Sunday, August 31, 2008

Feet Care For Diabetic

by Jack Stanley

Care for the feet is often overlooked by most people outside the cup toes from time to time. Out of sight is out of mind with regard to most people and their feet. This attitude is often performed by people who are diabetes, especially type 2 diabetes. However, it is extremely important that they take care of their feet. This section will examine the diabetic foot care, why it is important and guidelines for successful treatment and care.

There are many complications diabetes. They are not directly caused by the disease, but are indirect diseases and diseases that can range from annoying to life-threatening. Diabetes affects the blood and because the blood circulates through the body other problems arise.

Regarding the foot, there are two problems that may occur. The first is that the nervous system are affected. This is called peripheral neuropathy and the results more and damaged sinews. While your body can be affected by neuropathy, but the feet and legs are generally the most serious symptoms (which peripheral or external or end). This nerve damage can cause a feeling of losing feet. You lose sensitivity to detect hot and cold or feel normal aches and pains. It is partly why diabetics must check their feet regularly, because the body can not warn about problems using pain. It also means that the problems that go undetected are likely to be untreated and become infected. Potential small cuts could have aggravated, to grow or even gangrenous.

Another complication diabetes, which affects the feet is poor circulation. The inner walls of blood vessels are often marked by high blood sugar. This attracts plate and makes blood vessels more thick. This means that the blood circulation is more difficult. The consistency of high blood sugar is also believed to be thicker causing traffic problems. Blood carries antibodies and nutrients to the body, including feet. If this practice is problematic, the ends are often the most severely affected. This means that areas of the body as the feet take longer to heal.

Thus ongoing treatment and care must focus on two aspects. The first is to inspect your feet daily for any cuts. Keep things like nails and skin lasts (calluses) well-trimmed. This should be done by your health care provider. Always wash your feet well and dry them carefully, so that moisture is not conducive to the growth of bacteria.

Preventing any bruises or cuts occur in the first is often the best way to treat diabetic foot problems. Wear socks and shoes that are not vos pieds aggravating. There are shoes and socks that are designed for diabetes.

Help to circulate the blood in the feet. Things like using a simple step to maintain high will be useful. Avoid sitting in positions that May cut blood supply to the feet, legs crossed, for example. Do foot exercise every thirty minutes. Wiggle your toes, move your feet in a circular motion. Get up from your seat and walk around a bit.

The diabetic foot care is not so difficult. Check your feet daily, wear articles will not aggravate your feet and do exercises which promote blood flow.



About the Author
Want to find out about gestational diabetes symptoms and diabetes facts? Get tips from Diagnosing Diabetes.

Saturday, August 30, 2008

Food Pyramid For Diabetic Diet

by Laxmi Keshav

We all have learnt in school days about. You must not only vary the composition to make a diet balanced and healthy, but also understand the serving recommended by food pyramid. As adults, people rarely pay as much heed to it if any at all. It is in the interest of all diabetics to thoroughly learn about food groups.

There is a food pyramid that is available specifically for diabetics known as the Diabetes Food Pyramid. It is made up of six food groups just like the standard version. The way the two pyramids differ is that the diabetic version lists foods together that have the same or similar carbohydrate content instead of the regular version that does it by food groups alone. This lay out makes it easier for diabetics to make food choices based on information that can have a negative impact on blood glucose levels.

A large number of Vegetarians eat a larger amount of fruits and vegetables in a day than a non-vegetarian and getting larger fibre intake. An increased quantity of fiber in a diabetic's diet can help blood sugars because it slows down the process of the body digesting carbohydrates. A vegetarian's diet is usually lower in cholesterol as well and it can help ward off cardiovascular disease including heart attacks and strokes.

Some of the differences you will notice are that cheese is placed in the meat group instead of the dairy group as a protein and the serving size will be equivalent to other proteins in the same group. Vegetables like potatoes and corn have an effect on blood sugar levels which is similar to bread and grains. So they are grouped together.

Another difference is the actual serving sizes, especially in the bread and grains group. A diabetic must control the carbohydrate intake at each meal and it has been found that smaller portion sizes are a good way to manage this.

You can get a copy of the Diabetic Food Pyramid from your dietician, doctor, or diabetes educator. It is a good reference material to have on hand when you are planning your meals.



About the Author
Learn more here - low carb food pyramid - sample diabetic menus.

Friday, August 29, 2008

Learning About Diabetes

by Aries King

Diabetes is a growing predicament in this country, a very big predicament! With the American population at an all time high in weight gain and a low in health care, the problem is only growing. It is out of control!

Diabetes is a disease of the metabolism. Our metabolism is the way our bodies use digested food for energy and growth.

Most food that is processed through our bodies is broken down by digestive juices into a sugar called glucose. Glucose is the fuel our bodies run on. That is why when one is weak, your doctor may prescribe you juice filled with glucose. It provides instant energy

When we eat, and our food is processed, the pancreas is expected to produce the right amount of glucose from our blood automatically and release the right amount of insulin into our blood.

In people with diabetes however, this is not the case. Little to no insulin is produced. Or alternatively, the body's cells don't respond correctly to the insulin that is produced by the pancreas. Therefore the glucose builds up and overflows into the urine and passes out of the body. Glucose is sweet and that is why the urine of a diabetic attracts ants. That was once the earliest means of detecting the disease.

The loss of glucose through the urine is how the body loses its main source of fuel even though the bloodstream contains good amounts of the natural glucose. That is why serious sufferers of diabetes have a tendency to fill weak. Their glucose levels are low.

There are available three types of diabetes, type 1, type 2 and gestational diabetes but we will only focus on the first two in this article. People who have type 1 are known as insulin-dependent.

