What Is World Diabetes Day?
By James Briggs
World Diabetes Day (WDD) was created by both the World Health Organization and the International Diabetes Federation. It was instituted in 1991 and is now a massive campaign. The issues it raises serve as educational campaigns that last for the entire year.
- World Diabetes Day is held every year on November 14th.
- It was instituted in 1991 as an awareness and educational campaign.
- The theme of World Diabetes Day changes from year to year.
The day itself is held every year on November 14th. This signifies the birthday of Frederick Banting, one of two men who led to the discovery of insulin through their research and theories. It became an official United Nations World Health day in 2006.
What is done for WDD?
WDD is honored in over 160 different countries globally.There are also many various organizations and groups that honor the day and the campaign.
Much is done to get the word out about diabetes, as the primary reason for WDD is awareness and education. Advertisements are taken out in a wide variety of spectrums.
Awareness runs and other events and festivals are held. Ceremonies and symbolic gestures are performed, all to get the day in the news and to spread awareness to as many people as possible.
The goals of WDD
Ultimately, the goal of World Diabetes Day is to spread awareness. The more people that are aware of the problem, the more people that can be saved.
Many people do not even realize they have the disease until much damage is already done. WDD also serves as a massive fundraiser, garnering funds for both the research of diabetes and for the treatment of those with diabetes.
WDD preaches ideas and values such as living a healthy lifestyle and getting yourself examined by doctors. Additionally it teaches ways to cope with the problems and ways to prevent the disease.
WDD also teaches about ways to help even if you do not have the disease. By increasing awareness and educating people, diabetes can be prevented much more effectively.
Additionally, it gets more attention globally, raising the importance of investing money and time into research.
Interesting facts about World Diabetes Day
- The theme for WDD changes from year to year. In both 2007 and 2008, the theme was diabetes in children and adolescents. There are many past themes including diabetes and obesity, human rights and diabetes, diabetes in the disadvantaged, diabetes in relation to specific organs and body parts, diabetes in old age and so on.
- Some of the alarming facts for this year’s theme are: that 200 children every day (70,000 annually) develop type 1 diabetes.
- It’s growing at a rate of 3% per year and a higher rate of 5% per year in preschoolers. There are over 440,000 children living with type 1 diabetes around the world.
- Type2 diabetes is becoming increasingly prevalent in children, highlighting unhealthy lifestyles.
- The symbol for WDD is a blue circle outline with white in the middle. The circle has many symbolic meanings, including global unity and health and lifecycles.
Source: James Briggs
Foot Care For The Diabetic
By Ann Knapp
The NET study guide provides nurses the assistance they need with the nursing entrance test. Pass the NET the first time with our guide at http://www.nurseslearningcenter.com. Written by a Professor of Education for nurses, the guide has over 600 pages with details answers to every question.
Proper foot care is very important for people who are diabetic. People spend a great amount of time on their feet. Knowledge of proper foot care can save the diabetic individual from many future complications that can arise from foot care neglect, such as open wounds, infection, and loss of toe nails, poor circulation, peripheral neuropathy, septicemia and gangrene.
Diabetes causes poor circulation, which in turn causes the diabetic individual a loss of sensation. The feet are the farthest away from the heart and are therefore the most susceptible to complications from injury.
Using common sense and taking some simple precautions will go a long way to promoting healthy feet. Here is a list of some of some healthy tips for diabetics regarding their foot care.
- Water should be tested with the person’s hand, and should be tepid not hot. Due to peripheral neuropathy, it is possible to use water that is too hot and can cause injury to the tissue.
- Use soap that is gentle on the skin, such as Ivory or Dove. Antibacterial soaps can be harsh on the skin, cause allergic reactions in some people.
- Instead of clipping the toe nails, use an emery board. Clipping the toe nails can lead to breaking the skin or ingrown toe nails.
- See a podiatrist on a regular basis, at least monthly. The podiatrist can clip the toe nails and determine if there are any areas of concern.
- Wear foot coverings at all times. Going barefoot can lead to unexpected injury from foreign objects as well as bacterial infection. Sandals that are open toed should be avoided. Always try to cover the entire foot. Use slippers while in the home.
Be sure to have comfortable shoes. Choose shoes that area half size bigger and wide enough to accommodate cotton socks. Leather shoes are better than vinyl man made materials. The type of activity that someone engages in usually dictates the type of shoes to be worn. Comfort should be their priority. A diabetic may choose not to wear socks with their tennis shoes while engaging in an activity. If they are wearing shoes made of vinyl or leather, their feet will sweat profusely. Sweat from feet, especially in a slightly anaerobic environment (without oxygen) can become acidic, rather than alkaline. The acid sweat can irritate the skin and excoriate areas where there are sores beginning to form.
- Always use cotton socks. Cotton absorbs sweat more than any other material. Avoid nylon socks if possible.
- Avoid shoes that have high heels. High heels will push the toes forward and can easily cause ingrown toe nails and loss of feeling.
- Try to elevate the feet during the day. Schedule daily rest periods. When elevating the feet, try to keep the feet higher than the heart. This position allows blood to flow easier and enhances circulation.
- Avoid perfumed lotions on the feet. If dryness is a problem, use alcohol and perfumed free lotions. Be sure to thoroughly massage all of lotion into the foot, or dry off excess lotion.
- Dry feet thoroughly after each washing and air out feet if possible during the day.
- Avoid standing for long periods of time. Blood has a tendency to pool in the foot and ankle area, making it harder to circulate back to the heart.
- Avoid activities that can cause injury to the foot, such as soccer and football. If those games cannot be avoided, then choose good foot protection.
Using proper foot care sense with good hygiene can make living with diabetes easier and prevent unnecessary complications that could affect the quality of ones life.
Source: Ann Knapp
4 Top Tests for Diabetes
By Tom Parker
Tom Parker owns and operates a number of useful fitness resources and websites. For more detailed information on diabetes tests please visit http://blog.freefitnesstips.co.uk/testing-for-diabetes.html
Diabetes is a disease caused by a lack of insulin (a hormone that your body relies upon to convert blood sugar into energy) in the body. But how can you test for diabetes and see whether you have contracted the disease yourself? The best way is to go and see your doctor and ask them to test you. They will then be able to give you an accurate diagnosis. In this article I will discuss four of the most popular diabetes tests that your doctor is likely to use.
1) FASTING PLASMA GLUCOSE (FPG) TEST:- The FPG test has become one of the most popular diabetes tests. The main drawback with the FPG test is that it is not suitable to test for gestational diabetes (a form of diabetes which develops during pregnancy). However, if you are not pregnant the chances are that your doctor will use this test to make their diagnosis.
To begin you will be scheduled in for a FPG test. Your doctor will require you to eat nothing for at least eight hours prior to the test. During the test they will take a blood sample and measure your blood glucose levels. They will then analyse the blood sample and diagnose you based on the following rules:
- A blood sugar level of 99 milligrams per decilitre (mg/dL) or less = Normal.
