood vessels of the retina light sensitive tissues. It usually affects both eyes.

Who Is At Risk?

If you have Type I or II Diabetes, you are at risk. The United States statistics show that up to 45% (National Eye Institute Statistics) of adults positively diagnosed for diabetes, have a degree of diabetes. Your risk of developing Diabetic Retinopathy increases the longer you have diabetes and is highest if you have some or any of these presenting factors:

abnormal blood glucose levels
high blood pressure
raised blood cholesterol levels
you are pregnant
you are Hispanic or Black African/African American
you are a smoker

What Causes Diabetic Retinopathy?

The result of being diabetic means that your blood sugar or glucose, is not synthesized by the body correctly. When your blood glucose levels exceed the upper limit of normal, your own lens can swell and blur your vision. Over time, consistently raised blood sugar damages the smallest blood vessel, called capillaries. These capillaries normally function to provide nutrients to the retina. This can lead to Diabetic Retinopathy.

So What are the Symptoms?

Many diabetics have Diabetic Retinopathy without realizing it. As the disease progresses, the following symptoms may manifest:

spots floating in your field of vision (often referred to as floaters)
blurred vision
dark streaks and a reddish film blocking your vision
unable to see well at night
loss of your sight

Different Types of Diabetic Retinopathy

Classification is divided into early and advanced.

Early Diabetic Retinopathy is described as Non-Proliferative, (NPDR). Important points about this type of the disease are:

most common
can be mild, moderate or severe
blood vessel walls of the retina weaken
nerve fibers may swell
central area of the retina (macular) swelling (named, Macular edema)

Advanced Diabetic Retinopathy is described as Proliferative (PDR). The following points are important:

most severe type
abnormal blood vessels grow in the retina
new vessels may grow and leak into the vitreous ( clear gel-like substance in the center of eye)
scar tissue may form, causing retinal detachment
pressure may increase when new blood vessel impede normal fluid flow away from the eye
damage to optic nerve (the optic nerve projects the images from the eye to the brain)

At What Point Should I Consult With a Doctor?

If you are diabetic, it is best to consult an eye doctor (known as an Ophthalmologist), annually. For pregnant diabetics, your specialist may recommend more frequent tests.

It is imperative to contact your doctor immediately if your vision suddenly alters in any way, e.g. blurriness, floating spots or a misty view of the worlds results.

Reference: Christian Bayneaux, Retinopathy.

Diabetes Blood Tests

2009-10-30T01:08:00.000-07:00

Diabetes is an incurable disease which is caused by high levels of sugar in the blood. When a person has diabetes, he or she will not be able to break down the sugar in the blood on their own. To break down the sugar, extra insulin will be needed at regular intervals, and a special diet to control the blood sugar level in the body is recommended. This disease can be detected and should be detected at the earliest possible time, by means of a diabetes blood test. A normal healthy human being will have the capacity to break down any amount of sugar that is ingested with the help of insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas. In a diabetic person, the pancreas does not produce sufficient insulin and/or the body develops a resistance to insulin.
Either way, the blood does not receive the sufficient quantity required to break down the sugar into glucose, to be absorbed by tissues, muscles and liver. The diabetic person will have a very high quantity of unabsorbed glucose in the body. This is why a diabetes blood test is the easiest way to confirm the presence of the disease. Many people are not aware that there are 3 different types of diabetes. All are detectable through a simple blood test:

Type 1 diabetes – this type usually starts early in childhood. This is a very serious disease and it will require insulin injections throughout life, without which life of the patient can be in fatal danger.

Type 2 diabetes – this type is the most common type of diabetes; more than 90 percent of those who suffer from diabetes, suffer of this type. This diabetes develops in adult stage, and it usually takes a lot of time for the person to recognize the signs and/or diagnose it. This type of diabetes is on the rise because of the increase in the sedentary style of life, junk food and lack of exercise that is prevalent allover the world.

Gestational diabetes – This type of diabetes is a temporary diseases and it usually develops when a woman is pregnant.

There are many problems that develop when a person suffers from diabetes. You will find that there is excessive thirst, sometimes blurry vision, constant fatigue, and continuous hunger with weight loss. The type 2 diabetes sometimes causes impotence in men. Whenever there is the slightest doubt that diabetes may be present, a diabetes blood test should be carried out so treatment may start at the earliest possible time.

Reference: http://www.diabetes-info-blog.com

Types of Chronic Complications - Diabetes

2009-10-29T01:58:00.000-07:00

The chronic complications of diabetes are typically classified as microvascular, macrovascular, or neuropathic.

Microvascular complications result from the thickening of capillary and arteriole basement membranes. Although these changes occur in the small blood vessels throughout the body, they most commonly affect the eyes and kidneys, resulting in retinopathy and nephropathy, respectively.

Macrovascular complications of diabetes include coronary artery disease (CAD) and peripheral vascular disease. They result from accelerated atherosclerotic changes in the walls of the coronary arteries and the large and medium blood vessels in the legs and feet.

Diabetic neuropathy, the most common type of chronic complication, can be classified as peripheral (affecting the nerves of the legs and feet), autonomic (affecting involuntary nerves of the internal organs, such as the nerves that innervate the bladder muscles or cardiovascular system), or focal (affecting a single nerve or group of nerves). About 12% of patients have neuropathy when they're diagnosed with diabetes. After 25 years, that number increases to about 60%. If your patient has Type 2 diabetes, she may have sensory and autonomic dysfunction at the time of diagnosis because Type 2 diabetes is commonly diagnosed long after it begins.

As with many other chronic complications of diabetes, the cause of diabetic neuropathy is poorly understood. However, several theories offer possible explanations. In one theory, vascular changes that occur with diabetes may account for many pathophysiologic changes. For example, because many patients with diabetes also have cardiovascular disease, the blood flow to the capillaries that supply nerve tissue may become impaired, resulting in tissue ischemia or necrosis. In another theory, metabolic changes are the culprit. For example, sorbitol and fructose accumulate in the diabetic patient's nerve tissue, and the concentration of myo-inositol decreases in the Schwann cells of nerve tissue. Because less myoinositol is available, the myelin sheathes have less protection, and nerve impulses can't be conducted.

Stages of Diabetic Nephropathy

In a patient with Type 1 diabetes, diabetic nephropathy typically progress through five stages.

Stage I

Stage I, which occurs soon after the onset of diabetes, is characterized by renal hypertrophy, an increased glomerular filtration rate (GFR), and an increased glomerular capillary surface area. With tight blood glucose control, the GFR may return to normal. Microalbuminuria may develop, but it can also be reversed with tight blood glucose control.

Stage II

Stage II occurs about 5 years after the onset of diabetes. During this stage, the glomerular capillary basement membrane thickens, and mesangial matrix material accumulates. This reduces the filtration surface area and results in scarring. The GFR remains elevated.

Stage III

Also known as incipient nephropathy, stage III occurs 10 to 15 years after the onset of diabetes. Characteristic signs include persistent microalbuminuria, a high GFR, and increased blood pressure.

Stage IV

Stage IV develops 15 to 25 years after the onset of diabetes. Signs and symptoms include hypertension, retinopathy, and proteinuria that can be detected by a urine dipstick test. The GFR steadily decreases. Intensive treatment at this stage can help slow the progression of the disease to stage V.

Stage V

In stage V, renal failure progresses to the point that the patient needs dialysis or a kidney transplant. This stage generally occurs 20 to 30 years after the onset of diabetes. Signs include elevated blood urea nitrogen and creatinine levels and a rapid decline in the GFR.

Reference:

The chronic complications of diabetes are typically classified as microvascular, macrovascular, or neuropathic.

Stages of Diabetic Nephropathy

In a patient with Type 1 diabetes, diabetic nephropathy typically progress through five stages.

Stage I

Stage II

Stage III

Also known as incipient nephropathy, stage III occurs 10 to 15 years after the onset of diabetes. Characteristic signs include persistent microalbuminuria, a high GFR, and increased blood pressure.

Stage IV

Stage V

Reference:Prahalad Singh, diabetes tests, diabetes information

Cause of Diabetes Type 2

2009-10-28T01:06:00.000-07:00

Non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus also known as Type 2 is the commonest form of diabetes. Formerly known as adult-onset diabetes, it usually affects people aged over 40 and progresses gradually. In this type the pancreas has not ceased to produce insulin, but the quantity is insufficient, or the hormone is not stimulating the glucose uptake in muscles and tissues required for energy. The result is a build-up of glucose in blood and urine.

Although the cause of this malfunctioning is unclear, non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus tends to run in families. Other risk factors, such as increasing age, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle, probably contribute to its increased incidence in developed countries. Non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus can often be controlled initially by diet alone, or in combination with tablets that reduce the amount of blood glucose. There are two main types of blood glucose-reducing drugs: sulphonylureas work mainly by stimulating the pancreas's islet cells (known as the islets of Langerhans) to produce more insulin, and biguanides increase the effectiveness of insulin on cells. Eventually, however, patients may need insulin injections.

The aim is to maintain blood glucose at levels that are as normal as possible and to prevent obesity, thus lowering the attendant risk of cardiovascular disease. Acarbose, the first of a new group of drugs called alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, was introduced for treating non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus in 1993. By restricting the action of alpha-glucosidase, which helps digest sugars and starch in the intestine, acarbose can limit an increase in blood glucose levels after eating. more information on diabetes here.

Reference: My Most Trusted Website

Gestational Diabetes-Causes And Symptomss

2009-10-27T01:02:00.000-07:00

There are known three types of diabetes: type 1, type 2 and gestational diabetes. In this affection the glucose can not be used properly by the body and so, energy can not be produced in enough quantities. All this is due to a lack of insulin or a malfunctioning of insulin, which leads to an accumulation of glucose in blood instead of an accumulation of glucose in the cells of the body. Insulin is produced by the pancreas and its role is to take the glucose from the blood and lead it into the cells of the body where energy will be produced.

Diabetes type 1 is known to occur during childhood and was named as insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. The pancreas is not able to produce the insulin any more as the cells responsible to this process have been destroyed by the body. These patients require insulin injections permanently.

Diabetes type 2, also known as non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus occurs mostly during adulthood. In this case the insulin is not produced in sufficient quantities or it is not effective on the body cells.

In the gestational diabetes women have plenty of insulin but this does not work properly because it is blocked by hormones released by the placenta (estrogen, cortisol, and human placental lactogen hormone). This hormonal effect begins from week 20 to 24 of pregnancy. In most of the pregnant women the pancreas is able to produce more insulin to fight over the hormonal effect. When the pancreas does not produce additional insulin the gestational diabetes installs. The good thing is that this kind of diabetes disappears after pregnancy is done without leaving any injuries.

There are some risk factors for gestational diabetes. Women who have a family history of diabetes, who are obese, who have given birth of a very large infant before, who are over 25 or who have too much amniotic fluid can develop gestational diabetes.

It is best for all pregnant women to take a test for gestational diabetes. The usual test is the 50 gram glucose screening test. The patient does not have to prepare in any way for this test and does not even have to feast like in other tests is needed. The patient will drink a liquid which contains 50 grams of glucose and after one hour the glucose level in blood will be measured. If the level is found to be higher than 140 mg/dl than the test is considered to be positive. This does not mean that the woman has gestational diabetes. It means that a further test is needed: the 3 hour glucose tolerance test must be done as it can confirm the diagnosis of gestational diabetes.

This 3 hour glucose tolerance test needs special preparation from the patient. A diet containing at least 150 grams of carbohydrates must be followed for 3 days. With 10 to 14 hours before the test the patient is not allowed to eat anything, only to drink water. In the morning a blood test will be made, then the patient will be asked to drink a liquid containing 100 grams of glucose, and after 3 hour another blood test will be done.

Reference: http://diabetes-info-center.com/

Gestational Diabetes - A Cause For Concern In Pregnancy

2009-10-26T01:46:00.000-07:00

Gestational diabetes is a unique type of diabetes that occurs when a woman is pregnant. Approximately four percent of all pregnant women are affected by gestational diabetes. The disease is caused when the body is unable to properly process insulin, causing high levels of blood sugar, very similar to type 2 diabetes. It usually occurs during the second trimester, and often disappears after the child is born. Left untreated, gestational diabetes can cause harm to the fetus as well as to the mother.

What Triggers Gestational Diabetes? Gestational diabetes starts when a woman's body is not able to make and use all the insulin it needs for pregnancy due to hormonal changes caused by pregnancy. During pregnancy, hormones from the placenta help the baby grow and develop. But these same hormones make it tougher for the woman's body to use insulin, creating insulin resistance. In most cases, this isn't a problem: as the need for insulin increases, the pancreas steps up its production. But when a pregnant woman's pancreas can't keep up with the insulin demand and blood glucose levels get too high, the result is gestational diabetes.

Who Is At Risk For Gestational Diabetes? A woman may be at risk for gestational diabetes if she is:

over 25 years of age,
has a family history of type 2 diabetes,
experienced gestational diabetes during a previous pregnancy,
is overweight,
had a previous pregnancy resulting in unexplained stillbirth or an infant with a birth weight over nine pounds; or
is of African descent, Hispanic, or Native American.

