Surviving Abundance: Overweight Kids In Crisis
Source: WHROTV on YouTube
A half hour documentary, produced by WHRO, examines the epidemic of childhood obesity. Childhood health professionals paint a grim picture for the future of overweight children unless we begin to make systemic changes that support more healthy choices. Local, state and national childhood health experts, including William H. Dietz, Jr., MD, PhD, Director of Nutrition & Physical Activity at the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, discuss steps we can take to turn the tide, and the program highlights organizations with exemplary programs which encourage healthier lifestyles.
Surviving Abundance was produced in collaboration with the Consortium for Infant and Child Health (CINCH), a community partnership to promote health and prevent disease among all children in Hampton Roads.
Truth About Lucky Charms Kids Cereal
Nutrition By Natalie
Source: psychetruth on YouTube
Type 2 Diabetes – Prevent Prediabetes and Diabetes Before It’s Too Late!
By Beverly H. Piepers
Diabetes is a disease no one wants to find out they have. However, if there is a good thing about this illness is that it can be prevented long before it’s ever diagnosed. So many people are walking around in a constant state of prediabetes and have absolutely no idea they are heading down a dark, potentially fatal road. If you have prediabetes or are overweight, you have an opportunity to turn your life around and improve your health.
Prediabetes is a medical condition that can be treated well in advance of turning into full-blown Type 2 diabetes…it is defined as having a fasting blood sugar reading of 100 to 125 mg/dL (5.5 to 6.9 mmol/L). This blood sugar level is not high enough to give you a diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes, but it surely means if you do not intervene now, you are well and truly on your way.
Recently, the Diabetes Prevention Program study proved conclusively that people with prediabetes are able to prevent the development of the disease by making simple changes in their diet and increasing their level of physical activity. Many of these people are able to return their blood sugar levels back to a normal range.
Another part of the study showed that certain medications might help to delay the development of Type 2 diabetes, but exercise and diet actually worked better than the medications. Simply exercising 30 minutes a day at a moderate pace, paired with a 5 to 10% reduction in body weight equaled a 58% reduction in diabetes.
The American Diabetes Association (ADA) is working hard to help people grasp their risk of developing prediabetes. The idea is to try to “turn back the clock” so that people can know their risk early and prevent diabetes from ever becoming a problem at all.
Among some of the recommendations being made by the ADA are certain dietary suggestions. For instance, people with prediabetes should be eating:
- a lot of fruits and vegetables from every color of the rainbow -
- they need to consume non-starchy vegetables such as broccoli, green beans and spinach with meals-
- another recommendation would be to add more whole-grain foods over processed grain products that you normally see in the interior section of your grocery store -
- including more fish in the diet is also a recommendation along with choosing lean cuts of meat and non-fat dairy such as skim milk -
Of course, there are many other tips and tricks that a prediabetic can use to avoid contracting the illness.
Stopping Type 2 diabetes in its tracks before it becomes a potentially life-threatening disease is so important as it is growing more and more prevalent in today’s society. Fast food and on the go lifestyles are not helping people to understand that their Type 2 diabetes risk is growing daily.
To discover answers to questions you may be asking yourself about Type 2 Diabetes, click on this link… Natural Diabetes Treatments
Clicking on this link will help you to learn more about Type 2 Diabetes Solutions… Beverleigh Piepers RN… the Diabetes Detective.
Beverleigh Piepers is the author of this article. This article can be used for reprint on your website provided all the links in the article are complete and active. Copyright (c) 2010 – All Rights Reserved Worldwide
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Beverleigh_H_Piepers
Naturopathic Medicine – Courses, Education and Career Options
By: Amit Kothiyal
Naturopathy—a major kind of alternative medicines, centers on empowering a person’s natural healing ability. It is very different from other medicinal treatments involving heavy doses of medicines with side effects. This stream of medicine is getting its grip stronger with the each passing day. Due to this, the craze among the young blood to opt for natural medicine courses is also mounting with immense speed.
The theory behind this medicinal therapy called ‘naturopathy’ is to enhance the natural ability of an individual to heal the illness and retain fitness. The treatment covers herbal remedies, nutritional revisions and some other natural techniques like massage, acupuncture, etc.
Naturopathic medicine is certainly one of the most sought after alternative medicine courses today. It is considered as a highly respectable career opportunity among the present career options in medicine. This career allows medical experts to work in different work locations and environments, such as wellness centers, naturopathic medical schools, etc.
If you are among all those students who are seeking to get good scope in naturopathy by adapting to one of the natural healing courses, the best mode is to hunt for naturopathic courses available online. With a smart search, you’ll find a good number of online degree courses on holistic health that have excellent career prospects ahead of students. There are a lot of reputed natural medicine schools offering complete degree courses online. Choose the best one as per your requirement.
In terms of remuneration too, doctors coming out from natural health schools get very decent salaries. However, an experienced naturopathic doctor would definitely be having more salary than a fresher. And this is justified too.
Specialty of Naturopathy
Naturopathy is among those few holistic medicine courses whose main motto is to provide natural treatments to an individual and working towards his/her overall fitness. If you pursue education in this field, you’ll be well equipped with various natural healing methods, such as nutrition, acupuncture, homeopathy, ayurveda and nature cure. Various subjects covered under the school of natural medicine majorly include nutrition therapy, acupuncture, homeopathic medicine, and herbal medicine.
Naturopathic degree also offers immense information and knowledge on historical ways of healing, which are so unique in their own sense. Thus, in case you are interested in learning and specializing in this unique natural medicinal course, enroll for a doctor of naturopathy program. There are some excellent online education institutes for degree courses in this field.
All things considered, to be a maestro in naturopathic medicine, you ought to be highly dedicated towards serving humanity.
About the Author
Indian Board of Alternative Medicines, a Government registered and internationally recognized naturopathic school offers career oriented natural medicine degrees through correspondence and distance learning mode.
Article Directory Source: http://www.articlerich.com/profile/Amit-Kothiyal/12285
Diabetes in Toronto Neighborhoods
Clip from Global Ontario Podcast, Nov 1, 2007
Certain neighbourhoods in Toronto with high diabetes rates linked to poverty and urban layout.
Source: ghubbers on YouTube
The Many Health Benefits of Ground Flax Seed
By Rich Fuller
Controlling blood sugar levels is very important for people who suffer diabetes and also those who may be at risk of developing it. Flax seed and flax seed oil both contain omega 3, an essential fatty acid and also a mucilage.
In the past twenty or so years it has been encouraged by health professionals to keep fat intake to a minimum in our diets. This has driven more people towards a diet high in carbohydrates, which serve to increase blood sugar levels. The result is extra insulin being produced, causing the blood sugar to dip down low. Having these peaks and drops in the levels of sugar in your blood causes weight gain through food cravings and hunger pains. The increased weight along with the continued ups and downs of the sugar levels is what causes type two diabetes to begin its attack.
Studies have shown that essential fatty acids can suppress hunger without causing changes in blood sugar. A combination of these two effects can result in prevention or control of diabetes.
The mucilage properties to flax seed also contributes to controlling the blood sugar levels. It lines the digestive tract, slowing absorption of carbohydrates which can otherwise be processed too quickly, flooding the bloodstream in excess. When they are absorbed slowly through a healthy lined digestive tract they are treated the same as a good carbohydrates, leaving no residue or sugar over-doses.
If you are interested in taking a flax seed supplement for blood sugar control, consider having both the seed and oil form. You can sprinkle the powder on your cereal, salads or in smoothies. The oil can be used in the same ways or taken in capsules and on a daily basis is best for maximum benefits to be seen. Using both forms as a dietary supplement of essential 3 fatty acids, omega 3 can certainly fix mild to moderate blood sugar level problems.
Being an appetite suppressant, preventing blood sugar rises and drops and slowing carbohydrate absorption all contribute to why flax seed and flax seed oil is fantastic as a dietary supplement for diabetics. If someone in your family suffers, consider taking it daily as well to prevent having the same problems. You could be saving yourself a lot of health problems, and will no doubt experience many other benefits it provides as well.
Learn more about the benefits of flax seed and cancer on our site. You’ll also find other information such as flax seed grindersand flax seed oil is good for heart. OmegaFlaxSeedOil.comis a comprehensive resource to help individuals gain the benefits of essential nutrition such as flax seed oil, omega 3 and vitamin B12.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rich_Fuller
Insulin Pump Therapy
Dr. Steven Edelman discusses how insulin pump therapy works, who can benefit from using an insulin pump, and common concerns people have before starting.
Source: UCtelevision on YouTube
Tips for Teens: Dealing With The Ups and Downs of Diabetes
Tips For Teens: Dealing With The Ups and Downs of Diabetes
Feelings
Many teens like you deal with diabetes everyday. Most of the time, it’s not a problem, you just deal with it. But sometimes, you may just want it to go away.
Do you ever…
- Ask “why me?”
