What You Need To Know About Diabetes

INTRODUCTION

According to the World Health Organization, a few decades back diabetes was an uncommon disease, in both developed and developing countries. Today, the story is different. It is currently estimated that over 143million people worldwide are affected by the disease. This figure is ever increasing, by 2020 over 220million people are expected to be living with diabetes, if the current trend continues.

In the United States alone, there are 18.2 million people (6.3% of the population) living with diabetes. While another 13million people have been diagnosed with diabetes. Unfortunately, 5.2milion (or nearly one third) are unaware that they have the disease.

The figure for Nigeria is not readily available, but it is estimated that over 1.5million people have diabetes in Nigeria.

In developed countries, most patients of diabetes are over sixty, but in developing countries, diabetes is found to affect people in their prime.

WHAT IS DIABETES?

Diabetes Mellitus (or simply diabetes) is derived from the Greek word ‘Diabeinein’, meaning ‘To pass through’ describing copious urination, and Mellitus from the Latin word meaning ‘Sweetened with honey’. These two words signify sweetened urine or sugar in urine.

Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use Insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is needed, in the body, to control the rate at which sugar, starch and other food are converted into glucose required as energy for daily life. The hormone is produced and released
into the blood by an organ called ‘Pancreas’. This insulin help to maintain the blood glucose level within a normal range. The World Health Organization (WHO) puts this normal range between
60 – 100mg/dl (Before taking any food for the day, hence this value is called Fasting Blood Glucose). In health, despite several demands for glucose in different situations, the blood glucose rarely exceeds this value.

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

TYPES OF DIABETES.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), five classes of diabetes are recognized, these are; Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus (IDDM) or Type I Diabetes, Non Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus (NIDDM) or Type II Diabetes, Gestational Diabetes, Diabetes Insipidus and Bronze Diabetes.

INSULIN DEPENDENT/TYPE I DIABETES: This type of diabetes was initially called Juvenile onset diabetes because it affects adolescents and young adults. It is caused by a sudden failure of the pancreas to produce Insulin. It is, therefore, an acute disease, presenting with thirst, polyuria (passing large amount of urine), diuresis and weight loss. Type I diabetes is not common, it accounts for less than 10% of all diabetes cases.

NON-INSULIN DEPENDENT/ TYPE II DIABETES: This is the most prevalent type of diabetes, accounting for more than 80% of all diabetic cases. It is found in adults and the elderly. This type of diabetes develops gradually over a long period of time (unnoticed) and is characterized by insufficient insulin, deficient insulin in the blood or the inability of the body to utilize the insulin resent (Insulin resistance). Because of its slow and gradual occurrence, it is mostly undetected until one or more of its long-term complications appear.

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

GESTATIONAL DIABETES: This type of diabetes occurs during pregnancy and disappears after delivery, within 3weeks. An estimated 3% of all pregnancies are accompanied by gestational diabetes and almost half of these patients are prone to developing permanent diabetes later in life.
WHAT CAUSES DIABETES.

As with hypertension and other non communicable diseases, no clear cut cause(s) can be attributed to the most prevalent type of diabetes (Type II Diabetes, Type I diabetes being secondary to failure of the pancreas). However, some factors are known to increase one’s chances of becoming diabetic and these are called risk factors. For example, indolent and well-fed populations are 2 – 20times more likely to develop type II diabetes than active and lean population of the same race. Some other factors known to increase one chances of getting diabetes include:

OBESITY: It is estimated that three quarter (¾) of all Type II diabetes patient are obese. Indolent and affluent lifestyles tend to contribute to this. It is believed that a 10kg loss of weight can reduce fasting blood sugar level by almost 50md/dl. An active lifestyle with frequent exercise is also known to increase Insulin sensitivity.

The International standard for measuring overweight and obesity is based on a value called BODY MASS INDEX (BMI). This value is derived by dividing the body weight (in Kilograms) by the square of height (in metres).

i.e. BMI = Body weight (Kg) / Height2 (Metres).

Note: 1ft = 0.305metres.

For adults, a BMI less than 25kg/m2 is preferred.

25 – 29kg/m2 is considered overweight and above 30kg/m2 is Obesity.

FAMILY HISTORY: A family history of diabetes increases one’s chances of getting the disease. In such a situation, leading a healthy lifestyle and constant monitoring of one’s blood sugar level becomes very important.
AGE AND RACE: Most Type II diabetes patient are over 40yrs at presentation of the disease. However, the proportion of increase in the incidence of this disease with age is higher for those with a family history of diabetes, obese and probably those leading sedentary lifestyles. Moreover, diabetes tends to be more prevalent among Africans, African Americans, Latinos, Native Americans and Asian Americans. Belonging to any of the races is a risk factor in itself.