Expectant mothers who have gestational diabetes may experience increased thirst, tiredness, excessive urination and other symptoms similar to diabetes mellitus. Unfortunately, those same symptoms are normal for any pregnancy. As in prediabetes, gestational diabetes often has no symptoms at all. The woman's blood sugar should be tested regularly by the prenatal medical team and at home, especially if she is considered at risk.

Babies Are Affected by Gestational Diabetes High levels of blood glucose circulating to the fetus can cause unusually large, fat babies. This is a condition known as macrosomia. Extra blood glucose goes through the placenta, giving the baby high blood sugar levels. The baby's pancreas in turn must make extra insulin to get rid of the blood glucose. Since the baby is getting more energy from the mother's high glucose level than it needs to grow and develop, this excess energy is stored as fat. Babies with macrosomia face health problems of their own, including shoulder damage at birth (shoulder dystocia) because they are too large to fit through the birth canal. Because of the extra insulin made by the baby's pancreas, newborns may develop very low blood glucose levels (hypoglycemia) at birth and are also at higher risk for breathing problems and jaundice. These babies also have an increased risk for obesity and type 2 diabetes as adults. Gestational diabetes has not generally been associated with birth defects.

How Does Gestational Diabetes Affect The Mother-To-Be? Besides suffering symptoms of diabetes, women may need a cesarean section delivery to be performed if the baby is macrosomic. Expectant mothers are also at increased risk for preeclampsia, a serious condition characterized by significant increases in blood pressure. Women with gestational diabetes are at greater risk of developing Type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure later in life.

An Accurate Diagnosis Requires Testing Pregnant women at risk for developing gestational diabetes should be tested between weeks 24 and 28; earlier if there are risk factors present, and especially if the condition was present during a previous pregnancy.

If you are diagnosed, treatment includes special meal plans and regularly scheduled physical activity, which helps lower blood sugars. It may also include daily blood glucose testing and, if necessary, insulin injections. Work with your doctor, nurse practitioner, and other members of your health care team so that your gestational diabetes treatment can be adjusted as needed. Following the prescribed treatment for gestational diabetes will help ensure a healthy pregnancy and birth, and a healthy baby.

While gestational diabetes usually goes away after several weeks, it is important to remember that you have a higher risk of gestational diabetes with your next pregnancy and a greater chance of becoming diabetic later in life. One or two months post-pregnancy, get a blood glucose test to ensure that your gestational diabetes is in fact gone. It is important to exercise, minimize weight gain, and maintain a healthy diet full of vegetables, fruits and minimal fats to ensure that you remain in good health.

Reference:http://www.naturaldiabetesremedy.com

Juvenile Diabetes

2009-10-25T01:54:00.000-07:00

Juvenile diabetes, also known as Type 1 diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes, is a disorder of the body's immune system. Juvenile diabetes is diagnosed in children, teenagers and young adults.

The exact cause of juvenile diabetes (Type 1 diabetes) is still unclear. The common belief is that juvenile diabetes is caused due to an insult to the immune system. This can be either infectious or toxic, which in turn causes the autoimmune response to alter pancreatic protein, resulting in inadequate insulin production. Let's make one thing perfectly clear, this type of diabetes is not caused by obesity or by eating excessive sugar. Children diagnosed with diabetes will require insulin injections for survival.

The challenges of being diagnosed with juvenile diabetes can sometimes seem enormous. It can be tough to find a private place to monitor your glucose levels and inject yourself with insulin while at school, or just out and about with friends. Diet plays a very significant role in the management of juvenile diabetes, so forget the junk food at the mall or pigging out at a party. Eat smart and eat healthy, and insulin injections have to be timed with your meals. Sticking to a time schedule is very important, so forget sleeping in late, because your blood sugar levels can drop dangerously low during an extended snooze.

The use of an insulin pump to control juvenile diabetes, may be a more convenient way of administering insulin providing more freedom throughout the day. Once diagnosed, several injections of insulin will be needed a day, the diabetic pump uses a small needle inserted under the skin on the left side of the abdomen, the bloodstream absorbs a small, continuous dose of insulin throughout the day. One stick, more freedom.

It is possible, to stay on top of juvenile diabetes and still do most things a typical teenager does. Having juvenile diabetes makes you part of a team. Your doctor, dietitian, and family are all part of this team. As with any team the decisions you make affect all members of the team. Peer pressure will always play a significant role in the decisions that you make. Having diabetes requires you to be more disciplined and have more fore thought about your decisions. Always remember that you control juvenile diabetes, it does not control you.

Reference: Type 2 Diabetes Diet Information

What Can the American Diabetes Association Offer You?

2009-10-24T01:43:00.001-07:00

Diabetes is a disease which can cause a lot of problems, especially if it's not kept under control. And the worst thing is that it can never be cured. It has to be monitored from time to time. Insulin is required in our body to convert the food we take - especially sugar - into energy. This energy is imperative for the proper functioning of the body, but when a person has diabetes, the body stops producing or using this insulin.

Diabetes can occur at any age. It can be categorized into different types: Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 occurs in children and Type 2 in adults. There is another type which occurs in pregnant women. But the good thing is, with proper medication and by following the right diet it can be kept under control

Usually, when something challenging happens in life, be it an emotional issue or health problem, you are perplexed by questions popping up in your head. Although diabetes can be controlled, you need to cope with the fact that it is a life threatening disease, and this can scare you. There will be many questions to which you would need answers for... Which type of diabetes do you have? How will it affect your lifestyle? How will you keep it under control?

You can find the answers to all your questions at The American Diabetes Association. This association deals with and works for the people suffering from diabetes by assisting them in every way they can, in order to make their life simpler and healthier.

There are professional doctors at the American Diabetes Association and so you can be assured that they will give you the best service possible. They will answer all your questions and tell you about the new lifestyle you should follow to keep you healthy, including the right diet and exercises for you.

You can also access the American Diabetes Association website to find out more information about diabetes. The American Diabetes Association also has its own forum where you can interact with people who also have diabetes. This allow you to interact with them online. By sharing their experiences with you, they will boost your ability to cope with your problem and assist you in dealing with it.

Especially in the beginning you can be very vulnerable, so having others who are in the same situation as you to communicate with, can give you the strength to accept your disease and to live with it.

Just knowing that you are not the only one and that there are fellow diabetics who are leading a full and normal life can actually give you the strength to go on. Your questions will be answered at the American Diabetes Association.

Reference: http://DealWithDiabetes.com.

What Can the American Diabetes Association Offer You?

2009-10-24T01:43:00.000-07:00

Reference: http://DealWithDiabetes.com.

Diabetes Type 2 and Treatments

2009-10-23T01:36:00.000-07:00

Diabetes type 2 is common to adults, also called the non-insulin dependents. Now, there are many types of treatments being made to the patients. The aim of treatment in all types of diabetes is to keep the blood glucose level as normal as possible by administering insulin, or by providing glucose reduction therapy. Diet involves ensuring that meals and snacks are so timed that the body's insulin levels do not become overwhelmed.

Hypoglycaemia results from excessive amounts of insulin or sulphonylureas; lack of food; or excessive exercise. It may occur in non-diabetics; in diabetics it occurs as a result of insulin overdose and lack of carbohydrates. Hypoglycaemia produces a low blood glucose level, leading to eventual collapse and possibly coma. It is vital for such patients to swallow some form of sugar quickly following symptoms of sweating, confusion, faintness, or palpitations. The opposite condition, hyperglycaemia, occurs when there is an excess of glucose in the blood because of lack of insulin treatment. Unless quickly treated in hospital, hyperglycaemia may lead to coma and death. Diabetes type2 and treatments may be taken care properly in the hospitals.

Generally, insulin is self-administered by patients by injection, or with automatic drug injectors attached to the body. Small pen-sized injectors containing a cartridge of insulin can be carried in the pocket for ease and speed of treatment. The causes of diabetes type 2 and the treatments to this problem are still being taken a great study and research right now. Having this disease is a big problem but it is still a good cure to prevent diseases from coming. More information about diabetes here.

Reference: : My Most Trusted Website

Diabetes Symptoms In Type 1 And Type 2 Diabetes

2009-10-22T01:34:00.000-07:00

In diabetes, the symptoms can vary depending on whether a person has type one or type two diabetes.

Before diagnosis the symptoms may be more obvious, but after treatment and the glucose levels are more stabilized, diabetic symptoms will often reduce or go away.

However, type 2 diabetes can be sometimes so subtle that there are no noticeable symptoms, and hence is only diagnosed with a blood test.

In this article, let's look at the symptoms can be present in diabetes, both type 1 (insulin dependent) and type 2 (non insulin dependent) diabetes.

The symptoms on type 1 diabetes

In type 1 or insulin dependent diabetes, the symptoms are serious and very severe when the illness starts.

The symptoms include the following:

1. Excessive thirst and excessive drinking

2. Excessive urination, otherwise known as polyuria

3. Loss of weight

4. Excessive hunger and eating. Notice how it's a condition where despite eating more, there's weight loss.

5. Feeling unwell, getting infections

6. And type 1 diabetes can present as diabetic ketoacidosis. In this state, the sugar levels are very high, there's acidosis in the blood, and even collapse and coma.

So when type 1 diabetes starts, it's a very serious condition that requires medical attention right away. Treatment is needed in type 1 diabetes and can't be reversed with 'lifestyle changes'.

The symptoms on type 2 diabetes

The symptoms in type 2 diabetes include the following:

1. Increased thirst and drinking

2. Increased urination

3. Recurrent infections such as skin infections eg fungal or bacterial amongst others

4. Long term complications of diabetes.

Long term consequences of diabetes include heart conditions, deteriorating eye health, kidney disease, peripheral vascular disease (blockages to arteries in eg the legs causing pain in the legs during walking), and peripheral nerve disease.

Many people at risk of type 2 diabetes are also overweight and have other associated conditions such as hypertension and hyperlipidemia.

So as you can see, there are various ways in which diabetes can present. In type 1 especially, the symptoms are serious and can be life threatening. It's important to seek medical care immediately.

In type 2 diabetes, it can present with similar symptoms or sometimes more subtle symptoms.

In both cases, it's important to seek the advice of your doctor about how to manage and treat the condition.

Reference:Matt Hamburg, diabetes symptoms and blood glucose meters

What Are The Symptoms Of Type 2 Diabetes?

2009-10-21T01:31:00.001-07:00

Type 2 diabetes, which is sometimes called non-insulin dependent diabetes, is a condition that develops over time. Your body becomes resistant to the effects of insulin resulting in increased blood sugar levels. Family history of diabetes and obesity are two of the biggest risks factors for developing type 2 diabetes.

Insulin is a hormone that is produced by the pancreas. Normally, insulin levels fluctuate in relation to the amount of glucose in your body. The level will increase after eating and decrease if no food is being consumed. The main function of insulin is to move the glucose to various destinations throughout your body. If you have more glucose than your body needs, the excess will be stored in the liver, where it will be released as needed. It is a complex balance between the pancreas, liver, insulin and glucose.

In type 2 diabetes one of two things can occur. Your pancreas will stop producing the needed levels of insulin or your body will become resistant to insulin. In both cases, the result will be high blood sugar levels.

Your body has ways of telling you when something is wrong. It is important that you know the symptoms of type 2 diabetes because, the sooner treatment starts, the less damage will be done to your body. The following paragraphs will give you an idea of what to look for in type 2 diabetes.

Extreme fatigue is often an overlooked symptom of type 2 diabetes. This is probably due to the fact that it is such a general symptom and is associated with other factors such as busy lifestyle, not getting enough sleep or stress. However, if you always feel tired and sleepy, even after a good night's sleep, you should see your doctor.

A drastic change in weight is a good indicator of diabetes. You may eat more because you are feeling hungry all the time. This will result in weight gain. Excess fat in the tissues causes your body to become even more resistant to the effects of insulin. The opposite is true also. You may eat more than normal but start losing weight. This is due to the fact that your muscles don't get enough glucose to exert energy or grow.

Blurry vision is another sign of diabetes. High blood sugar levels will pull fluid from tissues. This includes the lenses of the eye, making it very difficult to focus. Most vision problems will be resolved once the diabetes is treated. However, in a few cases, blindness can result from diabetes, especially if it is left untreated.

Another symptom of type 2 diabetes is frequent infections or slow healing infections and cuts. Diabetes interferes with the healing process. Increased incidences of yeast infections is a big indicator of type 2 diabetes.

If you notice that your gums are becoming red, swollen and inflamed you need to see your doctor. Diabetes will increase the risk of developing infections in your gums and in the bones that hold your teeth in place.

Your body is an amazing , complex machine. Listen to what it has to say. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, see your doctor right away. The sooner treatment begins for type 2 diabetes, the sooner your life can return to normal.

Reference: The Truth About Diabetes.

Diabetes Type 2 Natural Treatment

2009-10-20T01:28:00.000-07:00

Type 2 diabetes is getting increasingly common in developed countries. Other developing countries are seeing a fast emerging trend of the disease. Diabetes type 2 is caused by insulin deficiency and hyperglycemia. Although this disease is more common in adults over 40, it is increasingly seen in young teenagers and even children. This worrying trend is linked to the rising rates of obesity as well as inactivity.

