Thursday, September 4, 2008
How to Improve Your Health as a Diabetic
from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit
This is not a cure but rather tips for improving and preserving the health of a diabetic. According to health experts, type 1 diabetes cannot be cured, because it is a form of pancreatic dysfunction, which results when insulin producing cells cannot make enough insulin to process glucose in the body. Type 2 diabetes, however, can usually be prevented or controlled by diet and exercise, because Type 2 diabetes is typically the result of insulin resistance, which is caused by physical inactivity and poor diet.
Steps
- Drink an ampalaya (bitter gourd/bitter melon) tea. It is well known for helping diabetic patients to maintain their blood sugar at healthy levels. Banaba tea is one of the best sources of plantisul (plant insulin). Consult your endocrinologist, diabetes educator, or dietitian before beginning this or any alternative treatment.
- Maintain a healthy diet. Follow the advice of your doctor or diabetes educator.
- Exercise. If it is medically safe, start exercising 30 minutes a day. A 30-minute walk at a good pace for the diabetic individual will help to reduce blood sugar, and possibly the amount of medication needed. Have a plan for exercise when taking insulin or using blood sugar lowering drugs, because exercise lowers blood glucose, and can possibly result in hypoglycemia.
- Take doctor prescribed insulin regularly, and on time!
- Attend all laboratory tests and doctors' appointments.
- Have your hemoglobin A1c test done every 3 months or as directed by your physician. Aim for a value of 6.5% or less as recommended by the American Diabetes Association. This test measures your average blood sugar levels over a period of 2-3 months and is a strong indicator of overall glycemic control.
- Stop smoking! Smoking raises blood sugar levels, damages blood vessels which can lead to heart disease and stroke, and adversely affects circulation due to constriction of blood vessels. Heart disease, stroke, and circulation problems are frequent complications of diabetes, even in non-smokers; a diabetic smoker is "adding fuel to the fire", greatly increasing his or her risk of developing these complications.
- Be prepared for hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia. These conditions are more common in patients taking insulin, but can occur in other situations.
- Hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, occurs when the blood sugar level is above 126mg/dL (7mmol/L). It can occur as a result of stress, insufficient insulin, too much food, or an issue with oral diabetes medication. Symptoms include frequent thirst, frequent urination, unusual hunger, fatigue, and irritability. Untreated hyperglycemia is a leading cause of complications from diabetes, thus it is important to recognize and treat hyperglycemia as directed by your physician. Treatment includes adjusting insulin treatment (frequently, patients using insulin will simply take a correction shot based on the level of their blood sugar), or adjusting oral medications. While patients taking insulin will typically adjust their insulin dosages to lower blood sugar, patients taking oral medication or patients using diet or exercise will typically have to adjust their carbohydrate intake to control blood sugar. Untreated hyperglycemia can rapidly progress into diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), which is life-threating and frequently requires hospitalization. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, unquenchable thirst, diarrhea, and muscle cramps. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms of DKA, SEEK URGENT MEDICAL ATTENTION.
- Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, occurs when the blood sugar level is below 70mg/dL (3.9mmol/L). It can occur as a result of stress, too much insulin, too little food, or an issue with oral diabetes medication. Symptoms include shakiness, tremor, rapid heart beat, sweating, and clamminess. Untreated hypoglycemia can rapidly progress into seizures, coma, or death; thus, it is very important that hypoglycemia is quickly recognized and treated as directed by your physician. In any situation where the patient believes that he or she is suffering from hypoglycemia, the patient should confirm with a blood sugar test; however, the patient should treat immediately if they feel that the hypoglycemia is severe and it would take too long to test. Treating the low blood sugar is paramount. Mild hypoglycemia can be treated by the patient and usually involves consuming 15 grams of carbohydrates, in the form of sugary (not diet) soda, juice, glucose tablets/gel, or occasionally a small snack in the form of crackers, pretzels, hard candy, etc. It is important to note that candy bars such as Snickers, Twix, Milky Way, etc. contain a high amount of fat and can slow the absorption of sugar from the candy bar; therefore, it is not advised that patients use high-fat candy bars to treat hypoglycemia as the blood sugars may not rise fast enough to prevent any further and possibly severe drops in blood sugar. Once the patient has treated, they should wait 10-15 minutes and test his or her blood sugar to confirm that blood sugar levels have risen above 70mg/dL (3.9mmol/L). If the blood sugar levels are still below 70mg/dL (3.9mmol/L), the patient should repeat the treatment process, and if upon testing again after 10-15 minutes blood sugar levels are still below 70mg/dL (3.9mmol/L), the patient should treat once again and consult his/her physician immediately. If the patient has a meal planned within the next 30 minutes, the patient should continue as normal and continue to monitor his or her blood glucose to check for any additional episodes of hypoglycemia. If his/her next meal is beyond 30 minutes, the patient should consume a small snack (1/2 of a sandwich and an 8oz glass of milk, or a pack of peanut butter crackers). Severe hypoglycemia is an urgent medical condition that requires immediate intervention, and can frequently require intervention from a third-party. It can occur when blood sugars fall very rapidly, or when the patient suffers from hypoglycemia unawareness. Severe hypoglycemia can result in fainting, seizures, or death. Treatment may or may not be possible by the patient themselves due to significant impairment, however, the main idea is still the same: raise blood sugar levels as rapidly as possible. This can be achieved using oral carbohydrates, but in a situation where a patient is unconscious, unable to swallow, or having a seizure, outside intervention is necessary. Two types of injections are used to treat severe hypoglycemia: glucagon and intravenous dextrose solution (D50). Glucagon is a hormone produced in the body that acts an opposite to insulin; it blocks the blood sugar lowering ability of insulin and stimulates the liver to release glucose into the blood from energy reserves. When used as treatment for severe hypoglycemia, the solution is injected intramuscularly and produces results in 1-2 minutes. The patient will typically feel nauseated and may vomit shortly after injection. However, this treatment is ineffective if the liver is depleted of glucose stores and in such cases, intravenous dextrose (sugar) solution is necessary. IV dextrose will awaken an unconscious person whom is suffering from severe hypoglycemia in seconds. IV dextrose is commonly referred to as "D50" by emergency medical technicians and paramedics.
- Hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, occurs when the blood sugar level is above 126mg/dL (7mmol/L). It can occur as a result of stress, insufficient insulin, too much food, or an issue with oral diabetes medication. Symptoms include frequent thirst, frequent urination, unusual hunger, fatigue, and irritability. Untreated hyperglycemia is a leading cause of complications from diabetes, thus it is important to recognize and treat hyperglycemia as directed by your physician. Treatment includes adjusting insulin treatment (frequently, patients using insulin will simply take a correction shot based on the level of their blood sugar), or adjusting oral medications. While patients taking insulin will typically adjust their insulin dosages to lower blood sugar, patients taking oral medication or patients using diet or exercise will typically have to adjust their carbohydrate intake to control blood sugar. Untreated hyperglycemia can rapidly progress into diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), which is life-threating and frequently requires hospitalization. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, unquenchable thirst, diarrhea, and muscle cramps. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms of DKA, SEEK URGENT MEDICAL ATTENTION.
Tips
- Always follow your doctor's prescriptions and guidelines, including, but not limited to: checking blood sugar as directed, taking insulin/medication as directed, following a meal schedule if necessary, and attending all doctors' appointments and laboratory tests.
- Regular eye, kidney, and foot checkups are advisable.
- Communication with one's health care professional is essential in developing an effective treatment plan for diabetes; by working together with one's health team, a diabetic is much better prepared to handle the illness.
- Have and know how to use a glucagon emergency kit, and instruct family members and roommates on how to use it. It may save your life if you have severe low blood sugar and are unconscious. The paramedics may not arrive in time.
Warnings
- This is not a substitute for professional medical care.