HISTORY OF GESTATIONAL DIABETES: in a woman also increases her chances/possibility of developing permanent diabetes later in life.

YOU CAN PREVENT/DELAY DIABETES!
Diabetes have no permanent cure once it develops, it is managed al through life. But you can prevent ever falling into this life long pain. Before diabetes present in people, it is almost always preceded by a situation called PRE DIABETES. A situation where the blood glucose is higher than normal, but not yet enough to be diagnosed as diabetes. Saddening, however, you cannot know when you fall into this category, if you have not being monitoring your blood glucose regularly.

Pre Diabetes is itself a serious medical situation, though can still be reversed by making changes in diet pattern and increasing physical activity. To determine one’s blood sugar a test called Fasting Blood Glucose has to be conducted. This test measures the amount of glucose (sugar) in one’s blood before taking any meal for the day. It is measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl).

A value below 100mg/dl is generally accepted to be normal, while a value greater than 100mg/dl but less than 120mg/dl is not full diabetes yet, so it is regarded as Pre diabetes. An individual with a pre diabetes blood glucose level need to take urgent steps to reduce his blood glucose or risk life long diabetes.

It should be emphasized, however, that the racial and genetic factors predisposing to diabetes are still beyond human comprehension and control. It makes common sense, therefore, to reduce all human controllable factors to the barest minimum. Most of these factors have to do with social occupational and diet habits.

The following tips can help reduce your diabetes risk:

* Reduce weight. Obesity seems to be the single most significant factor in diabetes. Reducing body weight and fat and maintaining an average body weight is very essential. To this end a body mass index (BMI) less than 25kg/m2 for males and less than 24kg/m2 for females is recommended.

* Increase Physical Activity. It is an established fact that diabetes is more common among people that lead a sedentary affluent lifestyle. Simple dynamic exercises like brisk walking for 30-50mins daily or 3-5times weekly has been shown to be very helpful. Exercise reduces bodyweight and fat, increases functionality of the heart, reduces the chances of diabetes and also boosts emotions and healthy living.

* Cut down or cut out alcohol. Alcoholic intake of more than 2units per day has been shown to adversely affect the body. Alcohol being an addictive drug makes it very difficult to maintain a definite amount of intake for a long time. It is better therefore to strive to cut out alcohol completely.

* Avoid Smoking. Cigarette smoke has been shown to contain several poisonous substances. Cigarette smoking and alcohol have been related to several disease. Stopping smoking will definitely reduce the chances of several other ailments apart from diabetes.

* Lean good eating habits, such as;

* Cut down on fatty food and junks

* Eat more of fish and poultry (without the skin is better).

* Garlic reduces blood pressure cholesterol; add it to your meal plan once in a while.

* Cut the number of eggs you take to 3- 4 weekly (better boiled than fried).

* Reduce salt intake to less than 5.8grams daily.

* Eat more of vegetables and fibre rich food, especially fruits.

* Finally, constantly monitor your fasting blood glucose, as this is the only way to know when you are getting into trouble.

CONCLUSION

Diabetes and Hypertension being so interlinked requires a comprehensive plan of care, and this revolves round one’s dietary habits, social and environmental factors. Several lifestyle changes like regular exercise, maintaining a moderate body weight, reduction of fat intake and high fibre diet all help to live a normal healthy life. These measures are known to increase insulin sensitivity and also reduce blood pressure.

Conclusively, it is very important to create a more health conscious individuals in the populace. A people who practically believe that it is better and cheaper to prevent an illness than to treat it, when it has become stronger. Moreover, preventive health cannot be divorced from regular medical checks, as this two go hand in hand. There is no way to detect several non-communicable diseases without undergoing regular medical checks. The importance of these checks cannot be over emphasized.
Be alive to your health. Know your Blood glucose values and live a healthier life free from the pains of diabetes.

Mr. Adefemi Kazeem is a graduate of Human Anatomy from a Nigerian University and who wishes to specialize in Public Health, soon. You can contact him by e-mail – yemupz@yahoo.com; Phone – 234-803-613-6741.

Diabetes And The Long Term Dangers

Diabetes has hidden dangers that begin before diagnosis and continue to worsen if certain steps are not taken to prevent the complications that are the true, “killers” in terms of diabetes.