- Think you’re the only one who feels sad, mad, alone, afraid, or different?
- Get tired of others teasing you if you are overweight?
- Blame yourself or your family for your diabetes?
All of these feelings are normal. Lots of teens who have diabetes feel the same way. It’s okay to get angry, feel sad, or think you’re different every now and then. But then you need to take charge and do something to feel better.
Everyone feels down sometimes. You are not alone.
Still down?
Reach out for help. Talk to someone in your family or where you worship, a friend, a school counselor, teacher, or your doctor or diabetes educator. It might help to write down your feelings in a journal. If you still feel down or sad, ask your parents to help you find a counselor.
It is okay to ask for help.
Speak up
There are many people who care about you and want to help you stay healthy and happy. Your health care team (diabetes educator, dietitian, doctor, nurse, psychologist, and social worker) can help you learn how to make healthy food choices, be more active, and feel good about yourself. Stay in touch with them. Let your health care team know how you feel and what you need.
Let your school know what’s up
You or your parents need to give the school nurse, teacher, or other school staff a copy of your diabetes care plan. Let people at your school know you have diabetes and that you need to eat healthy foods, eat your meals, take your medicine on time, and be physically active.
Don’t let diabetes stop you from joining in school activities. You can do all the things your friends do and then some!
Mom, Dad, other family members, get with it!
It’s easier to manage diabetes when the whole family works at it with you. So…
- Ask your family to choose the same healthy foods you eat—fruits and vegetables; whole grain breads; and low-fat meats, milk, and cheese. Ask them to keep healthy foods in the house and not tempt you with cookies, cake, candy, or regular soda.
- Get everyone moving by being more physically active. Play hard. Shoot hoops, throw a ball, ride bikes, or go for a walk — together. Being active can also help you relax and lower stress.
What’s healthy for you is healthy for everyone in your family.
Want to meet other teens who feel like you do?
- Programs and support groups for teens with diabetes can be found in clinics, health centers, or hospitals. Ask your diabetes educator or doctor for help to find one that works for you.
- Head to a diabetes or weight loss summer camp. You will do all the things that other campers do: swim, hike, dance, and more. But the best part is that everyone has diabetes or is there to lose weight, just like you. Some groups may have funds to help pay for teens to attend summer camps.
- Find a pen pal or email buddy. Sometimes it is good to share how you feel about having diabetes with someone else.
- Check out the resources at the end of this tip sheet.
Still my friend?
Ever worry that your friends may have wrong ideas about diabetes?
- Tell them that you have diabetes. You don’t have to keep it to yourself. The more people know about diabetes, the more they will understand. Explain that your body needs help to use the food you eat.
- Be sure everyone knows that no one can catch diabetes from you.
- Good friends help each other out. They understand your needs and offer support. Hang on to friends who help you make healthy food choices when you are eating out.
Ever have kids make fun of you about your diabetes or weight?
Teasing hurts. The best thing is to just walk away.
talk to someone…write down your feelings in a journal…write to a pen pal…email a buddy…stay in touch
Take Action!
It’s time for YOU to do something about your diabetes care.
- Set goals for what you will do. Start small and work your way up. For example: “I will cut down on regular soda and drink water instead.” When that’s going well…take the next step. Add another goal—“I will dance or bike ride a couple of times a week.” Then add a new goal—“I will eat smaller servings of cookies, burgers, and fries.”
- Try to make each new goal just a bit harder. After you shoot hoops twice a week, try adding another activity on three other days. Raise the goal until you reach a level that works for you.
- Avoid goals that will be too hard to meet. For example, rather than saying you’ll never eat a burger or a candy bar again, say you’ll only eat one a week.
- Tell your family or friends about your goals. Maybe they’ll be active with you or help out some other way.
- Reward yourself when you reach each goal. Keep in mind that rewards can be anything—not just food. You do not have to reach all your goals at once. Start with one or two, then add more.
Write down your top three goals—use the chart on the back page!
Write down your Top 3 Goals
Choose goals that you really can meet. Put in the date when you set the goal and when you met it.
Got it.
Take it one step at a time. Make healthy food choices, be more active, and work towards a healthy weight. Soon you’ll see progress and feel great.
Attention visually impaired visitors: To use common screen reading programs with PDF documents, please visit access.adobe.com, which provides a set of free tools that convert PDF documents to simple HTML or ASCII text.
Source:
By Denchi Minh When a person is diabetic they are advised to go to a licensed dietician in order to provide them with a diabetes diet menu. The diabetes diet menu is a specialized kind of diet that aims to help a diabetic lose weight and reduce their blood sugar levels. A reduction 500 calories in a daily basis can result to a pound of weight lost in a week’s time. The diabetes diet menu gives you an option in choosing the meal that would complement the required calories you need each day. Each menu that is given by the dietician provides calories in such a manner than 50 percent are for calories, 20 percent are from proteins and 30 percent coming from fats. Each meal is complimented by a snack so you wouldn’t have to go hungry at all. These meals are to be complemented by exercise in order for you to achieve the goal you need, which is of course reducing your weight. Below is a sample diabetic diet menu that covers for an entire day. • Breakfast sample menu o 2 4½-in waffles laced with 2 tsp margarine • Lunch sample menu o 1 cup chili with beans • Dinner sample menu o 4 oz. hamburger in a 1 hamburger bun. It is laced with 1 tablespoon ketchup, 2 lettuce leaves and 2 tomato slices Diabetics are required to lose weight in order for their body to improve its tolerance to insulin. Insulin is used by the body in order to effectively convert sugar into energy. The body cannot properly transpose sugar into energy because of the high levels of fats in the system. The body becomes tolerant to the insulin it secretes and by then the body cannot effectively use the glucose in the blood. When this happens the body needs to inject higher dosage of insulin in order to counter act the amount of glucose in the blood. We should take note that a diabetes diet menu doesn’t mean they will have to stop eating sweets or their favorite dishes. The diabetic only needs to reduce them in a minimal level. For more diabetes diet menu information, visit Diabetes Diet Menu Guide and Start Reversing the Effects of Diabetes though a proper diet. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Denchi_Minh About 60 to 70 percent of people with diabetes have some form of neuropathy. People with diabetes can develop nerve problems at any time, but risk rises with age and longer duration of diabetes. The highest rates of neuropathy are among people who have had diabetes for at least 25 years. Diabetic neuropathies also appear to be more common in people who have problems controlling their blood glucose, also called blood sugar, as well as those with high levels of blood fat and blood pressure and those who are overweight. The causes are probably different for different types of diabetic neuropathy. Researchers are studying how prolonged exposure to high blood glucose causes nerve damage. Nerve damage is likely due to a combination of factors: Symptoms depend on the type of neuropathy and which nerves are affected. Some people with nerve damage have no symptoms at all. For others, the first symptom is often numbness, tingling, or pain in the feet. Symptoms are often minor at first, and because most nerve damage occurs over several years, mild cases may go unnoticed for a long time. Symptoms can involve the sensory, motor, and autonomic—or involuntary—nervous systems. In some people, mainly those with focal neuropathy, the onset of pain may be sudden and severe. Symptoms of nerve damage may include: Symptoms that are not due to neuropathy, but often accompany it, include weight loss and depression. Diabetic neuropathy can be classified as peripheral, autonomic, proximal, or focal. Each affects different parts of the body in various ways. Peripheral neuropathy affects: Autonomic neuropathy affects: Proximal neuropathy affects: Focal neuropathy affects: Peripheral neuropathy, also called distal symmetric neuropathy or sensorimotor neuropathy, is nerve damage in the arms and legs. Your feet and legs are likely to be affected before your hands and arms. Many people with diabetes have signs of neuropathy that a doctor could note but feel no symptoms themselves. Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy may include: These symptoms are often worse at night. Peripheral neuropathy may also cause muscle weakness and loss of reflexes, especially at the ankle, leading to changes in the way a person walks. Foot deformities, such as hammertoes and the collapse of the midfoot, may occur. Blisters and sores may appear on numb areas of the foot because pressure or injury goes unnoticed. If foot injuries are not treated promptly, the infection may spread to the bone, and the foot may then have to be amputated. Some experts estimate that half of all such amputations are preventable if minor problems are caught and treated in time. Autonomic neuropathy affects the nerves that control the heart, regulate blood pressure, and control blood glucose levels. Autonomic neuropathy also affects other internal organs, causing problems with digestion, respiratory function, urination, sexual response, and vision. In addition, the system that restores blood glucose levels to normal after a hypoglycemic episode may be affected, resulting in loss of the warning symptoms of hypoglycemia. Normally, symptoms such as shakiness, sweating, and palpitations occur when blood glucose levels drop below 70 mg/dL. In people with autonomic neuropathy, symptoms may not occur, making hypoglycemia difficult to recognize. Problems other than neuropathy can also cause hypoglycemia unawareness. For more information about hypoglycemia, see the fact sheet Hypoglycemia at www.diabetes.niddk.nih.gov/dm/pubs/hypoglycemia. The heart and blood vessels are part of the cardiovascular system, which controls blood circulation. Damage to nerves in the cardiovascular system interferes with the body’s ability to adjust blood pressure and heart rate. As a result, blood pressure may drop sharply after sitting or standing, causing a person to feel light-headed or even to faint. Damage to the nerves that control heart rate can mean that your heart rate stays high, instead of rising and falling in response to normal body functions and physical activity. Nerve damage to the digestive system most commonly causes constipation. Damage can also cause the stomach to empty too slowly, a condition called gastroparesis. Severe gastroparesis can lead to persistent nausea and vomiting, bloating, and loss of appetite. Gastroparesis can also make blood glucose levels fluctuate widely, due to abnormal food digestion. For more information, see the fact sheet Gastroparesis at www.digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/gastroparesis. Nerve damage to the esophagus may make swallowing difficult, while nerve damage to the bowels can cause constipation alternating with frequent, uncontrolled diarrhea, especially at night. Problems with the digestive system can lead to weight loss. Autonomic neuropathy often affects the organs that control urination and sexual function. Nerve damage can prevent the bladder from emptying completely, allowing bacteria to grow in the bladder and kidneys