Control Your Type 2 Diabetes Through Diet & Exercise

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

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?

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

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

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

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?

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

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

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

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?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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:

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.

Reference: Diabetic Diet

Some Issues To Be Aware Of In A Diabetic Diet

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:

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.

Reference: Diabetic Diet

Diabetic Diet Facts

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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