Statistics show that there are around 18 million diabetics in America, both Type 1 and Type 2. It is amazing how many people, diabetics included, who have no idea what dangers a diabetic faces over their lifetime. A diabetic, all things being equal, lives almost 10 years less than their non-diabetic counterpart on average.

Why do diabetics life shorter life spans than non-diabetics? The answer is both simple and complicated. Simple in explaining in general terms, complicated in the medical sense. Without traveling the complicated route in this article, I will try to give a simple, straight forward answer to the above question. Diabetics live shorter lives than non-diabetics because of diabetic complications.

What Are Diabetic Complications?

Diabetic complications are chronic medical conditions that begin to affect the body of the diabetic. These complications are brought about mostly by a condition the medical community had named, “Advanced Glycation End products” which is simply, “excess sugar” saturating the inside of the cells of the body. This condition also called AGE for short includes coronary artery disease, vascular disease, blindness, kidney disease, retinopathy (blindness) and loss of feeling in the hands and the feet (peripheral neuropathy) among others.

Diabetes in the early stages does not produce symptoms. Unless found during a routine medical exam, it is possible for a diabetic to remain undiagnosed for years. It is during these years that the beginnings of diabetic complications can gain a foothold due excess sugar in the cells (AGE). The statistics show there is the possibility of as many as over 5 million people going about their normal lives while having undiagnosed diabetes.

Are Diabetic Complications A Certainty?

While the current consensus is that the formula for diabetic complications Diabetes + Time = Complications. What this means is there is a much higher potential of a diabetic becoming diagnosed with one or more diabetic complications over time. This is partly due to how well the individual monitors and controls his/her blood sugar.

Drastic rises and falls of blood sugar can be hard on the body and the excess sugar present in the cells create havoc on the different nerves within the body as well as the capillaries, veins, and arteries. The evidence to date show that excellent control of blood sugar and an active lifestyle goes a very long way in preventing and/or slowing down the onset of diabetic complications.

The Different Types Of Diabetes

There are two types of diabetes - Type One and Type Two. Type One attacks children and young adults and is characterized by the pancreas failing to produce insulin which is a hormone that breaks down sugars and starches while converting them into energy. Type Two occurs usually later in an adult’s life and is characterized by the pancreas being unable to produce enough insulin due to several factors, obesity being one of them.

Around 10 percent of diabetics are Type One while the other 90 percent are Type Two. The major difference between the two being that Type One diabetics are completely dependent on insulin and take daily injections while the Type Two’s have both those who require insulin shots while others can rely on oral medication and/or changes in diet and exercise.

The Risk Factors Surrounding Diabetes

There are several risk factors that can push a pre-diabetic into full blown diabetes.

1) being overweight.

2) family history of diabetes,

3) lack of adequate exercise.

4) history of gestational diabetes (occurs during pregnancy and usually disappears after delivery).

5) certain ethnic groups

People over 45 years of age and has one or several of the risk factors mentioned above should be screened for diabetes each year, preferably during an annual medical exam. It has been shown that people with these risk factors comprise the majority of diagnosed cases of diabetes each year.

What Tests Help Diagnose Diabetes Cases?

There are two, main tests used for determining whether or not a person has a glucose intolerance:

1) Fasting Plasma Glucose Test

2) Oral Glucose Tolerance Test

Both of these tests can determine glucose intolerance which is where blood sugar is higher than what is considered normal. This is not always an indication of diabetes however.

Can The Onset Of Diabetes Be Prevented?

People with the above risk factors can go a long way toward preventing the development of full-blown diabetes by making significant lifestyle change. What are lifestyle changes? Changing unhealthy diets to more blood sugar friendly ones, doing enough exercise to help offset increased blood sugar levels and keep the body healthy and losing weight especially if considered obese by the medical community.

If you are pre-diabetic you need to stay on a strict diabetic diet. Ask your healthcare professional for a diet that meets that criteria and limit cakes, candy, cookies, and other things made of simple sugars. Eat small, nutritious meals and eat 5 times a day instead of only three.

If you are already diagnosed with full-blown diabetes, you should follow the same diet while under the meticulous care of your healthcare professional. Keep your cholesterol, blood pressure and blood sugar within proper limits and have your eyes checked every year.

Diabetes can contribute to blindness, kidney disease and heart disease. Complications caused nearly 70,000 deaths in 2000.

What Can The Diabetic Look Forward To?