and causing urinary tract infections. When the nerves of the bladder are damaged, urinary incontinence may result because a person may not be able to sense when the bladder is full or control the muscles that release urine. Autonomic neuropathy can also gradually decrease sexual response in men and women, although the sex drive may be unchanged. A man may be unable to have erections or may reach sexual climax without ejaculating normally. A woman may have difficulty with arousal, lubrication, or orgasm. For more information, see the fact sheets Nerve Disease and Bladder Control and Sexual and Urologic Problems of Diabetes at www.kidney.niddk.nih.gov. Autonomic neuropathy can affect the nerves that control sweating. When nerve damage prevents the sweat glands from working properly, the body cannot regulate its temperature as it should. Nerve damage can also cause profuse sweating at night or while eating. Finally, autonomic neuropathy can affect the pupils of the eyes, making them less responsive to changes in light. As a result, a person may not be able to see well when a light is turned on in a dark room or may have trouble driving at night. Proximal neuropathy, sometimes called lumbosacral plexus neuropathy, femoral neuropathy, or diabetic amyotrophy, starts with pain in the thighs, hips, buttocks, or legs, usually on one side of the body. This type of neuropathy is more common in those with type 2 diabetes and in older adults with diabetes. Proximal neuropathy causes weakness in the legs and the inability to go from a sitting to a standing position without help. Treatment for weakness or pain is usually needed. The length of the recovery period varies, depending on the type of nerve damage. Focal neuropathy appears suddenly and affects specific nerves, most often in the head, torso, or leg. Focal neuropathy may cause: Focal neuropathy is painful and unpredictable and occurs most often in older adults with diabetes. However, it tends to improve by itself over weeks or months and does not cause long-term damage. People with diabetes also tend to develop nerve compressions, also called entrapment syndromes. One of the most common is carpal tunnel syndrome, which causes numbness and tingling of the hand and sometimes muscle weakness or pain. Other nerves susceptible to entrapment may cause pain on the outside of the shin or the inside of the foot. The best way to prevent neuropathy is to keep your blood glucose levels as close to the normal range as possible. Maintaining safe blood glucose levels protects nerves throughout your body. For additional information about preventing diabetes complications, including neuropathy, see the Prevent Diabetes Problems Series at www.diabetes.niddk.nih.gov/dm/pubs/complications. Doctors diagnose neuropathy on the basis of symptoms and a physical exam. During the exam, your doctor may check blood pressure, heart rate, muscle strength, reflexes, and sensitivity to position changes, vibration, temperature, or light touch. Experts recommend that people with diabetes have a comprehensive foot exam each year to check for peripheral neuropathy. People diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy need more frequent foot exams. A comprehensive foot exam assesses the skin, muscles, bones, circulation, and sensation of the feet. Your doctor may assess protective sensation or feeling in your feet by touching your foot with a nylon monofilament—similar to a bristle on a hairbrush—attached to a wand or by pricking your foot with a pin. People who cannot sense pressure from a pinprick or monofilament have lost protective sensation and are at risk for developing foot sores that may not heal properly. The doctor may also check temperature perception or use a tuning fork, which is more sensitive than touch pressure, to assess vibration perception. The doctor may perform other tests as part of your diagnosis. The first treatment step is to bring blood glucose levels within the normal range to help prevent further nerve damage. Blood glucose monitoring, meal planning, physical activity, and diabetes medicines or insulin will help control blood glucose levels. Symptoms may get worse when blood glucose is first brought under control, but over time, maintaining lower blood glucose levels helps lessen symptoms. Good blood glucose control may also help prevent or delay the onset of further problems. As scientists learn more about the underlying causes of neuropathy, new treatments may become available to help slow, prevent, or even reverse nerve damage. As described in the following sections, additional treatment depends on the type of nerve problem and symptom. If you have problems with your feet, your doctor may refer you to a foot care specialist. Doctors usually treat painful diabetic neuropathy with oral medications, although other types of treatments may help some people. People with severe nerve pain may benefit from a combination of medications or treatments. Talk with your health care provider about options for treating your neuropathy. Medications used to help relieve diabetic nerve pain include: Duloxetine and pregabalin are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration specifically for treating painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy. You do not have to be depressed for an antidepressant to help relieve your nerve pain. All medications have side effects, and some are not recommended for use in older adults or those with heart disease. Because over-the-counter pain medicines such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen may not work well for treating most nerve pain and can have serious side effects, some experts recommend avoiding these medications. Treatments that are applied to the skin—typically to the feet—include capsaicin cream and lidocaine patches (Lidoderm, Lidopain). Studies suggest that nitrate sprays or patches for the feet may relieve pain. Studies of alpha-lipoic acid, an antioxidant, and evening primrose oil have shown that they can help relieve symptoms and may improve nerve function. A device called a bed cradle can keep sheets and blankets from touching sensitive feet and legs. Acupuncture, biofeedback, or physical therapy may help relieve pain in some people. Treatments that involve electrical nerve stimulation, magnetic therapy, and laser or light therapy may be helpful but need further study. Researchers are also studying several new therapies in clinical trials. To relieve mild symptoms of gastroparesis—indigestion, belching, nausea, or vomiting—doctors suggest eating small, frequent meals; avoiding fats; and eating less fiber. When symptoms are severe, doctors may prescribe erythromycin to speed digestion, metoclopramide to speed digestion and help relieve nausea, or other medications to help regulate digestion or reduce stomach acid secretion. To relieve diarrhea or other bowel problems, doctors may prescribe an antibiotic such as tetracycline, or other medications as appropriate. Sitting or standing slowly may help prevent the light-headedness, dizziness, or fainting associated with blood pressure and circulation problems. Raising the head of the bed or wearing elastic stockings may also help. Some people benefit from increased salt in the diet and treatment with salt-retaining hormones. Others benefit from high blood pressure medications. Physical therapy can help when muscle weakness or loss of coordination is a problem. To clear up a urinary tract infection, the doctor will probably prescribe an antibiotic. Drinking plenty of fluids will help prevent another infection. People who have incontinence should try to urinate at regular intervals—every 3 hours, for example—since they may not be able to tell when the bladder is full. To treat erectile dysfunction in men, the doctor will first do tests to rule out a hormonal cause. Several methods are available to treat erectile dysfunction caused by neuropathy. Medicines are available to help men have and maintain erections by increasing blood flow to the penis. Some are oral medications and others are injected into the penis or inserted into the urethra at the tip of the penis. Mechanical vacuum devices can also increase blood flow to the penis. Another option is to surgically implant an inflatable or semirigid device in the penis. Vaginal lubricants may be useful for women when neuropathy causes vaginal dryness. To treat problems with arousal and orgasm, the doctor may refer women to a gynecologist. People with neuropathy need to take special care of their feet. The nerves to the feet are the longest in the body and are the ones most often affected by neuropathy. Loss of sensation in the feet means that sores or injuries may not be noticed and may become ulcerated or infected. Circulation problems also increase the risk of foot ulcers. More than half of all lower-limb amputations in the United States occur in people with diabetes—86,000 amputations per year. Doctors estimate that nearly half of the amputations caused by neuropathy and poor circulation could have been prevented by careful foot care. Follow these steps to take care of your feet: For additional information about foot care, contact the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse at 1–800–860–8747. See the publication Prevent diabetes problems: Keep your feet and skin healthy at www.diabetes.niddk.nih.gov/dm/pubs/complications_feet. Materials are also available from the National Diabetes Education Program, including the fact sheet Take Care of Your Feet for a Lifetime at www.ndep.nih.gov/campaigns/Feet/Feet_overview.htm. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases conducts and supports research to help people with diabetes. A complete listing of clinical research studies, including those related to diabetic neuropathies, can be found at www.ClinicalTrials.gov. The U.S. Government does not endorse or favor any specific commercial product or company. Trade, proprietary, or company names appearing in this document are used only because they are considered necessary in the context of the information provided. If a product is not mentioned, the omission does not mean or imply that the product is unsatisfactory. For more information, contact the following organizations: American Diabetes Association American Urological Association Foundation American Podiatric Medical Association Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation International Lower Extremity Amputation Prevention Program National Diabetes Education Program National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Information Center National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse Pedorthic Footwear Association You may also find additional information about this topic by visiting MedlinePlus at www.medlineplus.gov. This publication may contain information about medications. When prepared, this publication included the most current information available. For updates or for questions about any medications, contact the U.S. Food and Drug Administration toll-free at 1–888–INFO–FDA (1–888–463–6332) or visit www.fda.gov. Consult your doctor for more information. Source: 1 Information Way The National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse (NDIC) is a service of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). The NIDDK is part of the National Institutes of Health of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Established in 1978, the Clearinghouse provides information about diabetes to people with diabetes and to their families, health care professionals, and the public. The NDIC answers inquiries, develops and distributes publications, and works closely with professional and patient organizations and Government agencies to coordinate resources about diabetes. This publication was originally reviewed by Peter J. Dyck, M.D., Peripheral Neuropathy Research Laboratory, Mayo Clinic Rochester, Rochester, MN; Eva L. Feldman, M.D., Ph.D., Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI; and Aaron I. Vinik, M.D., Ph.D., Strelitz Diabetes Research Institute, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA. Dr. Feldman also reviewed the updated version of the publication. This publication is not copyrighted. The Clearinghouse encourages users of this publication to duplicate and distribute as many copies as desired.