MAJOR RISK FACTORS FOR TYPE 2 DIABETES

Here are some of the major risk factors for type 2 diabetes:

1) Age - As people age, the chances of getting diabetes type 2 is considerably higher. So for those who are older than 45 years, they are at a higher risk of getting the disease.

2) Overweight - Being overweight is another strong risk factor especially the person is heavier in the center.

3) Genetic factors - Having someone with diabetes in the family puts you at a higher risk.

4) Certain ethnic groups such as such as native americans, african americans, Latino americans, pacific islanders and Asian individuals who are at higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes.

5) People with high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels are at higher risk for type 2 diabetes.

6) Women at risk - women who have had a big baby of more than 9lbs are at higher risk of having type 2 diabetes. Other risk factors include women who had gestational diabetes, polycystic ovarian syndrome, irregular menstrual cycles and developing facial hair.

Of all these common risk factors, the most common are those who have family history as well as those who are gaining weight in the middle.

HOW TO CONTROL TYPE 2 DIABETES

Diabetes can be one of the hardest diseases to treat as it does not go away. It is always there with you, day in and day out. It will affect your daily life in what you do and what you eat. You have to be always conscious of your blood sugar as you can’t let it go too high to avoid complications. The next best thing you can do to help yourself is to control the disease.

The main cause of type 2 diabetes is insulin resistance and insulin deficiency. So the first thing you want to do is to help reduce the resistance of insulin. Exercising and losing weight can help reducing resistance to insulin and thus control type 2 diabetes. The other way is using pills which your doctor will recommend to you. However,due to the advance technology as well as rising awareness of using alternative way to treat type 2 diabetes, herbal and natural supplements are increasingly popular.

Here are a few of the natural/alternative herbs which have worked for many diabetics:

1. Bitter melon has long been regarded as the natural cure for diabetes. This fruit is known for its abilities to regulate blood glucose level. In fact, bitter melon is recommended by the Dept of Philippines as one of the best herbal medicines for managing diabetes.

2. Gymnema sylvestre is a herb native to the tropical forests of southern and central India where it has been used as a naturopathic treatment for diabetes for nearly two millennia. This herb has been shown to reduce blood sugar levels when used for an extended period of time. The active ingredient is thought to be gurmenic acid which has structure similar to saccharose. Extracts of Gymnema is not only claimed to curb sweet tooths but also for treatment of as varied problems as hyperglycemia, obesity, high cholesterol levels, anemia and digestion.

3. Cassia (Cinnamomum aromaticum or Chinese cinnamon) is a close relative to cinnamon. In fact, when cinnamon is said to be beneficial for diabetes, it is actually cassia, a less delicate version of the true cinnamon. A 2003 study published in the DiabetesCare journal followed Type 2 diabetics ingesting 1, 3 or 6 grams of cassia daily. Those taking 6 grams shows changes after 20 days, and those taking lesser doses showed changes after 40 days. Regardless of the amount of cassia taken, they reduced their mean fasting serum glucose levels 18–29%, their triglyceride levels 23–30%, their LDL cholesterol 7–27%, and their total cholesterol 12–26%, over others taking placebos. The effects, which may even be produced by brewing a tea from cassia bark, may also be beneficial for non-diabetics to prevent and control elevated glucose and blood lipid levels.

4. Chromium - Starting in the 1960s reports have shown that Chromium helps cells respond properly to naturally produced insulin. Current estimates show that 90% of Americans are lacking in this essential mineral nutrient.

5. Helps to improve circulation in the little capillaries in the hands and feet. Also valuable in balancing the digestion and strengthening the immune system.

6. Mulberry leaves is know to effectively help regulate blood sugar levels. Drink as tea can help to reduce absorption of sugar and carbohydrates. It is also a good source of antioxidants, vitamin C and carotene.

Beside these, there are others less known herbs for controlling diabetes. These herbs when combine together in the right balance can be very powerful in helping you manage diabetes. However, it is important to research on these supplements to ensure they indeed do what they claim. ProvenHealthCare.com provides informative reviews and articles on alternative methods of controlling diabetes.

It is not a doubt that more people are seeking natural and alternative treatments for their conditions. However, with so many choices in the market, choosing the right one for your condition is not easy. ProvenHealthCare.com provide reviews and information on these natural treatments so that you can make an informed decision to choose the best for yourself.

Reference: Audrey Lynn

Healthy Foods For Type 2 Diabetics - Tips For Diabetics Diet

2009-10-19T01:25:00.000-07:00

If you have type 2 diabetes, no doubt you know it is a serious disease that needs treatment. In addition to medications your doctor may want you to take, one of the most important things you can do as a type 2 diabetic is to follow a proper diet.

For most people, type 2 diabetes occurs because of a combination of lack of exercise and the wrong diet. The wrong diet can include too much food in general and too many calories consumed, but in particular, foods consumed that are high on the glycemic scale are of great concern. With type 2 diabetes, the body becomes unresponsive to its own insulin, which means the insulin does not work as efficiently as it once did and large amounts are needed to keep blood sugar levels down.

In addition to exercise and medications, diet must be adjusted to help keep blood sugar levels even. The most important foods to consider with type 2 diabetes are carbohydrates. Carbohydrates come in two basic forms. The first, refined carbohydrates, is a type of carbohydrate that causes blood sugar levels to rise rapidly. The second, complex carbohydrates burn much more slowly and keep blood sugar levels much more even.

One way to determine what types of foods should go into your diet if you're a type 2 diabetic is to choose foods that are low on the glycemic index. This means that these foods will cause less of a spike in blood sugar after a meal than those that have a high glycemic index. Among foods low on the glycemic index are most vegetables, beans and legumes. These are a healthy part of the diet not only because they digest slowly and keep blood sugar levels even, but they are very nutritious and also contain significant amounts of fiber, which can also help keep blood sugar levels even. These foods can also reduce certain types of cancer and other diseases.

If you're a type 2 diabetic, it's also likely that you have an unhealthy lipid profile. This means that the wrong types of fats are too high in your system, while the right types of fats are too low in your system. If you have too much of the wrong types of fats, you can have an increased risk of heart disease and circulation difficulties. By choosing healthy fats in moderation, such as the monounsaturated fats found in olive oil and certain kinds of nuts, you will help improve your lipid profile and therefore help decrease your risk of heart disease and stroke, among other diseases.

In addition, avoid drinking alcohol; if you must, do so only very occasionally. Alcohol is a two-pronged evil when it comes to type 2 diabetes. First, it can affect your blood lipid profile negatively. Second, alcohol is a refined carbohydrate and can raise blood sugar levels significantly. If you must drink alcohol, do so very occasionally and eat healthy foods along with it when you do so, to slow down absorption rate.

Finally, minimize or eliminate refined sugars in your diet. There are many healthy sweeteners out there that can provide the sweetness you need without raising blood sugar levels at all. Again, if you must eat sweets, do so very occasionally and only with the express permission of your doctor.

Follow your doctor's orders, eat right and exercise, and it may be that you can bring your type 2 diabetes under control completely, so that you no longer have this problem.

Reference:Dr.Eswararamanan VR, List Of Foods For Diabetic To Eat, What Are the Causes of Diabetes

Diabetes Symptoms, Causes & Types

2009-10-18T01:21:00.001-07:00

Diabetes affects the manner in which the body handles carbohydrates, fats and proteins. If neglected, diabetes can have serious complications. The diabetic people have high blood sugar level. The blood sugar level is regulated by insulin - a hormone produced by the pancreas, which depends on your eating habits.

The symptoms of diabetes included 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. These diabetes symptoms may be due to other reasons also.

There are two different types of diabetes.

Type I Diabetes (juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes): The reason for type I diabetes is due to pancreas inability to produce insulin.

Type II Diabetes (non insulin dependent diabetes or adult onset diabetes): This diabetes is a result of body tissues becoming resistant to insulin. It is usually hereditary.

If neglected, diabetes can lead to various complications such as damage to the kidneys, heart disease, nerve damage, hypoglycemia (drastic reduction in glucose levels). Diabetes is a serious disease and there is no treatment of it. However, it can be brought under control by proper diabetes diet plan. Fortunately, with a healthy lifestyle and with diet management you can lead a healthy life.

Reference://www.fatfreekitchen.com

Healthy Diabetic Diet Methods For People With Type 2 Diabetes

2009-10-17T01:54:00.000-07:00

All diabetics need to consult with their primary care physician before starting any weight loss plan. For a diabetic diet plan you will need to be carefully monitoring your sugar and a physician will be able to tell you the best way to lose weight without jeopardizing your health.

When you have diabetes your body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or your body’s cells ignore insulin. Insulin is necessary for the body to be able to use sugar. Sugar is the basic fuel for the cells in the body, and insulin takes the sugar from the blood into the cells.

For those who have Type 2 Diabetes weight control is the best way to keep your glucose in check. But for many people just trying to get started to have a healthy diabetic diet is a challenge in and of itself.

You need to start out your diabetic diet by changing your eating habits. Increase your exercise each day while maintaining a comfortable fitness level and only increase when you feel your body is ready for an increase. Doing too much right up front will only discourage you and you run the possibility of hurting yourself.

Here are a few tips to help you get started on your way:

* Start out simple. A good diabetic diet will decrease your amount of sugar, fats, and non-essentials from your diet.

* Start eating more natural raw foods. Not only are they healthier for you, they will fill you up faster while providing you the long lasting energy that you need to keep going all day long.

* Keep close track of your glucose levels as you start your diabetic diet. Have a running log of your glucose levels so you can better see how what you eat affects your body.

* Remember if you have been eating huge meals for a long period of time that when you reduce the amount of food you eat you will still feel hunger pains. To counteract that drink more water to fill you up. Once your stomach shrinks down you will no longer feel the effects of hunger pains.

* Track your calories and be honest. It’s going to shock you how many calories and fat grams those “diet” meals actually have.

* Should you still have problems losing weight after a few weeks on your diabetic diet then make an appointment with your doctor to discuss with him or her about some of the weight loss pills that are safe for diabetics to take, such as Sibutramine (Meridia) and Orlistat (Xenical).

* Don’t count carbs! Diabetics need carbs in their diets in moderation in order to help maintain a proper level of insulin in their bodies. So such diets as South Beach Diet or Atkins are not for diabetics. That is why I suggest you go back to natural healthy eating instead of trying out the newest fad in diets. If you are unsure of how many carbs a day you need in order to maintain your glucose levels, consult with your primary care physician first before you start limiting carbs.

These are just a few simple tips to get you started on your healthy weight loss diabetic diet as a Type 2 Diabetic. For more information and help ask your primary care physician before you start any diet even a back to basic diet such as stated above. Your physician will have several resources and ideas to help you be able to lose weight yet not have your weight loss plan affect your diabetes.

Reference: Rebecca Chan,http://www.weightlossquest.info .

Diabetes Diet: Enjoy The Benefits

2009-10-16T01:52:00.000-07:00

Diabetic diet plan is very important for a person with diabetes. This is a type of diet that makes sure that the person is under control as for this sugar levels in the body is concerned. Diabetes diet is very helpful in maintaining glucose levels in the body.

Diabetes is a common disease. Most people across the globe are suffering from this disease. If not given proper attention and care, especially on the diet one takes, this disease can prove to be really dangerous.

Since diabetes is a chronic disease, it does not have any permanent cure. However, with proper care and treatment, one can expect to live a long and happy life with this disease.

It is very necessary for a person to follow diabetes diet in order to maintain a healthy body. Most experts believe that there are certain specific nutrition guidelines one needs to follow with diabetes.

A) Here are some guidelines on the primary elements you require to include in a diabetes diet:

a) Proteins

Proteins are important to supply amino acids. Amino acids are really important for the process of tissue repair and also to maintain the levels of glucose during the process of absorption. These contain less amount of calories as compared to the fats.

b) Carbohydrates
These are very important to prevent ketosis.

c) Fats
One must focus on foods rich in saturated fats. Cholesterol should be completely avoided.

d) Fiber
It is important to reduce the glucose absorption rate. Fiber works towards facilitating urinary glucose excretion, stomach emptyfying process, reduction of blood sugar rise and delay in the intestinal passage time.

B) Remember that your diabetes diet should be completely devoid of the following food elements:

a) Potatoes, Sweet potatoes

b) Sugar, Glucose, Jams

c) Jaggery, Honey, Sweets

d) Fried foods

e) Mango, Banana, Chickoo, Custard apple

f) A lot of oil or fat

Try to include a lot of fresh leafy green vegetables and salads in your food.

C) Following a diabetic diet has a lot of benefits. Here are some of the benefits you can enjoy via following a diabetic diet religiously:

a) Benefit 1

It keeps a stable blood glucose level.

b) Benefit 2

It reduces the amount of insulin required in the body. Carbohydrates and lean meals will help you in this process.

c) Benefit 3

Better feeling of well being is another primary benefit of following a diabetic diet. Most people who do not strict to this diet tend to over eat and eat the wrong kind of food. This raises their blood sugar level and result in fatigue and general feeling of being unwell. A diabetic diet helps you feel unhealthy.

d) Benefit 4

Following a strict diabetic diet will not allow you to overeat and eating food that can make you gain weight. This results in keeping your body weight under control. This also reduces the risk of developing other health problems such as stroke and heart disease.