This is an autoimmune disease where the body's natural system is fighting against another part of the body. In the case of type 1 diabetes, the body system attacks the insulin producing cells and destroys them. It is common in children and it is also called juvenile diabetes

Therefore the pancreas produces little to no insulin. These people are in need of daily injections of insulin to live. Five to ten percent of diabetes cases are type 1 in the US.

More than 80% of the other cases of diabetes are called type 2 diabetes. This is fuelled by poor eating habits and lack of exercise. That is why it is recommended that to end this type of diabetes, all is simply required is eating proper food and a healthy exercise routine.

It is mostly adults that suffer from this type of diabetes but it is increasingly now occurring in children, most likely due to the obesity plague affecting American children.

Diabetes is spreading rapidly with surges in not only the rich world but the third world as well.

Mexico for example is reported to have over 6million sufferers, which is over 5% of its population. This is astounding considering its GDP per head is barely a fifth of that of the U.S. Tacos, a tasty Mexican delight may be sweet and lovely, but can also be unhealthy if taken in excess..

We strongly advise sufferers of type 2 diabetes today to eat not only the right food but exercise vigorously as well. Thank you



About the Author
Aries King is an online writer on diabetes and other health issues affecting us today. You can learn more about diabetes and possible cures at his blog now at http://fightdiabetestoday.blogspot.com

Thursday, August 28, 2008

Diabetes Management Lowers The Hazards Of Complications

by Korbin Newlyn

There are serious complications that can result from having diabetes and these include; blindness, kidney disease and heart attack. Diabetes management is very critical to make certain that these types of complications do not happen. When individuals have had a diagnosis of diabetes, they typically have high levels of anxiety due to what they have heard some of the extreme stories of individuals with diabetes complications.

Fortunately, diabetes management can result in a major difference in the life of a person who has diabetes. People can live good lives through careful planning, healthy eating, added exercise and the right medication. Diabetes management is the ultimate factor to a good life despite a serious illness such as this.

The first step in diabetes management is a consultation with a qualified doctor in regards to the basics of diabetes. Your doctor will likely make a recommendation of drug therapy for maintenance of the disease. The use of insulin has been utilized for numerous years in order to control the harmful effects of diabetes that might lead to complications.

You will find that there are other drug therapies that may be a satisfactory replacement for insulin therapy. Once the right medications are prescribed, the individual should look into other tactics for diabetes management. The persons primary care doctor might give advice on the additional diabetes management regimen while other medical professionals may be conferred with as well. People in the nutrition field typically have excellent advice for people afflicted with diabetes.

Diabetes Management Incorporates, Exercise, Healthy Diet And Medications.

Medications that are given by a doctor are very critical to the treatment and management of diabetes, yet the treatment should go farther than just the medications. There are numerous steps that a diabetic can take to improve their life despite this serious condition.

People who have diabetes should never smoke since this habit is counterproductive to their overall health which is taxed by diabetes. Getting into some healthy habits is also a good idea for peoples management of diabetes. A big difference in health can happen to a diabetic through healthy eating habits. They should consume regular meals as well as healthy snacks. Their diets should incorporate ample amounts of vegetables, fruits and whole grains.

Exercise is a very important component in diabetes management. Physicians as well as other professionals in the medical field should stress this point in all their appointments and consultations with people who have diabetes. Diabetics can select the kind of exercise that is best suited for their own personal circumstances.

The exercise that they do end up choosing should be done on a regular basis and in a vigorous manner. Diabetics should attempt to attempt to exercise at a minimum of three days a week for at least thirty minutes each time. These guidelines are an absolute minimum. The ideal exercise scenario is for the diabetic to exercise everyday if possible. Biking, swimming or jogging are excellent exercises for diabetics, however there are other exercises that are beneficial as well.

Diabetes has the potential to bring serious complications, yet diabetes management is certainly possible for the most ideal results. Diabetes management when followed in a religious fashion should assist each person with diabetes to avoid the very critical complications that happen from the wrong care of this type of condition.



About the Author
Listen to Korbin Newlyn as he shares his insights as an expert author and an avid writer in the field of health. If you would like to learn more go to Juvenile Diabetes advice and at Diabetes Control tips.

Wednesday, August 27, 2008

A Brief Look At Diabetes

by Jack Stanley

You will need to adopt a special diet diabetes once you are diagnosed with this condition. Basically, this is just a change you have to do to improve your health.

A diabetes diet is based on the food pyramid designed for diabetics. The food pyramid is a great basis for you to use to start learning how to eat properly to keep your blood sugar levels in the right range. A diabetic must monitor their intake of carbohydrates, too, because to turn to these sugars in the body. Eating the same types of foods at the same time every day can keep your blood sugar more stable.

If you have diabetes, you need to know about the benefits of adding soluble fiber to your diet. These can be found in many vegetables and fruits. The reason why they work as well for diabetics is that they slow the absorption of glucose in the intestine. The decrease of absorption can help keep your blood sugar to be too high, which may provoke a reaction hyperglycemic.

The bean is a wonderful source of soluble fibre. In fact, this bean is the highest level of soluble fibre in a food when cooked, making it ideal for a diabetic. Insoluble fiber can also greatly help diabetics keep their blood glucose levels monitored. Insoluble fiber, such as sounds and whole grains can help keep your intestinal tract, thereby avoiding glucose remain in your intestines to be absorbed later, which can cause your blood glucose levels to be uncontrollable .

Several advice regarding your diet is recommended by the American Dietetic Association to help you maintain a healthy level of glucose. Starches are a food group that is highly recommended. Six servings of cereals, bread, and starchy vegetables are recommended daily. Black beans, corn and garbanzo beans are a starch that can be implemented in your diet. It is recommended that you put in place five days a plan of the ADA. The plan consists of eating at least five servings of fruits and vegetables per day and, of course, you should eat sugar sparingly.