Sample Diabetes Diet Menu
o 4 Tbsp. light syrup
o 1 cup yogurt
o ¾ cup blackberries
o A cup of Coffee or tea
o 12 crackers
o ½ cup broccoli or ½ cup cauliflower
o 1 apple
o A diet soda
o 1 cup of celery sticks
o 1 cup of watermelon
o 2 tablespoon of peanut butter for the sticks
o Skim milk
Diabetic Neuropathies: The Nerve Damage of Diabetes
Diabetic neuropathies are a family of nerve disorders caused by diabetes. People with diabetes can, over time, develop nerve damage throughout the body. Some people with nerve damage have no symptoms. Others may have symptoms such as pain, tingling, or numbness—loss of feeling—in the hands, arms, feet, and legs. Nerve problems can occur in every organ system, including the digestive tract, heart, and sex organs.What causes diabetic neuropathies?
What are the symptoms of diabetic neuropathies?
What are the types of diabetic neuropathy?
Neuropathy Affects Nerves Throughout the Body
What is peripheral neuropathy?
Peripheral neuropathy affects the nerves in your toes, feet, legs, hands, and arms.What is autonomic neuropathy?
Autonomic neuropathy affects the nerves in your heart, stomach, intestines, bladder, sex organs, sweat glands, eyes, and lungs.Hypoglycemia Unawareness
Heart and Blood Vessels
Digestive System
Urinary Tract and Sex Organs
Sweat Glands
Eyes
What is proximal neuropathy?
What is focal neuropathy?
How can I prevent diabetic neuropathies?
How are diabetic neuropathies diagnosed?
Foot Exams
Other Tests
How are diabetic neuropathies treated?
Pain Relief
Gastrointestinal Problems
Dizziness and Weakness
Urinary and Sexual Problems
Foot Care
Points to Remember
Hope through Research
For More Information
1701 North Beauregard Street
Alexandria, VA 22311
Phone: 1–800–DIABETES (342–2383)
Email: AskADA@diabetes.org
Internet: www.diabetes.org
1000 Corporate Boulevard
Linthicum, MD 21090
Phone: 1–866–RING–AUA (746–4282)
or 410–689–3700
Fax: 410–689–3800
Email: patienteducation@auafoundation.org
Internet: www.auafoundation.org
www.UrologyHealth.org
9312 Old Georgetown Road
Bethesda, MD 20814–1621
Phone: 1–800–FOOTCARE (366–8227)
or 301–581–9200
Fax: 301–530–2752
Email: askapma@apma.org
Internet: www.apma.org
National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion
Division of Diabetes Translation
4770 Buford Highway NE, Mail Stop K–10
Atlanta, GA 30341–3717
Phone: 1–800–CDC–INFO (232–4636) or 770–488–5000
Email: cdcinfo@cdc.gov
Internet: www.cdc.gov/diabetes
26 Broadway, 14th Floor
New York, NY 10004
Phone: 1–800–533–CURE (2873)
Fax: 212–785–9595
Email: info@jdrf.org
Internet: www.jdrf.org
Health Resources and Services Administration
5600 Fishers Lane
Rockville, MD 20857
Phone: 1–888–ASK–HRSA (275–4772)
Internet: www.hrsa.gov/leap
1 Diabetes Way
Bethesda, MD 20892–3560
Phone: 1–800–438–5383
Fax: 703–738–4929
Email: ndep@mail.nih.gov
Internet: www.ndep.nih.gov
2 Information Way
Bethesda, MD 20892–3570
Phone: 1–800–891–5389
Fax: 703–738–4929
Email: nddic@info.niddk.nih.gov
Internet: www.digestive.niddk.nih.gov
P.O. Box 30105
Bethesda, MD 20824–0105
Phone: 301–592–8573
Fax: 240–629–3246
Email: nhlbiinfo@nhlbi.nih.gov
Internet: www.nhlbi.nih.gov
P.O. Box 5801
Bethesda, MD 20824
Phone: 1–800–352–9424 or 301–496–5751
Internet: www.ninds.nih.gov
3 Information Way
Bethesda, MD 20892–3580
Phone: 1–800–891–5390
Fax: 703–738–4929
Email: nkudic@info.niddk.nih.gov
Internet: www.kidney.niddk.nih.gov
2025 M Street NW, Suite 800
Washington, DC 20036
Phone: 1–800–673–8447 or 202–367–1145
Fax: 202–367–2145
Email: info@pedorthics.org
Internet: www.pedorthics.org
National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse
Bethesda, MD 20892–3560
Phone: 1–800–860–8747
TTY: 1–866–569–1162
Fax: 703–738–4929
Email: ndic@info.niddk.nih.gov
Internet: www.diabetes.niddk.nih.gov
NIH Publication No. 08–3185
February 2009
s
How It Feels to Have a Stroke
By Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor, Neuroanatomist
Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor is a Harvard-trained and published neuroanatomist who experienced a severe hemorrhage in the left hemisphere of her brain in 1996. On the afternoon of this rare form of stroke (AVM), she could not walk, talk, read, write, or recall any of her life. It took eight years for Dr. Jill to completely recover all of her functions and thinking ability. She is the author of the New York Times bestselling memoir My Stroke of Insight: A Brain Scientist’s Personal Journey (published in 2008 by Viking Penguin).
In 2008, Dr. Jill gave a presentation at the TED Conference in Monterey, CA, which has become the most viewed TED Talk of all time. This now famous 18-minute presentation catapulted her story into the limelight. As a result, she was chosen as one of TIME Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World for 2008. In addition, Dr. Jill was the premiere guest on Oprah’s Soul Series web-cast and was interviewed by Oprah and Dr. Oz on The Oprah Winfrey Show in October, 2008.
Source: TEDtalksDirector on YouTube
Diabetes Foods – A Realistic Approach to Diabetic Menu Planning
By Ben Freeman
If you are diabetic, you must learn all about the food for diabetics and how to incorporate the same in your regular meal plan. One of the best ways of treating diabetes is by controlling your food intake; it helps in relieving the symptoms of the condition. It is imperative to know what you must eat and what you must avoid when you are diabetic.
Scientists have cited that in the next two decades the global rate of patients with Type 2 diabetes would be twice the present number, which indeed is alarming. It is only through a proper diet for diabetics that you can actually control the condition and relieve yourself from the diabetes symptoms.
Ideally a diet containing higher amounts of fiber and lower amounts of fats is what is recommended for a diabetic patient. One has to cut out saturated and trans fats from their diet and also reduce the use of sugar and sweet foods. Saturated fats include animal fats like lard, butter and cheese, cream, chocolate and milk.
Foods for Diabetics – What You Can Eat
A diabetes menu can include adequate portions of carbohydrates. However, there is a measured portion for every individual which is better recommended by the doctor. Carbohydrates are the valuable sources of energy, minerals and essential vitamins. It provides you body with healthy fiber as well that helps in maintaining the blood glucose levels. Peas, beans, barley, oats and other foods belonging to these groups are loaded with fiber. You can include whole grain products like bread and some diabetic cookies for the purpose. These foods are very much a part of the regular American diabetes diet.