Diabetic complications can be prevented or lessened for a longer time period by paying serious attention to lifestyle. A diabetic who eats right, keeps his blood sugar in control and within accepted limits, exercises and gets proper rest can expect to have a quality of life that is much higher in terms of the pain and suffering that diabetic complications brings into the lives of diabetics who do nothing to change their lifestyle.

What begins to occur in the diabetic who starts to develop complications because of uncontrolled blood sugars over time is a life filled with the possibility of becoming an invalid, either blind, an amputee, or suffering renal failure or a heart attack.

The above paints a rather grim picture if lifestyle changes are not adhered to. Research has shown that the diabetic that keeps their blood sugar within acceptable limits and follows a healthy, diabetic lifestyle that has been shown to be effective against diabetic complications stands a much better chance of not developing many of the complications their less than dedicated counterparts do.

There is a new derivative of thiamine (Vitamin B1) available now that is showing great promise in greatly reducing the excess sugar in the cells of the diabetic, the process known as Advanced Glycation Endproducts (AGE).

Is Benfotiamine Effective Against Diabetic Complications?

Benfotiamine is a lipid soluble derivative of thiamine. Japanese researchers developed benfotiamine in the 1950’s and later patented it in the United States in 1962. No one in the US medical community paid much attention to it at the time. For the past 12 years in Europe it has been used for neuropathy, retinopathy and other uses.

The chemical name and formula for benfotiamine is: S-benzoylthiamine-O-monophosphate (C19H23N4O6PS). It wasn’t until a group of researchers in New York at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University released the results of their research in 2003 in Nature Medicine Magazine did the rest of the world begin to take a look at this substance.

Benfotiamine is unique and was reported by Michael Brownlee, M.D., as showing much promise in preventing nerve and blood-vessel damage in diabetics. Every diagnosed diabetic has been told by his/her healthcare provider that diabetic complications are the true killers in terms of diabetes.

If you are a diabetic or know a diabetic, you may find additional information about benfotiamine and view research that has been recently conducted showing the benefits of preventing diabetic complications by following the link to the website below.

Zach Malott is CEO of Brentwood Health International, a nutritional supplement company involved in distribution and supplying wholesale, retail and end users.

Mr. Malott is available to discuss the research as it applies to benfotiamine in terms of diabetic complications such as neuropathy and retinopathy.

Setting Up the Perfect Diabetic Diet

Diabetes is a serious illness. The different consequences associated with it can be quite debilitating. Basically, the disease is related to the body's incapacity to produce the normal amount of insulin needed by the system to function efficiently. As a result, the glucose level in the blood rises. This abnormality is the reason why a special diet is arranged for people with diabetes. The goal of a diabetic diet is to be able to provide all the necessary nutrients at a balanced level.

There are actually two types of diabetes. Type I diabetes is where the body actually cannot produce insulin while Type II takes place when the body cannot produce the amount of insulin that the body needs. Both types are, however, easily cured by simply turning towards a healthy diet and having ample physical exercises.

One of the greatest changes a person has to deal with is the major turn in one's lifestyle at the onset of diabetes. However, it is not as bad as other people think it is. The idea is simply to be healthier in the kinds and amounts of food being consumed. An ideal guideline for a healthy diet to deal with diabetes includes six important considerations namely, a restricted consumption of sweet food items, the eating frequency, direct attention on consumed carbohydrates, emphasis on whole grain foods, fruits and vegetables consumption and complete avoidance of alcohol.

The food we consume is mainly of three types. Fats, proteins and carbohydrates all turn out to be sugar once they are burnt with the aid of the insulin within the body. However, these three differ in the actual time they spend as they mingle with the blood. In general, fat sugar takes six to eight hours while proteins require only three to four hours, and it takes only a maximum of one hour for the carbohydrates to do so. This is where the issue begins.

How can a diabetic person set up his own meals? What does he need to know and do?

1. Talk with dietician. Even people with diabetes have varying sugar levels. This can be properly and most correctly assessed by a dietician. Using the diagnostics about the diabetic's condition, the dietician has the capacity to set up the diets that are highly recommended for the well-being of the patient.

2. Sweet consumption should be minimal. Contrary to what most people believe, people with diabetes can actually still eat sweet foods. The idea is to have them at a balanced amount as compared to the other items in the meal plan. Sweet foods' being bad for the diabetic individuals is not an absolute truth.