- If you have "cotton-mouth" and are urinating frequently, you may be in ketoacidosis: seek urgent medical attention!
- If you feel faint/lightheaded, have a quickened heart rate, and are clammy, you may be having an insulin reaction - immediately treat for hypoglycemia as directed by your physician.
Related wikiHows
- How to Deal With Sarcoidosis
- How to Treat Hepatitis A
- How to Cope With Having Lupus
- How to Develop a Survey Concerning HIV/AIDS (or Any Other Incurable Disease)
Sources and Citations
- www.joslin.org
- www.cdc.gov/diabetes/index.htm
- www.jdf.org
- www.diabetes.org
- www.stormpages.com/sbhagwat/ "It's Your Life - A Practical Handbook for Chronic Ailments" & "The Caregiver's Manual" (free ebooks)
Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Improve Your Health as a Diabetic. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.
How to Live a Healthy Life As a Diabetic
from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit
So, you've been diagnosed with diabetes. You're probably quite shocked, and you're wondering what you should do next. Read on!
Steps
- Don't fret or get depressed. This is rule number one. You've got a condition which will affect you medically - don't let it hurt you emotionally as well.
- Discuss your health with your health professional. This is important. Always seek medical advice.
- Look at your diet. Make sure you are eating a healthy diet. The recommended diet for you is the same as the recommended diet for everyone. Take a look at this article for more information.
- Exercise regularly. Try going for a walk with your mates, or going to the gym. Different exercise works for different people, so experiment.
- Watch what you're putting into your body. A common mistake is believing that having diabetes means you can't eat any sugar. The truth of the matter is that you have to eat the right amount, and balance it with exercise and medication (for some diabetics). Discuss your individual needs with your health professional.
Tips
- Discuss anything to do with your condition with your health professional.
- Join a diabetes organisation - they can provide you with support and information. Also consider joining a local diabetes support group.
Warnings
- Make sure to follow the advice of your health professional. Consult them before you follow any information outlined on the Internet.
Related wikiHows
- How to Tell if You Have Diabetes
- How to Cope With a Diagnosis of Diabetes
- How to Help a Friend Deal With Diabetes (Type 1)
- How to Prevent Type 2 Diabetes
- How to Check Feet for Complications of Diabetes
- How to Detect Diabetes in Dogs
Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Live a Healthy Life As a Diabetic. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.
How to Cope With a Diagnosis of Diabetes
from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit
A diagnosis of diabetes is scary and can be life changing. Now you have to figure out what to do next, where to go for information and for help.
Steps
First things first
- Don't blame yourself. Maybe you could have changed things in the past, but nothing can be changed now. Blaming yourself will not help anything.
- Trust your health care team to know how to help you and do what they tell you to do.
- You are not alone, approximately 20 million Americans have this disease too.
- Start slowly, you have a lot to assimilate and learn, if you try to do too much too fast you will become overwhelmed.
- Find out everything you can about diabetes. Knowledge is power.
- Talk about your disease.
- Ask questions...and then ask more questions.
- Take care of yourself. Diabetes is a serious disease, but does not need to be debilitating.
Things to do right away
- Call your insurance company to find out exactly what they will cover and how often. Most insurance companies cover at least some of the cost of diabetic supplies and medication.
- You will probably need a blood glucose meter and strips, a lancet device and lancets.
- You will want to record your blood glucose every time you take it, you can do this in a small notebook.
- If your insurance will cover it and your doctor suggests it, make an appointment to see a dietitian.
- Let your family and friends know, they will also need to know how treat you if there is an emergency.
- Write down any questions you may want to ask your health care team.
Questions to ask your doctor
- Do I have type 1 or 2 diabetes?
- What is my A1c reading?
- How often should I check my blood glucose?
- What should my target blood glucose be?
- How often do I need to see a doctor?
- What diet should I follow?
- Should I see a dietitian?
- How often should I eat?
- Do I have any damage to my organs or nerves?
- What medications do I need to take and what do they do?
- What side effects do I need to be aware of?
- How often and what type of exercise should I do?
For more information
- http://diabetes.niddk.nih.gov/
- http://www.diabetes.org/home.jsp
- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diabetes
- http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/diabetes.html
- http://diabetes.webmd.com/default.htm
- http://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/
Related wikiHows
- How to Maintain Your Health Without Insurance
- How to Change a Sanitary Pad
- How to Use a Liver Cleanse
- How to Summarize Your Own Medical History
Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Cope With a Diagnosis of Diabetes. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.
How to Check Feet for Complications of Diabetes
from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit
Diabetes is a chronic disease that causes damage to the organs and the nerves, especially the peripheral nerves which extend into the feet. It is important to keep your feet clean and free of cuts, bruises or sores that may become infected. Every day you should check your feet. This can be done after or before shower or bath.
Steps
- Obtain a mirror to examine your feet for sores, bruises or other types of wounds.
- Make sure to check your feet in good lighting.
- Sit on a stool, bed or chair. Lift each foot and look at the top, side and back of each foot.
- Look between each your toes.
- Examine your nails for discolorations or thickening.
- Pay attention for discolorations, bruises, cuts, sores, blisters, or areas of swelling or redness.
- Make a note of anything unusual so you can tell your doctor at your next visit.
Tips
- If you have areas of your feet that are numb, or you feel pins and needles, or burning, you may have peripheral neuropathy. See your doctor for treatment options.
- Wash your feet every day with warm (not hot) soapy water. Rinse well and pat (don't rub) dry. Use a light lotion or petroleum jelly on dry areas, but not between your toes.
- Always wear shoes and socks, or slippers.
- To avoid injury to your feet, don't go barefoot or wear shoes that are tight.
- Cut your nails monthly, or see your podiatrist if you are afraid you might injure your foot.
Warnings
- If you see something that concerns you, make an appointment to see your doctor as soon as possible.
- If you have any black or green areas on any part of your feet contact your doctor immediately.
- Dry feet can crack and cause pressure sores, be sure to keep dry feet moisturized.
- If you develop a foot ulcer, see your doctor immediately.
Related wikiHows
- How to Tell if You Have Diabetes
- How to Cope With a Diagnosis of Diabetes
- How to Prevent Type 2 Diabetes
- How to Help a Friend Deal With Diabetes (Type 1)
- How to Improve Your Health as a Diabetic
Sources and Citations
Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Check Feet for Complications of Diabetes. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.
How to Prevent Type 2 Diabetes
from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit
There are two types of diabetes. The one you hear about most in the media is Type 2. This type is caused by: stress, inadequate exercise and a poor diet - so it is up to you to make sure you do not get it. This type is covered in this How To.
Unfortunately, Type 1 cannot be prevented. It is impossible to prevent it, as it occurs naturally in some people's bodies.
Diabetes is what it is called when the pancreas, which creates insulin, stops working or your cells stop utilizing insulin created. Insulin is a hormone which lets sugar from your blood into the parts of your body which require it. When this vital hormone is missing, sugar builds up in your blood, which causes you to get ill.
Some people require an injection of insulin to control the sugar, while others need a tablet or maybe even nothing. Everyone with diabetes needs to have a healthy diet - and this is also what helps to prevent the occurrence of Type 2 diabetes.
Steps
- Make sure you get at least 30 minutes of exercise each day. For example walking around your neighborhood each day is a good idea. The key is to use large muscle groups. You could also try going to the gym a couple of times a week.
- Make sure you eat a balanced diet. Eat a little from each food group, and not too much of the bad stuff - like sugar, salt and fat.