- A blood sugar level of between 100 mg/dL and 125 mg/dL = Impaired Fasting Glucose (a form of pre-diabetes which if left untreated can develop into type 2 diabetes).
- A blood sugar level of 126 mg/dL or greater = Type 1 or type 2 diabetes. In this instance you will be given another FPG for accuracy. If both FPGs suggest that you have diabetes your doctor will investigate further and diagnose you with type 1 or type 2 diabetes
2) ORAL GLUCOSE TOLERANCE TEST (OGTT):- This test is similar to the FPG but it can be used to diagnose all types of diabetes. If you are a man or non-pregnant woman your doctor will book you in for an FPG test. Following the FPG test they will then give you a drink containing glucose and take regular blood samples after you have drank it. If you are pregnant you will be given the glucose drink without an FPG test and regular blood samples will be taken following consumption. In both variations the final blood sample will be used to make a diagnosis based on the following rules:
- A blood sugar level of 140 mg/dL or less = Normal.
- A blood sugar level of between 140 mg/dL and 199 mg/dL = Impaired Fasting Glucose (a form of pre-diabetes which if left untreated can develop into type 2 diabetes).
- A blood sugar reading of 200 mg/dL or greater = Type 1, type 2 or gestational diabetes. If you are a pregnant woman then you
will be diagnosed with gestational diabetes. Otherwise your doctor will investigate further and diagnose you with type 1 or type 2 diabetes.
3) RANDOM BLOOD GLUCOSE (RBG) TEST:- The RBG does exactly what it says and involves a random blood test being taken. RBG tests can be performed without the assistance of your doctor using a glucose meter (a piece of medical equipment that calculates the approximate level of glucose in your blood). The test involves pricking your finger with a lancing device (a device which draws a small amount of blood from your finger), placing the blood on a test strip and then inserting this test strip into your glucose meter to get a reading. If multiple RBG tests show that you have blood sugar levels higher than 200 mg/dL then you may have diabetes.
Although RBG tests are easy to perform they should NOT be used as the only test when diagnosing diabetes. They are approximately 10% as accurate as laboratory tests and therefore any concerns you may have as the result of multiple RBG tests should be followed up with your doctor. Only your doctor will be able to give you a full and accurate diagnosis.
4) GLYCOSYLATED HAEMOGLOBIN TEST:- Glycosylated haemoglobin is the term used to describe haemoglobin that has bound with glucose. Glycosylated haemoglobin cells usually last for between two to four months. If you have diabetes or you are not managing your diabetes effectively the level of glycosylated haemoglobin in your blood will increase. To begin the gylcosylated haemoglobin test your doctor will take a blood sample and analyse the glycosylated haemoglobin levels based on the following results:
- Glycosylated haemoglobin levels of between 4% and 6% = Normal.
- Glycosylated haemoglobin levels below 7% = Diabetes that is under control.
- Glycosylated haemoglobin levels greater than 7% = Diabetes that is not under control.
I hope this article has shown you that there are multiple tests available to determine whether or not you have diabetes. However, you must remember that these tests are useless unless performed under the supervision of a doctor or other qualified medical professional. Many factors can affect your test results and your doctor will be able to look at all the relevant factors and then make an accurate diagnosis. If you think you may have diabetes and want a solid answer then go see your doctor and get yourself tested today.
Every intention has been made to make this article accurate and informative but it is intended for general information only. Diabetes is a medical condition and this article is not intended as a substitute for the advice of your doctor or a qualified medical practitioner. If you have any concerns regarding any form of diabetes you should seek the advice of your doctor immediately
Source: Tom Parker
Acute Complications of Diabetes
By Peter Geisheker
You’ve heard that diabetes is a serious disease, but have you considered just how serious? Many people today lead lifestyles that pose a high risk for developing diabetes. Unfortunately, once they do, the put themselves in line to develop many serious complications.
The following are some acute complications that can result if one develops diabetes. An acute complication is a serious, but short-term, problem that needs immediate attention. Diabetic ketoacidosis This complication, commonly referred to as DKA, is always considered to be a medical emergency. When your insulin level is low, the body will then turn to fat to burn for energy. This results in the development of ketone bodies. This is fine and natural, it happens periodically. However, if this process is sustained for a longer period of time, the ketone bodies will decrease the blood’s pH. This is where it becomes DKA.
When someone develops DKA, they tend to be extremely dehydrated and panting heavily and deeply, as if they were out of breath. Severe abdominal pain is not uncommon. While the person may be perfectly conscious, it eventually slows the person down and the resulting lethargy can develop further into a coma. After this, the person can suffer from hypotension, go into shock, or even die. A urine analysis can be done to determine the level of ketone bodies. If treated immediately, a full recovery is likely. However, if treatment is delayed or inadequate, the chances of death increase dramatically.
Hyperglycemia hyperosmolar state Commonly referred to as HNS, symptoms of this condition are very similar to those of DKA, but with an entirely different source. HNS is a result of extremely high blood glucose levels. When your blood sugar is high, water is drawn out of the cells into your blood. Glucose is dumped into the urine. As a result, your body becomes extremely dehydrated. This continues to occur to dangerous levels. Emergency medical treatment is, again, necessary. Otherwise, the body will continue to dehydrate and subsequently shut down.
Hypoglycemia Rare, but still a risk, hypoglycemia is when the blood has abnormally low glucose levels. In the case a of a diabetic, this can be caused by not taking proper insulin dosage, or not taking it at the right time. The sufferer can become agitated, sweaty, and can begin to panic. Consciousness can range from slightly altered to completely lost.
Comas and seizures can put stress on the body and cause brain damage and death. Hypoglycemia needs to be addressed immediately. Minor symptoms can be treated with sugary foods and drinks. If the person is unconscious, however, glucagon or dextrose can be injected into the body. These can raise the blood sugar levels. Dextrose administered intravenously is the most common treatment in a hospital.
As you can see, the acute complications of diabetes are something that you want to avoid at all costs. These problems need serious, emergency medical attention. While full recoveries are likely in all cases, as long as treatment is administered immediately, it simply isn’t a risk worth taking.
Peter Geisheker is the CEO of the Independent Pharmacy Marketing Group. For more information on Diabetes and controlling high blood sugar visit www.santalsolutions.com
Source: Peter Geisheker
Insulin Resistance and Diabetes
Are Insulin Resistance and Diabetes the Same?
Posted August 21, 2009
By Diana Walker
There are many people who think that insulin resistance and diabetes are one and the same but they are not. Diabetes is a condition that affects the way your body utilizes food for energy.
Normally, the sugar you take in is digested and broken down to a simple sugar, known as glucose. The glucose then travels in your blood where it waits to enter cells to be used as fuel. Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, is what helps move the glucose into cells. A healthy pancreas adjusts the amount of insulin based on the level of glucose. However, if you have diabetes, this process breaks down, and blood sugar levels become too high.