You must include a lot of vegetables in your regular diabetic diet plan; vegetables are the perfect foods for diabetics. You can include a wide variety of vegetables like tomatoes, broccoli, carrots, spinach, cucumbers and cabbage. You can have them raw as salads or cooked with very little oil.
Fruits are good foods for diabetics as well, but as they contain natural sugars it is better to choose fruits with caution. Although diabetics need at least 2 servings of fruits regularly, you must avoid canned fruits as they are packed with sugary preservatives. Instead you can have whole fruits.
Proteins are a must for every diabetes meal. You can include lean meat, tofu, peanut butter, egg whites, fish, poultry, nuts and bans as some of the richest sources of proteins.
Foods to Avoid
There are certain foods that diabetics must not take. If you want to control the rising and falling blood glucose levels, you have to be strict about what you are eating.
Carbohydrates as stated above are good for diabetics when eaten in moderation. However, there are certain carbohydrates that you cannot eat, such as corn and potatoes. They are harmful.
Fruits are not recommended for diabetics due to high sugar content. Although natural, sugar has the same effect in any form. Less sugary fruits should be chosen in this respect.
Milk and milk products are strictly restricted, especially full cream milk. The skimmed version should be fine if taken in moderation.
Sweets and fats are better to be avoided. They have no nutritional value and they only add up to your tension and anxiety and increasing blood glucose numbers.
Ben Freeman is an ex-diabetic who writes passionately about how to reverse diabetes. Visit his diabetes foodssite and discover proven ways to plan a diabetic menu.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ben_Freeman
Diabetes and Pregnancy
Pregnancy Homepage
- Before Pregnancy
- During Pregnancy
- After the Baby Arrives
- Trouble Getting Pregnant
- Avoiding Pregnancy
Diabetes and Pregnancy
Diabetes is often diagnosed in women during their childbearing years and can affect the health of both the mother and her unborn child. Poor control of diabetes during pregnancy increases the chances for birth defects and other problems for the baby. It can cause serious complications for the woman, also. Proper healthcare before and during pregnancy can help prevent birth defects and other poor outcomes.
About Diabetes
Diabetes is a condition in which the body cannot use the sugars and starches (carbohydrates) it takes in as food to make energy. The body either makes no insulin or too little insulin or cannot use the insulin it makes to change those sugars and starches into energy. As a result, extra sugar builds up in the blood.
The three most common types of diabetes are:
Type 1
The pancreas makes no insulin or so little insulin that the body can’t use blood sugar for energy. Type 1 diabetes must be controlled with daily insulin.
Learn more about type 1 diabetes and pregnancy here:
Type 2
The body either makes too little insulin or can’t use the insulin it makes to use blood sugar for energy. Sometimes type 2 diabetes can be controlled through eating a proper diet and exercising regularly. Many people with type 2 diabetes have to take diabetes pills, insulin, or both.
Learn more about type 2 diabetes and pregnancy here:
Gestational
This is a type of diabetes that is first seen in a pregnant woman who did not have diabetes before she was pregnant. Often gestational diabetes can be controlled through eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly. Sometimes a woman with gestational diabetes must also take insulin.
For most women with gestational diabetes, the diabetes goes away soon after delivery. When it does not go away, the diabetes is called type 2 diabetes. Even if the diabetes does go away after the baby is born, half of all women who had gestational diabetes develop type 2 diabetes later. It’s important for a woman who has had gestational diabetes to continue to exercise and eat a healthy diet after pregnancy to prevent or delay getting type 2 diabetes. She should also remind her doctor to check her blood sugar every 1 to 3 years.
Learn more about gestational diabetes and pregnancy here:
Related Pages
- Diabetes
- Before Pregnancy
- Healthy Pregnancy
- Birth Defects
- CDC’s National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities
This page in
Contact Us:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities
1600 Clifton Road
MS E-87
Atlanta, GA 30333 - 800-CDC-INFO
(800-232-4636)
TTY: (888) 232-6348
24 Hours/Every Day - cdcinfo@cdc.gov
- Content source: Division of Birth Defects, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 1600 Clifton Rd. Atlanta, GA 30333, USA
800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636) TTY: (888) 232-6348, 24 Hours/Every Day – cdcinfo@cdc.gov
The Diabetes Epidemic Among African Americans
WHAT IS DIABETES?
Diabetes is a group of diseases marked by high levels of blood glucose resulting from defects in insulin production, insulin action, or both. Diabetes can lead to serious complications and premature death, but people with diabetes can take steps to control the disease and lower the risk of complications.
Diabetes is one of the leading causes of death and disability in the United States. Total health care and related costs for the treatment of diabetes run about $174 billion annually.
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF DIABETES?
Type 1 diabetes (formerly called juvenile diabetes) results when the body’s immune system attacks and destroys its own insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. People with type 1 diabetes must have insulin delivered by injection or a pump. Symptoms of type 1 diabetes – increased thirst and urination, constant hunger, weight loss, blurred vision, and extreme fatigue – usually develop over a short period of time. If type 1 diabetes is not diagnosed and treated, a person can lapse into a life-threatening coma.
Type 1 diabetes accounts for approximately 5 percent of all diagnosed cases of diabetes in adults.
Type 2 diabetes (formerly called adult-onset diabetes) occurs when the body does not make enough insulin or cannot use the insulin it makes effectively. This form of diabetes usually develops in adults over the age of 40 but is becoming more prevalent in younger age groups – including children and adolescents. The symptoms of type 2 diabetes – feeling tired or ill, unusual thirst, frequent urination (especially at night), weight loss, blurred vision, frequent infections, and slow-healing wounds – may develop gradually and may not be as noticeable as in type 1 diabetes. Some people have no symptoms.
Type 2 diabetes accounts for about 90 to 95 percent of all diagnosed cases of diabetes in adults.
A person is more likely to develop type 2 diabetes if they:
o have a family history of diabetes
o are a member of an ethnic group like African Americans
o are overweight or obese
o are 45 year old or older
o had diabetes while pregnant (gestational diabetes)
o have pre-diabetes (glucose levels are elevated but not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes)
o have high blood pressure
o have abnormal cholesterol (lipid) levels
o are not getting enough physical activity
o have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
o have blood vessel problems affecting the heart, brain or legs
* have dark, thick and velvety patches of skin around the neck and armpits (This is
called acanthosis nigricans.)
Gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy. Women who have had gestational diabetes have a 35 to 60 percent chance of developing diabetes, mostly type 2, in the next 10 to 20 years.
HOW MANY AFRICAN AMERICANS HAVE DIAGNOSED AND UNDIAGNOSED DIABETES?
4.9 million; 18.7 percent of all non-Hispanic blacks ages twenty and older have diagnosed and undiagnosed diabetes
12.6 percent had diagnosed diabetes according to age adjusted 2004-2006 national survey data
WHAT IS THE LINK BETWEEN CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE AND DIABETES?
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for people with diabetes – about two out of three people with diabetes die of heart disease or stroke.
Adults with diabetes have heart disease death rates about two to four times higher than adults without diabetes.
The risk for stroke is two to four times higher among people with diabetes.
About 67 percent of adults with diabetes also have high blood pressure.
Smoking doubles the risk for heart disease in people with diabetes.
WHAT CAN AFRICAN AMERICANS DO TO PREVENT HEART DISEASE OR STROKE AND OTHER DIABETES COMPLICATIONS?
Diabetes is a self-managed disease. People with diabetes must take responsibility for their day-to-day care. The chances of having diabetes complications can be reduced or delayed significantly by keeping blood glucose (blood sugar), blood pressure, and cholesterol levels (called the ABCs of Diabetes) in the target range.
The National Diabetes Education Program recommends the following targets for reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke for most people with diabetes:
A1C (Blood Glucose) Less than 7 percent **
(check at least twice a year)
Blood Pressure Less than 130/80 mmHg
(check every doctor’s visit)
Cholesterol (LDL) Less than 100 mg/dl
(check once a year)
**Targets should be individualized – less stringent targets may be advised with severe hypoglycemia, limited life expectancy, other medical conditions, or longstanding diabetes.
People with diabetes can manage their disease by eating healthy foods, being physically active, taking diabetes medicine as prescribed and testing blood glucose levels.
Community education and support programs can help people with diabetes and their families to manage their diabetes.
CAN TYPE 2 DIABETES BE PREVENTED?
YES! The Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP), an important trial sponsored by the National Institutes of Health, and the DPPOS, the 10 year follow up study to the DPP, showed that type 2 diabetes can be delayed or prevented in overweight adults with pre-diabetes, including African Americans. Pre-diabetes is a condition where blood glucose levels are higher than normal, but not yet high enough for a diagnosis of diabetes.
Risk factors for pre-diabetes are the same as those listed for type 2 diabetes.
To prevent diabetes, the people who participated in the DPP study:
Lost 5 to 7 percent of their body weight (that is 10 to 14 pounds for a person who weighs 200 pounds).
Were physically active for 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week. Most participants chose brisk walking.