- Watch the amount of sugar or carbohydrates you put into your body. Like instead of drinking a regular soda, drink water. Diet soda is often considered a good alternative, but the best is water. unfortunately, most foods labeled as "sugar free" or "low-carb" actually contain artificial sweeteners, sugar alcohols, and other additives that create a hormonal mess inside your body, actually stimulating your body to STORE more fat and stimulate cravings! And foods labeled "whole grain" only have to contain a small fraction of whole grains where the majority can still be refined starches and sugars that spike your blood sugar faster than a sugar-laden soda! A common mistake is believing that preventing diabetes means not eating any sugar. The truth of the matter is that you have to eat the right amount. People with diabetes have to take care that they don't eat too much or too little sugar. A good rule is based on the understanding that everything we eat turns to "a blood sugar;" therefore, choose foods that will take some time to convert. for example, sugar takes no time to convert to sugar, where protein takes more time. the key is balance in your diet.
- Drink plenty of water, because your body needs water. Water is better than any other drink if you need to keep hydrated. Water also fills you up so your desire to eat decreases.
- Maintaining a healthy weight is also very important. Of course eating well and exercising will help do that.
Tips
- Learning more about diabetes can help. For example read magazines about it.
- Exercise with a friend! It'll help to pass the time.
- Remember the differences between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. You cannot prevent Type 1.
Related wikiHows
Sources and Citations
Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Prevent Type 2 Diabetes. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.
How to Tell if You Have Diabetes
from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit
If you believe that you may have diabetes, consult a medical professional immediately.
There are 2 main types of diabetes. Type 1, formerly known as juvenile diabetes, is more commonly diagnosed in children but can present at any age. Type 2, formerly known as adult-onset diabetes, is often subtle and may be due to aging or obesity. General signs that warrant further investigation:
Steps
- Check to see if you have one or many of the following symptoms:
- SEEK URGENT MEDICAL ATTENTION IF YOU HAVE A FRUITY SMELL ON YOUR BREATH. This is a symptom of ketoacidosis caused by severe hyperglycemia, and requires urgent medical attention.
- Excessive thirst
- Excessive hunger
- Frequent urination
- Unexplained significant weight loss
- Fatigue (particularly after eating)
- Feeling irritable
- Poor wound healing
- Frequent or lingering infections
- Leg cramps (usually occurring as the undiagnosed disease worsens and mostly during the night)
- Blurred vision or changes in vision
- SEEK URGENT MEDICAL ATTENTION IF YOU HAVE A FRUITY SMELL ON YOUR BREATH. This is a symptom of ketoacidosis caused by severe hyperglycemia, and requires urgent medical attention.
- See your health care provider for confirmation.
Tips
- Risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes include being overweight or obese; being of African-American, Hispanic-American, Asian-American, Native-American, or Pacific-Islander descent; having a family history of diabetes; and having a history of gestational diabetes. If you have one or more of these risk factors, talk to your doctor about getting a fasting plasma glucose test.
- The onset of hyperglycemia is known when a person’s glucose level goes beyond the ideal level, and although it can occur on its own, it is highly considered as the major symptom of Diabetes Mellitus. In fact, it is known to be the primary cause of several complications associated with diabetes. If left untreated, hyperglycemia can lead to more serious health issues, such as nerve damage (neuropathy), kidney damage or failure, blindness, and severe circulation problems resulting in difficult-to-treat infections that can progress into gangrene necessitating amputation (particularly in the lower extremities).
Warnings
- SEEK URGENT MEDICAL ATTENTION IF YOU HAVE A FRUITY SMELL ON YOUR BREATH. This is a symptom of diabetic ketoacidosis that is often fatal if left untreated.
- It is extremely important to consult with a medical professional immediately if you are exhibiting any of these symptoms; undiagnosed diabetes mellitus (Type 1 or Type 2) can progress to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), which rapidly progresses into possible organ failure or death.
Related wikiHows
- How to Improve Your Health as a Diabetic
- How to Find a Fibromyalgia Doctor
- How to Live With Arthritis
- How to Cope With Having Lupus
Sources and Citations
- http://www.dlife.com/dLife/do/ShowContent/type2_information/diagnosis/diagnosis.html
- http://www.emedicinehealth.com/articles/17044-3.asp
- http://ndep.nih.gov/diabetes/diabetes.htm
- http://www.fda.gov/diabetes/glucose.html
- http://www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/publications/aag/ddt.htm
- http://www.diabetes.org/nutrition-and-recipes/nutrition/overview.jsp
Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Tell if You Have Diabetes. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Medications To Treat Diabetes
Currently, there are lot of different medications to treat diabetes. Most people who are diagnosed with Type II diabetes are given medication instead of insulin. In most cases, a combination of drugs are used. These drugs work with the body to boost insulin production and make it easier for the body to eliminate glucose.
Sulfonylureas are one of the most popular drugs used to treat diabetes. There are several different types of this drug on the market, the most popular being Glucotrol. These drugs work by increasing the amount of insulin released from the pancreas. These drugs work well in lowering blood glucose levels but also run a risk of a person developing hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia is when the blood sugar level is too low. Because of this potentially dangerous side effect, sulfonylureas are often given with other drugs, most notably Glucophage, or more commonly known as Metformin. This drug works well with Glucotrol as it reduces the amount of glucose in the liver while the Glucotrol increases the amount of insulin in the pancreas. Both medications must be taken prior to meals. Most people who are first diagnosed with Type II diabetes are given this combination of drugs which, when taken as directed, are effective at maintaining a healthy blood glucose level.
Another drug that is showing promise in working well with Metformin is Prandin. Prandin also lowers blood glucose levels but at a slower rate than Metformin and has shown good results in studies. Like Glucotrol, Prandin increases the amount of insulin in the body and can also cause hypoglycemia. It is very important for a patient with diabetes to work with their physician to get the right dosage of each medication and never double a dosage or cut one in half. Prandin cannot be used in women who are pregnant or nursing children.
Starlix is another drug that works similar to Prandin but does not require adjustments. The dosage remains constant and is also safe to use on those with kidney problems. Starlix is yet another promising drug being used to treat people with Type II Diabetes.
While most medications that treat diabetes increase insulin developed in the pancreas and decrease the glucose in the liver, newer medications are being marketed that decrease the absorption of carbohydrates in the intestines. Precose did remarkably well in trial studies in breaking down the carbohydrates in the system, making it easier to eliminate. However, this medication has not done as well as the sulfonlureas, which are considered the best possible medications that treat diabetes at this time. However, for those who are allergic to sulfur, Precose is a good alternate.
Other new medications that are concentrating on controlling the glycemic control in the system include Symlin and Byetta. While these drugs have proven to be show promise, more testing is needed before they can replace traditional therapies.
A diagnosis of Type II diabetes may be frightening for an individual, but there are many different medications available that can keep this disease at bay. It is very important, however, for a patient to be totally complaint in order for these medications to work effectively. It may take increased dosages, lowered dosages or different combinations of medications in order to get the right balance that will help you maintain a healthy blood glucose level. This is why it is so important for an individual to carefully monitor their blood glucose level throughout the day and keep a record for the physician.
By working with your physician and reporting symptoms and results of blood glucose monitoring, you can empower yourself to keep your diabetes in check and avoid any complications that are associated with this disease.
Sulfonylureas are one of the most popular drugs used to treat diabetes. There are several different types of this drug on the market, the most popular being Glucotrol. These drugs work by increasing the amount of insulin released from the pancreas. These drugs work well in lowering blood glucose levels but also run a risk of a person developing hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia is when the blood sugar level is too low. Because of this potentially dangerous side effect, sulfonylureas are often given with other drugs, most notably Glucophage, or more commonly known as Metformin. This drug works well with Glucotrol as it reduces the amount of glucose in the liver while the Glucotrol increases the amount of insulin in the pancreas. Both medications must be taken prior to meals. Most people who are first diagnosed with Type II diabetes are given this combination of drugs which, when taken as directed, are effective at maintaining a healthy blood glucose level.