It is important that you consult a dietitian when you receive a diagnosis of diabetes so that you can find out exactly what your body needs to function properly and maintain your blood sugar stable. The dietician can also help you determine what effect your weight, activity level and other factors on your blood glucose levels. It is important to determine so that you can keep your blood sugar control and prevent other diabetes-related complications. To find a dietitian in your area, you can call the American Diabetes Association of Educators at 1-800-342-2382. They will be able to help you find someone who can help you learn more about how to eat when you have a condition like diabetes.

May you find it difficult to adapt to a diet diabetes. However, the sooner you make the changes, the better it is for your health.



About the Author
Want to find out about gestational diabetes symptoms and diabetes facts? Get tips from Diagnosing Diabetes.

Monday, August 25, 2008

A Look At Hair Loss And Diabetes

by Jack Stanley

Some people with diabetes experience hair loss. Because the same condition have been observed in several patients with diabetes, it is not surprising to question whether diabetes is linked with hair loss. Indeed, studies and researches have shown that it has. A look at the reason facts about diabetes and hair loss to help us understand how these two are connected.

Hair Basics

Before we look at diabetes and hair loss link, it is important to first understand both diabetes and loss of hair. Head hair May seem to have no use other than as a technical aspect Enhancer. Nevertheless, it is still very much a part of the human body. Your hair will be likely to benefit or suffer from what you put into your body and everything that happens in your body in general.

A hair grows from a root and the hair follicle located under the scalp. Hair is nourished by the blood that carries nutrients nourish the hair on the scalp and follicles. When your body does not have sufficient nutrients or when there is poor blood circulation in the body, hair and its growth is also affected.

Hair Loss base

It is also possible that there is really no direct link between diabetes and hair loss in some cases. There are several reasons why people lose their hair and it is essential to be able to achieve its case throughout the process of eliminating other possible causes of the disease.

Another factor hair loss is by heredity and genetics. It is estimated that 95% of people suffering from hair loss have androgenetic alopecia, a condition of hair loss caused by hormonal activity in the body and by the individual genetics. Given that both androgenic alopecia and diabetes are hereditary, May it be more difficult to identify who is causing your hair loss. A look at the baldness of parents who are also diabetic May point the direction that the diabetes that is the cause hair loss and not the condition androgenic alopecia.

Diabetes and hair loss

The relationship between diabetes and hair loss can be determined by taking more careful consideration to the nature of diabetes and how it affects the body. Diabetes is a condition in which the body does not produce insulin or respond adequately to it. When that happens, glucose can not always between the body's cells to provide energy that the body needs. Since glucose was rejected by the body's cells and, therefore, has no place else to do, it will begin collecting in the blood. If you have a high blood sugar, fat deposits May also begin to set on the walls of blood vessels, hence, the obstruction of blood passages resulting from poor blood circulation and poor blood circulation.

As indicated above, the hair of the key for growth and nutrition found in the blood. Having bad blood may mean the poor health of hair. In addition, poor blood circulation can also cause irritation of the skin and infections in diabetics. And since the scalp is still part of our skin, it is also suffering from poor blood circulation, resulting from hair loss.

Conditions Diet

People with diabetes both hair loss and May have time to deal with severe hair loss. Usual cases of hair loss are treated with nutritional supplements and proper diet. Those who have diabetes and hair loss, however, have to take into consideration the serious situation of diabetes. Eating an amount of unregulated even the most nutritious foods in May drastic result glucose spikes. Consult your doctor before dealing with your hair loss.



About the Author
Visit Diagnosing Diabetes to learn about diabetes types and signs of diabetes.

Saturday, August 23, 2008

Children And Diabetes

by Jack Stanley

Diabetes is widely considered a chronic illness during childhood. They attack the children at any age, including preschool children and even toddlers. Al if so, diabetes among children is often diagnosed late, when the child is diabetic ketoacidosis (ACD), or it is totally wrong.

In many parts of the world, insulin, the main life-saving medicines that children with diabetes need to survive, is not available (or is available but unused for reasons of economy, Geography or restrictions on supply). Consequently, many children are dying of diabetes, particularly in countries with low and medium income. The closest to the child as the family, school staff, family physician, May no knowledge of the first indications.

The World Diabetes Day 2007 and 2008 campaigns wanted this challenge and deeply the message that "no child should die of diabetes." Today, beyond 240 million people worldwide are suffering from diabetes. Inside the next 20 years, this number is expected to advance to 380 million dollars. The children are not safe from this global epidemic, with its untenable and potentially fatal complications.

Type 1 diabetes is increasing by 3% per year among children and adolescents, and a fear of 5% per year among children of preschool age. An estimated 70000 children under 15 years is struck by type 1 diabetes each year (nearly 200 children per day). Of the approximately 440000 cases of Type 1 diabetes among children worldwide, more than a quarter live in Southeast Asia, and more than a fifth in Europe.

Type 2 diabetes was once seen as a disease of adults. Today, this type of diabetes is shocking to move rates among children and adolescents. In the USA, it is estimated that type 2 diabetes covers between 8 and 45% of new cases of diabetes in children by geographic region.

Over a period of 20 years, type 2 diabetes has doubled among children in Japan and accordingly, it is more common than type 1. In the indigenous and children in North America and Australia, the incidence rate of type 2 diabetes ranges from 1.3 to 5.3%.

Diabetes has an effect on children and their families. The daily life of children is thwarted by the need to control blood sugar, be subjected to drugs, and balance the impact of the activity and food. Diabetes can disrupt the normal development needs of childhood and adolescence, which include succeed in school and mature into adulthood.