Insulin Resistance On the other hand, insulin resistance is a silent condition that increases the chances of developing diabetes, and even heart disease. Becoming knowledgeable about insulin resistance is the first step you can take toward making lifestyle changes that will help you prevent diabetes and other health problems. If a person is insulin resistant, their muscle fat and liver cells do not make proper use of insulin because the cells have a diminished ability to respond to the action of the insulin hormone. Because the pancreas tries to keep up with the demand for insulin by producing more, the process to do so becomes compromised and excess glucose builds up in the bloodstream, since the pancreas cannot keep up with the body’s need for insulin.
In essence many people with insulin resistance have high levels of blood glucose and high levels of insulin circulating in their blood simultaneously. Studies have shown that more people with insulin resistance, go on to develop type 2 diabetes within 10 years. However this can avoided if they lose 5 to 7 percent of their body weight—which is about 10 to 15 pounds for someone who weighs 200 pounds.
Hence the importance of a daily exercise regimen; even if it is only a 30 minute walk per day, it helps. Insulin resistance can also occur in people who have type 1 diabetes. This is true especially if they those who are overweight. Diabetes and Insulin Resistance are Not the Same, But are Related In essence, diabetes and insulin resistance are not the same but yet are related.
There are several factors that determine if one or the other is present in the body and the symptoms for each are slightly different, although you will find that some are the same. Thus the confusion that they are one and the same health challenge. Symptoms Indicating Possible Risk of Insulin Resistance Women: 1. Overweight 2. Waist bigger than your hips 3. Buttocks slightly bigger than normal Men: 1. Overweight 2. Larger stomach If you are overweight, have a waist that is bigger than your hips, are a woman whose buttocks are slightly bigger than normal, or if you are a man with a rather larger stomach, then you may be at risk for insulin resistance. These are a few of the symptoms of insulin resistance with the weight and waist issues being major reasons to consider your health. No matter the level, it really is up to every individual to take charge of their health and learn to take more proactive measures to healthier living.
Are cravings for sugar, salt, junk food, sodas, and coffee running your life? Are you tired and foggy-brained? Need more energy, more mental clarity, less cravings for sugar? Diana Walker, Sunrider Leader, Cravings Coach and CEO of Diana’s Healthy Lifestyleshttp://www.diana2.com provides natural, safe options for creating vibrant health. Free education at http://www.thecravingscoach.com
Worldwide Research for Alternative Treatments of Diabetes
Alternative Treatments of Diabetes Are Currently Being Researched in Many Countries Around the World.
Posted August 8, 2009
By Annie Duvall
Alternative treatments of diabetes are currently being researched in many countries around the world. There is research being done on natural substances that help alleviate many of the symptoms of Type-2 diabetes. Diabetes is a disease where the body is not able to metabolize glucose in the blood.
Type-1 diabetes is caused by the damage of Beta islet cells located in the pancreas. When working properly these cells usually secrete insulin but for people with Type-1 diabetes these cells are not working. Type-1 diabetics will need to be on insulin therapy for the rest of their lives. Type-2 diabetes is cause by the destruction of insulin receptors on cell surfaces which causes the cells to be resistant to insulin.
Type-2 diabetes can be managed with lifestyle changes and medication and in some cases with lifestyle changes alone. There are also many alternative or natural substances that can help alleviate symptoms and control blood glucose levels for Type-2 diabetes. Currently studies are being conducted on many herbs that have been used for centuries to treat diabetic symptoms.
There are several Amazon jungle root herbs with reported abilities to lower blood glucose levels, normalize the frequency of urination, and eradicate glucose in the urine of diabetic patients. In Brazil, the Pfaffia root has been used for decades to treat the symptoms of diabetes. Pata-de-vaca is also widely used in Brazil for the treatment of diabetes.
One doctor in China has studied the results of goji berry on the blood of thousands of patients. This doctor theorizes that the goji berry makes the patients blood more alkaline. He has reported that as the alkalinity changes, there is a turnaround of all illnesses. His claim is that this reversal includes diabetes, cancer, high blood pressure, obesity, renal failure, high cholesterol, arthritis and other illnesses associated with physical or mental problems, including attention deficit disorder.
Another research program currently in China has diabetics drinking a tea made from the goji berry. Results show that up to 62 percent of subjects showed decrease in blood glucose levels and over half of the patients being able to control blood sugar levels with diet alone. Goji helps with the release of oxygen to the cells with an enzyme named 23BPG. This seems to help reduce the symptoms caused by the narrowing of blood vessels in the legs, eyes and other areas in the body of diabetics.
Another natural substance that is being studied is cocoa. A study conducted in Germany showed cocoa with high flavanol improves cardiovascular health. The study was specifically to test the effectiveness of the cocoa with long term use. Forty-one stable Type-2 diabetics were given cocoa with high dose flavanol in comparison with low flavanol dosage cocoa. During the study, the researchers did find that the flavanol found in cocoa did have a positive effect on FMD response in diabetics.
Researchers concluded that these results happened by increased production of nitric oxide. Nitric oxide is a chemical that sends signals to arteries to relax and widen in response to increased blood flow. This relaxation of the arteries takes stress off the heart and blood vessels.
Alternative treatments of diabetes are currently being researched in many countries around the world. There is research being done on natural substances that help alleviate many of the symptoms of Type-2 diabetes.
Having diabetes myself, I found it hard to make some good food until I found more than 500 yummy recipes in a free ebook at Adviceondiabetes Source: Annie Duvall
Diabetes Medicines – Herbal Solutions
Posted August 6, 2009
By Bertil Hjert
Diabetes is a serious health condition. Hence, medical experts have come up with a lot of solutions to cure and treat this disease. When it comes to medicines, a lot of options are available. You would find non-prescription, prescription and herbal medicines for diabetes.
Herbs for diabetes have become a rage among people these days. Experts in this field feel that diabetes has been treated with plant medicines for many years now. In fact, the efficiency of these medicines has been rated as remarkable. The best part is that these herbs are non-toxic and remarkably efficacious in fighting off diabetes.
Here are some of the herbal diabetes medicines widely used in order to treat this disease effectively: a) Pterocarpur Marsupium This medicine is a unique combination of herbs such as Malabar kino, verga, Indian kino and Pitasara. This herb has been used to cure diabetes for many years now. This drug is a natural agent and works wonders when it comes to treating diabetes.
b) Bitter melon (Momordia Charantia) Bitter melon is also known as balsam pear. It is a tropical vegetable and cultivated widely in South America, Asia and Africa. Experts have also come to a conclusion that the plant has been exclusively used to treat diabetes since ancient times. It is also referred to as the folk medicine. The melon is composed of different compounds and all those compounds are super rich in antibiotic properties. Care should be taken that this medicine should not be given to the patient in large doses.
c) Gymnema Sylvestre The herb is efficient in helping the pancreas in the process of insulin production in the case of Type 2 diabetes. It also works towards improving the power of insuling to reduce blood sugar in Type 1 as well as Type 2 diabetes. It decreases craving for sweet. The herb can be a great substitute for drugs that are known to lower blood sugar in Type 2 diabetes.
d) Onion and Garlic Now, this may seem to be really hard for some people to digest but it is true. Onion and garlic are significant in lowering blood sugar. The active ingredients in both the herbs are allyl propyl dissulphide (APDs) and triallyl disulphide oxide (allicin) respectively.