Another drug that is showing promise in working well with Metformin is Prandin. Prandin also lowers blood glucose levels but at a slower rate than Metformin and has shown good results in studies. Like Glucotrol, Prandin increases the amount of insulin in the body and can also cause hypoglycemia. It is very important for a patient with diabetes to work with their physician to get the right dosage of each medication and never double a dosage or cut one in half. Prandin cannot be used in women who are pregnant or nursing children.
Starlix is another drug that works similar to Prandin but does not require adjustments. The dosage remains constant and is also safe to use on those with kidney problems. Starlix is yet another promising drug being used to treat people with Type II Diabetes.
While most medications that treat diabetes increase insulin developed in the pancreas and decrease the glucose in the liver, newer medications are being marketed that decrease the absorption of carbohydrates in the intestines. Precose did remarkably well in trial studies in breaking down the carbohydrates in the system, making it easier to eliminate. However, this medication has not done as well as the sulfonlureas, which are considered the best possible medications that treat diabetes at this time. However, for those who are allergic to sulfur, Precose is a good alternate.
Other new medications that are concentrating on controlling the glycemic control in the system include Symlin and Byetta. While these drugs have proven to be show promise, more testing is needed before they can replace traditional therapies.
A diagnosis of Type II diabetes may be frightening for an individual, but there are many different medications available that can keep this disease at bay. It is very important, however, for a patient to be totally complaint in order for these medications to work effectively. It may take increased dosages, lowered dosages or different combinations of medications in order to get the right balance that will help you maintain a healthy blood glucose level. This is why it is so important for an individual to carefully monitor their blood glucose level throughout the day and keep a record for the physician.
By working with your physician and reporting symptoms and results of blood glucose monitoring, you can empower yourself to keep your diabetes in check and avoid any complications that are associated with this disease.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Kidney Disease and Diabetes explained
It is not necessary that everyone who has diabetes gets kidney disease. This is yet another popular misconception about the illness. While uncontrolled glycemia can cause kidney disease, diabetics who maintain their proper blood glucose levels can avoid kidney disease.
Diabetics who get kidney disease acquire this life threatening condition because they are unable to dispose of the waste products of sugars and starches through their systems. These foods remain in their system and do not break down and eliminate, as they do in others without the disease. The sugars and starches stay in the system and cause the blood sugars to rise to high levels that can be dangerous. Not only that, it makes it difficult for proteins to pass through the system.
Eventually, when a person has uncontrolled diabetes and does not maintain their proper blood glucose levels, the elimination process through the kidneys ceases to function effectively. The kidneys have to work harder and harder to eliminate the waste products and the proteins are blocked. The kidneys filter too much blood and begin to leak. Protein is lost through the kidneys and from the body. Towards the end, waste products begin to build up into the blood.
This is the basics of kidney disease. There are many ways in which Kidney disease gets acquired. In diabetics, it is acquired because the kidneys worked too hard to filter out the sugars and starches and were unable to remove waste products from the blood. Eventually, like any organ that is overworked, they shut down. When the kidneys shut down, a person is often put on dialysis, in which a machine functions as the kidneys. In some cases, a person with kidney disease can opt for a transplant, however this is not often available to persons with diabetes.
A person cannot live without their kidneys. Therefore, it is imperative that a person with diabetes understands how their kidneys function and what they can do to help these vital organs function efficiently. A diabetic does not have to contact kidney disease at all. A diabetic can avoid most complications of the disease by simply following the orders of their physician and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Many diabetics are non compliant patients. Non complaint patients are those who do not do what the doctor instructs them to do. They do not follow the diet as recommended in the Glycemic Index. This chart was developed to inform people with diabetes of which foods to avoid. Those foods that are high in the glycemic index take the longest to break down and do the most damage to the kidneys, who try their best to eliminate the waste. The Glycemic Index was developed in 1981 and is a potential lifesaver for anyone with this disease as it clearly states which foods to avoid.
Other methods of non compliance include not monitoring their blood sugar. A diabetic is often prescribed a blood monitor that he or she must use several times a day to check their blood glucose levels. In addition, the levels are recorded and should be presented to the physician during their scheduled visit. Many diabetics do not comply with this integral part of their treatment.
Insulin or medication is usually prescribed for diabetics who sometimes refuse to take these lifesaving medications. The insulin or medication enables the foods to break down and assists the kidneys in eliminating waste. There is no reason not to take these medications and there are many different programs available for those who cannot afford these medications.
Exercise and weight control are crucial to maintaining a healthy lifestyle not only for diabetics, but for the general population. Yet many people simply refuse to follow these essential guidelines.
Diabetes is not necessarily a precursor to kidney disease. Kidney disease and diabetes are two different diseases. Don't worry, one does not always lead to the other.
Diabetics who get kidney disease acquire this life threatening condition because they are unable to dispose of the waste products of sugars and starches through their systems. These foods remain in their system and do not break down and eliminate, as they do in others without the disease. The sugars and starches stay in the system and cause the blood sugars to rise to high levels that can be dangerous. Not only that, it makes it difficult for proteins to pass through the system.
Eventually, when a person has uncontrolled diabetes and does not maintain their proper blood glucose levels, the elimination process through the kidneys ceases to function effectively. The kidneys have to work harder and harder to eliminate the waste products and the proteins are blocked. The kidneys filter too much blood and begin to leak. Protein is lost through the kidneys and from the body. Towards the end, waste products begin to build up into the blood.
This is the basics of kidney disease. There are many ways in which Kidney disease gets acquired. In diabetics, it is acquired because the kidneys worked too hard to filter out the sugars and starches and were unable to remove waste products from the blood. Eventually, like any organ that is overworked, they shut down. When the kidneys shut down, a person is often put on dialysis, in which a machine functions as the kidneys. In some cases, a person with kidney disease can opt for a transplant, however this is not often available to persons with diabetes.
A person cannot live without their kidneys. Therefore, it is imperative that a person with diabetes understands how their kidneys function and what they can do to help these vital organs function efficiently. A diabetic does not have to contact kidney disease at all. A diabetic can avoid most complications of the disease by simply following the orders of their physician and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Many diabetics are non compliant patients. Non complaint patients are those who do not do what the doctor instructs them to do. They do not follow the diet as recommended in the Glycemic Index. This chart was developed to inform people with diabetes of which foods to avoid. Those foods that are high in the glycemic index take the longest to break down and do the most damage to the kidneys, who try their best to eliminate the waste. The Glycemic Index was developed in 1981 and is a potential lifesaver for anyone with this disease as it clearly states which foods to avoid.
Other methods of non compliance include not monitoring their blood sugar. A diabetic is often prescribed a blood monitor that he or she must use several times a day to check their blood glucose levels. In addition, the levels are recorded and should be presented to the physician during their scheduled visit. Many diabetics do not comply with this integral part of their treatment.
Insulin or medication is usually prescribed for diabetics who sometimes refuse to take these lifesaving medications. The insulin or medication enables the foods to break down and assists the kidneys in eliminating waste. There is no reason not to take these medications and there are many different programs available for those who cannot afford these medications.
Exercise and weight control are crucial to maintaining a healthy lifestyle not only for diabetics, but for the general population. Yet many people simply refuse to follow these essential guidelines.
Diabetes is not necessarily a precursor to kidney disease. Kidney disease and diabetes are two different diseases. Don't worry, one does not always lead to the other.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Toll-Free Hot Line Provides Support For People With Type 2 Diabetes
(NewsUSA) - Type 2 diabetes can be challenging both physically and emotionally, particularly during nerve-racking times and particular occasions, such as household reunions, make events and the holidays. Emotional backing is crucial in helping folk with this circumstance stoppage on class with their handling.
According to a new study of folk with Type 2 diabetes conducted by the American Association of Diabetes Educators, 41 percentage of respondents said that having somebody ready to hear to their diabetes-related concerns would assist them remain on course during times of passionate strain.
