Type 2 Diabetes - Learning To Live With Your Diabetes Diagnosis

By Beverleigh H Piepers 

Photo: img.webmd.com

Type 2 diabetes is one of the fastest growing diseases in our modern world. When you first receive your diagnosis of this disease, you might feel like you have just been given a death sentence, but this is not always the case. Although untreated Type 2 diabetes will most certainly be fatal, receiving a diagnosis early in the disease means you can now take steps to make lifestyle modifications to extend your life. In fact, you can even reverse the condition if you are motivated enough to make these changes.
First Step: The very first step you should take when you receive your diabetes diagnosis is to make the decision to take the disease seriously. Start by educating yourself: immediately make plans to start reading all you can about the disease. Plan to spend a little time each day learning about Type 2 diabetes and what you can do to control your blood sugar without medications. There is plenty of up-to-date research online, and new studies are being carried out all the time.
It is critical you understand:

• Type 2 diabetes and know that developing this disease is not your fault,
• how it came about and why it happened to you, and
• what you can do to reverse it.

In order to make wise decisions each day about the myriad factors that can affect your blood sugar levels, you will need knowledge.
You should also find out as much as possible about taking care of yourself and preventing possible future diabetic complications. Diabetes is an immensely complex disease that affects every system in your body.
It's critical you follow your doctor's instructions at this time as they will have specific things they want you to do in order to get your body on the right track. For instance, they may want you to check your blood sugar levels several times throughout the day at different intervals. This will give both your doctor and yourself a clearer picture of how your body is responding to medications and the healthy foods you are now going to be eating.
Networking with others: It's also important you establish some kind of support system either from your family and friends, or a local diabetes support group. You need people around you who understand what you're going through and can offer support when times are tough.
Diet: You must adopt a diet that is specifically geared toward people diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. Your doctor or dietitian will discuss a healthy eating plan with you. The idea at this time is to lose weight... whichever eating plan works for you this is the one to follow. Some diabetics are advised to follow a low-carbohydrate diet, others follow the Rate Your Plate method. When your blood sugar levels start to lower to the suggested healthy level, you will start to lose weight. The main idea is to keep your blood sugar levels balanced throughout the day so you don't have dips or spikes in your blood sugar and insulin levels
The role of exercise: Finally, it's very important you decide it's time to get moving. Next to controlling your food intake, exercise is probably the best thing you can do to control your diabetes. Exercise will usually make your blood sugar levels go down and will continue to help control them for hours after stopping the exercise.
The important thing at the beginning is just to do a little more exercise than you're accustomed to doing... it doesn't have to be vigorous to benefit you in some way.
Heart disease, hypertension and strokes are all potential complications from diabetes, so it's important to keep your body in as good a shape as possible.
Although the numbers for Type 2 diabetes are growing, more treatment options are also being developed. However, as with any medical condition, the best treatment is prevention. Preventing Type 2 diabetes by making healthy lifestyle modifications in advance is the best way to go. Short of that, trying to reverse it with lifestyle changes is your next best bet.

To discover answers to questions you may be asking yourself about Type 2 Diabetes, click on this link... Natural Diabetes Treatments
Clicking on this link will help you to learn more about Type 2 Diabetes Solutions... Beverleigh Piepers RN... the Diabetes Detective.
Beverleigh Piepers is the author of this article. This article can be used for reprint on your website provided all the links in the article are complete and active. Copyright (c) 2011 - All Rights Reserved Worldwide

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

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6806173

Type 2 Diabetes - Heart And Blood Vessel Disease In Diabetes!

By Beverleigh H Piepers 

Photo: 3.bp.blogspot.com

Heart and blood vessel disease are some of the most dreaded complications people diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes have to face. It has been found people with diabetes suffer twice as many heart attacks and strokes as anyone without diabetes. Type 2 diabetics usually have high cholesterol levels, which lead to clogged arteries and lack of circulation to the heart muscle and the brain.
In January 2012, the journal Cardiovascular Diabetology reported on the results of a study of the diabetes drug, linagliptin (Tradjenta and Trajenta), and its possible protective effect on the heart and blood vessels.
A total of 5239 volunteers diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes were included in the study. A group that included:

• 3319 diabetics received liniagliptin, and the remaining
• 1920 diabetics received the drugs glimepiride (Amaryl) or voglibose (Volix).