To help children and families cope, and make sure that the best possible physical and emotional health of the child is there, care should be provided by a multidisciplinary team with a good awareness on issues Pediatrics. Back-up must also be given to care and school staff.

In this way, children with type 1 or type 2 diabetes can enter adulthood with the least possible negative effect on their well-being. For children with diabetes in developing countries the condition at present is bad.

The 2007 campaign aims to raise awareness of the high prevalence of type 1 and type 2 diabetes among children and adolescents. Early diagnosis and education are of paramount importance in reducing complications and save lives.

The health care community, educators, parents and guardians must combine effectively to help children living with diabetes, preventing the state of people at risk, and remove the unnecessary death and disability.



About the Author
Information on signs of diabetes can be found at Diagnosing Diabetes.

Thursday, August 21, 2008

Cat Diabetes-And How You Should Treat It

by Graham Williams

If your cat has diabetes then cat care is important to your pets health. You will need to take the appropriate steps to make sure your pet can lead a normal life. It is unfortunate that pet cats have there own form of diabetes. It is important as a pet owner you learn how this will affect your pet and how you can help your cat lead a normal healthy life.

There are two types of cat diabetes, that could affect you pet. The first type is caused by the lack of production of insulin, while the second type is the inability of the cats body to process insulin as it should do. just like in humans, diabetes can affect a cat at any age. But it normally appears in a pet in its later years.

Your cat will start to display symptoms that will tell you there is something wrong. These symptoms are very similar to the one in humans, You would start to notice your cat would require more fluid and would also urinate more. Because of your pets inability to process any glucose, then you will start to notice some weight loss.

Other symptoms you may see your cat are vomiting, loss of appetite and general weakness. Diabetic cats also start to have poor skin and coat condition, as well as breathing problems

If your pet cat starts to display the above symptoms, it would be very wise of you to take your pet to your local vet. This way you can have your cat tested for sugar levels in there blood as well as in their urine. it is better to have both tests done, because any cat that feels under any form of stress, will show a spike in there blood sugar levels. By having both tests done, you will be able to confirm if your pet cat really has diabetes.

There is no cure for your cats diabetes as of yet. There diabetes can be controlled through a various means, and for cats it is done by diet and weight control. Giving your pet a diet high in fiber and carbohydrates would be ideal for diabetic cats, especially if they are over weight.

By using this type of diet, you will control your cats weight and blood sugar levels. There are also some oral medications available that your trusted vet may recommend. These should help to maintain a suitable blood sugar level.

Owners of diabetic cats, also will need to monitor their pets glucose and insulin levels. This is for those pet owners who will have to give there cats insulin injections for their diabetes. But be warned, you need to be carful to avoid giving an overdose of insulin as this will be fatal to your pet.

Cat care and diabetes should always go together, this will ensure that your pet can lead a normal healthy life. If you provide the right care for diabetic cats, then you will still have many happy years to come with your pet.



About the Author
Graham Williams is an online author and maintains a site devoted to Caring For Your Cat. So if you would like further free information on Cat Care. Then please visit my site.

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

Historical Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes

by Samantha Matheny

Diabetes has a very long history dating back beyond the 16th century. Treatments for diabetes are just as old. For the longest time, we did not know there was more than one kind of diabetes, so there was no difference in treatment.

In the late 1700’s, the common treatment for diabetes was a diet of plain blood puddings, fat, and rancid meat. These seemed to be the only foods their bodies could process.

In 1871, a French doctor saw improvements in his diabetic patients due to the food rations during the Siege of Paris. He then began creating diets tailored to each of patients, which controlled their symptoms.

In the early 1920’s, insulin was discovered and scientists began studying the effectiveness of insulin treatments over time. In 1922 the first insulin injection treatment for diabetes was given to a human. With the treatment, he lived for another 13 years before dying of pneumonia. Insulin quickly became available to the public

By 1959, diabetes had been identified as having two types: Type 1 diabetes being insulin dependent and Type 2 diabetes not being insulin dependent.

Today, type 2 diabetes is treated with proper diet, exercise, and close monitoring of blood glucose levels. In severe cases, insulin injections may be used. Type 2 diabetes is preventable by eating right and exercising on a regular basis. People who have a high risk factor need to always keep the basic symptoms of diabetes in their minds, increased thirst, increased hunger, and excess urination.

If you would like to learn more about type 2 diabetes, its causes, and treatments, visit Plan 4 Diabetics and take control of your diabetes!



About the Author
Samantha is an ambitious young woman from west Michigan who is dedicated to finding a better way to live. She has a wide variety of interests and is always seeking new knowledge. Samantha's love of writing has lead her to become an author of e books and articles in hopes of helping people to live a better, healthier life.

Sunday, August 17, 2008

Are You A Non-Diabetic Hypoglycemic?

by Nickie Waters

Are You A Non-Diabetic Hypoglycemic - Or Do You Know Someone Who Has Non-Diabetes Hypoglycemia?

You may be wondering what I'm talking about. Believe me, if you don't know what hypoglycemia is, you're not alone.
And it's safe to say, if you don't know what hypoglycemia is, then you're 'sure as heck' not going to know if you're a non-diabetic hypoglycemic!

So let me explain hypoglycemia...

Hypoglycemia Causes, Signs And Symptoms


Let's start with what causes it…

Hypoglycemia occurs when your blood glucose (sugar) levels get too low. Glucose is the main fuel of your body. Your brain requires a constant supply of blood glucose. When the blood glucose is too low, the brain doesn't function normally.


So now that we know what hypoglycemia is, let's move on to non-diabetic hypoglycemia...

There are two types of non-diabetic hypoglycemia: fasting and reactive.