In an attempt to offer backing, Nutrition 21, the manufacturer of the nutritional therapy Diachrome, is offering a toll-free warm cable. People with Type 2 diabetes can ask 877-PICK-330 to talk with a registered diabetes educator, who will hear and offer customized, simple tips on managing diabetes. All calls to the warm cable will be returned within one week of leaving a content.
Those who favor the Web can discover tips on how to handle Type 2 diabetes by visiting www.pick3forhealth.com/news. Diachrome is accessible at leading string drug stores in the part where diabetes maintenance products are sold.
"Numerous studies show that cultural backing is invaluable in diabetes administration. Simply having somebody to speak to about the passionate stresses of the circumstance can assist prompt folk to best handle their circumstance," said Janis Roszler, a registered nutritionist and writer of "Diabetes on Your Own Terms. " "The 877-PICK-330 warm cable provides folk with Type 2 diabetes a much-needed sounding panel to assist them have through nerve-racking times one robust measure at a moment.
" Roszler, one of the experts who have staffed the warm cable, offers these three easy tips:
1. Eating should be tasty, not depriving. If you're tempted by cousin Mary's apple pie, go armed with your own healthier edition of this tasty sweet.
2. Make exercise fun. Do something you love - gardening, dance or walking around the plaza. While you exert, go the "lecture examination" to have certain you're not overdoing it. You should be capable to speak comfortably with somebody while you are participating in an action.
3. Supplement daily with Diachrome. Diachrome can assist preserve blood bread and cholesterol levels. A nutritional supplementation that contains chromium picolinate and biotin, Diachrome has been shown in numerous clinical studies to be efficient in the administration of Type 2 diabetes. It can be safely taken only or used in combination with dual prescription diabetes, cholesterol and blood force medications.
Monday, February 18, 2008
Diabetes Drug Concerns Lead to Serious Questions
(NewsUSA) - For the more than 15 million diagnosed diabetics in the United States, some of the most commonly prescribed treatment options for their disease came under attack recently when two medications were found to almost double the risk for heart and cardiovascular disease.
The medications, Avandia and Actos, were found to increase the risk of heart attacks by 45 percent and death from cardiovascular disease by 64 percent, compared to diabetics who were not taking the medications -; according to a study published by the New England Journal of Medicine. Because more than 3 million diabetics in the United States use both drugs, the news leaves many patients and medical professionals eagerly searching for newer, safer ways to control diabetes.
Gaining national acclaim for their ability to combat diseases, natural-food remedies have continued to make their way into mainstream medicine.
In fact, the developments concerning Avandia and Actos have caused many diabetics to turn to treatments like Cinnergen, a liquid supplement made by eFoodSafety.com that combines 12 concentrated food nutrient extracts including cinnamon and blueberries. The supplement has shown promise in a closely monitored, clinical study to lower blood sugars naturally.
The results of the double-blind study, performed at Bucks County Clinical Research center in Philadelphia, showed that just one ounce of Cinnergen fully controlled blood sugar levels in 52 percent of patients tested when taken daily. The remaining 48 percent of patients were able to significantly decrease the amount of prescribed medications in order to properly control their diabetes. All of the test subjects also reported improved energy levels, moods, sleep habits and mental alertness -; lending a substantial amount of credibility to natural supplements' ability to fight serious disease.
With warning alarms sounding every week for yet another prescription drug being called into question or recalled entirely, it's important for those fighting diseases like diabetes to know there are more treatment options. For more information, visit www.cinnergen.com.
Naturally Combat Diabetes with Cinnamon
(NewsUSA) - An estimated 20 million people in the United States have diabetes.Another 54 million have prediabetes and won't even realize when it has progressed into full diabetes.
Type 2 diabetes, a disease in which your pancreas does not produce enough insulin or does not properly use the insulin it makes, is a life-long progressive condition. If ignored, it could lead to complications such as blindness, heart disease, nerve damage or kidney problems.
However, studies have shown that botanicals such as cinnamon can improve glucose metabolism and the overall condition of individuals with diabetes - improving cholesterol metabolism, removing artery-damaging free radicals from the blood and improving function of small blood vessels. Onions, garlic, Korean ginseng and flaxseed have the same effect.
One reason for the effect seems to be that cinnamon slows the rate at which food passes from the stomach to the intestines. Food supplements such as Cinnergen, developed by the health and technology company eFoodSafety.com, combines a mixture of 12 concentrated whole-food nutrient extracts including cinnamon, oat seed and blueberry leaf, as well as digestive enzymes to improve absorption.
If it is determined that you have diabetes, there are many things you can do to help control it naturally.
* Keep your blood glucose levels steady by eating healthy meals and snacks. Your doctor, nutritionist or certified diabetes educator can work with you to adjust your food plan and count carbohydrates.
* Always aim for your target ranges for your blood glucose levels, cholesterol and blood pressure. Test your blood sugar as directed.
* Exercise daily, such as taking a walk after dinner in your neighborhood or on the treadmill at the gym. Also have your feet examined when you visit the doctor.
* Have your eyes examined, including dilation, annually by your ophthalmologist.
* Drink a lot of water to stay hydrated.
* Avoid consuming simple sugars such as pies, cookies, cakes and candy. Do not drink alcohol on a regular basis.
* Consider taking a whole food supplement, such as Cinnergen. According to a study by Bucks County Clinical Research in Philadelphia, a research facility approved and regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, whole food extracts can have a dramatic effect on lowering blood sugars naturally. For more information, visit www.cinnergen.com.
Friday, February 8, 2008
How Diabetes, Heart Attacks And Strokes are related?
Diabetes is a disease in which the body either lacks insulin or does not produce enough insulin to break ingested glucose into cells. As a result, the glucose remain in the blood and damage blood vessels. A high content of glucose in the blood is called hyperglycemia and is often a precursor to heart attack and stroke. People who have diabetes have twice as much of a chance of having a heart attack and stroke as those without this condition.
In addition to diabetes itself being a risk factor for heart attack and stroke, there are other risk factors that people with diabetes should be aware of to reduce their risk factor for heart attack and stroke. This includes central obesity. Studies by the American Heart Association have indicated that while obesity in itself is a risk for a heart attack, carrying excess weight around the waist increases your risk of heart attack. This is believed to be due to the fact that abdominal fat increases bad cholesterol more than fat on other areas of the body.
Speaking of cholesterol, those with diabetes should carefully monitor their cholesterol carefully. Because the blood vessels are already weakened by the excessive glucose in the blood level, people with diabetes have to be especially careful about their cholesterol levels as their arteries can become blocked easier than those without diabetes. Monitoring cholesterol is important for everyone, but imperative for those with diabetes.
Hypertension is also a dangerous condition for those with diabetes and can lead to heart attack or stroke. Damaged blood vessels having to work harder to pump blood from your heart throughout your body can cause heart damage, stroke, and even eye problems.
Clearly, those who have diabetes must not only carefully monitor the disease, but he complications that can rise from diabetes. While it is important for everyone to check their blood pressure, cholesterol and maintain an ideal weight, it is even more important for someone who has diabetes.
In order to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke for people with diabetes, it is important, first of all, to manage the disease. By eating proper foods that are recommended for people who have this condition, exercising and taking your medication, you can maintain a good glucose level in your blood that will reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke. By monitoring your cholesterol and blood pressure and seeing your physician on a regular basis, you can stop a potential problem before it begins.
By empowering yourself to learn all you can about managing diabetes and complying with the instructions of your physician, you can live an active and long life with diabetes. Knowledge and facing the situation is the key. Those who refuse to follow advice, who prefer to eat whatever they feel like, not exercise and pretend that the disease does not exist put themselves at the most risk.