Made healthier food choices and limited the amount of calories and fat in their diet.
WHERE CAN I GO FOR MORE INFORMATION?
For more information about preventing and controlling diabetes, call 1-888-693-NDEP (1-888-693-6337) or visit the National Diabetes Education Program website at www.YourDiabetesInfo.org.
Source: Adapted from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. National Diabetes Fact Sheet: national estimates and general information on diabetes and prediabetes in the United States, 2011. Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2011.
Updated January 2011
Diabetes Industry and Native American Health
Source: unnaturalcausesdoc on YouTube
Poverty and goverment policies have a devastating affect on the rate of diabetes among Native Americans.
Pre-Diabetes – The Growing Epidemic
By: Terry Edwards
One of the new buzz words going about these days is pre-diabetes. And for good reason. Pre-diabetes has become a serious health concern for our society in general.
The facts tell the story all to well. More than 18 million Americans live with diabetes every day, and that number is continuing to grow at a staggering pace. Even more alarming is the fact that 5 million people don’t even know they have diabetes. In addition, roughly 41 million Americans have pre-diabetes, which left undetected and untreated, progresses into full-blown diabetes.
So, how do you know if you need tested for pre-diabetes and how do you know if you have it?
One of the main problems with diabetes is that many times you may have it and it won’t even know it. As a human we generally wait to go see a doctor until we have a medical problem. It usually takes a pain, cut, or sickness that affects us severely before we head off to see a doctor. It’s just the way we are.
This presents a major problem in knowing if you have pre-diabetes. You may have the tell-tale symptoms such as frequent thirst, urination and unexplained weight loss or gain, but you don’t realize it is a sign. Therefore, it can be damaging your body without you knowing it. Diabetes is a slow developing disease, but if it’s not caught in time it can be catastrophic.
The good news with all of this is that you can likely prevent the onset of diabetes with early detection and the right care. Don’t wait until you don’t feel right to be checked out. Ask your doctor, if they haven’t already recommended it during a routine physical, to have your blood sugar checked. It’s very quick, very simple, and is not painful.
Your doctor can find out if you have pre-diabetes by doing a glucose test. It requires you to fast overnight and not eat anything until after the doctor checks your blood sugar level. The fasting glucose test is done with a simple blood test. The results should be available to you within a day or two at most. An even easier quick test is with a finger stick and putting it in a blood glucose tester. It gives results in 5 seconds.
Diabetes is a very serious health issue. Please, don’t wait until it’s too late. Have yourself checked at least every six months and keep yourself on the road to good health.
Source: Free Articles
10 Worst Drinks – Nutrition by Natalie
Source: psychetruth on Youtube
Nutrition by Natalie
Top Ten Worst Drinks
Natalie counts down the 10 worst drinks. Chances are if you eat an average American diet, you drank at least three of these today.
In a fast food nation, eating healthy food becomes difficult to do. Yet a poor diet contributes to low energy, obesity, stress, health problems and high medical bills.
If you eat better, you will feel better and this video discusses some of the foods you should avoid.
Diabetes and Depression
Diabetes at Work: What’s Depression Got to Do with It?
The purpose of “Diabetes at Work: What’s Depression Got to Do with It?” is to provide employers with information about the association between diabetes and depression, the economic cost of untreated depression, and the role that employers can take to help employees who are experiencing both illnesses.
The following case study describes the experience of an employee who has both diabetes and depression.
Case Study:
Cindy S. is a 52-year old employee at Networth Industries, Inc. More than 5 years ago, Cindy was diagnosed with diabetes. For the last 2 months, Cindy has found that she is less interested in tasks that she used to enjoy at work such as analyzing data, reporting the findings to management, and presenting the results to national stakeholders. Most days, it is difficult for Cindy to get out of bed and to make it to work on time. Once there Cindy finds herself distracted and unable to complete tasks that used to take her only an hour to finish. Cindy has noticed that she feels sad most of the time and has had trouble sleeping and remembering to take her diabetes medication. Cindy has thought about telling her supervisor that she feels depressed, but she worries about whether she will lose her job because she now has both diabetes and depression.
This case study highlights several of the concerns and challenges that employees with diabetes and depression may experience at the workplace. This Web page will review key topics highlighted in the case study and the role of the employer when their employee experiences both diabetes and depression. The topics that will be covered include the following:
- An introduction and statistics related to depression and diabetes
- The symptoms of depression
- Gender differences and depression
- The seriousness of depression in diabetes
- Concerns for employers when their employee has diabetes and depression
- The impact that depression can have on job functioning
- How depression may manifest in the workplace
- The Americans with Disabilities Act
- How an employer can help an employee who has depression
- Treatment options
- Resources for diabetes and depression
Depression and Diabetes: Is There a Link?
Evidence suggests that an association between depression and diabetes exists, but it is not clear which comes first or why they are often linked. What is clear is that both depression and diabetes can be effectively managed and treated.
Anyone can develop depression, but people with diabetes may be at greater risk. Depression might result from the daily burden of having diabetes.1 Recent research has reported that depression is twice as common in people who have diabetes than it is in people who do not have this disease. In addition, the chances of becoming depressed increases as diabetes complications worsen.
Additional information from research on depression and diabetes suggests that depression alone may also increase the likelihood of a person developing type 2 diabetes. In fact, research shows that depressed adults have a 37% increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Clinical depression is one of the most costly illnesses in the world. It is also a leading cause of disability in the United States and worldwide. Approximately 70% of people who have depression are employed; depression results in 400 million lost work days a year. It is estimated that the annual salary-equivalent cost of major depression due to work loss in the U.S. labor force is $44 billion per year.13
Although depression can occur at any age, it tends to affect people in their prime working years, 25-44 years of age, and, if untreated, can last a lifetime.
Employers should know that there are several treatment options available to assist employees who are experiencing depression in the workplace. Research has shown that 80% of those who seek treatment show improvement. Depression does not have to be a debilitating disease.
What are the Symptoms of Depression?
Depression is a medical condition that should be diagnosed and treated by a trained healthcare professional, such as a primary care provider, psychiatrist, psychologist, or a social worker. Occupational health nurses, wellness coordinators, employers, supervisors and co-workers can be the first to recognize signs of depression in a fellow employee.
Depression is more than occasionally feeling sad, stressed, or irritable. People with depression tend to have some ofthe following symptoms most of the day for at least two weeks:
- Frequent feelings of sadness that last most of the day
- Decreased interest in most things that were once enjoyed
- Loss of self-esteem or feelings of guilt and worthlessness
- Sleep problems, such as sleeping too much or having trouble sleeping
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Unintentional changes in weight (weight loss or gain)
- Irritability or restlessness
- Decreased energy
- Possible thoughts of death or suicide
Who Gets Depression?
While anyone can develop depression—there are some differences based on gender.
- Women are twice as likely to become depressed as men. About 10-25% of all women will be depressed during their lives.
- Men have a lower risk for depression than women, but when they are depressed they are more likely to go undiagnosed and less likely to seek help. Men may experience the typical symptoms of depression, but they may also feel more angry and irritable. They may also be more likely to try and relieve their condition with alcohol or drug abuse. Depression increases the risk for suicide and men who have suicidal thoughts are more likely to die of suicide than women with suicidal thoughts. However, suicidal thoughts in all individuals should be taken very seriously and the person who has those thoughts should be evaluated by a mental health professional.
Why is Depression in Diabetes Serious?
Depression in diabetes is very concerning for several reasons:
- Individuals who are depressed may have more difficulty following the medical treatment that their health care team establishes challenging. For example, depressed persons might not take their medication as prescribed or monitor their glucose levels as health care professionals recommend.
- Depression can result in poor physical and mental functioning, so a person is less likely to maintain regular physical activity.
- Individuals who are depressed might adopt unhealthy behaviors, such as a sedentary lifestyle and/or a poor diet.
- Social isolation is also common for people who are depressed, which decreases opportunities for social support that is often needed for self-management of diabetes.
- Untreated depression in diabetes can result in
- Hyperglycemia (high blood glucose)
- Poor metabolic control
- Decreased quality of life
- Increased health care usage and costs
- Increased risk of mortality
- Untreated depression places people with diabetes at risk for complications that could be avoided. These complications include—
- Heart disease
- Blindness
- Amputations
- Erectile Dysfunction
- Stroke
- Kidney disease
DID YOU KNOW THAT…
Treating depression may help a person’s mood and glucose control.
Why Should Employers Be Concerned?
Depression in people who also have diabetes is associated with increased health care costs. Total health care expenditures for individuals with depression was 4.5 times higher than for individuals without depression.
Like diabetes, depression is serious, common and costly, but also potentially preventable and definitely treatable. Yet many people who have both diabetes and depression do not seek treatment for their depressive symptoms. Although depression affects more than 19 million Americans every year, fewer than half seek treatment.