Following a diabetic diet has a lot of benefits than just controlling your blood sugar levels. Experts suggest that you should focus on a lot of exercises and have an active life in order to get benefited in the right way.

Reference: DIABETES GUIDES , DIABETES TIPS

Cats,Dogs And Disbetes

2009-10-15T01:39:00.000-07:00

Most people have the misconception that only humans can develop diabetes.

This however is not true

. Dear Hamlet, your mongrel can be diabetic. Pets to develop diabetes. This definitely can be down heartening but the pet owner should not think all hope is lost.

Many pet owners upon finding out that their pet is diabetic immediately wonder whether the animal would be put to sleep. This need not be necessary. It all depends on the age and the overall health of the pet in question.

Many pets diagnosed with diabetes have gone to lead very long and pleasant lives and yours should not be an exemption. You however have to put in time and a lot of commitment to achieve this.

Pets diagnosed with diabetes can live as long as non-diabetic animals and to achieve this simply means that appropriate attention is given to the pet when due. The pet owner must therefore be committed to the regimen and treatments provided by a skilled and equally committed veterinarian.

Feeding regimen must be adhered to strictly. The old practice where the cat or dog be fed one day and perhaps forgotten until a convenient time is no longer permissible nor acceptable. This can endanger the pet. The cat can not be "abandoned' at home when going on a long trip. She has to be taken along. Dear Hamlet can not be left with the neighbors casually again. The pets at this stage need a lot of extra care. You have to make sacrifices.

You can at this stage no longer take things for granted. It does not mean you have to give up your job or end your marriage. It requires that you pay attention to any strange developments and take note of these changes and attained to them immediately. Any sloth on your part can lead to serious complications and perhaps death. This ugly scenario can be prevented by simply adhering to the instructions already given.

Note that a diabetic pet means more money for the vet and the pet stores. This should also be put into consideration. Knowledge of this and its cost implications may determine whether you cut down on some of your expenses, or even buy a Do-it-Yourself health handbook or perhaps put the pet out of her misery. This last option should really be a last option!

Let me relate to you a story why vigilance counts.

There was a this man who had a monkey that he loved. He had a chain round its abdomen permanently to keep it from running off.

Unfortunately, this chain at one point had been bound to tight and it began to cut the skin. The owner ignored it. The wound later turn light green but by then, the owner was too busy with other commitments.

Within a short time, the poor animal developed locked jaw. It had contacted tetanus. The poor thing eventually died.

Such trajedies start innocently and hence that is why great vigilance is needed from all members of the family.

Reference: http://fightdiabetestoday.blogspot.com

Diabetes Has Become A Risk in Men's Lives

2009-10-15T01:18:00.000-07:00

This is true that men with diabetes have an increased risk of developing erectile dysfunction compared with men without diabetes. Erectile dysfunction in diabetes has many potential causes, including the specific diabetes complications of neuropathy and vascular disease, as well as conditions commonly associated with diabetes, such as hypertension, use of various medications or psychogenic factors.

Diabetic impotent men reported worse erectile function and intercourse satisfaction at baseline, and ED had a greater impact on their emotional life. Diabetic men with ED had significantly different trends over time in the Erectile Function, Intercourse Satisfaction, Sexual Desire, Overall Satisfaction, and the Sexual Experience.

It is well established that erectile dysfunction is a serious condition that becomes more common as men age. Many older men, however, report that they are never questioned regarding their sexual function even though older men can still have satisfactory erectile capacity and enjoy satisfying sexual relationships.

As you probably know, impotence is the main sexual problem experienced by men with diabetes. In fact, as many as 50-60% of men with diabetes experience impotence at some point. Impotence, also called male erectile dysfunction, is the inability to have and maintain an erection rigid enough for sexual intercourse.

The following factors can cause the problems men to experience diabetes-related sexual dysfunction:

a). Nerve damage caused by poor blood sugar control over a long period of time.

b). Circulation problems such as heart disease and high cholesterol, and others that relate to circulation.

c). Some medications such as blood pressure drugs, antidepressants, and stomach ulcer medications may have side effects that cause sexual dysfunction. Be sure to check with your doctor to see if any medications you're taking could cause ejaculation or erection problems.

d). Emotional or psychological factors such as depression, anger, stress and low self-esteem. These often contribute to sexual disinterest even if they're not the main cause.

e). Use of recreational drugs like alcohol and marijuana.

d). Low testosterone levels.

Now these days, several treatments are available for sexual dysfunction and it depend upon the physical and psychological factors specific to your condition. Cialis is probably the most well known drug that treats impotence.

Diabetes can lead to sexual problems for women also but not men only. These problems are often created by a complication known as neuropathy. Diabetic neuropathy is a nerve disorder caused by diabetes. Symptoms include numbness and sometimes pain in the hands, feet or legs. Neuropathy can also affect the nerves that control internal organs, genitals, small blood vessels and sweat glands of the skin, bladder muscles, and the gastrointestinal tract. These nerves are called autonomic nerves because they control parts of your body that you don't move voluntarily. Autonomic neuropathy is the type of nerve disorder that causes sexual dysfunction in men and women with diabetes.

Richard Gary writting here, it was really nice experience to visit this particular site about Erectile Dysfunction. In fact, what happened, I was just going through all the sites in which articles are posted by Medical practitionars related with impotency that time I got your site. It has nice articles and few of them are really informative for those patients who are suffering from impotency. By saying, it is just opposite of impotency but in Men's life, it has become great problem and disaster. But with the smartwork and hardwork of research teams and scientists, we have got the solution of impotency problem.

Reference: http://www.diabetes.org

Type 2 Diabetes: A New Approach

2009-10-13T01:22:00.000-07:00

Diabetes is reaching epidemic proportions. Nearly twenty-five percent of the population of the United States is either already diagnosed with diabetes, or has pre-diabetes or Syndrome X. Two out of three Type 2 diabetics do not have adequate control of their blood sugar level even while taking medications. For the first couple of years a person has diabetes, almost no symptoms are noted. By the time symptoms are noted, when complications set in, it is even harder to control blood sugar levels and take the necessary steps to remain healthy.

Most diabetics do not regularly check blood levels after the first six months following diagnosis. Many more are not keeping to healthy diet plans or getting requisite exercise. Most patients diagnosed with prediabetes or those diagnosed with the disease find their levels are not under control at their yearly check up. Only when they find themselves taking insulin as well as several medications for insulin sensitivity do they realize the importance of exercise and eating healthy.

Despite all the warnings warning of potentially life-threatening problems resulting from diabetes, most Type 2 diabetics are resigned to their disease and are not controlling it. The medical community is concerned about the seemingly unconcerned response are met with by diabetics who are not managing their disease. There are physical, emotional, and behavioral problems that put people more at risk of diabetes. The profiles of patients with Type 2 diabetes include excess fat around the middle, chronic stress, poor self-esteem, negative emotions, and unhealthy lifestyles. If the patient is not in the habit of taking care of their body, it is difficult to get across the importance of doing so after a diabetes diagnosis. Self-care is not one of the priorities for the average Type 2 diabetic. Most are focused on pleasing those around them and refuse to put their health first. Some don’t feel enough self-worth to work on controlling their diabetes despite the fear of life- threatening complications. They find it easier to go into denial or just resign themselves to the disease than to make the effort to manage it. If they do begin down the path to a healthier lifestyle, they often don’t stick with it because they don’t have the necessary support system. If they have had trouble controlling their blood sugar levels, they get discouraged, which leads to acceptance of the disease, and they quit trying to control it.

The most effective approach is a gradual lifestyle change. Behavioral changes are crucial for the newly diagnosed diabetic to succeed in taking control of their disease. The changes don't always have to be strict or drastic. There can be a gradual change in eating healthier meals, decreasing refined sugar consumption, adding exercise, and getting more sleep. The goal is to empower the patient to make choices that are fun, healthy, and personally motivating. It is important to have a support structure in place to encourage and recognize the diabetic's success.

The bottom line is, the patient has to desire better health. You can’t impose good health on anyone. Many who already have diabetes or are predisposed to the disease are struggling with other symptoms of low self-esteem. A group of supporters that understand their issues and suggest better ways to take care of their health may be all that a diabetic needs to aid them taking care of themselves before it is too late.

Reference: Barbara Smith, health and wellness, healthy living

Natural And Herbal Cure Of Diabetes

2009-10-12T01:17:00.000-07:00

With the failure of the over the counter medications, the herbs have re-emerged as the dominant powers in the treatment of diabetes. According to Chinese Medicine, diabetes is not considered as a disease as such. It is a condition of disharmony. The major symptoms are severe thirst and hunger. At the same time, in spite of the excessive hunger, you lose weight. There are many Chinese herbs that were used traditionally for the treatment of diabetes. These herbs are now the subject matter of extensive research. The results of the research are encouraging.

One such Chinese herb that has shown its mettle in the treatment of diabetes is mai men dong. The sole problem in the treatment of diabetes, is to maintain the level of insulin. Research done on this herb indicates its right potential. Through this herb, the Chinese researchers have shown the capability to stimulate regeneration of cells. The cells in question are in the Islets of Langerhans in the pancreas. These are the cells that owe responsibility for appropriate production of insulin. If this process is taken care of, perhaps you are taking care of the diabetes.

Another Chinese herb that has the capability to reduce the blood sugar level is tian hua fen. It is now extensively used in herbal formulations to treat diabetes.

A vegetable extensively grown in India, bitter melon, is known to lower the blood sugar levels. It is dried and then used in the powder form as well. This vegetable has antibacterial and antiviral properties.

There is another important treatment for diabetes, on which not much research seems to have been done, but traditionally, it is very popular. Take fresh curry leaves (4 to 5 leaves), in the morning on the empty stomach, after properly masticating it. Continue with this schedule for about 6 months. Even the chronic diabetes will be cured once for all.

When you are told about the qualities of herbs that have the potentiality to give you relief in your diabetic condition, do not be under the impression that herbs alone will do the job. You need to review your food habits extensively and decide what went wrong with you, which made the entry of diabetes in your body easy and possible. It is no use if you take the herbal medicines on the one side and continue with your junk food and ice creams on the other side. You need to change your lifestyle according to the needs of your body.

The supreme advantage of herbal medicines in the treatment of diabetes is that they have no side effects. If at all they are there, they are not harmful, but beneficial!

Reference: http://www.diabitieslife.com/diabetes/

Cure For Diabetes

2009-10-10T01:11:00.000-07:00

In order to look for a cure for diabetes we must understand what causes diabetes in the first place and then we can start to work on a cure.

Diabetes is an ailment that affects the levels of insulin in a person’s body. There are basically three forms of this disease and these are type 1, type 2 and gestational diabetes. All these forms of Diabetes relate directly to the insulin levels and how our body functions under this altered state.

Basic information on the Types of Diabetes

1. Type 1 diabetes

In this disease the individual’s auto immune system attacks and reduces the pancreatic beta cells from producing the necessary insulin for the body to function properly. When the pancrius is not functioning as it should the production of natural insulin is reduced below optimum levels or is in fact stopped altogether which has dangerous implications for other functions of the body.

2. Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. It actually accounts for more than 90% of all cases of diabetes. With this disease the body does not make or properly use insulin, a hormone that helps convert sugar, starches and other foods into energy. Eventually a person's body will stop producing insulin if they have this disease. Unfortunately, it is not yet known why this happens. However, genetics and environmental factors do play a role. .

Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes occurs only with women and only during pregnancy. Unlike Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, gestational diabetes has no recognizable symptoms. The only way to know if you have it is through regular blood screenings throughout your term. These screenings are blood tests where you have to fast overnight, then are given a sugary drink to see how your body reacts. You need two positive readings before you are diagnosed with gestational diabetes.

Cures For Diabetes

For Gestational diabetes the cure is actually very simple. Since some hormones produced in a pregnant woman’s body promotes some tissues to resist insulin, the cure for diabetes in pregnant women is to give birth. Your doctor will suggest a diet that will assist in keeping your blood sugars in check during your pregnancy.

However, doctors have no actual “cure” for diabetes types 1 & 2at the moments. What they do now to “cure” diabetes is to present alternatives to patients who suffer from this disease. As an actual cure for diabetes is not available there are however cures for the symptoms which are readily available.

For Type 1 diabetes and Type 2 diabetes, most doctors either recommend changing the patient’s diet and keeping a close watch or in more severe cases, injecting insulin into the body during times when it becomes too low.

Research is currently underway where replacing the defective beta cells that produce insulin in order to refresh the pancreatic cells. This method of cure for diabetes is still undergoing experimental tests and has not been made available for public use.. So far, the research and studies have brought to light the potential problem of needing long maintenance medication in order to support the transplanted beta cells.

Although there is still a long way to go before any cure for diabetes can actually become a reality. With the rapid improvements in experimentation you should keep track of the progress that researchers and pharmaceutical companies are making towards finding a cure for diabetes.

While waiting for this cure for diabetes, you should keep healthy with plenty of regular exercise and a healthy natural diet keeping away from all those fatty, oily foods your body will be in good shape awaiting the day when the cure becomes a reality.