Type II diabetes is reaching epidemic proportions in the United States. It does not have to be a killer. People who follow instructions, learn about the disease and comply with their physician have an excellent chance at reducing their risk of acquiring any of the complications associated with this disease. Despite the link between diabetes, heart attack and stroke, those who maintain their health can avoid these conditions.
In addition to diabetes itself being a risk factor for heart attack and stroke, there are other risk factors that people with diabetes should be aware of to reduce their risk factor for heart attack and stroke. This includes central obesity. Studies by the American Heart Association have indicated that while obesity in itself is a risk for a heart attack, carrying excess weight around the waist increases your risk of heart attack. This is believed to be due to the fact that abdominal fat increases bad cholesterol more than fat on other areas of the body.
Speaking of cholesterol, those with diabetes should carefully monitor their cholesterol carefully. Because the blood vessels are already weakened by the excessive glucose in the blood level, people with diabetes have to be especially careful about their cholesterol levels as their arteries can become blocked easier than those without diabetes. Monitoring cholesterol is important for everyone, but imperative for those with diabetes.
Hypertension is also a dangerous condition for those with diabetes and can lead to heart attack or stroke. Damaged blood vessels having to work harder to pump blood from your heart throughout your body can cause heart damage, stroke, and even eye problems.
Clearly, those who have diabetes must not only carefully monitor the disease, but he complications that can rise from diabetes. While it is important for everyone to check their blood pressure, cholesterol and maintain an ideal weight, it is even more important for someone who has diabetes.
In order to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke for people with diabetes, it is important, first of all, to manage the disease. By eating proper foods that are recommended for people who have this condition, exercising and taking your medication, you can maintain a good glucose level in your blood that will reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke. By monitoring your cholesterol and blood pressure and seeing your physician on a regular basis, you can stop a potential problem before it begins.
By empowering yourself to learn all you can about managing diabetes and complying with the instructions of your physician, you can live an active and long life with diabetes. Knowledge and facing the situation is the key. Those who refuse to follow advice, who prefer to eat whatever they feel like, not exercise and pretend that the disease does not exist put themselves at the most risk.
Type II diabetes is reaching epidemic proportions in the United States. It does not have to be a killer. People who follow instructions, learn about the disease and comply with their physician have an excellent chance at reducing their risk of acquiring any of the complications associated with this disease. Despite the link between diabetes, heart attack and stroke, those who maintain their health can avoid these conditions.
Friday, January 25, 2008
Foot Complications of Diabetes
Tips to control foot complications
Whenever we think about people with diabetes, we often think of them as having problems with their feet. This is one of the most common complications of diabetes and diabetes, more than anyone, need to make certain that they address any problems with their feet early on as such problems can result in a life threatening condition.
Foot complications of diabetes are caused by neuropathy. Because the high glucose levels in the blood of a diabetic person affects the central nervous system after a period of time, it also affects nerves in various parts of your body. Most often effected are the nerves in the feet. The furthest from the brain, it is here where people with diabetes who have nerve damage, often do not feel cold or pain or even heat. People with diabetes that is uncontrolled often can injure their feet without feeling it. The injury may result in a blister or wound that will be slow to heal. The blister or wound becomes infected and the foot complications of diabetes begin.
In addition to not having the proper nerve sensations in their feet, people with diabetes often develop very dry feet because the nerves that secrete oil into the feet no longer work. Their feet may peel and crack, which only makes it even more probable for them to get sores and wounds in their feet.
Because high blood glucose levels make it difficult to stave off infection, a diabetic with a sore on their foot must be treated differently than a person without diabetes. The sore may be very slow to heal, if it heals at all. Infection often sets in. This can lead to gangrene and, in some cases, amputation.
Foot complications of diabetes work like this. A person who has diabetes and who has not been keeping their blood glucose level under control gets an injury on their toe. It begins to bleed and crack. Then bandage it, hoping it will heal. It does not heal and soon the wound becomes infected. They go to the doctor who begins to treat the wound with antibiotics. Sometimes this works, sometimes it does not.
When the wound does not heal and the infection begins to spread, gangrene can set in. Gangrene can kill a person, and the doctor knows this. So the person with diabetes has a choice, they can either lose their toe or their life. In most cases, they choose to lose the toe.
In some cases, however, the gangrene has already spread to the foot. Plus, the amputation risks more infection. In many cases, not only does the person lose their toe, but their entire foot. And this can continue until they lose their leg.
This information is not meant to frighten anyone with diabetes. It is only to make a person realize how vital it is for anyone with this condition to be aware of the feet complications of diabetes. No one has to lose a toe or a foot or a leg. They simply need to manage their disease so that they can retain a healthy blood glucose level that will enable them to fight off any infection that may arise from a bump on the foot and stave off neuropathy. By maintaining a healthy glucose level and avoiding glycemia, a person with diabetes can lead a full life. The trick is to follow the rules dictated by the condition.
Avoid foods that are high in starch and sugars. The Glycemic Index is an excellent tool that can inform a diabetic about which foods should be avoided. Maintain your weight and exercise regularly. This will also boost your immune system. Be sure to visit your doctor regularly and monitor your blood glucose level. Keep a record of the levels to present to your doctor so he or she can adjust your insulin or medication if needed. By complying with your physician, you an avoid many of the complications that accompany diabetes.
Diabetes does not have to be a killer. Glycemia is life threatening but can be controlled. If you or a loved one has this condition, see the doctor regularly and follow the plans to manage the disease.
Good luck.
Whenever we think about people with diabetes, we often think of them as having problems with their feet. This is one of the most common complications of diabetes and diabetes, more than anyone, need to make certain that they address any problems with their feet early on as such problems can result in a life threatening condition.
Foot complications of diabetes are caused by neuropathy. Because the high glucose levels in the blood of a diabetic person affects the central nervous system after a period of time, it also affects nerves in various parts of your body. Most often effected are the nerves in the feet. The furthest from the brain, it is here where people with diabetes who have nerve damage, often do not feel cold or pain or even heat. People with diabetes that is uncontrolled often can injure their feet without feeling it. The injury may result in a blister or wound that will be slow to heal. The blister or wound becomes infected and the foot complications of diabetes begin.
In addition to not having the proper nerve sensations in their feet, people with diabetes often develop very dry feet because the nerves that secrete oil into the feet no longer work. Their feet may peel and crack, which only makes it even more probable for them to get sores and wounds in their feet.
Because high blood glucose levels make it difficult to stave off infection, a diabetic with a sore on their foot must be treated differently than a person without diabetes. The sore may be very slow to heal, if it heals at all. Infection often sets in. This can lead to gangrene and, in some cases, amputation.
Foot complications of diabetes work like this. A person who has diabetes and who has not been keeping their blood glucose level under control gets an injury on their toe. It begins to bleed and crack. Then bandage it, hoping it will heal. It does not heal and soon the wound becomes infected. They go to the doctor who begins to treat the wound with antibiotics. Sometimes this works, sometimes it does not.
When the wound does not heal and the infection begins to spread, gangrene can set in. Gangrene can kill a person, and the doctor knows this. So the person with diabetes has a choice, they can either lose their toe or their life. In most cases, they choose to lose the toe.
In some cases, however, the gangrene has already spread to the foot. Plus, the amputation risks more infection. In many cases, not only does the person lose their toe, but their entire foot. And this can continue until they lose their leg.
This information is not meant to frighten anyone with diabetes. It is only to make a person realize how vital it is for anyone with this condition to be aware of the feet complications of diabetes. No one has to lose a toe or a foot or a leg. They simply need to manage their disease so that they can retain a healthy blood glucose level that will enable them to fight off any infection that may arise from a bump on the foot and stave off neuropathy. By maintaining a healthy glucose level and avoiding glycemia, a person with diabetes can lead a full life. The trick is to follow the rules dictated by the condition.