Fasting hypoglycemia is just like it sounds... it occurs when a person's blood sugar gets too low because they have not eaten for a long time.


Reactive hypoglycemia is a bit different. The hypoglycemia signs and symptoms appear within 4 hours after a person eats a meal.

The causes of reactive hypoglycemia are still up for debate. Here are some theories:

1. Certain people maybe overly sensitive to the normal release of the hormone epinephrine.
2. Deficiencies in the hormone glucagons.
3. It could be caused by too much insulin production by the pancreas due to a tumor or high numbers of insulin-producing cells.
4. May occur after gastric (stomach) surgery because of the rapid passage of food into the small intestine.



Knowing all of this, hypoglycemia signs and symptoms are not all that surprising: nervousness, sweating, intense hunger, trembling, weakness, palpitations, trouble speaking... And this is only when the blood sugar level drops to the mid-50 (mg/dl) range!

When the blood sugar levels drop even lower (let's say the 45 (mg/dl) range) you start to experience confusion, drowsiness, changes in behavior, seizure and even coma!!!


It's Not All In You Head!

Many people suffering from non-diabetic hypoglycemia are told by family and friends (and even some doctors) that it is all in their head! They go on living with these horrible symptoms unaware that it can be easily controlled and prevented through diet. They can lead normal lives by simply changing the types of food that they eat and how often they eat.

So if you or anyone you know suffers from any of these hypoglycemia signs and symptoms please have it checked out. If your doctor says it's stress, depression (or whatever they say when they just don't know), don't take their word for it! Get a good book on hypoglycemia and do your own homework. Your life is worth it!

I'll give you a head start... for a good book visit http://www.well-being-central.com/hypoglycemia_review.html



About the Author
If you too would like to defeat non-diabetic hypoglycemia visit http://www.well-being-central.com/hypoglycemia_review.html

Friday, August 15, 2008

Can You Reverse Insulin Resistance?

by Ann Stewart

The food you eat is broken down in the digestive system and turned into glucose, which ultimately supplies energy to all the cells. However, glucose can only be absorbed in conjunction with insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas.

In the case of type 1, or juvenile, diabetes the pancreas is not able to produce sufficient insulin with the result that extra insulin needs to be administered medically. If your glucose level tends to be higher than normal, you are considered to be pre-diabetic or insulin resistant. The symptoms of insulin resistance are very subtle and not as obvious as the other types.The one thing most pre-diabetics have in common is excess weight.

This condition has in the past several years been showing up even in children and adolescents. This is not caused by the pancreas failing to produce enough insulin but, rather, by an overabundance of glucose in the bloodstream.

Excess fat tissue is laden with glucose and this eventually causes insulin resistance. The pancreas increases insulin production in order to offset the glut of glucose. On the other hand the muscle, fat and liver cells get overwhelmed with the overabundance of both glucose and insulin. This explains why these folk have high levels of both glucose and insulin in their bloodstream.

Insulin resistance, if left unchecked, will develop into type 2 diabetes and resulting complications. But, the good news is that this can be avoided by losing on average 5 to 7 percent of body weight, or 10 to 15 pounds simply by making changes in diet and physical exercise. Some natural dietary sources that are said to be highly effective in blood sugar metabolism are magnesium and zinc. Magnesium is present in green leafy vegetables, whole grains, nuts and seeds and zinc in oysters, ginger root, pecans, egg yolk, beef liver, sardines, almonds, and chicken.

In August 2000, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced findings resulting from a number of studies that cinnamon increased glucose metabolism in people with type 2 diabetes 20-fold! In Pakistan there was an independent study of 60 type 2 diabetics who had been treated for several years with anti-diabetic drugs, but not insulin. According to the journal Diabetes Care, the subjects received about two teaspoons of a day for 40 days.

The results greatly surprised the scientists. The cinnamon reduced the blood sugar levels, increased insulin production, and lowered the blood cholesterol in all the patients! These benefits lasted even 20 days after the end of the study. Furthermore, their LDL, or bad, blood cholesterol levels were lowered between 10 to 26 percent, but the HDL, or good cholesterol, levels were not reduced! These great findings for type 2 diabetics give much hope for the many millions of both type 2 and insulin resistant sufferers in the world.

With the right nutrition, you can lower your blood sugar levels, improve your cholesterol ratios, reverse your insulin resistance (also referred to as Metabolic Syndrome), and prevent type 2 diabetes altogether. An added side benefit of cinnamon (as if the above isn't exciting enough) is that it will help you lose weight!



About the Author
Ann Stewart is an inspirational writer with the emphasis on healing. Subscribe to her newsletter to get tips on how diet and nutrition can help make and keep you healthy: http://youthmakeover.com http://lifealteringwords.com/with-wings-as-eagles

Wednesday, August 13, 2008

How to Maintain Normal Blood Sugar Levels

by Dave Nevard

Maintaining blood sugar levels that are consistently within the normal range between 4.5 - 5.5 mg/dl or if you are from the US then multiply that figure by 18 to give you the mmol reading. Is the number one bane of most type 2 diabetics lives. We wake up reasonably cheerful, feeling ok; we have not eaten anything too terrible the night before so let's do a quick blood test to see how things are. Low and behold you're in double figures! What the hell but I haven't eaten anything. No you probably haven't.

The crafty thing about your blood sugar and your general diabetic bio chemistry is that is has a memory. Don't think that the huge plate of pasta you consume at the bbq two days ago has been forgotten. All those carbohydrates had to go someone and in the process your pancreas has basically given you the middle finger as a kind of slap down. An article is not long enough to go into the intricate workings of type 2 diabetes but to keep it simple. if you want your blood sugar levels to stay within a normal healthy range. You are going to have to keep your diet simple as well.
For a start, never kick your C factor or carbohydrate burning cycle into play in the morning. Kind of like a smoker, sure, he can go hours without one during sleep but the moment he sparks up the first one his body will be craving for the rest of the day.