Eleven volunteers, or 0.3 per cent, of those receiving linagliptin showed signs and symptoms of heart and blood vessel diseases. Twenty-three, or 1.2 per cent, of the diabetics taking other medications, were treated for conditions involving the heart and blood vessels. The diabetic volunteers taking linagliptin had an almost two-thirds lower risk of heart and blood vessel disease as those taking other medications.
From these results, the researchers concluded linagliptin (Tradjenta and Trajenta) could have benefits for keeping the heart and blood vessels healthy in Type 2 diabetics.
Linagliptin was approved by the US Federal Drug Administration (FDA) in the Spring of 2011 and is marketed by the proprietary name Trajenta. It belongs to the class of medications called dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors. The class also includes sitagliptin, vildagliptin, saxagliptin, dutogliptin, gemigliptin, and alogliptin.

• Sitagliptin was approved by the FDA in 2006 and is also known as Januvia.
• Vildagliptin was FDA-approved in 2008, and has the proprietary name Galvus.
• Saxaglipin received its FDA approval in 2009 and is marketed as Onyglyza.
• Dutogliptin and Gemigliptin are still under study.

DPP-4 inhibitors work by increasing incretin, which in turn causes less glucagon to be released from the pancreas. When glucagon is suppressed, more insulin is released, the stomach empties more slowly, and carbohydrate is absorbed more slowly, all of which lowers blood sugar levels.
Linagliptin is taken once a day with or without food. It can be taken alone or along with drugs such as metformin, sulphoylureas or pioglitazone. Side effects include inflammation of the nose and throat and inflammation of the pancreas, or low blood sugar when used with sulfonylureas.
Many medications are available for lowering blood sugar levels. If linagliptin can also prevent heart attacks then it can serve an important dual purpose.

To discover answers to questions you may be asking yourself about Type 2 Diabetes, click on this link... Natural Diabetes Treatments
Clicking on this link will help you to learn more about Type 2 Diabetes Solutions... Beverleigh Piepers RN... the Diabetes Detective.
Beverleigh Piepers is the author of this article. This article can be used for reprint on your website provided all the links in the article are complete and active. Copyright (c) 2011 - All Rights Reserved Worldwide

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

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6823828

Importance Of Ayurvedic Medicines For Diabetes

By: Rinki Rawat

Photo: iloveherbs.net

Diabetes is a disorder where the sugar which is formed from various food substances does not get converted to energy. Insulin which is formed in pancreas is responsible for this transformation. This insulin is either not created at all-in Type 1 diabetes or it is not getting utilized properly by the body-Type 2 diabetes. There is no specific cause which is known till date for the inactivity of the pancreatic enzyme insulin or non-formation of it at all. As the insulin is not able to convert the sugar, the blood sugar level becomes high resulting in various symptoms such as-

1. Excessive thirst
2. Excessive hunger
3. Sudden weight loss
4. Frequent urination
5. Fatigue

By performing blood sugar tests, diabetes can be diagnosed and various medicines and diets are given to the patients. Because of the various side-effects of the allopathic medicines, many diabetic people do not want to take them and look for some medicines which could cure their diabetes in a natural way or with the medicines which are less harmful. Here you will to known some Ayurvedic medicines for diabetes and how treatment can be done for diabetes in Ayurveda.

Ayurvedic treatment for Diabetes includes some steps like-

1. Modification of diet- The diet given is to ensure less sugar and simple carbohydrates are taken in less amount and the complex carbohydrates are taken more. Fat and protein intake should be limited too. Fresh fruits and vegetables are included in the diet
2. The body of many diabetic patients have antibodies against their own pancreatic tissue so cleansing of these tissues is required which includes herbal massages, herbal steam bath etc.
3. Exercise and yoga- Ayurveda recommends exercise and yoga in order to treat diabetes
4. Some of the herbs are known to be good Ayurvedic medicines for diabetes-
5. Neem
6. Arjuna
7. Turmeric
8. Shilajit
9. Turmeric along with Aloe Vera gel is a very good medicine for diabetes

Some other commonly used ayurvedic treatment for diabetes are given here which are preferred by the patients because of the zero side-effects.