3. Go vegetarian. Although being vegetarian is not the ultimate solution, it cannot be denied that being green in what we eat does play a significant role in a diabetic diet plan. Aside from the positive results on weight loss, which is very beneficial for those with Type II diabetes, a vegetarian diet can actually give the system the capacity to be more receptive to insulin as shown in studies.

Leo has been writing articles online for nearly 4 years now. In addition to writing health related articles, he also publishes reviews of various consumer products. Come visit his latest website that discusses animal rubber bands, breast cancer bracelets and other types of rubber wristbands.

Facts About Diabetes

Before people develop type 2 diabetes, they almost always have "pre-diabetes" -- blood glucose levels that are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes. There are 54 million people in the United States who have pre-diabetes. Recent research has shown that some long-term damage to the body, especially the heart and circulatory system, may already be occurring during pre-diabetes.

The cause of diabetes continues to be a mystery, although both genetics and environmental factors such as obesity and lack of exercise appear to play roles.

There are two major types of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes results from the body's failure to produce insulin, the hormone that "unlocks" the cells of the body, allowing glucose to enter and fuel them. It is estimated that 5-10% of Americans who are diagnosed with diabetes have type 1 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes results from insulin resistance (a condition in which the body fails to properly use insulin), combined with relative insulin deficiency. Most Americans who are diagnosed with diabetes have type 2 diabetes.

There is also pre-diabetes which is a condition that occurs when a person's blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not high enough for a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. There are 54 million Americans who have pre-diabetes, in addition to the 20.8 million with diabetes.

Diabetes symptoms may vary from person to person but most of the time anyone with diabetes will experience some or all of these symptoms. Some symptoms are: going to the restroom more often, staying thirsty, fatigue, blurred vision, stomach pain and occasionally people suffer from weight loss.

Type 1 diabetes is normally only found in children and type 2 diabetes is found mostly in adults but not always. There are some cases where children are being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Some people may be diagnosed with being borderline diabetic, which normally ends up turning into full blown diabetes but not always.

Some of the most important things people with diabetes should know is a healthy, nutritional diet and a regular exercise program can help in treating the disease. Speak with your doctor about what kind of diet you should consider following, along with a moderate exercise program. The doctor or a nutritionist should be able to tell you exactly what kinds of foods you should be avoiding and give you some tips on how much exercise you need every week. Doing this has many health benefits and will also make you feel so much better about yourself.

You should know the truth about some of the most common myths about diabetes. Myth #1 You can catch diabetes from someone else. No. Although we don't know exactly why some people develop diabetes, we know diabetes is not contagious. It can't be caught like a cold or flu. There seems to be some genetic link in diabetes, particularly type 2 diabetes. Lifestyle factors also play a part.

Myth #2 People with diabetes can't eat sweets or chocolate. If eaten as part of a healthy meal plan, or combined with exercise, sweets and desserts can be eaten by people with diabetes. They are no more "off limits" to people with diabetes, than they are to people without diabetes.

Myth #3 Eating too much sugar causes diabetes. No. Diabetes is caused by a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. However, being overweight does increase your risk for developing type 2 diabetes. If you have a history of diabetes in your family, eating a healthy meal plan and regular exercise are recommended to manage your weight.

Myth #4 People with diabetes should eat special diabetic foods. A healthy meal plan for people with diabetes is the same as that for everyone – low in fat (especially saturated and trans fat), moderate in salt and sugar, with meals based on whole grain foods, vegetables and fruit. Diabetic and "dietetic" versions of sugar-containing foods offer no special benefit. They still raise blood glucose levels, are usually more expensive and can also have a laxative effect if they contain sugar alcohols.

Myth #5 If you have diabetes, you should only eat small amounts of starchy foods, such as bread, potatoes and pasta. Starchy foods are part of a healthy meal plan. What is important is the portion size. Whole grain breads, cereals, pasta, rice and starchy vegetables like potatoes, yams, peas and corn can be included in your meals and snacks. The key is portions. For most people with diabetes, having 3-4 servings of carbohydrate-containing foods is about right. Whole grain starchy foods are also a good source of fiber, which helps keep your gut healthy.

Myth #6 People with diabetes are more likely to get colds and other illnesses. No. You are no more likely to get a cold or another illness if you have diabetes. However, people with diabetes are advised to get flu shots. This is because any infection interferes with your blood glucose management, putting you at risk of high blood glucose levels and, for those with type 1 diabetes, an increased risk of ketoacidosis.