B) There are also other ingredients like flavonoids that play flavorable action. a) Fenugreek Also known as Trigonella foenuon graecum is rich in anti diabetic properties. These help in maintaining healthy sugar levels inside the body.
b) Blue berry leaves This is used for its beneficial ingredients myrtillin. The herb is widely know for producing excellent effects that last for about many weeks together.
c) Asian Ginseng This is Chinese medicine used traditionally to treat diabetes. It works towards enhancing insulin release from the pancreas and also helps in increasing the amount of insulin receptors.
d) Bilberry It reduces the risk of complications caused by diabetes including retinopathy and cataracts. e) Stevia It has been traditionally used to treat diabetes.
f) Ginkgo Biloba The extract is known to prevent as well as treat early stages of diabetes.
g) Cinnamon It enhances the efficiency of insulin.
For more Articles, News, Information, Advice, and Resources about DIABETES please visit DIABETES GUIDES and DIABETES TIPS.
Source: Bertil Hjert
Diabetes and Heart Disease Linked
By Garey Simmons
Posted July 29, 2009
Garey Simmons writes about heart health from personal experience. Diagnosed with high risk of heart disease, Garey studied for 2 years to acquire a different perspective on the natural means of reversing heart disease. Free E-Course “Four Golden Guides of Heart Health.” http://OptimalHealthRSQ.com
If you find yourself craving more carbs and more sugars and feeling tired and sluggish, it may be that your body is not converting the starches and sugars into energy. Your bodies cells may be starving.
Diabetes and heart disease go hand-in-hand. Diabetic persons are at much greater risk to having heart attacks, high blood pressure, and strokes. People who have diabetes have often much higher blood sugar level that can cause damage to many parts of the body including the blood vessels.
Vascular problems due to diabetes may also include poor circulation to the legs and feet, unfortunately these problems can go undetected and can start early in life.
The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends early diagnosis, treatment and management of risk factors.
Risks of getting diabetes and heart disease can start before the age of thirty. Two most common types of diabetes are type 1 and type 2.
Type 1 diabetes also called insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus is an autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system attacks the pancreas cells that produce insulin, resulting in low amount of insulin or no insulin at all.
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. In type 2 diabetes, either the body does not produce enough insulin or the cells ignore the insulin. Insulin is necessary for the body to be able to use glucose for energy. When you eat food, the body breaks down all of the sugars and starches into glucose, which is the basic fuel for the cells in the body. Insulin takes the sugar from the blood into the cells. When glucose builds up in the blood instead of going into cells, it can cause two problems:
* Right away, your cells may be starved for energy.
* Over time, high blood glucose levels may hurt your eyes, kidneys, nerves or heart.
Diabetes
and heart disease sufferers experience changes in the blood vessels where the linings of the blood vessels may become thicker making it more difficult for the flow of blood through the vessels. Blood vessels in other parts of the body can also be damaged due to diabetes that can lead to kidney problems, eye problems, and poor circulation to the legs and feet.
Heart disease rates in adults are two to four times higher than adults without diabetes. The risk of stroke is also two to four times higher for diabetic people. Seventy- three percent of diabetic adults also has high blood pressure and has heart attacks at an earlier age.
The most common symptoms of heart disease may include chest pain, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, and swollen ankles. However, every person may experience symptoms differently. These symptoms may also resemble other medical conditions and so it is always advisable to seek the help of a physician for diagnosis.
Heart disease may still occur to a person taking proper self-care. The physician will determine specific treatment of the heart disease according to age, medical history and overall health of the person. It will also be based on the extent of the disease and the tolerance for specific medications, procedure or therapies.
When risk factors for a person with diabetes are eliminated or reduced, the risk for heart disease may also be reduced. Taking care of ones health and controlling blood sugar can often slow down or avoid the onset of complications for diabetes and heart disease. The test you need to ask for is the hemoglobin A1C.
Many doctors recommend this test as it gives a look at blood factors over the last 90 days and is more comprehensive than taking the daily blood sugar reading.
Take the A1C test then start a herbal treatment containing chromium, cinnamon, banaba leaf,and guggal for example and retest after 90 days to see how much herbal supplements can change your life and your numbers!
Source: Garey Simmons
How to Prevent Type 2 Diabetes
Posted July 26, 2009
How to Prevent Type 2 Diabetes with Diet and Exercise
By Joseph Delainey
Hi would you like to learn more about how to Control or Cure your Diabetes? There are proven methods to cure this problem.If you would like to learn more Juts go to http://www.UltimateDiabetesSolution.com/joerd to get some free Information.
Changing your lifestyle is hard, plain and simple. However, if your doctor has told you that you have pre-diabetes, also known as impaired glucose tolerance, the effort it takes to incorporate healthy foods and a little physical activity into your daily routine is well worth it.
A clinical study by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases found that losing a mere 5 to 7 percent of your total body weight can significantly reduce the risk of developing full blown type 2 diabetes. The 2002 study found that a group of patients that followed a low-fat, low-calorie diet and exercised moderately for 150 minutes a week reduced their risk of developing diabetes by 58 percent.
The connection between weight and type 2 diabetes is undeniable. Obese people are five times more likely to get diabetes than people who maintain a healthy weight. Of the over 21 million people in America with diabetes, 95 percent of the cases are type 2. Other risk factors include heredity and sedentary lifestyle choices.
So, how can you make the changes to your diet and activity levels? Start off slowly. Swap out a salad for an order of french fries. Do without the ranch dressing though. Instead, try using straight balsamic vinegar or another low-calorie alternative. Then, incorporate a 10-minute walk into your daily routine. Whether it is before lunch, after dinner or first thing in the morning,
make sure to make the time and effort every day.
Once you adapt to these basic changes, step it up a notch. After about a week, you’ll feel ready to make more challenging changes. Replace candy and sugary beverages with fresh fruit and unsweetened iced tea. Better yet, drink only water for a week. You’ll feel great, and your skin will be positively glowing. Also, extend your walks to 30 minutes for five of the seven days of the week. You’ll be amazed at the health benefits a nice walk will bring. You don’t have to run marathons to be physically fit. Walking burns calories and uses lots of muscle groups without putting lots of strain on your joints. It is ideal for weight loss.
Old habits die hard, but losing your vision or a limb to diabetes is much more difficult than eating a salad and taking walks. Being dependent on insulin and blood sugar testing devices is a difficult way to live. When your blood sugar constantly spikes and drops, it is hard on your body, your personality and the other people around you. You can become irritable, moody, aggressive and even manic. Your good health matters to each and every person that loves you. Your friends and family are counting on you to preserve your own health so you can enjoy many more years to come.
If you are a borderline type 2 diabetic, you don’t have to spend the rest of your life on medication if you learn how to change your lifestyle. It is not easy to do, but a life without needles and pills makes all the salads and aerobics worth the effort.