1. Juice made of bitter gourd or bitter lemon to be taken empty stomach everyday
2. mlaki powder(Indian Gooseberry), turmeric powder along with honey to be taken twice daily

The Ayurvedic medicines to cure many different ailments are getting popular because of the herbal constituents and no side effects.

Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

About the Author:
Author in this article has conveyed information on ayurvedic treatment for diabetes. You can also get information on diabetes treatment and diabetes at our Onlymyhealth health care website.

Discovering Techniques That Will Help You Handle Diabetes

By Vernon Monde Mohapi 

Photo: salute.pourfemme.it

Diabetes as a disease has been a thorn in the flesh for many people worldwide as more and more people are falling prey to it in different stages of their lives. Scientists have been working on different techniques that would eventually help diabetics in effectively handling the disease. But the fear that once existed in people with regards to the disease is yet to recede. This is because the disease is no longer prevalent among the aged people but also young children, pregnant women and others. However, the detrimental effects are still largely seen in the elderly people as the disease is known to reduce the power within their body quickly. Surely there have to be some effective techniques in handling diabetes. But the question is: what are they?
Most scientists believe the environmental factors to be the main reason for destroying the immune system in the body that eventually destroys the insulin secreting cells. Therefore, controlling blood sugar level in the body becomes so difficult. In such cases, the only alternative is to supply insulin through external sources like injections. Interestingly, not many effective alternatives other than this have been found as yet.
Diabetes can occur to you in two different types - Type 1 and Type II.
Type I diabetes is incurable and remains as your friend throughout your life; more like an unreliable friend rather than a trusted one! You can even refer other deadly diseases as its companions in your body. Should be a bit careless in your approach, these diseases will not think twice in striking you. Hence, you need to be extra careful in handling diabetes.
Type II diabetes, on the contrary, is curable. In fact, it is believed that at least 9 out of 10 cases of it have been completely cured before. But to ensure this disease is cured completely, you need to follow certain rules. First up, you need to exercise regularly and also you need to control your eating habits, may be following a strict diet. Besides all this, you need to restrict your spree on alcohol and stop smoking completely. Controlling blood sugar level would also require keeping a check on your body weight.
You will require taking 2 to 5 injections per day to cure Type I diabetes. These insulin dosages help in controlling blood sugar level in your body. However, they shouldn't be considered as an alternative to exercises and proper diet. Insulin dosages will have an impact only when other necessary precautions are duly taken.
Proper techniques and treatments need to be followed while handling diabetes. Though it a feared disease it needs to be respected well. All its symptoms like constant urination, fatigue, blurry eyesight and others need to be watched out carefully. Physicians have to be consulted if you feel you're having these symptoms and take your appropriate treatment from there on.

About The Author
Vernon Mohapi is an Author of "Delicious Diabetic Recipes". As an Author on the subject, he is at the forefront to provide solutions to "Diabetic and You" news letter.
For more articles(or training)on "Diabetes and You" or to get your FREE Mini Course to "Diabetes and You" go to http://www.controldiabetesbydietplan.com.