A major rule to keeping blood sugar levels normal for diabetics is to allow their bio chemistry to exert its metabolism how it is supposed to. Namely the fat burning cycle. To do this you should start the day with a protein or Greens breakfast. Omelette, cheese and cold meats, broccoli soup. Anything, just don't put two bowls of cereal down your neck, you'll only be setting your metabolism up for carb cravings for the rest of the day.


About the Author

To find out more about a cure for type 2 Diabetes visit the blog http://diabetestype2cure.blogspot.com with the right information.

Monday, August 11, 2008

Diabetes Control With Proper Diet

by Tehmina Mazher

You are not alone if you have just been diagnosed with diabetes. No one, of course, welcomes that news. The good news is that you can control diabetes for a long time, and possibly even remove its potentially harmful effects by acting immediately.

There are a number of factors concerning diabetes, and the main one may be where you are now in relation to diabetes? If you are at an early stage, and if your doctor believes that you can willingly control your diet, then you may be able to control your diabetes without drugs.

A piece of good news, however, is that if an overweight individual is diagnosed with pre-diabetes, then he or she could reduce that risk simply by losing the excess weight. This also shows that there is a direct correlation between the two. Diabetes can often be pushed back a number of years simply by doing this. In some cases, it may even be completely avoided. It usually takes losing about 7% of your body weight on average, to have this effect. Some may require more, but any weight loss for an overweight person is a move toward better health in the long run.

Once you have created your diet plan, and have calculated in the right amount of calories, you will need to stick to the plan. The reason for this is to regulate your blood sugar levels and keep them as even as possible. This means that it will be important for you to eat everything on your plan at each meal and at the snack times, too. The thing that you do not want is to have your blood sugar levels get too high or too low. Remember that both could be harmful.

Diabetes is not something to play with, but rather something to defeat before it ever comes. Getting started right away can help you avoid the problems that are associated with diabetes.

In order to have a perfect diet plan designed specifically for you Follow these links- Diabetes Information and get a plan required exactly for your gender, age and body weight.

About the Author
I am a gynaecologist by profession, married and have a cute little daughter.My passion in life is to help diabetics, acne sufferers and pregnant womens.

Sunday, August 10, 2008

Diabetic Drug Key to Preventing Blindness

by Jay Stockman

Diabetes is a systemic disease that can, and often affects many areas of the body. The search for a cure has been long, and difficult, and to date the only therapy has been to manage the condition and treat the symptoms. While better blood glucose control has been at the apex of this therapy, it has not stemmed the secondary changes that damage collateral bodily systems. An often devastating diabetic complication is bleeding in the back of the eye, or retina. This condition is called Diabetic Retinopathy. There are several stages of this condition starting with simple dot and blot hemorrhages. This is when the blood vessels in the eye leak blood. As this continues to worsen, the bleeding gets more extensive and blood components are seen in the retina as well. This condition is called Preproliferative Diabetic Retinopathy. This stage is usually accompanied by other systemic problems concomitantly.

As the retinal condition deteriorates, the patient enters the proliferative stage (PDR) where extensive bleeding, inflammatory fluids and some retinal tissue death occur. Until recently. improved blood sugar management was always advised and retinal laser therapy was employed. It basically treated the symptoms, but not the condition. While these therapeutic approaches are still used, new potential therapy has emerged that may be far superior in preventing these devastating ocular complications.

A study recently published in the Archives of Ophthalmology described research involving Avandia which is a diabetes medication. It concluded that this drug may delay, or prevent the onset of proliferative diabetic retinopathy. This medication is an anti-angiogenic drug that slowed new vessel growth in the retina caused by the retinopathy. New vessel growth in the retina typically causes lose of vision in that area. By preventing this new, immature and unwanted blood vessel growth, the proliferative changes can be avoided and the potentially sight threatening condition may be avoided.

The three year follow up of this study demonstrated that 19.2% of the individuals progressed to progressive diabetic retinopathy, while 47.4% did not. The study further concluded that using Avandia reduced the relative risk of contracting PDR by 59.5%. While these results are very exciting, and promising to diabetics, there are other factors that may contribute to success or failure of this drug as it applies to the retinal condition. Other medical conditions, stability of the blood glucose level and insulin use are but a few of these external factors.

Further studies must be conducted before this drug can be used as a standard for diabetic retinopathy therapy, but at the very least a great starting point.

About the Author
Dr. Jay B Stockman is a contributing editor for VisionUpdate.net, and a practicing doctor for New York Vision Associates, http://newyorkvisionassociates.com