Source: Josceph Delainey
4 Major Organs That Diabetes Can Damage
By Tom Parker
Posted July 23, 2009
Tom Parker owns and operates a number of useful fitness resources and websites. To learn more about the damage caused by diabetes and how it can be prevented through proper diabetes treatment head over to http://blog.freefitnesstips.co.uk/diabetes-damage.html
Diabetes is a condition that develops when the body can no longer produce enough insulin to moderate blood sugar levels. As a result diabetics suffer from extremely high blood sugar levels. Over time these high levels of sugar in the blood start to affect the blood vessels and other areas of the body. In this article I will be discussing four of the major organs that can be affected by diabetes damage.
1) THE HEART:- As already discussed, high blood sugar levels can damage your blood vessels. When these vessels become damaged the flow of blood to your heart becomes restricted. Your heart needs a good flow of blood to function properly and without this your risk for heart attacks and other heart diseases increases. There are a number of symptoms that could indicate heart disease which include; breathlessness, chest pains and irregular heartbeats.
2) THE EYES:- When the blood vessels and tissues of the eyes become damaged this can lead to a condition called diabetic retinopathy. Sufferers of diabetic retinopathy often experience blurred vision and in the worst cases temporary blindness. Diabetes also increases your risk of developing cataracts (clouding of the eyes lenses) and glaucoma (damage to the optic nerves).
3) THE FEET:- Diabetes can also cause damage to your nerves. If the nerves in your feet become damaged, then some feeling is often lost, meaning that cuts and sores can quite easily go unnoticed. This means that they can become infected without you realising which brings further complications. Therefore, to reduce your risk of infection it is very important to wash your feet daily and inspect them regularly if you are diabetic.
4) THE KIDNEYS:- If the blood vessels of the kidneys become damaged they cannot remove waste from the blood effectively. In the worst cases this can lead to kidney failure which will mean you will then require kidney dialysis or a kidney transplant.
As you can see, diabetes is not a condition to be taken lightly. This article has discussed just some of the damage that diabetes can cause. However, it can also weaken many of your other organs too. Fortunately, a lot of this damage can be avoided by following a sensible diabetes treatment plan, eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly. Many people do not realise how serious contracting diabetes is. I hope this article has shown you just how important proper treatment can be.
Every intention has been made to make this article accurate and informative but it is intended for general information only. Diabetes is a medical condition and this article is not intended as a substitute for the advice of your doctor or a qualified medical practitioner. If you have any concerns regarding any form of diabetes you should seek the advice of your doctor immediately.
Source: Tom Parker
Marion Nestle Lectures on Obesity and Diabetes – This Video is 61:00 Minutes
Posted July 20, 2009
Marion Nestle lectures on how the food industry in America confuses people about healthy eating. The industry wants to sell you junk food. That is where they make their money. If you watch this video, it will explain how you are being manipulated from your first step inside your local supermarket.
I don’t like to write all negative articles, but this information has to be shared. It is a very delicate conversation with some people when trying to explain how our food industry is very predatory and is driven by the pursuit of corporate profits. Many people are sure that “Tony the Tiger” is their friend.
The food industry has morphed into a dictating Goliath with the opening of regional and national “super markets”. We are now shopping for manufactured foods. Obesity and type 2 diabetes is becoming NORMAL in our young children. We are being told what to eat. Advertisers are not trying to sell us foods for our health. They are advertising the cheapest and most non-nutritious foods to make the most dollars for food company stockholders. Buy a package of Doritos. What is it? So you may wonder why Americans are dealing with a major national health crisis.
Waymon Tisdale the ex-basketball star and jazz saxephone player extraordninaire died this year of complications from diabetes. One of his legs had been amputated below the knee. He died several months later in his early 40′s. That is about the same age as my oldest daughter. Type 2 diabetes can be avoided. This illness is no joke. It will kill you. Young folks in their 40′s are starting to die.
As a young parent 40 years ago I was not aware of the perils of fast food restaurants and “supermarkets”. I could not protect my children from McDonalds. I know more now. So I write this blog.
Marion Nestle is trying to save millions of people from blindness, amputations, heart attacks, strokes and premature death. Obesity, diabetes, the lack of knowledge of nutrition and the deceptions of our food industry in this country is deadly. It is a uphill battle. We must be more aggressive about our knowledge of nutrition for our bodies and we must be aware of the true motives of corporate food companies.
FoodSpook
Source: Authors@Google: George Soros
Alternative Treatments for Diabetes
By Hector Milla
Posted on July 18, 2004
Hector Milla runs the http://www.mydiabetessupply.com site and the http://www.thehighbloodsugar.org resources center, where you can find info on how to get free diabetes supplies and how to lower naturally your blood sugar levels respectively. Visit for further information.
People suffering from diabetes have no good time, several blood glucose monitoring every day is not a pleasant experience, for that reason an effective treatment for this disease would be very welcome, even if this treatment is not coming from traditional medicine.
Have you ever listened about alternative therapies for diabetic people? if you have, have you ever tried one? if your answer is no, keep read on because this article is intended to point out some alternative diabetes therapies that have showed some degree of success treating this disease. Then, we have listed some of them without any particular order, that way you can further research one that has picked out your attention.
Firstly, take in consideration that the therapies listed below do not replace any medical treatment that you have been advised to follow, but they are very helpful as adjuncts. So, as usual it is advisable to ask your doctor for specialized and technical recommendations.
Alternative Therapies For Treating Diabetes List:
- Meditation
- Homeopathy
- Nutrition Therapy
- Self Hypnosis
- Relaxation Techniques
- Yoga
- Exercise Conditioning
- Massage
-
Detoxification Diet Programs
Most of these therapies, at least the ones that have for objective to calm down your nervous system, reducing stress and relieving tension of your muscles, are very effective improving diabetes condition, this is because you got unwanted toxins eliminated from your body.
The other important important point is that by researching online, meaning using using internet to your advantage, you can get free access to some of those therapies, for example many Reiki practitioners even Reiki centers offer free sessions of Reiki. Reiki is an ancient Japanese energy healing technique, the same with the practice of Yoga.
Other therapies like relaxation techniques – for instance – you can find them in books, so even if you do not have or do not want spend money on, you still have the chance to visit a public library, then get some interesting reading because you have nothing to loose, and it could be beneficial for your health.
Last but not least, remember that diabetes disease is all about how to control elevated blood sugar and consequently how to lower your blood glucose levels, then independently of the therapy and medical treatment that you follow, testing regularly your blood sugar levels it is a good comparative point in order to know if you are getting good results with the chosen alternative therapy.
Source: Hector Milla
Why Do We Need the Glycemic Index?
By Jimmy Woodall
Posted July 16, 2009
Jim Woodall has 49years business exp. is an affiliate marketer. problems with Diabetes? visit his Glycemic website for much helpful info located onsite at http://jwoodl.com/glycemic also get three free ebooks located at http://freegiveaways.jwoodl.com/index.html no obligation
The Glycemic Index is a concept developed in the University of Toronto in 1981. The purpose of the Glycemic Index is to measure the effect carbohydrates have on blood glucose levels. The Glycemic Index is imperative for anyone who needs to monitor their glucose level due to diabetes or hyperglycemia.