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

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6766609

Low Carbohydrate Foods Help To Lower Blood Sugar

By Tehmina Mazher

Photo: 2.bp.blogspot.com

Can low carbohydrate foods help to lower blood sugar? It is a frequently asked question that must be roaming in your mind that make you stop here. The one word answer of your question is yes; they are beneficial as low carbohydrate foods generally have low sugar content. The weight of the person is controlled by his calorie intake. If a person consumes fewer calories most likely he will be losing weight. The person can lower down the calorie intake by limiting the carbohydrate quantity in his diet.
It is equally important to know well the difference between good and bad carbohydrates. The good carbohydrates are termed as complex carbohydrates whereas bad carbohydrates are termed as simple carbohydrates.
It is equally important to remember that there are some foods that can be low in their carbohydrate content but at the same time high in their fat content. It is important for diabetics that they must not include plenty of fats in the diet. There are some very healthy foods that have low amount of fats as well as carbohydrates. The examples of such foods are meat, poultry, fish, non starchy vegetables, oils and dairy products.
Our body needs few fats, some proteins and few carbohydrates for proper functioning. It is extremely important to eat a balanced diet that contains all food groups.
Given here is a list of low carb foods that are healthier for diabetics.
Low Carbohydrate Containing Vegetables
1- Asparagus
2- Beetroot
3- Beans
4- Brussel sprouts
5- Cabbage
6- Cauliflower
7- Carrots
8- Celery
9- Lettuce
10- Leeks
11- Mushroom
12- Onion
13- Pumpkin
14- Peas
15- Tomatoes
16- Spinach
17- Watercress
Low Carbohydrate Containing Fruits
1- Apricots
2- Apples
3- Blackberries
4- Bananas
5- Figs
6- Cherries
7- Grapefruit
8- Grapes
9- Oranges
10- Lemon
11- Plum
12- Peaches
13- Prunes
14- Pears
15- Raspberries
16- Rhubarb
17- Strawberries
Low Carbohydrate Containing Nuts
1- Brazil
2- Almonds
3- Coconut
4- Chestnuts
5- Peanuts
6- Pecans
7- Walnuts
The most important point here is to remember that lower content of carbohydrate in the diet is not good for anyone including diabetics for a long period of time. It is always good to seek medical advice for making sure that low carbohydrate diet may not cause you any harm in the long run. It is critically important to incorporate exercise in the daily routine, which can complement the healthy diet.
It is famous that carbohydrates are the cause of elevated blood sugar levels; so it is better to incorporate fewer carbs containing ingredients when the level of blood glucose is higher. Once the blood sugar levels are in control it is better to return to a balanced diet containing a mix of fats, proteins as well as carbohydrates.
It is essential to keep a handy list of food items that cause your blood sugar levels to rise. This will help the diabetic to avoid being on a reduced carbohydrate diet for a longer period of time. Summing up, low carbohydrate containing foods are beneficial for the diabetics in short run for preventing the complications of diabetes.

Grab a free diabetic meal plan specifically designed according to your personal requirement check Diabetic Diet Plan. This list will help to design a meal plan that has the ability to control the Signs Of Diabetes in a way that you'll end up saying where is my blood sugar?

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

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6804435

Know The Benefits Of Using Insulin Pump Infusion Sets

By: Jenny Birkin

Photo: livingwithtype1diabetes.files.wordpress.com

As an effective means to manage diabetes mellitus, the use of pump infusion is more or less common these days. A regular diabetic pump comprises of a pump and insulin infusion set. A diabetic person can choose a specific infusion set for a number of reasons. First of all, its a significant decision that a diabetic person needs to make when it comes to checking the levels of blood sugar. The insulin infusion sets help in monitoring blood sugar levels.

The infusion set comes in handy and can be used as and when needed by the patient. Thus, offering some kind of flexibility in the regular diabetes routine. Infusion sets are part of the traditional insulin pump. The pump is used to transfer the insulin to the user. Infusion sets for insulin pumps replace the need for insulin shots using a needle or insulin pen.

There are many people who want to avoid frequent shots. A trypanophobic would definitely prefer an insulin pump since an insulin pump requires changing its infusion set every 2-3 days. Therefore, you can get a break from the bouts of hyperglycemia. The infusion sets for insulin pumps are the preferred choice for many. Such sets offer insulin throughout the day 24/7. This also means that it is easier to keep the levels of glucose normal as long as the pump keeps on working.

Usually, insulin pump infusion sets help to ease the management of Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus that requires appropriate insulin administration. In addition to this, pump insulin infusion can offer more exact insulin management as and when compared to the injections that are likely to underestimate or overestimate the dosages required. Neuropathy is one condition which affects people with treatment of diabetes. The users experience less pain when they begin to use the insulin pumps.


Insulin pump infusion sets can differ from one another in tubing length, cannula length cannula insertion angle. It has to be kept in mind that insulin pumps can be a costly treatment to diabetes as and when compared to the more conventional insulin shots. Hence, the cost of the infusion sets and the cost of the pump need to be taken into account as well. However, the insulin infusion sets play a major role where the dependence of the user on insulin is somewhat regular. Diabetic in need of more regular insulin therapy can help himself without depending on the general practitioner or any one else.

Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

About the Author:
Written by Jenny, content writer at Inter-dev - Internet Marketing Company, on behalf of Springnow.com - Diabetes treatment

Gestational Diabetes Diet Plan - Guidelines for Women With Diabetes During Pregnancy

By Lukman Handoko 

Photo: buzzle.com

During pregnancy, women are forced to have better dietary plans in order to ensure good nutrition intakes for the babies. In normal conditions, there are plenty of guidelines providing great deals of information about recommended foods and dietary restrictions for pregnant women. However, not all women are having the same privilege to enjoy normal life because they develop a certain medical condition such as diabetes.
Gestational diabetes (diabetes suffered by pregnant women) needs special treatments and dietary rules. In one side, pregnant women have to consume plenty of nutritious meals to ensure health and growth of the unborn child. However, diabetes brings more difficulties to make a diet plan. Diabetes is developed inside the body because of insulin dysfunction. Insulin is either not produced or unusable that makes the glucose level in the blood keeps on increasing. High blood sugar is very dangerous for the unborn child; women with gestational diabetes have to be able to control it. Keeping a good glucose level in the blood can be a real pain for almost everyone as there will be too many kinds of foods should be avoided.
Especially for pregnant women who develop diabetes, one good way to acquire good information about a suggested dietary plan is by visiting registered dietitian or nutritionist. A professional will measure weights, heights, physical strength, and the growing baby's needs before a suggested dietary plan is made. The good thing about visiting a nutritionist is that almost all aspects about good diets are carefully examined. The amounts of calories needed, carbohydrate, protein, fats, and many others aspects of diets are accurately measured. Even better, a nutritionist will ask questions about any preferable meal that patients would like to put on the menu. In some cases, changing the diets will not be sufficient enough to keep the glucose level under a critical point. Nutritionists will recommend a regular insulin injection to gain better health condition. Pregnant women have to take the insulin injection regularly at a medical facility. The glucose level will be examined to measure the perfect dose of insulin to be given.
Nevertheless, some points on many dietary plans are commonly found on any recommendation by nutritionists or dietitians. Some of the common diet plans include the suggestions to take small amount of carbohydrates, milk, and any food that contains much sugar. There will be some recommendation to consume more protein and fiber. The amounts of carbohydrates should be reduced as they contain a lot of glucose. The case is the same with milk and some beverages that contain simple sugar such as soda, juice and desserts. Surprisingly, any gestational diabetes diet plan will not recommend to skipping meals. It is believed that good distribution of nutrition helps the body to maintain the good level of glucose in the blood. Of course, patients need to be consistent on the amount of food consumed each time.
Anyway, the above recommendations are based on a common dietary plan. It is recommended to consult doctors or nutritionists to get specific explanations. Indeed, it is not easy to strictly follow any gestational diabetes diet plan. However, in order to ensure the good growth of the unborn child, pregnant women with diabetes have to try at their best.

There are also other dietary plans available on http://www.diabetesdonation.net/, where you can find plenty of different plans with specific categories for gestational diabetes.