Myth #7 Insulin causes atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) and high blood pressure. No, insulin does not cause atherosclerosis. In the laboratory, there is evidence that insulin can initiate some of the early processes associated with atherosclerosis. Therefore, some physicians were fearful that insulin might aggravate the development of high blood pressure and hardening of the arteries. But it doesn't.

Myth #8 Insulin causes weight gain, and because obesity is bad for you, insulin should not be taken. Both the UKPDS (United Kingdom Prospective Diabetes Study) and the DCCT (Diabetes Control & Complications Trial) have shown that the benefit of glucose management with insulin far outweighs (no pun intended) the risk of weight gain.

Myth #9 Fruit is a healthy food. Therefore, it is ok to eat as much of it as you wish. Fruit is a healthy food. It contains fiber and lots of vitamins and minerals. Because fruit contains carbohydrate, it needs to be included in your meal plan. Talk to your dietitian about the amount, frequency and types of fruits you should eat.

Myth #10 You don't need to change your diabetes regimen unless your A1C is greater than 8 percent. The better your glucose control, the less likely you are to develop complications of diabetes. An A1C in the sevens (7s), however, does not represent good control. The ADA goal is less than 7 percent. The closer your A1C is to the normal range (less than 6 percent), the lower your chances of complications. However, you increase your risk of hypoglycemia, especially if you have type 1 diabetes. Talk with your health care provider about the best goal for you.

There is no cure right now for diabetes but there are several different forms of treatment available for you. Do not give up hope on feeling better and living a long, healthy, happy life. Even if you are one of the many that has been diagnosed with this disease, it does not mean that your life as you know it is over. It simply means you may need medication and you will have to consider certain lifestyle changes that will have an amazing outcome once you have done so. There are many other treatment options that could eventually be available to you but are currently undergoing more detailed research.

Janice Lockeby has been successful in keeping her husband's blood levels in a consistently normal range since he was diagnosed. Find out how she does it at http://www.newbloodsugar.com

Can Medications Help Control My Diabetes?

The most important factor in preventing and treating diabetes is a healthy diet and lifestyle. Healthy habits like diabetes-friendly menus, exercising regularly and avoiding harmful habits like smoking and drinking can also reduce the number of complications associated with diabetes.

For some people, however, these changes are not enough to control insulin and blood sugar levels to the point of maintaining good health. In these cases, diabetes medications are used to control the effects of diabetes on the body.

Types of Diabetes and Medication Choices

There are three main types of diabetes - Type 1, Type 2 and Gestational. Each form of diabetes carries a different set of commonly used medications. Type 1 diabetes requires the use of insulin because the body does not produce it. Type 2 diabetes is non-insulin dependent. Medications can be used to control the illness, but insulin is not always needed. Gestational diabetes is treated with diet and exercise first. If blood sugar levels are not controlled with these changes, the doctor may prescribe medications.

Blood Sugar Control

The most widely used diabetes medication controls blood sugar levels in the body. These medications are referred to as antiperson with diabetes. Common antiperson with diabetes include insulin, melitinides, thiazolidinediones and sulfonylureas. person with diabetes often take one or more of these medications to keep blood sugar levels within a normal range.

Blood Pressure Control

A healthy blood pressure reading is 130/80 mmHg. person with diabetes patients with blood pressure readings at or below this number are within the sage zone regarding blood pressure control and should not need additional medication. If blood pressure levels are higher, however, serious health risks could evolve so many physicians will prescribe medications to lower the reading. Diuretics, calcium channel blockers and angiotensin receptor blockers are three common types of medications to lower blood pressure in person with diabetes.

Daily Aspirin

Patients with diabetes are often as higher risk of cardiovascular disease and illness. The health prognosis after a heart attack or stroke is often better when the patient is taking a low daily dose of aspirin. While the aspirin does not affect the diabetes, it can be used as a precautionary tactic in many cases.

Cholesterol Control

Along the same cardiovascular lines, cholesterol control is essential to a healthy heart. In patients who are predetermined to be at higher risk, doctors may choose to prescribe medications to maintain cholesterol levels within a healthy range. Changes in diet and exercise can also affect good and bad cholesterol levels.

Alternative Medications

Some patients with diabetes may feel they can control their blood sugar and insulin levels with natural, alternative medications. This is at the sole discretion of the patient, but a doctor's care should always be sought in case the alternative treatments are not a viable solution. Bitter melon, gymnema sylvestre, onion and garlic all claim to have a positive effect on diabetes control. Herbal supplements should never be taken in addition to prescription medications without the guidance of a physician as some herbs interfere with the effectiveness of prescription medications.