With diabetes reaching more than epidemic levels in the United States, the development of the Glycemic Index could not have been introduced at a better time. Each year, more people are diagnosed with this potentially life threatening disease that can cause all sorts of serious complications. It is very important for anyone who has this condition to become familiar with the Glycemic Index so they can empower themselves and learn foods that should be avoided.
Carbohydrates are a diverse group of foods and all break down in different ways in the system. People with diabetes have a difficult time breaking down certain foods, particularly those high in carbohydrates, in their system. Digestion is slow and sugars and starches are absorbed into the blood stream, causing an excess in blood glucose.
Diabetics are often warned to limit their carbohydrate intake because it takes a long time for most carbohydrates to digest. However, this is easier said than done and it is not easy, in fact almost impossible, for many diabetics to eliminate carbohydrates from their diet. This is one of the reasons many diabetics are non-compliant in their treatment. Because diabetes does not often cause serious complications at onset, many patients refuse to take their medicine and continue eating foods that are high in sugar and starch.
The Glycemic Index is very helpful because it rates different carbohydrates based upon their effect on the different levels of blood glucose. Those foods that digest rapidly cause the less harm to the system and have a low glycemic index. The carbohydrates that take a longer time to digest have a higher rate as they cause more harm to the blood glucose level.
The Glycemic Index ranges from one to one hundred. A low food in the glycemic index has a rating of below 55. These include fruits, vegetables, whole grains and some pastas. Foods that fall between the 56 to 69 range are considered “medium” in the Glycemic Index. They include candy bars, croissants and some rices.
Surprisingly, although a candy bar scores in the medium classification of the glycemic index, it is not as harmful as those carbohydrates that score in the high glycemic index range. These include corn flakes, white rice, white bread and baked potato. In other words, it is easier for a diabetic to digest a candy bar than a baked potato.
Knowledge of the glycemic index is imperative for anyone who has diabetes or who has been diagnosed as borderline diabetic. To be able to understand which foods have the most impact on blood glucose levels is crucial for anyone fighting this potentially life-threatening condition.
If you or a loved one suffers from diabetes, you need to get familiar with the Glycemic Index so that you learn about the different categories of carbohydrates and which groups should be avoided. There are many substitutes for carbohydrates that rate high in the Glycemic Index and are available at most grocery stores. While diabetes is currently without a cure, there are many different ways that people with this disease can live long, productive lives.
Source: Jimmy Woodall
Five Diabetes Myths
By Julie Wanner Rossetti
It seems like everywhere I travel I continue to hear the five diabetes myths. The myths are circulating from one generation to the next. Everyone seems to believe these folklores. I have decided to take all of the mystery out of these myths and give you what actually works with the new technology today. 1. Sugar causes diabetes.
How many times have you heard this one? I lost track of how many times someone has either asked me or made a statement of this. This is a myth, and the truth is, consuming a lot of sugar does not cause diabetes. Someone did not get diabetes by becoming a cookie monster. Type 1 diabetes is a result of autoimmune damage to the insulin-secreting beta cells of the pancreas. The insulin secretion is not enough or completely absent. Therefore, the hormone insulin is injected or administered via pump.
Type 2 diabetes is a result of a metabolic syndrome. People with Type 2 produce their own insulin but are unable to utilize it properly. It most often affects men, women and children who are overweight. This no longer is “adult-onset diabetes.” Children are getting Type 2 diabetes at an alarming rate.
2. If you do have diabetes, you cannot have any sugar, it must be sugar-free. This is a myth, and the truth is our bodies not only recognize sugar, but they know how to use it. For me, personally, wheat raises my blood sugar more than white sugar. If you do want a safe sugar substitute, I would recommend vegetable glycerin.
3. I can no longer have too many carbohydrates. This is another myth. It is not how much carbohydrate, but what type that makes the difference. Actually, some foods that are low on the glycemic index get in the way of good insulin function. Some foods can lower one individual’s blood sugar but increase another’s. Are you eating beneficial foods or avoid them?
4. Exercise always lowers blood sugar. This myth has been around for a long time. However, if the body does not have enough insulin for proper glucose utilization, exercise will raise your blood sugar. If your blood sugar is over 200mg/dL before exercising, the exercise will only make your blood sugar go higher. When the body is conditioned and there is enough insulin, the blood sugars will lower. Physical exercise is one of the important aspects to living as if you do not have diabetes.
5. You can no longer live a “normal” life after being diagnosed with diabetes. This myth is one of the strangest ones. I believe that once you bury Type 1 or 2 diabetes you can live a happy and healthy normal life. My life has been better than normal! Nick Jonas is a 14-year-old living a normal life after being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in November 2005.
Nick is a member of the Jonas Brothers Band. He has said, “At first, I was worried that diabetes would keep me from performing and doing everything a teenager likes to do, but my career is really ramping up.” Way to go Nick! Best wishes for a great life!
Julie Wanner Rossetti is the author of Diabetes Can Be Sweet … Once You BURY It, and President of Diabetes Done Right, where she specializes as a diabetes consultant. Visit “Diabetes Done Right”.
Source: Julie Wanner Rossetti
Daddy Will You Buy Me Some Diabetes?
Posted on June 25, 2009
By Christine Steendahl
The rate of childhood obesity is on the rise. Unhealthy habits have led to overweight children having obesity-related health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes and elevated blood pressure. These diseases were previously seen only in adults.
Obesity is a threat to the health of children in many ways. Obesity impacts multiple systems of the body including: * Cardiovascular system * Pulmonary system * Gastrointestinal system * Orthopedic system Over 12 million children in the United States suffer with childhood obesity. This is an alarming statistic and a frightening one for parents.
The incidences of childhood obesity increased 100 percent over the last ten years. The reasons for obesity are a societal as well as physical. There are two major forces that have created this phenomenon of overweight children in our society. The first major impact on the weight of our children is the amount of fast food that is eaten on a daily basis. The fast food industry has changed the American diet into a junk food melee that lacks healthful options. Fast food consumption combined with the sedentary lifestyles of kids who play expensive video games rather than playing outside contributes to the high incident of overweight children. These activities contribute directly to the causes of obesity in children and to unhealthy parents.
Children need at least 90 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity every day to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Parents need at least 30-45 minutes of exercise. Children need a nutritious diet for adequate growth and development. Unfortunately, fast food does not provide the nutrients that children need.
Healthy eating is almost a lost art for the normal family. Take out menus and fast food has become the normal way to get the family fed. These lifestyle choices lead to obesity, high blood pressure and a myriad of other health issues for not only adults but for our children.
A summary of the basic problems with the eating habits of a nation are summed up by Eric Schlosser in his book “Fast Food Nation” “A generation ago, three-quarters of the money used to buy food in the United States was spent to prepare meals at home. Today half of the money used to buy food is spent at restaurants — mainly at fast food restaurants”. A hamburger and french fries is the quintessential American meal … thanks to the promotional efforts of the fast food chains. The typical American now consumes approximately three hamburgers and four orders of french fries every week.”