Reference: http://www.diabetes.com

Diabetes Cure- A Dream Or A Reality?

2009-10-09T01:14:00.000-07:00

As the number of diabetes cases steadily grows, those diagnosed and involved in the care of diabetes patients have elected to focus on three options: prevent, cure and provide better care for those afflicted.

Many look to prevent diabetes by organizing programs that educate and bring public awareness to the various aspects of diabetes. By reaching the masses and bringing this awareness, those who heed the value of the message can keep themselves from becoming one of the millions of sufferers.

Stopping complications of diabetes are some of the reasons why so much research is done today all over the world. Even with daily insulin shots, can type 1 diabetes patients still develop complications. Sometimes with good sugar control the process of deterioration continues to go on. The diabetes industry had to try finding alternative ways to curb the problem.

Special groups raise millions of dollars every year to help fund research for a diabetes cure in the hope that soon, loved ones will no longer be ravaged by its complications. Advances in technology continue to help provide better care for those who suffer from the complications of diabetes and make life a happy healthy journey.

Alternative Approaches to Curing Diabetes Also Being Pursued:

•Pancreas cell transplants. Doctors are transplanting islet cells from a donor pancreas to provide a cure for some patients.
•Development of artificial pancreas cells
•Genetic manipulation with fat and/or muscle cells that don’t normally make insulin, yet are able to do so when a human insulin gene is inserted

Each of these approaches presents a unique challenge. Be it preventing the rejection of the procedure by the immune system itself to finding an adequate number of insulin cells and keeping them alive, rest assured that each challenge is being met with progress and great strides are consistently being made in the search for a cure to diabetes.

Although much have been done so far, the challenge of finding a cure for most of the diabetic patients out there is still wide open

Reference:www.thediabetesdoc.com

Diabetes Cure

2009-10-08T01:08:00.000-07:00

At this time there is no specific cure for diabetes, but research continues to try to find a way to end this disease, rather than just treating and managing it as is now done. The problem with just treating and controlling diabetes is that it requires constant care, attention, and medications that continue to change over an individual’s life. Many people with diabetes are not treated and may be unaware of the condition. This leads to further complications including kidney disease, circulation problems, cardiovascular disease, vision problems, and elevated heart attack and stroke risk. It is estimated that only a third of all diabetics are treated, the other two thirds are not being treated for the condition.

Research continues to focus on curing, preventing and managing diabetes. While there are significant advancements in managing and preventing diabetes, it is public knowledge and education that allows people to understand the symptoms of diabetes and prediabetes, and start prevention programs. Since many people are unaware of the symptoms, they don’t use the prevention programs. Many school health programs now offer advice on diet, exercise and lifestyle choices that will reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.

In addition to working on prevention and management there is ongoing research to find a cure for diabetes. There are several surgical or medical procedures being tested to cure diabetes, but at this time they are still largely experimental.

Islet cell transplants

Recent advances have been made in the transplantation of islet cells into the body. Islet cells are made up of two types of cells:

* alpha cells, which make glucagon, a hormone that raises the level of glucose in the blood
* beta cells, which make insulin

It is hoped that the production of insulin in the body with this transplant would eliminate the need for daily injections that type 1 diabetes have to do.

The side effects of this transplant include rejection of the cells by the body and reactions to the immunosuppressive drugs. These side effects are very serious and include mouth sores, intestinal disorders, kidney function impairment and increased risk of cancer and other tumors.

Pancreas transplant

This is the full surgical transplant of the complete pancreas. Usually this procedure is only done if the kidneys are being transplanted as well. Again, there are many complications with the procedure, and the side effects of the immunosuppressive drugs may be more dangerous and risky than the continued injection of insulin. There is a fairly high rate of rejection for this procedure, but progress continues to be made.

There is also a process to implant an artificial pancreas, but this is still in the development phase. Many researchers believe that this will prevent rejection problems once the artificial pancreas is perfected.

Genetic manipulation

This cure for diabetes would allow insulin producing cells to be made out of regular cells by inserting the insulin producing gene. This would avoid the need for invasive surgery and would prevent most of the risks associated with surgical procedures.

While at this time there is not a definite cure for diabetes, the research is ongoing. New advances in genetic and medical practices and research will hopefully result in a cure for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes in the future.

Reference:http://www.diabeticdietsecrets.com/diabetictips.htm.

Natural Cures For Diabetes - How To Cure Diabetes Naturally

2009-10-07T01:05:00.000-07:00

A good diet is the key to good health. While in some cases diabetes is caused due to genetic factors or other triggers, more often than not it is diets rich in sugar that lead to blood sugar problems later in life. Every diet has the scope to be tweaked a little bit so that you can ward off the danger of diabetes. If you are overweight, have high blood pressure, low HDL, and eat a lot of processed foods, you fall in the high-risk category.

Everyone ought to slowly wean themselves off highly processed junk food and shift to leaner, more natural alternatives. You can also use the three natural cures for diabetes tips which are listed below:

Diabetes and magnesium

In a study done in England on 11,000 women in the high-risk category, it was shown that those with a high magnesium intake were 27 per cent less susceptible to diabetes. According to research, magnesium is known to lower blood pressure, relax the heart muscles, and controls homocysteine, which is a known trigger for heart disease and diabetes. Magnesium also catalyzes the enzyme system in the body to convert nutrients into energy. Magnesium also relaxes the muscles and reduces muscle spasms.

Dark green leafy vegetables, nuts, avocados and whole grain are excellent sources of magnesium.

Diabetes and Cinnamon

Research has shown that using cinnamon in your diet on a regular basis helps reduce blood glucose levels by 18-29%. In addition, it also reduces other diabetes risk factors like triglyceride (which shows a 30% decline) and LDL cholesterol (a 25% decrease).

Cinnamon contains an extract called Cinnulin PF. This extract works at the cellular level and increases the sensitivity of insulin cell receptors by three times. Poor response of insulin cell receptors is often a major problem in diabetics, which makes cinnamon an important diabetes inhibitor. TI is advisable to consume about 500mg of cinnamon extract, twice a day.

Glucotor 2-a Diabetics' Formulation

Glucotor 2 is a completely natural formula prepared with the specific needs of diabetics in mind. It contains prickly pear cactus, fenugreek, cinnulin PF, bitter melon and gymnema sylvestre, all of which are very beneficial in diabetes control. Glucotor 2 which follows its very successful predecessor Glucotol 1, has been rendered even more powerful by the addition of cinnulin PF cinnamon extracts. Glucotol 1 has a very illustrious history in battling high blood sugar, with a number of true life testimonies to its credit. Glucotor 2 only improves on it, as it adds Cinnulin PF and magnesium, both of which are effective in controlling diabetes. Both these components have been proved efficacious not just for blood sugar control, but also in preventing heart disease.

So, while you may have actually tweaked your eating habits to avoid fatty, high processed foods, you should surely also add a daily dose of Glucotor 2 to your diet plan to ensure even better protection against diabetes and cardiovascular problems. And you need not fear any harmful side effects from Glucotor 2-it is a tried and tested natural remedy that is uses no artificial chemicals in its preparation.

Reference: 6 tips on how to lower blood sugar naturally.

Diabetes Sufferers - News You Need To Know

2009-10-06T01:09:00.000-07:00

Diabetes has become one of the biggest cash cows of the Medical industry; reaping in a staggering 10 million plus dollars a day. It is no wonder that there are so many ads on television with famous actors and musicians telling you that you can get your diabetes supplies delivered free to your home. But what those ads are not telling you is that there is a proven diabetes cure for over 95% of type 2 diabetes and 65% for type 1 diabetes. They do not want you to know that, and in fact, the pharmaceutical industry is at this very moment trying to get one of the ingredients of this known cure off the shelves and behind the counter.

Diabetes affects over 18 million people, another 15 million may not yet be diagnosed, and that is in the United States alone! Currently diabetes is the 3rd leading cause of death in America. The cause of diabetes is that the body does not produce, or properly use, the insulin necessary for the body to absorb glucose (sugar). This glucose then accumulates in the bloodstream until levels get dangerously high. This condition then leads to diabetes symptoms such as: lack of energy, unusual weight gain, restless sleep, blurred vision, and tingling sensations in the affected individual.

The reason so many individuals may have diabetes symptoms and are not diagnosed, is because one symptom of diabetes is a feeling of nausea. This is most likely because we all seem to be working harder and longer than ever before in an attempt to avoid falling behind in our daily routine. Therefore, feelings of fatigue and tiredness are usually associated with the price of living in the 21st century. Another symptom of diabetes is the need to urinate more frequently and usually goes unnoticed. The fact is, however, that all of these can point to the onset of diabetes.

If you, or some one you hold dear, has been diagnosed with diabetes then you have probably noticed that recently in magazines, books, on TV and the internet, there has been much talk about a possible natural cure for diabetes. The fact is, a Canadian University has been researching, for more than 20 years, a combination of herbs that have consistently been shown to provide lasting relief from diabetes, type one and type 2. This same combination has been heralded as a "Final Cure for Diabetes" by the Asian Diabetic Association. This natural diabetes cure has also been proven by several independent clinical studies to regulate blood sugar, and consequently in most cases, eliminate the need for costly and painful testing and injections.

This combination of vitamins and herbs for diabetes treatment, work three ways in the body to affect a diabetes cure. First they reduce blood sugar levels by blocking glucose absorption in the intestine and thus prevent adrenal hormones from stimulating the liver to produce glucose. Second, they eliminate insulin resistance by repairing cell receptors to better recognize insulin. Cells are then much more effective at metabolizing glucose which further normalizes blood sugar levels. Thirdly, they normalize insulin production, this stimulates increased production of an organic compound that is naturally produced by the body. For those who suffer from "type 2 diabetes", this organic compound is converted to insulin, normalizing and relieving stress on the pancreas, which allows it to heal. For those suffering from "type 1 diabetes," the aforementioned conversion is not possible due to destroyed beta cells. But nevertheless, this organic compound remains in the body and functions like insulin as a natural replacement.

The vitamin and herb treatment for diabetes that has shown the best results in clinical tests consist of: Zinc, Chromium, Biotin, Banaba, Bitter Melon, Cinnamon, Gymnema Sylvestre, and Huckleberry. Each of these ingredients offer there own healing abilities, but in combination, they have been proven to work miracles in healing the body of the imbalances created when someone has reached a diagnosis of diabetes. In addition, several of these vitamins and herbs have been shown to correct other illnesses in the body such as hypertension or high blood pressure.

In conclusion, it must be remembered that simply ingesting a random amount of these vitamins and herbs for diabetes treatment won't necessarily provide the optimum healing qualities that are required to affect a diabetes cure.

Reference:http: http://GreatNewsHealth.com/

How to Live With Diabetes and Manage Your Health

2009-10-05T01:26:00.000-07:00

There is no argument about the fact that diabetes is a serious health condition. Currently there is no medically proven cure for diabetes. The disease can't be cured, but thankfully it can be successfully managed with the appropriate changes in lifestyle. If the disease is left untreated it invites many diabetic complications like heart stroke, heart attack, kidney failure, amputation, blindness and erectile dysfunction. If diabetes is diagnosed at an early stage the risk of diabetic complications can be reduced by the efficient management of the disease.

Diabetics can enjoy a healthy life by following these 10 steps:

Eat Well

Diabetics should enjoy healthy foods that are low in sugar, saturated fats and salts. It is recommended that they should consume a diet that is high in fiber. Examples of such foods are cereals, whole grain bread, vegetables and fruits. Diabetics should keep a close eye on the portion size of the food. You should try not to eat more than they consume, with the goal being to control weight gain. The vegetarian lifestyle is better overall for your health, as the vegetables are rich in fiber and they put a check on the weight gain.

Be Active

You should try to bring maximum physical activity to your life. Aim for at least for 30 minutes of exercise daily.

Stop Smoking

It is better to quit smoking. If it is difficult, one should consult a physician that can assist him.

Monitor Blood Sugar Level

The blood sugar levels should be regularly monitored. You can prevent the diabetic complications by keeping the blood sugar level in control.

Drink in Moderation

If you drink alcohol, either quit it or try to have it in moderation.

Weight Control

Keep a track of the waist size and the weight. If you are overweight it can make a reasonable difference in his blood sugar levels by losing some weight.

Annual Tests

Go regularly for the annual tests recommended for diabetics.

Foot Examination

Examine the feet well. Use well fitted socks and comfortable shoes. Be aware of any cut or injuries on feet.

Eye Examination

Have an eye examination annually by an optician.

Positive Attitude

Keep a positive attitude towards life

Changing your lifestyle with the help of the above mentioned steps can help you to keep diabetes in control. It will also enable you to live a happy and healthier life and enjoy all the benefits.

Diabetest can't be cured, but it can be successfully managed if you stick to a diabetes diet and learn to live with your condition.

Reference: http://www.livingwithdiabetesnow.com

What Are the Foods to Avoid For Diabetics?