Beverly Mullin is Dietitian and Health Coach, she has done Masters Degree in Public Health. She is providing information of medications for diabetes person.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Beverly_Mullin

New Diabetes Treatments

Many doctors and research call the rise in diabetes cases an epidemic of the world. Constant research is being performed to seek out new persons with diabetes' treatments to control blood sugar and reduce the health related side effects associated with the condition. Medications and alternative treatments are seeing the most progress.

Pramlintide Acetate

A new medication on the market for person with diabetes is pramlintide acetate. This medication is administered at meal time and is used to maintain healthy blood glucose levels by preventing the spikes that often occur after eating. The medication tends to be stronger than other blood sugar control options which mean less medication and more effect. The use of pramlintide acetate is associated with nausea so medication strength is increased very gently. Diabetes patients also reporting losing weight while taking the new diabetes treatment. Pramlintide acetate comes in a pre-filled pen injector.

Exenatide

Another pre-filled injection medication, exenatide is one of the most interesting medications to hit the person with diabetes market. The source of the medication is the saliva of the Gila monster. Only Type 2 person with diabetes are approved to use exenatide. The medication is used to improve the body's natural ability to produce and excrete insulin. Decreased appetite may be associated with exenatide though the manufacturer is adamant that exenatide is not a weight loss product.

Saxagliptin

An oral medication recently approved by the FDA is saxagliptin. This medications works to control blood glucose levels after meals. The medication is approved for Type 2 person with diabetes only and can be combined with other person with diabetes medications or used as a standalone therapy.

The Combo Diabetes Medications

Several medication combination have been created for patients who need to take more than one prescription to control their diabetes. The most common combination include metformin and another prescription diabetes treatment. Metformin is often suggested as the first medication to be prescribed to a newly diagnosed person with diabetes.

Anti-Inflammatory

Recent studies suggest that diabetes, an auto-immune disease, is caused by inflammation in the body. Much of that inflammation was thought to be linked to obesity, but not every patient with Type 2 diabetes is overweight or obese. Other forms of inflammation in the body are now thought to be extenuating factors in the development of Type 2 diabetes. Patients are turning to natural anti-inflammatories to reduce free radical damage to the cells which can cause inflammation.

Under the Skin Blood Glucose Sensors

Small sensors implanted under the skin can communicate current blood glucose levels with a small, hand held device. The device must be kept within a short distance of the implant, but the patient is no longer required to prick every hour or every meal to obtain current blood glucose levels. In some cases, the sensor can communicate with another new diabetes treatment device, the insulin pump.

Insulin Pump

An insulin pump is either attached to the body with an inserted cannula or a skin patch that transmits insulin to the body. The insulin pump is battery powered and programmable. Depending on the activity level, the pump constantly delivers insulin to the body. It acts, almost, like an artificial pancreas on the outside of the body. Some newer pump models can communicate with the blood glucose sensor. The insulin levels will not be adjusted, but the pump will beep if the blood glucose is measured outside of the programmed range of acceptance.

Beverly Mullin is Dietitian and Health Coach, she has done Masters Degree in Public Health. She is providing information for new diabetic treatments.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Beverly_Mullin

Ways to Treat Diabetes

Today, diabetes is becoming more common due to the rising number of people who are obese and inactive. Diabetes puts people at a high risk for cardiovascular disease including heart attack and stroke. person with diabetes are also at risk of going blind, have slow wound healing, and may have life threatening glucose or insulin levels. At one time, people diagnosed with type 1 diabetes were not expected to live very long. Thankfully, today there are many effective ways to treat all forms of diabetes.

Insulin

People with type 1 diabetes do not produce their own insulin, or they don't make enough to stay alive. Therefore one of the ways to treat diabetes for these people is with daily insulin injections. In some patients today, daily insulin is given through an implanted pump which takes over the function of the pancreas. Insulin may also be used to treat people with type 2 diabetes when other treatments fail. While some people with type 2 diabetes may be able to wean themselves from taking insulin, the type 1 person with diabetes must take it daily for life as insulin is not a cure, but a way to manage the disease.

Diet

In addition to insulin, type 1 person with diabetes must also closely regulate their diet and activities to keep their insulin level constant. This requires frequent blood sugar checks throughout the day as well as several blood glucose test done at a doctor's office each year. People with type 2 diabetes may be able to reverse their disease or slow its progression through the use of diet alone.