These facts reveal the problem. Some ways to correct this problem are in the hands of adults. Some short-terminterim solutions are offered below: * Focus the family’s diet on healthy foods. * Encourage an increase in physical activity. * Have a wide variety of healthy snacks on hand for snacking. * Prepare a nutritious meal plan for the family. Parents can take more proactive steps to prevent childhood obesity by preparing and serving nutritious meals at home.
Taking the family on a hike or a bike ride after supper is a fun option for the whole family. Let children decide on some activities. Kids can get involved in their own health improvement by making physical activity an after school priority. The goal is to follow healthy lifestyle suggestions as close as possible. Make baby steps until you can achieve the goal of good eating habits for the whole family.
It is hard to change entrenched bad eating habits. The rules will always get broken some of the time – allow for flexibility. The problems that keep us from doing all the right things is usually lack of time. No one has enough of it.
For healthy recipes for children check out http://www.kidapprovedmeals.com
Source: Christine Steendahl
Can Cinnamon Treat Diabetes?
The Effect Of Cinnamon On Blood Sugar (Glucose) Levels And Its Ability To Help Control Diabetes
Posted June 23, 2009
By John Bradstreet
What is the Cause of Diabetes? In type 2 diabetes, high blood sugar levels occur when glucose is prevented, to a significant degree, from entering cells of the body, notably liver, muscle, and fat cells. This is caused by a “short circuit” in the insulin signaling pathway, a cascade of highly specific chemical reactions that allow insulin to fulfill its role as the facilitator of glucose transport through the cell walls.
Insulin is produced by the pancreas in response to elevated blood glucose levels; once it enters the blood, it signals the body’s cells to take up the excess glucose until normal levels are restored. When insulin molecules bind to the insulin receptors on cell walls, tiny molecular “gates” open up and allow glucose molecules to pass through. If this system is impaired, the gates don’t respond adequately to the insulin signal, thus preventing the glucose from entering the cell. This condition, which is a common consequence of obesity, is called insulin resistance, and it’s both a harbinger and a symptom of diabetes.
With insulin resistance, glucose levels in the blood remain high, a very dangerous condition in the long run. The pancreas tries to compensate by making more insulin, but this works only for so long. Eventually, the pancreas becomes overburdened and starts making less insulin. That’s when things go from bad to worse.
One of the most exciting recent discoveries in health is cinnamon and its effects on blood sugar (glucose) levels. The positive effect of cinnamon on blood sugar were discovered by accident at the USDA testing center in Maryland where scientists were testing the effects of various foods on blood sugar (glucose) levels. They were surprised when good ol’ apple pie actually helped lower glucose levels.
Although cinnamon bark and cinnamon flowers are used medicinally, Chinese cinnamon, or Cinnamomum aromaticum, is the form used for diabetes. Specifically, hydroxychalcone may work on insulin receptors to increase insulin sensitivity and help promote glucose uptake into cells and tissues and promote glycogen (the storage form of glucose) synthesis.
Several Studies Confirm the Positive Effects of Cinnamon In a December 2003 Diabetes Care study, cinnamon was found to improve glucose and lipids in people with diabetes. Sixty patients with type 2 who were taking a sulfonylurea (glyburide) were given one of three doses of cinnamon (1, 3 or 6 grams per day) or a placebo for 40 days. Fasting blood glucose declined by 18 to 29 percent after 40 days in all three cinnamon treated groups. Specifically, 1 gram per day decreased glucose from 209 to 157 mg/dl, 3 grams per day decreased glucose from 205 to 169 mg/dl and 6 grams per day decreased glucose from 234 to 166 mg/dl. Patients then went without any cinnamon for 20 additional days, but their fasting glucose was still lower than at baseline for the previously cinnamon-treated groups, indicating that cinnamon had a sustained benefit. Furthermore, total cholesterol decreased by 12 to 26 percent, triglycerides decreased by 23 to 30 percent, and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol also declined from 7 to 27 percent.
Another study was done by the University of Hannover in Hannover, Germany and published in a recent issue of the European Journal of Clinical Investigation. This was the first study evaluating the effect of a water-soluble cinnamon extract on glycemic control and the lipid profile of Western patients with type 2 diabetes. The results further add to a growing body of clinical evidence demonstrating supplementation with a water-soluble cinnamon extract may play an important role in managing blood sugar levels and improving insulin function.
Cinnamon is not Advised Benefiting from this discovery may not be as simple as increasing cinnamon intake in your diet. Cinnamon contains volatile oils and when taken consistently in high doses may be toxic. This is why high quality supplements are recommended.
In conclusion, cinnamon reduced serum glucose, triglyceride, total cholesterol, and LDL-cholesterol levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Because cinnamon would not contribute to caloric intake, those who have type 2 diabetes or those who have elevated glucose, triglyceride, LDL-cholesterol, or total cholesterol levels may benefit from the regular inclusion of cinnamon in their daily diet. In addition, cinnamon may be beneficial for the remainder of the population to prevent and control elevated glucose and blood lipid levels.
World Vitamins Online provides it’s readers with pertinent information on vitamins and health supplements, how they work, and why. We feel that a well informed consumer will be one that benefits from this knowledge and will be able to make better decisions about their health and the health of their families.
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Source John Bradstreet
Self-Care for Individuals With Diabetes
Posted June 9, 2009
By Brenda Williams
A proactive attitude towards your diabetes treatment is crucial in preventing complications. Diabetics can’t just delegate their care to their health care provider. They have to be constantly involved. While everyone should have an annual physical, eye exam, and dental exam, this is especially important for diabetics. You also need to inform the dentist and eye doctor that you are diabetic so they can be alert to the special problems that accompany diabetes.
Since high blood sugar levels weaken your immune system, you are more vulnerable to infections, flu and pneumonia. It is there important to do as much as possible to prevent these. Make sure your vaccinations for flu, tetanus, and pneumonia are current.
Diabetics need to take particularly good care of their feet. Diabetes can damage the nerves in your feet as well as reduce the flow of blood to your feet. That means you can injure a foot and not even be aware of it. It also means that the injuries will be more difficult to heal. So you need to check your feet daily for blisters, cuts, bruises, cracking, redness, and swelling. You also need to keep your feet clean and dry. Wash your feet daily using gentle motions, a soft washcloth and a mild soap. Gently dry your feet giving careful attention to your toes.
If your skin is dry, apply a moisturizer. Change socks daily and avoid bulky socks or sock with tight elastic bands. Buy comfortable, safe shoes. They should have soft leather tops and flexible soles. Shoes with low heels and closed toes are safer and provide more comfort. Diabetics need to be very particular about shoe fit. It is recommended that you shop for shoes late in the afternoon or evening. Then you will be trying them on at the time of day when your feet are most likely to swell. Your shoes should be large enough to accommodate normal swelling.