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

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6824637

Living With Diabetes - Risk Factors Of Diabetes

By Joel Gray 

Photo: diabetes.ca

Individuals who are known to be at a high risk for diabetes should undergo frequent testing for signs of diabetes. These individuals need to understand the risk factors associated with a diabetic condition. These factors include, among other things, the body's inability to regulate acidity in the blood sugar levels and regulate insulin and glucose hormones. A diet high in fats that raise bad levels of cholesterol coupled with little to no exercise also puts these individuals at a high risk for diabetes.
Diabetes has been considered a high risk factor for conditions such as heart disease, which is a coronary disease that causes the narrowing of the blood vessels carrying oxygen and blood to the heart. Heart disease has been labeled as the number one cause of death in the U.S. Individuals with heart disease become more and more limited and their risks for heart attacks increase drastically. Strokes are also common with individuals who have heart disease. Heart disease can also be a genetic disease. Diabetes is linked to heart disease, and heart disease is linked to other health problems, such as high cholesterol and hypertension.
Diabetes can become a vessel for these different conditions. There are good cholesterol levels (HDL) and bad cholesterol levels (LDL) in the body. High levels of bad cholesterol result in the cholesterol in the blood building up and sticking to the sides of the arteries. This plaque is a fat-like substance that mimics heart disease in that it narrows the vessels and can even block them. High cholesterol levels put an individual at high risk for hypertension. Diabetes is linked to those high risk factors for hypertension.
Linked to diabetes and high cholesterol levels, hypertension is known as the silent killer. Directly linked to the blood pressure flowing through the arteries, hypertension complications are increased when the walls of the arteries have been blocked or narrowed by high cholesterol levels. Essentially, this increases the blood pressure, and an individual is then said to have high blood pressure. High blood pressure is another symptom of heart disease and can also lead to heart attacks and strokes.
Not only does diabetes predispose individuals to high risks diseases, but environmental risk factors are directly tied in with diabetic conditions. According to as Stanford study, environmental factors, like chemicals in the soil and water around an individual, will increase the risk of developing diabetes. Three environmental elements were identified as being directly correlated with the increased risk of diabetes type II. Two elements identified were pesticides that contain heptachlor epoxide and PCBS. Surprisingly, the third element is a certain form of vitamin E, which is thought to have antioxidant factor for helping diabetic conditions. The clue may be in the potential toxicity of the build up of this vitamin, which is naturally found in large quantities in the tissues and blood of the body.
Environmental risk factors are more predisposed in type II diabetes than in type I diabetes. Sedentary lifestyles, high caloric intakes, very little exercise and a family history of diabetes, coupled with exposures to certain environmental factors, are deemed high risk factors for individuals to develop diabetic conditions.

Discover the advantages of living a healthy lifestyle and see the benefits that a well balanced diet can do for you. For more information about weight loss, healthy living, getting the proper diet and exercise and other usefull health tips go to my blog: Health Tips 101 and find out more!
Get Your "FREE" Diet & Exercise Tips Newsletter Today! Discover How To Live A Healthier Lifestyle And Learn How To Live Longer And Live Stronger!

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

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6816892

Innovations In Diabetes Treatment

By: Rinki Rawat

Photo: diabeticinnovations.com

There are many kinds of treatments for diabetes. A new diabetes treatment will help in reducing the health related side effects associated with the condition. A lot of progress is being seen by alternative treatments and medications.

1. Pramlintide Acetate
This is a new medication in the market for people who are suffering from diabetes. The administration of this medication is done during meal time and it is especially used for the maintenance of healthy blood glucose levels. There is prevention of spikes that will occur after eating. The medications will tend to be very stronger than various blood sugar control options. Less medications involve more effect. When Pramlintide acetate is used, it has an association with nausea. Thus, the strength of medication is increased very gently. Loss of weight is also reported by diabetes patients while they take this new diabetes treatment.

2. Exanatide
This is another pre-filled injection medication. It is one of the most interesting medications which hit the person with diabetes market. The saliva of the Gila Monster is the only source of medication. Approval of using this treatment is given only to the people with Type 2 diabetes. The medication is used for improving the natural ability of the body. Insulin is produced and secreted. There may be an association of decreased appetite with exenatide.

3. Saxagliptin
This is an oral medication which has been approved by FDA. This medication works for the control of blood glucose levels after meals. These medications are approved for people with Type 2 diabetes only. Later they are combined with other medications as well.

4. Combo diabetes medications
Several combinations of medications have been created for the patients who need to take more than one prescription for controlling their diabetes. Most common combinations include metformin. It is often suggested that this is the first medication that is prescribed to a newly diagnosed person with diabetes.

5. Anti-inflammatory
It is suggested by recent studies that an auto-immune disease is mainly caused by inflammation in the body. Many of the times, inflammation is often linked with obesity. However, not every patient with Type 2 diabetes is obese or overweight. Many patients are turning to natural anti-inflammatories for reducing free radical damage to the cells.

6. Insulin pump
This is also a new diabetes treatment that is attached to the body with a skin patch or an inserted cannula which transmits insulin to the body. The insulin pump is programmable and battery powered.