Depression is often unrecognized and undertreated in health care settings. Researchers have found that only 30% of patients with depression and diabetes receive adequate treatment for depression and fewer than 20% complete more than four visits for psychotherapy.
There are many reasons why employees may be reluctant to seek out help for depression:
- Cost. Some people may avoid seeking medical attention for chronic conditions, such as depression and diabetes, because of the additional cost and burden that it may place on the individual or family budget. There could also be concern about the cost associated with lost time from work.
- Stigma. Many people feel there is a stigma associated with depression. Employees might also be concerned with how employers and colleagues will respond if the employee discloses that he or she is depressed.
- Shame. Some employees may be embarrassed or self-conscious about needing to ask for help, or may view depression as a “weakness” or as being their fault.
- Being uninformed.
- Some employees may not be aware of available treatment options. Some who have begun treatment might not have been aware that medications take time to yield the desired levels for benefit. Such persons sometimes discontinue medications before the medications had time to work.
- Some employees may be unaware of health benefits that their employer provides and what their insurance may cover.
- In addition, some individuals may be unaware that they are depressed or they may believe that they can take care of themselves on their own.
- Cultural differences. Research regarding ethnic minorities’ attitudes toward seeking professional mental health care has yielded inconsistent results. For example, in one study, mistrust and opinions about mental illness was found to negatively impact help-seeking behavior among African Americans. Other studies have found more positive attitudes towards mental health treatment and medication options for African Americans and Hispanics.
How Does Depression Impact Job Functioning?
Depression can interfere with job functioning in several ways. For example, depression can affect a person’s ability to perform tasks, to think clearly, or to communicate with others.
People who suffer from depression sometimes have difficulty—
- Sustaining concentration
- Maintaining stamina
- Handling pressures, deadlines, and multiple tasks
- Interacting with others
- Responding to negative feedback
- Responding to change
How Might Untreated Depression Manifest Itself in the Workplace?
Untreated depression can manifest itself in the following ways at the work site:
- Consistent late arrivals or frequent absences
- Irritability
- Substance use or abuse
- Low morale
- Increased lack of cooperation or an inability to work with others
- Decreased productivity
- Problems concentrating
- Safety problems as a result of problems with attention
- Poor work or missed deadlines
- Decreased interest in one’s work
- Frequent complaints of body aches or fatigue
Employers, supervisors, and co-workers can be the first to recognize significant changes in an employee’s work habits, behaviors, performance, and attendance. However, employers must also be aware that individuals with psychiatric or physical disabilities have rights, which are covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
What Legal Rights do Employees have When They have a Physical or Psychiatric Disability?
The Americans with Disabilities Act:
- prohibits employment discrimination against individuals with disabilities in the private sector, and in state and local governments, and it
- prohibits discrimination in all employment practices, including:
- job application procedures,
- hiring,
- firing,
- advancement,
- compensation,
- training, and
- other terms, conditions, and privileges of employment.
The Americans with Disabilities Act covers qualified individuals with physical and psychiatric disabilities, such as mental disorders. Diabetes or depression would be considered a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act if the disease substantially limits one or more of a person’s major life activities, such as eating or caring for oneself. Diabetes would also be considered a disability when it causes side effects or complications that substantially limit a major life activity.
The Americans with Disabilities Act prohibits employers from asking employees and job applicants whether they have a psychiatric or physical disability. Disclosure about one’s mental or physical condition is a personal decision and an employee should not be coerced into informing an employer or colleagues about their health. However, if the employer has concrete reasons to believe that a physical or psychiatric condition may be affecting an employee’s ability to perform their job, the employer may ask questions or have the employee obtain a medical examination.
If an employee discloses that he or she has a physical or psychiatric disability, the employer may only ask whether there is a need for a reasonable accommodation and type of accommodation needed.
For more information about disability and diabetes in the workplace please visit: www.eeoc.gov./facts/diabetes.html.
What Accommodations Must an Employer Make for an Employee with a Disability?
Individuals with disabilities can perform all types of jobs in a variety of settings. However, employers may exclude such persons from certain positions because of stereotypes and fears about what types of work such individuals can perform. Employees with diabetes and/or depression may require a change in their workplace setting to allow them to better manage their condition.
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, employers must make reasonable accommodations to individuals with a known disability.37 Examples of reasonable accommodations might include:
- Time-off for scheduled medical appointments
- Regular work schedules
- Meal breaks
- A place to test blood sugar levels
- Clear delineation of performance expectations
- Schedules which allow for flex-time
- Extending additional leave to allow an employee to keep his or her job after a hospitalization.
Think back to the case study of Cindy S, repeated here.
Case Study:
Cindy S. is a 52-year old employee at Networth Industries, Inc. More than 5 years ago, Cindy was diagnosed with diabetes. For the last 2 months, Cindy has found that she is less interested in tasks that she used to enjoy at work such as analyzing data, reporting the findings to management, and presenting the results to national stakeholders. Most days, it is difficult for Cindy to get out of bed and to make it to work on time. Once there Cindy finds herself distracted and unable to complete tasks that used to take her only an hour to finish. Cindy has noticed that she feels sad most of the time and has had trouble sleeping and remembering to take her diabetes medication. Cindy has thought about telling her supervisor that she feels depressed, but she worries about whether she will lose her job because she now has both diabetes and depression.
Points to consider:
What legal protection does Cindy S. have under the Americans with Disabilities Act?
- In order for Cindy to have any legal protection under the Americans with Disabilities Act, the diabetes or the depression must substantially limit Cindy’s major life activities. More information is needed to determine whether her condition(s) limit her major life activities, such as thinking, eating, or caring for herself.
What accommodations must the employer make to assist Cindy S. in returning to the work site?
- If it has been determined that diabetes or depression substantially limits Cindy’s major life activities, then her employer must make reasonable accommodations. These adjustments could include:
- Time-off for scheduled medical appointments
- A place to test blood sugar levels
- Schedules which allow for flex-time
How can the employer assist Cindy S. if she discloses that she has depression?
- The employer should handle this situation with confidentiality.
- Employers should not attempt to treat a person with diabetes, but instead provide the employee with the assistance needed to receive the appropriate care.
- If an employee assistance program exists, the employer should assist the employee with seeking such services.
How Can an Employer Help an Employee who is Depressed?
If an employee is struggling with depression, the employer can be a valuable resource.
In reaching out to an employee who has disclosed that he or she is suffering from depression, employers should remember to handle this situation with confidentiality.
Employers should avoid trying to diagnose or treat a person with depression. Instead, the primary objective of the employer should be to assist the employee with receiving the appropriate, professional help needed, such as through an employee assistance program, which may be available at the work site.
In providing assistance to an employee with depression, employers should—
- Be empathetic and understanding
- Avoid critical or shaming statements
- Emphasize that depression is treatable
- Provide information to employees about symptoms of depression and treatment options.
Employers can also raise awareness about depression by—
- Educating management and employees about depression and effective treatment options
- Informing employees of the availability of an employee assistance program
- Provide an easily accessible behavioral health system
- Including depression recognition screenings and stress management at health fairs
- Developing a return-to-work plan for employees who have been absent from work due to depression
To learn more about depression resources that are available, please visit the “Resources” section of this Web page.
Can Depression be Treated?
There is good news! Depression, with or without diabetes, can be treated. It is important to diagnose depression early and accurately to reduce the risk of developing diabetes and/or diabetes complications. Treating depression has also been found to improve diabetes control. In addition, appropriate treatment and monitoring of depression can increase workplace productivity, lower absenteeism, and decrease disability costs.
There are currently a variety of highly effective interventions available for treating depression. The majority of depressive disorders can be treated with either psychotherapy (talk therapy), antidepressants, or both treatments together. A combination of psychotherapy and medication has been identified as being most effective. Psychotherapy allows people the opportunity to learn skills to reduce their depression or to address underlying issues associated with the depression.
In treating diabetes and depression, it is important for the health care team (e.g., the family doctor, endocrinologist, diabetes health care team, psychiatrist, social worker, or clinical psychologist) to all work closely together. Occupational health nurses or other work site medical professionals also play an important role in this health care team. Work site medical professionals may have suggestions for employers on how to deal with depression in the workplace. In addition, such health professionals may also be able to provide employees with referrals for mental health professionals who practice in specific communities near the work site or that are convenient for the employee.
Where Can Employers Find More Information about Diabetes at Work?
The National Diabetes Education Program (NDEP), which is jointly sponsored by the National Institutes of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, provides information for employers on its Web site: http://www.diabetesatwork.org/.
DiabetesAtWork.org can help businesses and managed care companies to assess the impact of diabetes in the workplace, and provide intuitive information to help employees manage their diabetes and take steps toward reducing risks for related complications, such as heart disease.
DiabetesAtWork.org can help you:
- Develop a diabetes prevention or management program.
- Estimate the number of employees in your company with diabetes.
- Estimate the total cost of diabetes in your company.