2009-10-04T01:04:00.000-07:00

Having diabetes requires a change in lifestyle and diet, which is why it is essential to know the foods to avoid for diabetics. Diabetes occurs when there is a lack of insulin production by the body, specifically generated by the pancreas. Insulin is important since it is responsible in converting glucose into energy. When you already have diabetes, you need to be cautious in your eating habits. This means that eating foods which are high in fiber and low in unhealthy fats should be maintained regularly. Carbohydrates often have high glycemic indexes, making them not ideal for diabetics.

Since diabetes is already a global epidemic, it is not surprising to find foods and other supplements ideal for the recipe of a blood sugar patient. However, many physicians will tell you that purchasing such diabetic food products without planning can be detrimental as well. If you don't look closely, these products could be high in fat, and worse, even expensive.

By adopting a healthy diet, you will be able to effectively control blood glucose levels.

If you are still a newly diagnosed sugar patient, you need to work hand in hand with an expert nutritionist so you can have the right meal plan for you. This includes the major meals and even the snacks.

Once you have worked out a diabetic meal plan, you will use this as a guide in your daily diet. Normally, your recipe will have to include whole grains and vegetables as a source of complex carbohydrates for the larger portion of the meal. Moreover, diabetics would also have to consume at least a couple of fresh fruit and vegetable servings per day.

Proteins are also essential for diabetics, and therefore should be included in the diabetic diet plan. However, lean meat choices should be chosen as much as possible. Legumes and cheese are also other choices. The consumption of diary which is low in fat is also recommended, although only in controlled amounts.

A nutritionist is still the best guide in choosing the most ideal diet for diabetic patients. As much as sugary foods are to be avoided, you also need to avoid foods with high salt content. High blood pressure is often brought about by sodium over consumption, and this is not ideal for diabetics. As much as possible, you have to avoid processed fares like canned goods and chips.

Saturated fats furthermore, need to be passed up since many diabetics are also often besieged by cardiovascular ailments. Among the foods to avoid for diabetics are butter and dairy products as well as chicken skin and margarine. Healthy fats from olive oil however are known to manage blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

Full-cream diet choices should be swapped with low-fat or skimmed choices. Avoiding fried foods is necessary. Steaming, grilling, or broiling fish and lean meats are more ideal. Alcoholic drinks need to be minimized or avoided.

When you already know the foods to avoid for diabetics, you can successfully deal with your condition, and live a healthier and longer life.

Reference:fruits for diabetes,how to lower blood sugar

What Are the Foods That Lower Blood Glucose Levels?

2009-10-02T01:59:00.000-07:00

To know that you are a diabetic can be very frustrating. However, if you will just cry at the corner of your room and feel sorry for yourself because you are aware that there is a threat to your health will not help you at all. Of course, there is something that you can do to naturally treat yourself from the disease and you can do it by taking in foods that lower blood glucose levels everyday.

There are meal plans which are specially designed for diabetic patients like you to lower the sugar content. You can get these plans from a diet center by enrolling yourself to the program. Your doctor can also provide you with these diabetic diet plans and you will need to consult him or her first before you can be provided with them. Free information can also be obtained from the internet. There are various websites that post meal plans for diabetics and you can make use of them to improve your health condition.

These meal plans are intended to regulate one's blood glucose levels. By observing such types of diet, you will be able to live a normal life in spite of the presence of the disease in you. They are usually the foods that are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, minerals and fiber. The fiber in food in fact, helps the pancreas produce more insulin which will control blood sugar levels naturally. The best examples of foods that are rich in fiber are onions and garlic. Including the right dosage of fresh foods and vegetables can help lower blood sugar levels as well.

Processed foods should be avoided as much as possible. Aside from the fact that most of them contain high glucose levels, they may also contain huge amount of MSG and preservatives which are hazardous to the health. For this reason, it is much advisable to eat freshly cooked foods and not those that are packed in cans, tetras and the like.

Aside from watching the diet menu for diabetes that you eat, you should also be cautious about what you drink. Drinking stuffs like sodas or soft drinks and others will only worsen your condition. If you are diabetic, you should avoid these types of drinks because they contain a lot of glucose, carbon and other chemicals that can affect your body and blood glucose in a lot of negative ways. Instead, you should take in healthy drinks and natural juices that are made from carrots, vegetables, coconut and other healthy stuffs to lower blood glucose levels. Drinking tea, especially green tea, will also help in lowering excess glucose in your blood, aside from the fact that it can flush out those unwanted toxins.

The foods that lower blood glucose levels are almost the same as those that will make you lose excess weight. And whatever can make you gain weight are also those that you should avoid. Observing these diet menus will not only benefit you as a diabetic but they will also help you gain a better health condition in general.

Reference: fruits for diabetes, how to lower blood sugar

Diabetes Blood Sugar Chart - Normal Blood Glucose Ranges

2009-10-01T01:56:00.000-07:00

Monitoring your glucose ranges is very important and must be done on a regular basis (especially if you are a diabetic). One of the best ways to monitor your glucose is to use a diabetes blood sugar level chart.

Glucose is the main fuel that your body uses to produce energy. Without it your body won't function properly (just like an automobile). The chart that I'm about to show you will be very helpful to you as it will help you monitor when problems occur and if there are any patterns of your readings. The patterns will become very clear to you (as you learn how your own body works) and you will be able to discuss them more clearly and effectively with your health professional. It is crucial that you know kind of events, food, activities, and medications may cause your blood sugar to increase or decrease.

You should work closely with your health care provider to ensure that you are meeting your goals. He will provide a meter tool for you to help you keep track of your levels. You should familiarize yourself on how to use the meter.

Diabetes Blood Sugar Chart - Normal Blood Glucose Ranges

Upon waking up (and before breakfast), your levels should be between 80 and 120. This is considered to be a healthy range.

Before meals your levels should also be between 80 and 120.

Two hours after you eat meals, your levels should be 170 or less.

Before lunch, it should drop back down to 80-120.

Before you go to bed, it is ideal to be between 100 and 140.

At 3am (while sleeping), it is ideal to be between 70 and 110.

While fasting, it is ideal that you stay in the 70 to 100 range.

The numbers from this chart will help give you a good idea of normal blood glucose ranges; however, you may want to ask your health care provider where exactly your range should be at (during each of the above events). It is important to receive frequent testing as this can reduce the risk of having complications from your diabetes.

Reference: Diabetes and Blood Sugar Tips ,Learn how to Find Diabetic Relief

How to Care For a Diabetic - Tips to Take Care of Diabetes Patients

2009-09-30T01:42:00.000-07:00

There are certain aliments that have no cure except control. One of them is diabetes. A diabetic patient needs utmost care in terms of their diet and daily schedule.

Here are some points that you must know in order to take care of a diabetic:

· The diabetes is cured to a great extent if you take your food on time. Make sure that you serve the meals on time.

· The diabetics should always take short meals. They should ideally take short meals every three hours.

· One point to take care of a diabetic is to conduct regular check of their blood sugar level.

· In this ailment your body fails to heal any wound. So the diabetic patient must wear shoes to save their feet from any injury.

· Another vulnerable part of your body in this disease is your eyes. Make sure that you get a check up done once in every 4 months. Also wear anti glares while working on the computer and wear sun glasses while you are out in the sun. In case you suddenly lose vision in one or the both eyes, or have a blurred vision, or see black spots, flashing light or cob webs, you must get an examination done immediately.

· Check your feet every day. In case you see blisters, sores or scratches or sores; you must check with your doctor. Also if you have pain in your feet or feel coldness that also needs a medical check. Other such symptoms are shiny appearance of the skin, thickened nails, loss of hair on foot or toes, etc.

· Every night before you sleep wash your feet with warm (not hot) water & soap. Then gently pat your dry feet, do not rub. Next use a lotion and so not apply it between the toes. Change the socks & shoes once every day. You must wear soft leather shoes that must provide plenty of room for the toes. You must never go barefoot. That is a must to take care of the diabetics.

Keeping one's weight & height in proportion can Control Diabetes. For most diabetics, losing 5-7 pounds of weight can dramatically slow the progression of the disease.

Reference: DietforDiabetics.org/Free_Trial

What Really Causes Diabetes?

2009-09-29T01:51:00.000-07:00

If you have been paying attention to the news at all, you know that diabetes is quickly becoming one of the most common ailments in the United States and many parts of Europe. Some have even said that the prevalence is reaching epidemic proportions. Why? What causes diabetes?

First of all, it is important to realize that there are two types of diabetes: Type 1 is congenital and cannot be prevented. Type 2 is not congenital, although there may be a tendency for it to run in families, and it can be prevented. Neither type of diabetes can be cured, but they can both be managed well in most people through medication and lifestyle.

With so many people now being diagnosed with diabetes, you may be wondering if you are at risk. In order to know that, it is important to know what causes diabetes. The two most significant reasons for developing type 2 are inactivity and obesity, but there are other risk factors as well, which include:

A family history of the disease. If a parent or brother or sister has type 2, you have that as a risk factor Hypertension. If you or a close family member such as a parent or sibling has high blood pressure, you are at greater risk for developing diabetes.

Being over age 45. The older you get, the more chance you have of getting diabetes.

Irregular cholesterol levels. Having too much "bad" cholesterol or too little "good" cholesterol increases your risk of diabetes.

Insulin resistance. If your doctor has determined that you are insulin-resistant, that is often seen as a precursor to diabetes. Some doctors even call this "pre-diabetes."

Developing gestational diabetes. It is by definition temporary; that is, it occurs only during pregnancy and goes away after delivery of the baby. But, having gestational diabetes increases the risk of getting type 2 diabetes later on.

Reference: What Causes Diabetes

The Causes of Diabetes Mellitus

2009-09-28T01:45:00.000-07:00

The main causes of diabetes mellitus are that either the body fails in the production of insulin, which is the hormone that unlocks the cells of the body and allows glucose to fuel them, or your body develops an insulin resistance. In either case this disease is very serious, and much attention should be given to any symtoms of diabetes so as to recognize their appearance as early as possible.

The causes of diabetes mellitus stem from what is a syndrome of disordered metabolism, which is typically due to heredity and environmental causes, or a combination of both. This syndrome leads to abnormally high blood glucose levels, which are the result of either insufficient insulin secretion or insulin action within the body. Either of these will lead to hyperglycemia.

The acute symtoms of diabetes are primarily the same for Type 1, Type 2, or Gestational forms of the disease. These symptoms include excessive urine production, increased thirst and fluid intake, unexplained weight loss, blurred vision, and changes in energy metabolism resulting in lethargy. Upon the onset of these symptoms it is important to determine which type of diabetes it is that you have developed.

When the causes of diabetes mellitus drive you to see a doctor in order to find out which variation that you have it can be a very frightening period in your life. What you must keep in your mind at all times though is that all forms of diabetes have been treatable since 1921, which is the year that insulin became medically available. All that is required are few changes in your lifestyle.

The symtoms of diabetes can not only be treated through the use of pharmaceutical drugs, but also through the use of all natural health products which contain the correct mixture of enzymes, herbs, minerals, and specialty supplements . Although these supplements are not in any way designed in order to replace your designated order of treatment, they can help to alleviate your symptoms to the point where your prescribed medication can be cut back.

This kind of supplementation may not be able to stifle the root causes of diabetes mellitus to the point where they can prevent you from developing the disease, but taking them as a preventative measure makes almost as much sense as using them to help to keep the disease under control. It you want to greatly enhance your chances of not suffering from some of the more debilitating effects of diabetes, then maybe you should give products of this kind a try.

Reference: Patsy Hamilton http://www.diabetes-type-two-info-guide.com

Diabetes Medical Jewelry - The Importance Of Wearing Diabetes Medical Jewelry

2009-09-27T01:34:00.000-07:00

Diabetes medical jewelry can actually be the difference between life and death in certain medical emergencies. The American Medical Association encourages anyone with diabetes or diabetes mellitus, to wear a necklace or bracelet that could alert an emergency worker to know that you have a medical condition. The American Diabetes Association also recommends the same thing for diabetics. It only makes sense. Many medications and treatments work well for others, but with someone who has diabetes it could spell disaster.

Without a doctor knowing you're a diabetic, they will have no way of knowing you shouldn't have certain medicines or that you need a different kind of treatment that will work well with high blood sugar.

Diabetes medical jewelry is easy to find online. There are many websites that offer medical jewelry that can be engraved with your particular medical information. These jewelry pieces are available in silver bracelets or silver chain that go around your neck.

Another good reason for wearing a diabetes bracelet is to alert others, not just medical personnel, that you have diabetes. For example, if you suddenly bottom out from low blood sugar, others around you can see your bracelet and know you have diabetes.

Having diabetes and high blood glucose levels is a serious health condition. By wearing diabetes medical jewelry you can let others know your condition and be assured of getting the right treatment in the event of an emergency.

Reference: Diabetes Medical Jewelry

A Look at Designer Medical Alert Bracelets

2009-09-26T01:32:00.000-07:00

Medical ID bracelets are growing in popularity, despite the fact that some won’t wear a medical alert bracelet unless they are stylish. That is why shopping for a designer medical alert bracelet has become more and more common.

With the vast capabilities of the Internet, you can easily find a designer medical alert bracelet that suits everyone’s personal style, and looks good. There are many vendors that make everything from charm bracelets to beaded bracelets. The style trends for designer medical alert bracelets are it’s own changing industry with increasing numbers of styles.