A proper diet for person with diabetes includes avoiding foods like simple carbohydrates that provide a spike in blood sugar. Instead, they should eat foods that are digested slowly and release a steady stream of nutrients so their glucose and insulin levels stay steady throughout the day. This includes eating food like complex carbohydrates and sufficient protein. Good foods to eat are fish, whole grains, non-starchy vegetables, and beans.

Physical Activity

Daily exercise is another of the important ways to treat diabetes. Inactivity has been linked to the development of type 2 diabetes. Doctors recommend person with diabetes get at least 30 minutes of sustained moderate activity every day. This could include walking, dancing, aerobics or swimming.

Medication

Sometimes, medication is prescribed to treat diabetes. These medications include thiazolidinediones, meglitinides, alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, sulfonylurea drugs, and biguanides. These drugs are only used in people with type 2 diabetes or women with gestational diabetes. They are not effective in the treatment of type 1 diabetes. They act to make the body sensitive to insulin, stimulate insulin production, slow starch absorption, or decrease sugar production in the liver.

Checkups

When considering ways to treat diabetes, one should also think about regular checkups to keep tabs on the progression of the disease. This includes having regular eye and dental examinations as well as foot checks. The reason for this is that person with diabetes usually have poor circulation due to the cardiovascular component of their disease. This can lead to foot problems that can escalate to the point where amputation is necessary. By catching changes in vision and foot or dental problems early, the doctor is able to adjust the treatments prescribed in order to slow the progression of diabetes.

Beverly Mullin is Dietitian and Health Coach, she has done Masters Degree in Public Health. She is providing information of treatments for diabetes.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Beverly_Mullin

Diabetes Home Remedies - Control Your Diabetes With Natural Treatments

A number of diabetes home remedies have grown in prominence over the years. Unfortunately, because of the modern, unhealthy lifestyle (poor eating habits to lack of physical activity) most of us are living the number of people getting diagnosed with diabetes is constantly increasing. A growing number of people are getting afflicted with this disease because of an abundance of sugar in the food we eat. Moreover, excess sugar and carbohydrates are not converted to energy because most people do not exercise.

But with the increase of diabetics over the years, fortunately, the options for treatments and remedies have widened as well. Diabetes home remedies have become the treatment of choice for patients who want to take advantage of alternatives that are safer for the body and more reasonably priced to the budget. With the practicality and affordability of these home cures, it should come as no surprise that more and more people have jumped on to the bandwagon and got this disease under control through natural means.

Home remedies for this condition normally include methods to lower or control the blood sugar levels. One such method is by taking mango or blueberry leaves. You may soak them in water overnight and drink the solution. You may also powder the dried leaves and mix one teaspoon of the powdered leaves in 1 glass of water and drink. Patients who may want to try a more exotic method could try a mixture of turmeric, fenugreek and amalaki. With honey, this mixture could be very tangy and can be taken three times per day. After two months, a patient should be able to notice his or her blood sugar levels stabilizing.

Natural Diabetes Reversal Method! Stop Wasting Money on Expensive Products, Reverse Your Diabetes The Natural Way!

http://www.natural-diabetes-treatment.org

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michelle_Parkin

Type 2 Diabetes Treatments - Natural Control Methods

Any doctor who you will ask about type 2 diabetes treatments will assure you of one thing: proper diet and exercise are necessary components that any diabetic patient should commit himself or herself to. For one, you need to make sure that your blood sugar is always stable by checking it at least once a day. It is only through conscientious monitoring that you can rest assured that your level of blood sugar is within the target range. Your blood sugar level may be affected by other factors other than just having scheduled meals, as most people think.

As a diabetic, you need to make sure that this level is not high or low -it should always be at a certain level. If you exercise it will be considerably decreased, so you need to compensate this by eating. If you are sick or taking other medications, if you are drinking alcohol or are under a lot of stress, you should also take note that your these levels will get affected. Thus, blood sugar monitoring is of the utmost importance.

Type 2 diabetes treatments should include a healthy dose of exercise, something which your doctor should approve of. If you have eaten a large meal, walk it off to balance your blood sugar level. Being diabetic should make you more aware that your body needs to maintain a balance. That balance is something you yourself must maintain, no one can do it for you. If you maintain that balance, there are slimmer chances that the weakening symptoms of diabetes would really have an effect on you.

Natural Diabetes Reversal Method! Stop Wasting Money on Expensive Products, Treat Your Diabetes The Natural Way! http://www.natural-diabetes-treatment.org Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michelle_Parkin