Saturday, August 9, 2008

Diabetic Cooking Can Save A Diabetic Person's Life

by amit rana

When people are diagnosed with diabetes, the first thing that comes to their mind is the severe restriction that they will have to face in their food. They may have to give up on most of the things that they like to eat. This becomes a very forbidding proposition. However, this is quite a wrong assumption in reality. Agreed that there will be a lot of restrictions in the diet of diabetic persons, and that they will have to eat certain kinds of food only, but that doesn't mean it is the end of the food tether for them. There are two types of diabetes mellitus, type 1 diabetes mellitus (known as Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus, IDDM) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (known as Non Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus, NIDDM). In the first type, people have a genetic problem that prohibits them from manufacturing insulin naturally in their bodies. It's not their fault; they haven't caused any damage to their insulin system. However, the food restrictions remain the same. In people with type 2 diabetes mellitus, the power of insulin to keep blood sugar in control is affected. When this happens in excess, the body insulin can no longer control sugar and needs a supplement from outside for the body to survive. This is when the person will need insulin supplementation. Now, the person needs to monitor what he or she is eating. In many cases, people overload themselves with a lot of inappropriate food, like too many sweets etc. They need to be wary whether the food is contributing to the blood sugar level or increasing the body fat, which can further hamper the proper metabolism of insulin. That is the cause why food recipes need to be different from normal cooking. Cooking recipes can actually save a patient's life. This sort of cooking focuses more on fibers and the healthy nutrients and less on the fatty stuff which will accumulate in the body and cause harm. An integral part of this cooking will be to stop oil in the diet as much as possible. In recipe favorite food, healthy and nutritious food definitely scores over palatability. When starting with a diabetic diet, the first real advice would be to visit your dietician. Depending on your body type, he or she will suggest what the right kind of diabetes food for you will be. There are certain foods like bitter gourd and name (Azadirachta indica) which can help to bring the blood sugar level down. Though these are not very appealing to eat, you will need to include them in your diet. Your dietician will tell you in what measure you need to take them. You will also have a lot of delicious options in your healthy recipes. Being with the condition you are, a diabetic diet will give you mental peace. You will have the satisfaction of having started on a healthy way of life. You will be happy you are eating right and actively controlling your health condition. No wonder, doctors handling diabetes believe in the adage 'control over the palate is the best control over diabetes.


About the Author
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Friday, August 8, 2008

Foods the Diabetics Should Avoid

by Tehmina Mazher

When we or our loved ones were diagnosed with diabetes or even pre-diabetics the most important instruction which we/they all have to listen from our dietitians was to lower down the intake of carbohydrates. But the doctor only took the name of carbohydrates. Obviously he did not have time to give the detail of carbohydrate rich food.

I, respecting your time value, not going to put you into the details of what are complex and simple carbohydrates. Simply, after a very brief review I am going to list here the foods rich in carbohydrate so that you could be your own diet expert. After going through the following list you can very easily plan your own diet. The diet which allows maximum control on your glucose levels. Surprisingly this control from now onwards will be in your own hands.

First of all what are Carbohydrates? Carbohydrates are an essential source of energy. These are classified as

1. Complex carbohydrates
2. Simple carbohydrates
3. Dietary fibers

A reasonable ingestion of complex carbohydrates offers a number of advantages to the health of a diabetic patient. It is always advised that a healthy diet should contain a moderate amount of the three kinds of carbohydrates. It rather should contain a huge portion of proteins. The carbohydrates which are not in a refined shape are more beneficial for a diabetic patient.

Cereals High In Carbohydrates

--White bread
--Whole wheat bread
--White rice
--Oatmeal
--Spaghetti
--Muffins
--Bagel
--Pasta
--Barley
--Macaroni

Fruits High In Carbohydrates

--Dates
--Apricot
--Grapes
--Strawberry
--Blueberry
--Banana
--Apple
--Orange
--Pear
--Pineapple
--Watermelon
--Raisins
--Fig

Root Vegetables High In Carbohydrates

--Corn
--Carrot
--Potato
--Sweet potato

Other Food Items High In Carbohydrates

--Cakes
--Pastries
--Sweets
--Chocolates
--Candies
--Table Sugar
--Dairy Products
--Chocolate Milk

A diabetic should try to select the least amount of carbohydrates rich foods from the list which I have mentioned.

In order to have a detailed list of high protein and low carbohydrate foods - Just check Diabetes Information

About the Author
I am a gynaecologist by profession, married and have a cute little daughter.My passion in life is to help diabetics, acne sufferers and pregnant womens.

Thursday, August 7, 2008

Symptoms of diabetes

by Tom Health

Diabetes is a disease that is generally determined by the concentration of glucose in the blood. The amount of glucose in the blood glucose. The glycemic index indicates that carbohydrates have the highest levels of concentration of sugars and starches that make it so difficult to digest for some diabetes. Most Type I diabetics, whether or Type II diabetes. Usually when a person is diagnosed with type II diabetes, they are usually adults. Many people develop Type II diabetes later in life after experiencing some symptoms.

Diabéticos have a kind of difficult to treat certain foods such as sugars and starches in your digestive system. Some signs of diabetes include frequent urination, increased thirst and desire for fluids and can also include an increased appetite. In many cases, a person with type II diabetes usually feel bad, but can not figure out what is wrong. Symptoms can mirror the flu or other diseases. If you are experiencing frequent thirst, excessive urination and a substantial increase in appetite, have you checked out for diabetes.

Fatigue is also a symptom of diabetes, and Type I diabetes can cause weight loss, despite the increase eat. The reason for the symptoms is due to the concentration of glucose in the blood, also called glucose. Because the concentration of glucose is lifted beyond the permitted limit, remains glucose in urine, causes more pressure and more frequent urination. When not controlled, diabetes can cause kidney edamage.

Some patients with type I diabetes present with nausea, abdominal pain and a coma state. Diabetic ketoacidosis is another term for a diabetic coma that can result when diabetes is undiagnosed or uncontrolled. A diabetic coma can result in death.

Most people with diabetes have too much sugar in the blood. There is another type of diabetes, however, called hypoglycemia, in which the patient has a lower than normal amount of glucose in the blood. This can result in a variety of symptoms, including fainting, feeling ill, impairment in functioning and even coma.

If you have symptoms of diabetes, you should check your blood sugar levels with your doctor. Even more definitive tests are needed to properly diagnose diabetes, high or low blood sugar can be an indicator that you should consult your doctor to determine the cause of the abnormal blood glucose.