Diabetics should positively not smoke. People who have diabetes and smoke are increasing their risk of heart attack, stroke, nerve damage and kidney infections. In spite of that, it is estimated that 25% of Americans who are diabetic do smoke.
Diabetics also need to monitor their blood pressure. They are more vulnerable to developing high blood pressure than people who do not have diabetes. This is especially true of Blacks and Hispanics. High blood pressure causes from 35% to 75% of all complications that can accompany diabetes.
Individuals with diabetes also need to learn to manage stress. When we’re under stress we tend not to eat properly or get the right amount of sleep. The lifestyle practices that accompany stress are very detrimental to diabetics. Also, if the stress is excessive or lasts for a long time, our bodies produce hormones that block the effect of insulin. The result is a rise in blood sugar. So it is important to employ stress-reduction techniques such as maintaining a healthy diet, getting enough sleep and exercising regularly. Also look for ways to lighten the stress. This could mean evaluating your daily commitments to see what could be eliminated or reduced; avoiding or limiting time with people who cause you stress, and if work is the problem, seeking out ways to lighten your load. There are also stress-busting practices such as yoga, meditation, deep breathing and relaxation that you can learn to do and apply in stressful situations.
Source: Brenda Williams
Resveratrol and Diabetes
Resveratrol and Diabetes, Can Nutritional Supplements Help?
May 23, 2009
By Valerie Rosenbaum
Research concerning resveratrol and diabetes is still ongoing. The single ingredient supplements that are on the market will not be beneficial for diabetics. There are some specialty supplements on the market that have proven benefits for the disease, as well as multi-nutritional supplements that contain a reasonable resveratrol-dosage.
Here’s a look at what may be available in the future and what is available, today. To have a significant effect on lowering blood sugar, very high dosages were needed. Because risks are associated with dosages this high, research is continuing.
In the US, it is illegal to recommend a dietary supplement for the treatment of a disease. If something is used to treat a disease, it is considered a drug. In order to be a legal drug, there must be safety studies, which usually last for a year or more. Then studies concerning effectiveness may be conducted. Once those studies are completed, the paperwork is submitted to the FDA and the FDA may approve the drug. So, it will be several years before the resveratrol and diabetes trials are completed, but eventually, there may be a new drug that works better than the ones that are currently on the market.
Today, you should follow your doctor’s instructions and make every effort to improve your daily nutritional intake. If you like, you may consider a specialty supplement designed to protect the organs and nerves of the body from the damage that high blood sugar levels can cause over the years.
Some of the better supplements include Banaba, bitter melon, black cumin, green tea and gymnema sylvestre. These can lower blood sugar levels. So, it is important to monitor your blood sugar, if you begin taking them.
Low blood sugar levels are dangerous, too. When it comes to resveratrol and diabetes, a multi-nutritional supplement that contains moderate amounts (20-50mg) is fine. Anything over 100mg can have a laxative effect, possible causing diarrhea. Many diabetics are prone to become dehydrated and diarrhea will, of course, increase that risk. A 20-50mg dose may provide many protective health benefits, particularly if it is combined with other effective antioxidants and natural anti-inflammatories, like turmeric, green tea, glutathione and carnosine.
Oxidative stress and chronic long-term inflammation are two of the causes of cellular aging. They both play roles in the development of cancer and heart disease. Originally, the research concerning resveratrol and diabetes was done using laboratory animals and cell cultures. One of the many effects that researchers saw was an extension of lifespan in some short lived species. So, you will often see this ingredient in an anti-aging supplement.
If you believe the Methuselah Foundation, humans should live well over 100 years, without developing a chronic or life threatening disease. We are seeing more and more people achieving that age, with minor, if any health problems. Many of us believe that the key to living a long healthy life is good nutrition. Optimal nutritional intake insures that all of the cells of your body can function, as they should.
Now, that you know a little more about resveratrol and diabetes, you might want to learn more about some of the other botanicals and nutrients mentioned in this article.
Valerie Rosenbaum has spent several years researching every anti aging supplement line of products she could find. As a result of that effort she has found what she believes to be the best natural anti-aging supplements available on the market today. Learn about what she discovered at her website NaturalBalanceSupplements.com
Source: Valerie Rosenbaum
Diabetes and Oral Medications
Diabetes Medicines – Oral Medications For Effective Control
Posted May 20, 2009
By Bertil Hjert
An alarming increase in number of people getting diabetes and more awareness have resulted in that researchers and medical experts come up with more solutions for medications. There is a huge variety of medications and all the medicines work towards providing effective results and quick relief from the symptoms.
Oral diabetic medicines are very common. These are specifically common with people suffering from type 2 diabetes and having high levels of blood sugar for about less than ten years and have normal weight or are obese. People with type 1 diabetes do not take oral medications. Oral medications are known to control blood sugar in an effective way and that too for several years together. It is not uncommon to use oral medications in order to control blood sugar and combat hypoglycemia.
The basic action of these medicines is to produce insulin. Once the production of insulin in the body is regulated, it tends to reduce glucose levels in the body. However, medical experts believe that these should not be considered as a substitute for the insulin. One must focus on a healthy diet and proper exercise regime to facilitate healthy insulin production in the body.
According to a study, it has been proved that people with diabetes can easily benefit from these medications within a short period of time. Studies have also proved that people who have had diabetes for about less than five years respond really well with these medicines. Also people who have never been subjected to insulin before they reached 40 or had it in small dosages would also experience same benefit.
Oral medications for diabetes are also referred to as oral hypoglycemic used to reduce blood glucose in diabetics. These are usually recommended when diet and exercise do not work. These works extremely well when taken in conjunction with prescribed diet and exercises.
Pregnant and nursing women should stay away from these medications due to their effect fetus and new born pregnancy. Insulin is known to provide better relief under these conditions. Things you need to remember when taking oral medication for diabetes is that these are not a substitute for diet and exercise and the medicines would work only if taken in conjunction with proper diet and exercise prescribed by your health care practitioner.
Here are some of the most common types of oral medication available for diabetes: a) Sulfonylureas These drugs are extremely helpful in reducing blood glucose via stimulating pancreas to release a good amount of insulin. Some of the drugs widely used under this category include amaryl, Diabeta, glucotro, glucotro XL, glynase PresTab, and Micronase. b) Biguanides These drugs are highly effective in transferring glucose in to muscle cells. These are also known to prevent the liver via releasing glucose stored inside the body. c) Thiazolidinediones These drugs are used to improve effectiveness of insulin in fat tissues and muscle. These also reduce the amount of gluce released by the liver and facilitate sensitivity of fat cells to insulin effects on the body. d) Combination Certain medications are used in combination in order to produce effective results.
For more Articles, News, Information, Advice, and Resources about DIABETES please visit DIABETES GUIDES and DIABETES TIPS
Source: Bertil Hjert
Symtoms of Type 2 Diabetes – video 2:55 min.
Source: illumistream on YouTube
One-third of diabetics don’t know that they have the condition. How can you avoid being one of them?
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