Avoid foods that are high in starch and sugars. The Glycemic Index is an excellent tool that can inform a diabetic about which foods should be avoided. Maintain your weight and exercise regularly. This will also boost your immune system. Be sure to visit your doctor regularly and monitor your blood glucose level. Keep a record of the levels to present to your doctor so he or she can adjust your insulin or medication if needed. By complying with your physician, you an avoid many of the complications that accompany diabetes.
Diabetes does not have to be a killer. Glycemia is life threatening but can be controlled. If you or a loved one has this condition, see the doctor regularly and follow the plans to manage the disease.
Good luck.
Saturday, January 12, 2008
How To Prevent Diabetes?
In many instances, diabetes is an inherited disorder. People who have first degree relatives with this disease are more prone to developing this disease than people with no genetic disposition. People who have a first degree relative with diabetes can avoid contacting the illness by having themselves tested by their physician. The physician can do a series of blood tests that will determine whether or not the patient is pre disposed to this condition. If a person has a pre diabetic condition, there are many things they can do to avoid getting this disease.
However, Type II Diabetes has become nearly an epidemic in this country. Many in the medical community believe that one of the reasons many people acquire this potentially life threatening condition is from obesity. The diabetes epidemic has mirrored the obesity epidemic currently overtaking the United States as well as other countries. People consume foods that are high in carbohydrates and sugars and low in nutrients at an alarming rate. We often think of diabetics as being people with a sweet tooth who crave sugar. This is not the case. More often, a person who is obese has more of a chance of getting diabetes than a person who maintains his or her weight.
One way how to prevent diabetes is by managing your weight. Although there is little you can do about having a genetic disposition to the disease, there are ways you can prevent becoming one of the millions of Americans who develop diabetes each year.
When seeking how to prevent diabetes, the first thing a person can do is watch your weight. Studies indicate that people who are overweight are more prone to developing diabetes. How to prevent diabetes. Rule number one is manage your weight. One way to manage your weight is to stay way from foods laden with saturated fats, and sugars. Stay away from fast food, which is usually high in fats, carbohydrates and sugars. Most fast food offer little in the way of nutrition but are high in fat and carbohydrates.
Another way how to prevent diabetes is to exercise. Exercising regularly improves blood sugar control. Because active muscles dispel glucose from blood quicker than non-exercised muscles, regular exercise can do wonders in staving off or preventing diabetes. In addition, regular exercise also helps to maintain stable weight, another factor in preventing obesity.
Again, the misconception that people contract diabetes through excessive consumption of sugars is inaccurate. It is not only sugar that contributes to the disease. While it is good to eliminate the use of excessive sugar in your diet, carbohydrates are also contributory to the onset of diabetes. One way on how to prevent diabetes is becoming aware of the Glycemic Index. The Glycemic Index was developed in 1981 and rates which carbohydrates are more difficult to eliminate glucose from the blood.
When asking yourself how to prevent diabetes, focus your attention on your weight, exercise and diet. In many cases, simple lifestyle changes can prevent someone from getting this potentially life threatening disease.
However, Type II Diabetes has become nearly an epidemic in this country. Many in the medical community believe that one of the reasons many people acquire this potentially life threatening condition is from obesity. The diabetes epidemic has mirrored the obesity epidemic currently overtaking the United States as well as other countries. People consume foods that are high in carbohydrates and sugars and low in nutrients at an alarming rate. We often think of diabetics as being people with a sweet tooth who crave sugar. This is not the case. More often, a person who is obese has more of a chance of getting diabetes than a person who maintains his or her weight.
One way how to prevent diabetes is by managing your weight. Although there is little you can do about having a genetic disposition to the disease, there are ways you can prevent becoming one of the millions of Americans who develop diabetes each year.
When seeking how to prevent diabetes, the first thing a person can do is watch your weight. Studies indicate that people who are overweight are more prone to developing diabetes. How to prevent diabetes. Rule number one is manage your weight. One way to manage your weight is to stay way from foods laden with saturated fats, and sugars. Stay away from fast food, which is usually high in fats, carbohydrates and sugars. Most fast food offer little in the way of nutrition but are high in fat and carbohydrates.
Another way how to prevent diabetes is to exercise. Exercising regularly improves blood sugar control. Because active muscles dispel glucose from blood quicker than non-exercised muscles, regular exercise can do wonders in staving off or preventing diabetes. In addition, regular exercise also helps to maintain stable weight, another factor in preventing obesity.
Again, the misconception that people contract diabetes through excessive consumption of sugars is inaccurate. It is not only sugar that contributes to the disease. While it is good to eliminate the use of excessive sugar in your diet, carbohydrates are also contributory to the onset of diabetes. One way on how to prevent diabetes is becoming aware of the Glycemic Index. The Glycemic Index was developed in 1981 and rates which carbohydrates are more difficult to eliminate glucose from the blood.
When asking yourself how to prevent diabetes, focus your attention on your weight, exercise and diet. In many cases, simple lifestyle changes can prevent someone from getting this potentially life threatening disease.
Sunday, January 6, 2008
Should I check my sugar level if I feel some differences?
Some people with diabetes may feel that they are able to judge whether their blood level is too high or too low. Sometimes this may work, but it does not work all the time. In other words, it is unreliable to judge through feelings.
Studies have proven that diabetic blood sugar level can rise to an extremely high level or dropped dangerously with the person knowing it. Some people can tell when it is rising, but most people cannot tell when it is decreasing rapidly. Some even has mistaken the sugar level to be low even though it is high.
So this shows that is not accurate to judge by ourselves. Hence, always check your diabetic blood sugar level before taking insulin or exercising or driving.
For more details, please visit "How to Play Diabetes Diet game & Win?"
Studies have proven that diabetic blood sugar level can rise to an extremely high level or dropped dangerously with the person knowing it. Some people can tell when it is rising, but most people cannot tell when it is decreasing rapidly. Some even has mistaken the sugar level to be low even though it is high.
So this shows that is not accurate to judge by ourselves. Hence, always check your diabetic blood sugar level before taking insulin or exercising or driving.
For more details, please visit "How to Play Diabetes Diet game & Win?"
Saturday, January 5, 2008
Pregnacy & Gestational Diabetes
According to the American Diabetes Association, about four percent of pregnant women develop gestational diabetes. Gestational diabetes is a condition in which a woman who has never had diabetes develops high blood glucose levels while pregnant, usually within the later term of the pregnancy. It is estimated that there are about 135,000 cases of gestational diabetes every year in the United States.
In most cases, women who develop gestational diabetes will not develop Type II diabetes. This is a condition affected by the pregnancy and the inability of the mother to use the insulin naturally developed in her body. It is caused by hormones triggered by the pregnancy and causes the mother to become insulin resistant. Gradually, the mother develops high blood glucose levels, referred to as hyperglycemia.
Normally, a woman with gestational diabetes will be treated for the condition while pregnant. While there are no birth defects associated with this sort of illness as there are with women who have had diabetes prior to being pregnant, there is generally not a large cause for alarm for the child. However, if the condition is left untreated, it can hurt the baby. Because the mother is not getting rid of her excessive blood glucose, the child is getting more than his or her share of energy and fat. This often results in macrosomia. Macrosomia is simply the clinical name for a fat baby.
While some people think a fat baby is the sign of a healthy baby, a child born too fat may have a problem fitting through the birth canal. This can cause shoulder damage and may require a cesarean section birth,. In addition, babies who are born obese can develop breathing problems and, if they remain obese, may themselves develop Type II diabetes.
Fortunately, there is treatment for gestational diabetes. Insulin injections are usually given to the mother to keep the blood glucose levels intact. A woman who is planning on becoming pregnant, however, can avoid the complication of developing gestational diabetes prior to becoming pregnant. Some of the ways a woman can do this is to lose weight if she is already overweight prior to becoming pregnant, develop a healthy exercise routine and follow certain food guidelines. The Glycemic Index is an ideal tool for a woman who is thinking about becoming pregnant to use to determine which foods to avoid. The Glycemic Index was developed for diabetics to categorize carbohydrates for those with diabetes.