Designer bracelets are made of gemstones, wood and bone, multicolored beads and other creative materials. They hold the plate, made of a metal, which details the medical conditions. Notes are engraved on the back or front of the plate.

Caseytown and Lauren’s Hope are two privately created organizations that made bracelets with stylish embellishments in response to personal friends and affiliates getting sick with a medical condition. Dream
Designs Jewelry even has bracelets that have the name of the person wearing the bracelet available in letter-beads. In addition, they offer styles that incorporate turquoise chips, pastel Swarovski crystals, pearls and gemstones. This company has a heart tag sterling silver and engravable bracelet in Tiffany style. The Tiffany bracelets also come with various beading styles and are priced in the $50 range. There are also a rising number of jewelers who are taking the creative route to make medical alert bracelets that more people will wear.

Medical alert jewelry is important for all sorts of medical conditions such as diabetes, heart conditions, epilepsy, implants, Alzheimer’s disease, lymphedema, allergies, and when someone is using special medications. These life-saving bracelets, no matter what style they come in, are well worth the investment.

Reference: Medical Alert Bracelets Info

The Diabetes Rubber Bracelet And The Message It Brings

2009-09-24T01:26:00.000-07:00

A lot of people are now sporting the popular rubber bracelets that athletes and their sports fans wear. Because these bracelets are rather trendy, they are used to promote awareness. And so different kinds of rubber bracelets have been created to promote diabetic awareness throughout the society. But diabetes is merely one disease that these rubber bracelets carry. Rubber bracelets come in a range of colors and each of them represent a certain disease. For diabetes, the most common colors used are orange, white, green, red and blue.

Rubber bracelets are easily mass produced. This is the reason why they are the perfect bracelets used as fund raisers, especially for the diabetic community. Most of them are also individually packaged so that they are easily distributed, without losing its their appearance and good quality.

Fits All Sizes

Diabetic rubber bracelets also come in different sizes. There are children, youth, and adult sizes to choose from. This makes the bracelet universal, because everybody can actually use it. And being a sports bracelet, it also fits both males and a females. The adult size has a diameter of 8 inches. The youth size is 7 inches, while that of a child is usually around 6 inches. Rubber bracelets are flexible. And so, even those with unusually big wrists can be accommodated.

An Important Message

A diabetic rubber bracelet is usually inscribed with a certain message relevant to diabetic community and the research conducted for the disease. The most common ones say something like "Cure Diabetes Today" or "Help Cure Diabetes." There is also a type that says "Insulin is not a Cure." The actual message written over the diabetic rubber bracelet is actually dependent upon the organization that requested their production. These bracelets can be distributed to schools, communities, and other organizations. It is usually at a certain price.

Affordable

Diabetic rubber bracelets are normally priced for only $5. It is clear to see that they are very affordable. There are even organizations that sell them for only $2 plus shipping and handling. Helping people with diabetes has indeed become easier. For only $5, you can contribute to the diabetic society, including the friends and families of the patients.

Diabetic rubber bracelets can be bought over the internet as well as locally. The proceeds of these bracelets are usually transferred over to the government or private research institutions that are continuously seeking for the cure of this dreaded disease. The purchase of a single diabetic rubber bracelet could really go a long, long way. Don't think for a second that your $5 can do nothing. Because it can certainly do so much to further the research being carried out to finally find the most effective treatment for diabetes.

Bracelets for Diabetic Patients

But there are also diabetic rubber bracelets that are created specifically to diabetic patients. These are the types wherein information about a person's diabetic condition is inscribed on the silicon rubber itself. Instead of carrying a message in support of the research community being done for diabetes, the band will show the health of the patient, his diabetes type, and all other important information related to it. It also indicates in the bracelet whether the patient is dependent on insulin and whether he or she is using some type of insulin pump.

The diabetes rubber bands that show the patient's condition are going to be very helpful to health practitioners. More often than not, patients consult different doctors for different reasons. And if the doctor consulted immediately knew that a patient is diabetic, he can make accurate diagnosis and decisions accordingly.

A good example of the bracelet's use would be the time when a diabetic patient decides to go for tooth extraction or a hair transplant treatment. While these are rather non-surgical operations, the dentist or the doctor should know beforehand the health condition of their patient. If they know that the person who consulted with them has diabetes, then they can give only the options that are applicable to them. This is how important having this type of diabetic rubber bracelets can actually be.

Reference: diabetes rubber bracelet, diabetes awareness bracelets

Diabetes Awareness Bracelets - Ten Useful Tips

2009-09-23T01:22:00.000-07:00

If your child is a diabetic, a set of diabetes awareness bracelets is the best gift you can give him or her. With diabetes bracelets, you can be sure that your loved one's condition will be taken note of in times of emergency and when you're not with him or her.

What are Diabetes Awareness Bracelets?

Diabetes awareness bracelets have been invented to provide better protection for diabetics in case of accidents. Diabetics face the same risks in life as non-diabetics. The difference between them, however, is the increased risk of being diagnosed incorrectly because of their condition. With diabetes awareness bracelets, medical professionals who arrive at the scene of the accident will be able to give your loved one exactly the type of help he needs.

Tips for Shopping for Diabetes Awareness Bracelets

Although diabetes awareness bracelets are not at all expensive, the tips below can help you to save even more on your purchases.

Tip 1. Browse around in the Internet and look around bricks-and-mortar shops to get an idea of how much ready-made diabetes awareness bracelets cost compared to customized ones.

Tip 2. It's always better to purchase a set of diabetes awareness bracelets but what kind of set is best? To maximize a set's value, you should look for one that your kid could be able to wear with all his clothes - whether he's in school, decked in formal attire, playing in the field, or at home.

Tip 3. Take note of the sizes of diabetes awareness bracelets. Kids grow up very rapidly. What could be a perfect fit today might be too tight tomorrow. It's therefore better if you purchase a set of diabetes awareness bracelets that's a tad bigger than his current wrist size. Anything more than that, however, could be too big and your kid might not notice it when his bracelet accidentally slips off.

Tip 4. Consider what kind of data you'll be able to write or provide with the diabetes bracelet. Some only have the identification "diabetic" imprinted on them. Others provide critical information like the medications the person is taking. It's up to you to determine what kind of information is better to make available with the bracelet. Saying too little could work against your child, but saying too much could be harmful in terms of invaded privacy and maybe even identity theft.

Tip 5. Consider the materials used. Stainless steel is an ideal choice as this will allow your child to take a bath even while wearing his diabetes bracelet. If not that, just make sure that the material is durable and comfortable for your child to wear.

Tips for Using Diabetes Awareness Bracelets

If you are giving your child his own set of diabetes bracelets, here are several tips to increase its effectiveness.

Tip 1. Instruct your child to wear it daily and never to take it off. Children have the tendency to misplace their things. Stress the importance of diabetes bracelets to your child for him to take extra care not to lose them.

Tip 2. If he feels conscious about his condition and thinks that the bracelet would make other kids his age treat him differently, giving him a set would allow him to match the appropriate design with his clothes to make it inconspicuous.

Tip 3. Before you allow your child to leave, always double check if the diabetes bracelet is securely locked. Children are bundles of energy and their active lifestyles can easily cause damage to their bracelets. Constant monitoring and checking will allow you to replace any broken bracelets immediately.

Tip 4. Keep note of any important changes in your child's diabetic condition. These changes may have to be reflected by the data provided in your child's diabetes bracelet.

Tip 5. Regularly clean your child's set of diabetes bracelets. As they're not recommended to be taken off at any time, it's easy for dirt and other unwanted particles to accumulate on its surface. In worse cases, these could lead to bacterial or viral infections.

In certain cases, diabetes awareness bracelets may also come with laminated ID cards to supply even more information about your child's condition. If this is on offer, do grab the chance to avail of it as well.

Reference: diabetes awareness bracelets, diabetes alert bracelet

Your Diabetic Bracelet Could Save Your Life

2009-09-22T01:16:00.000-07:00

More and more people are learning that a diabetic bracelet can indeed be life-saving in the long run. Millions of individuals in America and the world are suffering from diabetes with different manifestations and experiences everyday. It is only a matter of time before they find themselves in a deep predicament in which they can only rely on simple but informative bracelets.

The Diabetic Bracelet Advantage

The most useful and important aspect of your diabetic bracelet is the information that it holds. First and foremost, the bracelet will include text or a tag indicating that you are diabetic plus other information such as your name, address and age. You may also want to add other details like a contact person or number, your normal blood sugar count and blood type. These can come in very handy especially for medical professionals attending to you during emergencies.

When blood sugar levels become abnormally high or low, patients can be incapacitated or simply blackout anytime and anywhere. Only the bracelets can provide relevant information that can help save their lives. Other people in the area can immediately respond to the dire situation by using the data included in the diabetic bracelet.

Function and Fashion

Diabetic bracelets come in various designs and use different materials as well. The most common versions are the rubber or silicone wristbands with debossed text. These come in different solid and mixed colors as preferred by the individuals. Non-diabetics are frequently seen wearing these bands to show their support and concern for the cause. You will find encouraging messages and text imprinted, debossed or embossed on the surface such as "Live Strong, Hope, Believe, etc."

Since other diabetic patients do not fully like the idea of being tagged or labeled as a sufferer, there are more fancy and beautiful designs that both serve as a functional and fashionable piece. You can find diabetic jewelry using 14 to 22-karat gold, silver, sterling silver and other expensive metals. These bracelets may also include charms and adorned with beads, semi-precious stones and crystals according to the specifications and customizations of the wearer. Still, these pieces include vital information that will save their life during unexpected diabetic bouts. Prices for rubber and silicone versions are as low as $1.50 to $3 while jewelry costs $21 up to $300.

When Investing in a Diabetic Bracelet

Try to look for a design that you can comfortably wear in almost any occasion. Plain silver designs match both casual and formal attires. Waterproof bracelets are also good so that you don't have to take them off while going to the shower. It is advised that you wear the diabetic bracelet at all times so that you'll always be prepared for any untoward accident. Always check the latch or lock that it is functioning well to avoid breakage or accidentally losing the piece.

Ensure that the size is also just right so that it doesn't easily fall off or snap should you fall or blackout. The ideal size would allow one finger to slide between your wrist and the bracelet. Choose the information you wish to include in your diabetic bracelet. If you're planning to invest in jewelry, a simple text saying "Diabetic" may be enough but of course you can add more to prioritize function over style.

Reference: Susan Barcelon, diabetic bracelet, custom silicone bracelet

Diabetes Bracelets As Personal Identification

2009-09-21T01:20:00.000-07:00

Wearing diabetes bracelets is advisable not only when traveling in different areas of the world but also when one is around the home area. This should identify one and the condition just in case one gets hurt or becomes unconscious. The situation does not even have to happen in remote areas for this identification tag to be of help.

It is a known fact that when one is having a hypyglycemic event, usually he is irritable and uncooperative and may not answer questions asked of him by paramedics who are ready to help. Besides, the symptoms of hypoglycemia sometimes mimic those of a drunk and people may not want to help thinking it serves the person right for consuming more alcohol than he can handle.

This is one reason why diabetes bracelets or other medical identification products can help to make sure that proper treatment is made available in an emergency situation. No one should travel without some kind of personal identification.

There is also a new product in the form of a keychain which can hold four glucose tablets. This is especially designed for type 1 diabetics who drive. In an emergency situation as in a hypoglycemic episode, one can just take the glycemic tablets to treat hypoglycemia. In fifteen minutes one can feel as good as new. If not, call for help right away.

There are other identification tags that will do the job of diabetes bracelets. There are decals with the words "Diabetic Driver" on them that can be affixed on the inside of the windshield. This will alert the police or any paramedics that may happen to come to the car to provide help.

There are also wristbands that come in a variety of colors for both adults and children that have the word "Diabetic" embossed on each plus the caduceus which is the medical symbol. I don't know where to get them yet but visit the resource below from time to time as it will be there as soon as the information is available.

Sometimes children, especially boys will not want to wear this kind of jewelry. There is something available for them and it is in the form of a tag that can be tied up in the sneakers. This way when he exercises without considering the schedule of his meals and insulin dose, then he is covered when an emergency arises.

This identification tag or other medical ID's also come in the form of a charm in 14 kt gold or in sterling silver for different sports, each one with the caduceus symbol. There also other types called Beaded Daisy which are easy to wear and 100% waterproof.

Some diabetes bracelets and necklaces can have this text written on them: I HAVE DIABETES PLEASE TEST MY BLOOD BEFORE TREATING ME. Isn't that neat? Now there will be no excuse for making mistakes that could be fatal.

So, don't forget to put some form of diabetes bracelets or medical id's in the tool box because this will identify one when he gets hurt in an accident or injured in some other way especially when he becomes unconscious. There is no excuse for not wearing one as they come in different colors and sizes. There are even some designer ones, too.

Reference:Diabetes Bracelets,

The Diabetes Bracelet - What You Should Know

2009-09-20T01:14:00.000-07:00

A diabetes bracelet can be one of the most helpful things that a diabetic individual can have. Primarily, it shows that the wearer is suffering from the condition so people can be prepared to support in whichever way possible should any untoward incident occur. Other people are still free to wear the bracelets to show love and empowerment for the cause.