Symptoms of diabetes can be frightening, but are easily controlled. If you think you have some of the symptoms above, do not be afraid to see their doctor. Diabetes, though seemingly daunting, it is easily controlled. Doctors know more about diabetes is today, and there are many effective medications on the market to keep their disease under control.

If you have a family history of diabetes, obesity are, or not have your blood sugar tested recently, be aware of the symptoms of diabetes and have your doctor test your blood in your next visit. If you start to experience any of the symptoms of diabetes before visiting your doctor, it is not unreasonable - go to the ER and have yourself checked out.

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About the Author
For more information on hair loss depression and where you can go to get help, please visit my website at http://gratisblogs.net and http://www.worldtravelinc.info

Wednesday, August 6, 2008

Diabetics and Alcohol - Can Those With Diabetes Drink Socially?

by Samantha Deerborne

Diabetes and alcohol - hardly sounds like a good match, does it? Reality is, real life tends to involve alcohol occasionally. Family gathering, social events, cook-outs...all common places where the drinks are flowing. So, can diabetics drink socially?

Diabetics who treat their disease with insulin shots or pills run a definite risk of suffering from low-blood sugar after consuming alcohol. However, social drinking (with your doctors ok) can most-likely be tolerated if:

a) Your doctor agrees
b) You have an occasional drink
c) You never drink on an empty stomach

Most important out of all the above factors is having an open discussion with your doctor about your diabetes and discussing the possibility of you consuming alcohol in a social environment. Your doctor knows your diabetic situation better than anyone and his/her decision should be well-respected. Your doctor should be viewed as your partner as you deal with life as a diabetic. Let him help you make good choices for your over-all lifestyle.

Also important to note is that the term 'social drinking' for a diabetic does NOT mean 'party all night'. We are discussing the possibility of having one, maybe two drinks, in the occasional social situation. Due to the way the body, mainly the liver, reacts to alcohol in your bloodstream, it is important to practice moderation and make smart choices for your health. Being healthy is much more important than having a beer at your local sports bar, isn't it?

To protect against low-blood sugar, be sure to eat before, or while, you are enjoying your adult beverage. You will need to give your body help in order to process the alcohol and aid your liver. The liver sees alcohol as poison and reacts in an adverse way that could greatly effect diabetics. Your liver won't send out glucose to your body until it has dealt with the alcohol..and that could be a bad night for you.

As long as your doctor agrees your diabetes is under control, you only indulge occasionally, and you never eat on an empty stomach, you should be able to drink socially - even as a diabetic.

About the Author
Having diabetes doesn't mean the end of like as you know it. Over at http://www.all-diabetic-recipes.com/ we talk about the diabetic lifestyle, recipes, diabetic supplies, and help you find low-cost or free diabetes supplies. Please visit!

Tuesday, August 5, 2008

Fighting Diabetes With the Right Diet

by Jack L Bloom

Diabetes is another health concern where diet plays a very important role. The treatment program for diabetes strictly includes the intake of foods belonging to the food pyramid. As a general rule, patients with diabetes are required to pay attention on their carbohydrate intake. They should watch their weight very closely so as not to be underweight or overweight. Diabetes is a condition wherein the body can't process glucose or blood sugar properly. That or the body can't produce the necessary amount it needs for its daily activities. It is therefore important for a person with diabetes to keep his or her blood sugar level stable.

Although diabetes has been medically determined as having no "cure" and being practically irreversible, a healthy diet for diabetes can go a long way in managing the disease and improving the diabetic's lifestyle. In fact, good nutrition and diet together with regular exercise (whether light or moderate) and weight management are crucial to preventing the serious complications of this ailment and giving the diabetic a longer lease on life. A recent study shows that a fiber-rich, low-fat plant-based diet, also called a vegan diet, combined with moderate exercises can so dramatically control blood glucose to almost normal levels.

A diabetic diet requires a well-balanced, healthy diet. The food pyramid as created by the American Diabetic Association is a good guide for diabetic patients. Here are good meal suggestions for people with diabetes:
Breakfast and Snacks Meal Suggestions
Cereal Bread Cooked starchy vegetables like beans and potato Nuts Non-fat milk
Starchy vegetables, cereals, and breads are good sources of starch. Regardless of what others may think, diabetic experts encourage patients to eat starchy foods in the right amounts. This is required by the body, especially for diabetic patients whose bodies can't produce the necessary amount of blood sugar that it needs for fuel.

Milk is a good source of protein. A good diabetic diet accounts for around 15-20% protein intake. However, never exceed the 20% limit as doing so may cause complications like renal diseases. Roasted nuts are good sources of protein as well.
Lunch and Dinner Meal Suggestions
Beef Broccoli Chicken salad Vegetable medley Fruits for desert Brown rice Juice
Vegetables are vital to any healthy diet. This food group is always a necessary, regardless if you're diabetic or not. Vegetables are sources of vitamins, minerals, and fiber that can help metabolize glucose. Aside from that, the fiber found in vegetables may also help slow down the absorption of glucose from the intestines.

Lean meat is a must for people with diabetes. This means that there should be no traces of fat included in your meals. They should be removed prior to food preparation. The skin of the chicken should be disposed of and the traces of animal fats should be taken out. Diabetic patients are prone to developing thicker blood so added cholesterol in your food is not going to help your heart.

Consumption of sweets and sugar foods should be reduced, if you can't take it out of your diet completely. There are different types of sugar. Some of them are beneficial, while others are not. To be sure, don't eat processed sweets like cakes, pastries, chocolates, and candies. Stick to naturally sweet foods like honey, fruits, and fresh juices.

About the Author
Jack L Bloom is the owner of Diet Step By Step. For more information about fighting diabetes with the right diet visit the Diet for Diabetes page.