When you become pregnant, follow the advice from your doctor regarding diet and exercise as well as any carbohydrate diets. Prior to becoming pregnant, discuss any concerns you have regarding weight or diabetes with your physician as he or she can probably give you some advice on how to avoid this pregnancy complication.
Even if you are diagnosed with gestational diabetes, chances are that you will not develop Type II diabetes, neither will your baby and both of you will be just fine. Gestational diabetes is not a reason to panic. There is plenty of care available for women with this condition. Just be sure to follow any instructions given to you by your doctor.
In most cases, women who develop gestational diabetes will not develop Type II diabetes. This is a condition affected by the pregnancy and the inability of the mother to use the insulin naturally developed in her body. It is caused by hormones triggered by the pregnancy and causes the mother to become insulin resistant. Gradually, the mother develops high blood glucose levels, referred to as hyperglycemia.
Normally, a woman with gestational diabetes will be treated for the condition while pregnant. While there are no birth defects associated with this sort of illness as there are with women who have had diabetes prior to being pregnant, there is generally not a large cause for alarm for the child. However, if the condition is left untreated, it can hurt the baby. Because the mother is not getting rid of her excessive blood glucose, the child is getting more than his or her share of energy and fat. This often results in macrosomia. Macrosomia is simply the clinical name for a fat baby.
While some people think a fat baby is the sign of a healthy baby, a child born too fat may have a problem fitting through the birth canal. This can cause shoulder damage and may require a cesarean section birth,. In addition, babies who are born obese can develop breathing problems and, if they remain obese, may themselves develop Type II diabetes.
Fortunately, there is treatment for gestational diabetes. Insulin injections are usually given to the mother to keep the blood glucose levels intact. A woman who is planning on becoming pregnant, however, can avoid the complication of developing gestational diabetes prior to becoming pregnant. Some of the ways a woman can do this is to lose weight if she is already overweight prior to becoming pregnant, develop a healthy exercise routine and follow certain food guidelines. The Glycemic Index is an ideal tool for a woman who is thinking about becoming pregnant to use to determine which foods to avoid. The Glycemic Index was developed for diabetics to categorize carbohydrates for those with diabetes.
When you become pregnant, follow the advice from your doctor regarding diet and exercise as well as any carbohydrate diets. Prior to becoming pregnant, discuss any concerns you have regarding weight or diabetes with your physician as he or she can probably give you some advice on how to avoid this pregnancy complication.
Even if you are diagnosed with gestational diabetes, chances are that you will not develop Type II diabetes, neither will your baby and both of you will be just fine. Gestational diabetes is not a reason to panic. There is plenty of care available for women with this condition. Just be sure to follow any instructions given to you by your doctor.
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
Avoiding Eye Complications of Diabetes
Diabetics do not process sugars and starches though their systems like other individuals. These substances stay within their system and enter the blood stream. The high amounts of sugars in their blood, also called glucose, is called glycemia. Glycemia is a condition when someone has an elevated amount of blood glucose. This is often determined by a blood test. People with diabetes have monitors and are supposed to test their blood glucose levels periodically throughout the day to monitor for glycemia.
Glycemia can cause many complications in the body of a person with diabetes. Some of the complications include those with the heart, circulation, blood vessels, kidneys and even eyesight. Because of the high blood glucose levels, a person with diabetes risks having problems with their eyesight. Eye complications of diabetes include those affecting the retina, the vitreous, the lens and the optic nerve.
Eye complications of diabetes take a long time to develop. The first is usually damage to the retina. Tiny blood vessels make up the retina and too much blood glucose cause these vessels to swell. They gradually begin to weaken and the person begins to experience vision problems. For this reason, a person with diabetes should have an eye exam once a year. During the exam, the eyes should be dilated to see if the condition has become worse.
The name for eye complications of diabetes is called diabetic retinopathy. A person with diabetes should rely on a qualified ophthalmologist who is familiar with this condition.
Some of the signs of retina damage from diabetes include blurry vision, flashing lights, dark spots in front of the eyes, pain in the eyes, or pressure and trouble with peripheral vision. If you have been diagnosed with diabetes and are experiencing any of these problems, see your ophthalmologist for a complete eye exam. There are surgeries available that can enable diabetics to be able to regain the sight in their eyes and certain treatments can prevent further damage.
One way a person with diabetes can avoid eye complications of diabetes is to become familiar with the Glycemic Index that rates different foods that should not be included in a diabetic diet. Exercise is also helpful in diabetic control as is the elimination of alcohol and smoking. Maintaining a desirable weight is crucial to managing your diabetes.
Other eye complications of diabetes include cataracts and glaucoma. While cataracts are relatively easy to cure, glaucoma is a precursor to blindness and needs to be treated. This is why it is so important that someone with diabetes manages their disease with the help of a qualified ophthalmologist.
Many eye complications of diabetes can be avoided if a person with the condition maintains a healthy lifestyle and is compliant in their diabetic treatment. Maintain your weight. Exercise. Eat a proper diet that eliminates carbohydrates and sugars and become familiar with the Glycemic Index. Avoid alcohol and do not smoke. Take prescribed medications as directed by your physician and see your physician at intervals suggested by him or her. Monitor your blood glucose level as often as prescribed. By being compliant in the care of your disease, you can avoid eye complications of diabetes as well as other more life threatening complications of this disease.
Glycemia can cause many complications in the body of a person with diabetes. Some of the complications include those with the heart, circulation, blood vessels, kidneys and even eyesight. Because of the high blood glucose levels, a person with diabetes risks having problems with their eyesight. Eye complications of diabetes include those affecting the retina, the vitreous, the lens and the optic nerve.
Eye complications of diabetes take a long time to develop. The first is usually damage to the retina. Tiny blood vessels make up the retina and too much blood glucose cause these vessels to swell. They gradually begin to weaken and the person begins to experience vision problems. For this reason, a person with diabetes should have an eye exam once a year. During the exam, the eyes should be dilated to see if the condition has become worse.
The name for eye complications of diabetes is called diabetic retinopathy. A person with diabetes should rely on a qualified ophthalmologist who is familiar with this condition.
Some of the signs of retina damage from diabetes include blurry vision, flashing lights, dark spots in front of the eyes, pain in the eyes, or pressure and trouble with peripheral vision. If you have been diagnosed with diabetes and are experiencing any of these problems, see your ophthalmologist for a complete eye exam. There are surgeries available that can enable diabetics to be able to regain the sight in their eyes and certain treatments can prevent further damage.
One way a person with diabetes can avoid eye complications of diabetes is to become familiar with the Glycemic Index that rates different foods that should not be included in a diabetic diet. Exercise is also helpful in diabetic control as is the elimination of alcohol and smoking. Maintaining a desirable weight is crucial to managing your diabetes.
Other eye complications of diabetes include cataracts and glaucoma. While cataracts are relatively easy to cure, glaucoma is a precursor to blindness and needs to be treated. This is why it is so important that someone with diabetes manages their disease with the help of a qualified ophthalmologist.
Many eye complications of diabetes can be avoided if a person with the condition maintains a healthy lifestyle and is compliant in their diabetic treatment. Maintain your weight. Exercise. Eat a proper diet that eliminates carbohydrates and sugars and become familiar with the Glycemic Index. Avoid alcohol and do not smoke. Take prescribed medications as directed by your physician and see your physician at intervals suggested by him or her. Monitor your blood glucose level as often as prescribed. By being compliant in the care of your disease, you can avoid eye complications of diabetes as well as other more life threatening complications of this disease.
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