- Choose or design a health plan for people with diabetes.
- Obtain support from leadership for a diabetes program.
NDEP also maintains a Web site, http://www.yourdiabetesinfo.org/ which has educational materials on diabetes prevention and control for business professionals. On the YourDiabetesInfo.org Web site, employers can find out more information about diabetes, such as:
- How business leaders can become more involved in workplace and community activities to help control diabetes related complications to reduce the human and economic impact of this serious disease.
- How to plan a workshop for employers and business coalitions to address diabetes in the workplace.
Resources for Diabetes Prevention and Control
The following resources provide information, products, and tools about diabetes prevention and control:
American Association of Diabetes Educators
http://www.diabeteseducator.org/*
American Diabetes Association
http://www.diabetes.org/*
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
www.cdc.gov/diabetes
Diabetes Action Research and Education Foundation
http://www.diabetesaction.org/*
Diabetes Education and Sports Association
http://www.diabetes-exercise.org/*
Diabetes Prevention Program
www.bsc.gwu.edu/dpp/manuals.htmlvdoc*
National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse
diabetes.niddk.nih.gov
diabetes.niddk.nih.gov/spanish/index.asp (Spanish Web page)
The National Diabetes Education Program
http://www.yourdiabetesinfo.org/*
www.cdc.gov/diabetes/ndep
http://www.diabetesatwork.org/*
http://www.betterdiabetescare.nih.gov/
Resources for Depression
Several resources are available for employers and employees who are dealing with depression issues at the workplace. These resources include:
Agency for Health Care Policy and Research
Depression is a treatable illness No 5
www.AHRQ.gov/consumer
American Academy of Family Physicians
Patient Education Information
familydoctor.org/handouts/587.html*
American Psychiatric Association
http://www.psych.org/*
http://www.healthyminds.org/*
American Psychological Association
http://www.apa.org/*
A Pathway for Life Long Mental Health: A Mental Health Resource Guide
http://www.freedomfromfear.org/*
Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance
http://www.dbsalliance.org/*
Depression Booklet:
http://www.1on1health.com/
Depression Health Center
my.webmd.com/medical_information/condition_centers/depression/default.htm
Depression in the Workplace Magazine
www.managedcaremag.com/workplace
Depression Screening Test: An Online Self-test for Depression
psychcentral.com/depquiz.htm
Depression—You Don’t Have to Feel that Way. American Family Physician. Published by the American Academy of Family Physicians. March 1, 2000. www.aafp.org/afp/20000301/1523ph.html*
Mental Health Matters: Self Help Center: Video and Audio Tapes.
www.mental-health-matters.com/selfhelp/m_media.php
National Alliance on Mental Illness
http://www.nami.org/*
National Business Group on Health. An Employer’s Guide to Behavioral Health Services: A Roadmap and Recommendations for Evaluating, Designing, and Implementing Behavioral Health Services. www.businessgrouphealth.org/pdfs/fullreport_behavioralhealthservices.pdf*
National Institute of Mental Health
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/
- For NIMH’s publications on depression, please call Toll-free 1-800-421-4211
- For NIMH’s publication on diabetes and depression, visit: www.nimh.nih.gov/publicat/index.cfm
National Mental Health Association
http://www.nmha.org/*
SONRISA: A curriculum toolbox for Promotores/Community Health Workers to address mental/emotional health issues associated with diabetes. Southwest Center for Community Health Promotion, Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona. Available at: www.caldiabetes.org/content_display.cfm?contentID=705&categoryID=75*
The Partnership for Workplace Mental Health
- A Mentally Healthy Workforce—It’s Good for Business http://www.workplacementalhealth.org/*
Article Source:
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ National Diabetes Education Program is jointly sponsored the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and kidney Diseases of the Institutes of National Health and the Division of Diabetes Translation of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention with the support of more than 200 partner organizations.
Get Rid Of Acne – 5 Tips to Cure Acne Once and For All
By Dena Kirk
Dena Kirk is a professional business writer with over ten years experience. From training professional decorative painters to run profitable businesses to her newest endeavor …
5 Tips To Get Rid Of Acne
If you suffer from acne, you know the frustration that comes from trying one product after another, only to have each fail. The problem with those products is that they only work on the symptoms. They don’t get to the root of the problem.
Acne is a systemic problem, meaning that it starts from inside your body. Creams, prescriptions and cleansers work from outside in. You are much more likely to get rid of acne for good if you work from the inside out.
So what can you do to get rid of acne? First of all, don’t go for the immediate cure. There is no such thing. You can cure acne by taking it one step at a time and fixing what’s wrong inside your body. Patience pays.
Here are 5 tips on how to get rid of acne:
Tip #1: Drink water. Lots of it. I’m not saying don’t have a soft drink or coffee or whatever your drink of choice is. I am saying that your body is made up of 55% to 78% water (depending on body size). So if you’re not replenishing water, your body will rebel. It does that in different ways, but one way is… you guessed it… acne!
Tip #2: Cleanse but don’t over cleanse. If you wash your face 20 times a day to get rid of acne, you are probably doing more harm than good. It can actually irritate your skin and cause even more problems. If your face is exceptionally oily, washing it three times a day is plenty.
Tip #3: Don’t switch products often. If you have tried everything, you’ve probably switched facial cleansing or acne prevention creams too often. The problem is that your skin may be sensitive to some ingredients in the products you’re using. If that’s the case, switching from one to another to another may increase your skin problems. You’d be better off going with a mild soap with little or no scent and as few ingredients as possible. That way you’re not adding to your problems with something to which you may actually be allergic.
Tip #4: Don’t eat so much junk food. I know. Bummer, right? If you’ll add some high density foods to your diet you won’t crave junk as much. High density foods include green veggies (yup, mom was right!), raw nuts (almonds are great – but not the salty, roasted ones) and berries (I’ve never heard a bad word about eating berries – just wash them first). When you are on your way to your favorite fast food place, eat a handful of almonds or berries and you may find that you leave behind half of your french fries.
Tip #5: Exercise. It’s hard to believe that a lack of exercise might be one reason for acne. However, our bodies need exercise and acne is just one way that they tell us that we are not giving them what they need. You don’t need to go join a gym. Just park in the farthest spot when you go to the mall and you’ll do great. Another easy way to add exercise is to skip the elevator and take the stairs.
Acne is frustrating and can lead to self-defeating behaviors, like hiding out and over eating to overcome the emotional pain. Take your life in your own hands and commit to making little lifestyle changes that will help you get rid of acne. If you need help, Acne No More is an ebook by Mike Walden that walks you step-by-step through the process. The program can be customized to your lifestyle and is easy to follow. Even with your busy life.
Discover How to Cure Acne At Any Age, Even If You’ve Tried Everything And Nothing Has Ever Worked For You Before.
Click Here –> For More Information.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dena_Kirk
Tips for Taking Care of Diabetic Feet
People who have diabetes know that they need to take extra care of their feet to reduce or eliminate the pain and complications often associated with the disease. Pain, numbness and tingling in the extremities, including the feet, are commonly experienced by people with diabetes. Neuropathy can cause injuries to go unnoticed, and reduced circulation to the extremities can slow healing after an injury has occurred. Here are a few precautions that may be recommended to help care for diabetic feet:
Thoroughly inspect feet for injuries each day. A loss of sensation can lead cuts, bruises, blisters or ulcers on the feet to go unnoticed in people with diabetes. Discovering and treating any such problems early can help keep them from worsening. Examining the feet daily is a good idea for anyone with diabetes.
Contact your medical professional immediately if any foot problems are observed. Discovering and treating any potential foot issues early gives you the chance to begin treatment right away. Many foot related problems can worsen or become infected if they go unnoticed.
Wear properly fitted diabetic footwear for your needs. Diabetic footwear is designed to provide optimal support and distribute the weight of the body such that foot pain is minimized. Podiatrists and certified pedorthists can help people with diabetes select appropriately fitted footwear for their needs.
Avoid going barefoot to reduce the chance of injury. Preventing cuts and other foot injuries is a precaution that can help minimize foot problems and infections in diabetics. Wearing shoes at all times is one way to help prevent unnecessary injuries that can lead to infections.
Wash and dry feet well daily. Washing the feet daily helps promote foot health. Drying the feet completely, particularly between the toes, is also very important for people who have diabetes.
Work with your doctor to determine what treatments work for you. Since the same treatments options may not work for each patient, working with a medical professional such as a podiatrist or certified pedorthist will help you determine the best way to care for your feet.
Note: This information is not intended to supplement or replace advice from a medical professional, or to diagnose or treat any condition.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/diseases-and-conditions-articles/tips-for-taking-care-of-diabetic-feet-1165282.html
About the Author
Chris Dillon is the V.P. of MMAR Medical Group Inc., a provider of wholesale orthopedic products including diabetic footwear, custom orthotics, braces and more. Please visit www.mmarmedical.com for more information.
Subcribe Here