What is a Diabetes Bracelet?

A diabetes bracelet can be worn by both diabetic and non-diabetic patients. However, many if not all sufferers of the condition are encouraged to wear the accessory at all times for their own safety. The main purpose of a diabetes bracelet is to inform others that you may have sudden medical predicaments due to imbalances in your blood sugar. Any medical personnel attending to you at any time can immediately detect the cause and perform the proper necessary actions.

There are millions of diabetics in the United States and the world which is why it would be more safe and convenient for all to invest in these bracelets. You may choose which kind of information you want to include in your bracelet. You may also add other underlying conditions you are suffering from or contact persons in case of emergency. Diabetic children can greatly benefit from the added information.

Bracelet Sources

You can purchase diabetes ID bracelets at online shops, designated drug stores and a number of jewelry shops. You may need to provide your full name, address, contact number, type of diabetes and health card number which may be imprinted, embossed, debossed or tagged in your bracelet according to your specifications. You can pay cash or via credit card online and once your order is confirmed, your bracelet will be delivered directly to you in about 7 days.

The bracelets come in different styles but there are unique signs, text or symbols indicating your diabetic cause. Simple rubber or silicone wristbands are available for only $1 to $3. There are also designs using sterling silver and stainless steel. Depending on the size and materials used, prices can go up to as much as $25 to $50. Some manufacturers and agencies contribute a portion of all their sales to charitable foundations and medical institutions for continued research and support programs regarding the condition.

Doctors' Approval

Doctors and other health professionals have encouraged the growing number of diabetic patients around the world to start wearing diabetes bracelets. Some do not fully like the idea of being tagged as an afflicted individual but the awareness and concern projected by the pieces can truly be life-saving. When blood sugar imbalances occur in the body, the patient could suddenly blackout anywhere. Having a bracelet ready prepares both the surrounding crowd as well as attending doctors about the right medical measures.

Spreading the Concern

A diabetes bracelet is also very aesthetic in form and can be conveniently worn anytime and anywhere. Just like the popular Live Strong bracelets, the rubberized versions are usually distributed during diabetes awareness programs and events to show the growing concern and support for the 18 million new Americans diagnosed with the condition every year. When people begin seeing others wear the bracelets, they become more aware about the risks of development, finding possible means of treatment and cure and actions to alleviate the effects.

Reference: Susan Barcelon Just-Bracelets.com., diabetes bracelet, wholesale magnetic bracelet

Your Diabetes Bracelet - Preparing For An Emergency

2009-09-19T01:01:00.000-07:00

Probably the last thing on anybody's mind when dealing with diabetes is jewelry. After all, bracelets, necklaces and anklets may not seem to serve any purpose beyond being decorative. However, when it comes to chronic diseases like diabetes, being identified as having a medical condition is often necessary. This is why diabetes bracelets are often worn not just to inform anyone about the wearer's health status but also to alert people, such as rescuers, first-aid staff and medical professionals of the appropriate action to perform when the wearer is involved in an emergency.

When Knowledge Can Save a Life

When diabetics were first encouraged to wear diabetes bracelets, some people were not very supportive of getting "tagged" as a diabetic. However, the fact that the bracelets were medical alert tags quickly showed why it was a necessity. Today, it still is.

Diabetes requires special medical care and attention. In some emergencies, the patient may not always be able to speak or communicate or he may even be unresponsive. Furthermore, an emergency may occur when a relative or a friend who has knowledge about the patient's diabetes may not be around. In these cases, a diabetes bracelet can silently inform the attending medical personnel of the patient's disease.

This way, the proper treatment and medications can be administered without worrying about possible side effects or drug interaction. Imagine being in a situation where medical treatment that is otherwise safe and effective can actually put your health and your life at risk. This is often the case when a diabetic is treated without the medical staff's knowledge that he or she has diabetes.

Preparing for an Emergency

Diabetes can be a tricky and rather deceptive condition to have, primarily because blood sugar levels can fluctuate unpredictably. When blood sugar levels suddenly drop or sharply rise, blackouts can occur, requiring medical attention. Having a diabetes bracelet will let the medical staff know how to make the appropriate medical decisions that can save your life. In case you ever figure in an accident, any medications that may be necessary in order to treat you won't affect you in a negative way.

Always ensure that you or your loved one is wearing a diabetes bracelet before leaving the house. If necessary, pack an extra bracelet especially during special trips, particularly if you will be traveling alone. Always wear the bracelet where it can be spotted easily and avoid taking it off. It might cramp your style, but it can mean the difference between living a healthy life and suffering the consequences.

Bracelet for a Cause

One simple diabetes bracelet can actually make a big difference in the fight against diabetes. Certain groups sell bracelets, donating proceeds to support associations dedicated to helping people with diabetes. Often, the proceeds even fund further research about the disease.

The diabetes wristband that states, "Insulin is Not a Cure", for example, is being promoted by the Diabetes Research Institute Foundation to support the foundation of the Education for Children with Diabetes. So now when you buy a diabetes bracelet, you might want to consider purchasing from groups that actually help push the struggle against diabetes forward. Further research is necessary in order to understand the real causes of this disease and probably even more in order for scientists to produce a cure.

Getting "Tagged"

These days, different bracelets are available for different medical and non-medical concerns but the need for a broader awareness of diabetes is still an important and necessary issue. Diabetes bracelets can be as simple as those made with rubber or as detailed as those made with metal and beads. Some diabetes bracelets can also be customized, including not just a simple alert but also other information such as your name, address, contact number or contact information of a person you'd like to contact in an emergency.

If you would like to help support the diabetes cause by using a diabetes bracelet, buy from groups and associations that actually donate proceeds or at least a portion of it to a related cause. Organizations who do this will state it in their websites, brochures or company ads. If you're buying from a retail shop, you can also ask the salesperson if the proceeds from the sale are actually going to fund diabetes research or support groups. This is an excellent way to do your part in the fight against diabetes.

Reference:Flor Serquina, Learn-About-Diabetes.com. diabetic food exchange list, diabetes bracelet,

What Are 3 Short Term Complications Of Diabetes Mellitus

2009-09-18T01:56:00.000-07:00

Diabetes mellitus is a disease produced by insufficient insulin or insulin resistance. There are mainly two types of complications of diabetes. Short Term Complications and long term complications. Here we will discuss short term complications of diabetes.

Short Term Complications

Hypoglycaemia
Hyperosmolar NonKetotic Coma
Ketoacidosis

Hypoglycaemia Causes:

Hypoglycaemia is seen when patient's blood glucose level falls too low. The causes of hypoglycaemia are

1- Insufficient intake of meal, specially after taking glucose lowering drugs or insulin.
2- Excessive dose of Insulin or Sulphonylureas may cause hypoglycaemia as well.
3- Excessive exercise can also lead to hypoglycaemia specially those who are on antidiabetic drugs. By doing exercise glucose goes into cells and glucose level in blood decreases.

Hypoglycaemia Symptoms:

Whenever hypoglycaemia occurs, patient can have symptoms like palpitations, feeling shaky, sweating, tingling in the lips, going pale, heart pounding, rapid pulse rate, anxiety, confusion and irritability. These are just warning signs, however if we will not treat hypoglycaemia then patient can lead to coma and even death can occur.

What to do if Hypoglycaemia occurs:

If you are in a hospital and your nurse or doctor find out that you are in hypoglycaemia, then most probably you will be injected with 25% dextrose water 5 ampules depending upon your blood glucose level. At home, hypoglycaemia can be treated simply by taking some sweet juice like orange juice or glucose containing tablets. If patient goes to coma stage then intramuscular injection of GLUCAGON may help. Glucagon is a hormone that raises blood glucose level. So it is necessary that if you are traveling or going outside, must take your glucagon kit with you. Family and friends should be taught how to inject Glucagon, as patient is already unconscious and can not take it himself. If patient becomes unconscious never try to put food or drink in his mouth as it may lead to choking. If you are on insulin and taking alcohol, there are great chances of going into hypoglycaemia as body will be unable to produce glucose rapidly. It is suggested that man on insulin should take 3 units of alcohol and women should take 2 units. Moreover while drinking, you should always eat something.

What is Ketoacidosis, Definition of ketoacidosis

Ketosis is the accumulation of ketone bodies (produced by breakdown of fat) in the blood and Acidosis is increased acidity of the blood, i.e PH of blood decreases. It is a serious condition that can also lead to coma. Usually seen in type 1 diabetic patients, may also appear in type 2 diabetes specially older patients. Diabetic acidosis is often initiated by an infection like Urinary track infection or chest infection.

Pathophysiology and causes of Diabetic Kitoacidosis:

Usually we see DKA when you miss doses of insulin, as a result blood glucose level will rise, and body cells will start burning fat which leads to production of ketone bodies and acidosis.At the same time, the high secretion of glucose into the urine causes dehydration due to loss of water and salts. Ketoacidosis occurs when cells of body can not fulfilled their metabolic demand in absence of sufficient glucose. Instead, cells start getting energy by breakdown of fatty acids which results in formation of ketone bodies. PH of body will become acidic and body will try to eliminate acids by increasing rate and depth of acids.

Symptoms and signs of ketoacidosis:

Tiredness Fruity smell to breath like nail polish remover Increase thirst Polyuria increase urination. Weight-loss. Oral Thrush Muscle wasting. Aggression Confusion Agitation Irritation Emesis (vomiting), Abdominal pain. Loss of appetite. Flu-like symptoms. Lethargy and apathy. Patients breathe more deeply and rapidly. Unconsciousness (diabetic coma) after prolonged DKA.

Prevention of diabetic ketoacidosis

If you are ill and having an infection, always remember your body will need more insulin in such conditions, so try to increase your insulin dose during infectious illness, but before taking insulin should always check your blood glucose level. Keep tight control of your blood sugar level by regularly checking it with glucometer. Whenever you feel unwell, just check your blood glucose level. If you ever find that blood glucose is high, then go for your urine examination for presence of ketone bodies. You should always have ketone measuring urine strips at home.

Diabetic acidosis is often seen in stomach infection Gastritis, as you think that less insulin is needed if you are having symptoms of gastritis like nausea vomiting and reduced eating and this insufficient insulin may lead to acidosis.

How do you know if you have diabetic acidosis?

The diagnosis is made by: Always measure blood glucose - It is always high in diabetic ketoacidosis. Urine examination for ketone bodies a blood sample taken from an artery - it is done in the hospital and measures the PH of the blood. Doctor will also perform tests to rule out any infection.

How to treat diabetic ketoacidosis.

This condition usually requires hospital admission. Treatment consists of: Intravenous salt fluids like NaCl, KCl etc Insulin is given via intravenous drips. potassium supplements added to the infusion If infection is present then antibiotics are also added.

Prognosis is quit good, if diabetic ketoacidosis is diagnosed and treated earlier, patient usually recovers within few days, however if acidosis is not treated earlier, it may become life threatening.

Hyperosmolar nonketotic Coma

Diabetic Coma in Type 2 Diabetes Hyperglycaemic hyperosmolar nonketotic coma is a serious complication seen in type 2 diabetes patients with severe infection or stress. Diabetic coma is seen when blood glucose level becomes too high and there is severe dehydration. Unlike ketoacidosis which is usually seen in type 1 diabetes, in hyperosmolar stage we dont see any ketones in body and urine, and there is no acidosis. Diabetic hyperosmolar coma is usually seen in diabetic patients older than 60 years as they have altered sense of being thirsty and are more likely to become severely dehydrated. If there is severe loss of water from body, it can lead to shock, syncopy, coma and death

What are Causes of Diabetic Coma?

Severe Infection UTI, respiratory tract infection, bacterial meningitis,retropharyngeal abscess, hepatobiliary sepsis. Noncompliance with diet or insulin therapy Heart attack Renal failure Drugs (diuretics, steroids, phenytoin, ß -blockers, calcium channel blockers) Fever Illness Bleeding ulcer Blood clot hyperglycaemia Trauma CVA Pancreatitis

Symptoms of Hyperosmolar Coma:

Symptoms of hyperosmolar coma are produced due to hyperglycaemia and dehydration. Increased urination Increased thirst Severe Weakness Drowsiness Altered mental status Headache Restlessness Inability to speak Paralysis If you have any of these signs and symptoms, check your blood glucose and call your doctor if your blood glucose is high. Diabetic hyperosmolar coma typically seen when blood glucose increases to 600 mg/dL or more.

What are laboratory findings of Diabetic Coma patient.

• Severe hyperglycaemia (> 500mg/dl)
• Plasma hyperosmolality
• urea:creatinine ratio increased
• Secondary glycosuria
• Absence of significant ketoacidosis o Metabolic acidosis absent or mild

How Is Diabetic Coma Treated? It is an emergency situation, and should be treated immediately. Patient should be hospitalised. Treatment goals are to treat hyperglycaemia with insulin and treat dehydration with intravenous fluids. Infection can be treated with antibiotics.

How to prevent diabetic coma? Monitor and Check your blood glucose regularly, as recommended by your doctor Check your blood glucose every four hours when you are suffering from any infection. Take special care of yourself when you are having severe illness.

Reference: Diabetes Complications