Some Ways To Keep Diabetes In Control

By Joy Kumar Das 

Photo: ayushveda.com



Diabetes is a chronic condition that results from the body's inability to adequately produce or properly use insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is produced by the pancreas. It enables the body to utilize glucose for energy. There are two types of diabetes.
Those types are generally known as Type-1 diabetes and Type-2 diabetes. In the type-1 diabetes, pancreas does not produce insulin sufficiently, and this condition is commonly found in children and also in young adults. It happens when cells in the pancreas are destroyed. The destruction of cells in pancreas begins when body's immune system starts to deteriorate.
In type-2 diabetes, proper use of insulin does not happen. Body cannot use insulin properly. Clinical researches have confirmed that genetic disposition and sedentary lifestyle are the two major factors that cause this type of diabetic condition.
Diabetes is a major concern these days for all countries. The World Health Organization has already warned that this disease appears to be a global threat. To prevent it from spreading capriciously, a stronger awareness campaign should be reinforced across the world. However, risk of diabetes could be kept away if people maintain 'active lifestyle' and some simple ways. Here is a list of those ways that can lower the risk.
Know The Type of Diabetes First: When a person becomes 30 years old, he should take blood tests regularly to screen diabetes. There are two types of tests. One is the fasting blood glucose test and the other one is the oral glucose tolerance test. The latter involves drinking glucose and having blood sampled two hours later. Once one has been diagnosed with any of the diabetic condition, one should start to follow the recommendations of physician to the letter.
Lose Weight & Get Moving: Fat cells, which are found especially around the abdomen, secrete biological products. Those biological products most often impair the body's ability to properly utilize sugar and hamper the insulin production. 'Active lifestyle' helps one to shed fat immensely. A fat person starts to feel better when that person can pinch more than an inch off his tummy.
Add Fiber To Diet: If people ensure that they are getting at least 21 grams of fiber every day, they can keep themselves fit or keep themselves away from diabetic condition. But unfortunately, people eat only half of 21 grams of fiber per day. Fiber helps to reduce glucose levels, lessens appetite and augments satiety. Whole grain breads and brown rice are rich in fiber. People should ensure that they are eating plenty of green leafy vegetables, lentils, black beans, etc.
Remove Bad Carbohydrates: Refined white flour and sugar, when they are stripped of their nutritional value, are responsible for a dramatic increase in obesity and diabetes. Processed and frozen foods are to be avoided. Also, sugary drinks which are low in nutritive value and high in calories need to be kept aside.
Decrease Toxicity Level: Incidence of type-2 diabetes may increase when foods and drinks consisting of heavy metals such as lead, arsenic, and cadmium are taken. They promote oxidation and can also disturb healthy functioning of the pancreas. They can even interfere with the insulin secretion. So, it will be better to avoid foods and drinks that are sold in plastic containers and bottles.
Risk of diabetes can lessen dramatically when 'active lifestyle' is maintained. If people eat only fiber-rich foods, they will keep themselves away from the risk of diabetes.

Joy Kumar Das wields genuine command over the subjects like tours and travels, scientific discoveries, software development and website design and development industry, online marketing industry. and business promotion and advertisement management, among others. His writings express his thoughts which emanate from thorough analysis. This article is an outcome of his elaborate research.

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

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6818189

Diabetes Prevention: 5 Important Tips

By: tpalmer

Photo: lh3.ggpht.com

The home care professionals at Always Best Care in Chapel Hill, who provide senior care to many elderly individuals in Chapel Hill, Orange County, Carrboro, Hope Valley, and Southpoint, know that diabetes is a dangerous condition that may be prevented. The Mayo Clinic has released a list of five tips to keep your health in top shape and prevent diabetes. Although diabetes may still develop, despite prevention efforts, taking measures to avoid the condition can lead to improved health and, in many cases, can thwart the disease before it occurs.

1. Exercise more regularly. The combination of aerobic and resistance training can help control and prevent the development of diabetes. Through this exercise, you may experience weight loss, a drop in blood sugar, and an increase in the sensitivity of your body's cells to insulin. This sensitivity allows your body to maintain a healthy blood sugar level.

2. Eat more fiber. Incorporate more fruits, vegetables, seeds, nuts, whole grains, beans, and other fiber-rich ingredients into your meal plan. Doing so can help control your blood sugar, decrease your chances of developing heart disease, and help with weight loss.

3. Opt for whole grain foods. High in fiber, whole grains can help prevent diabetes and sustain healthy blood sugar levels. While the Mayo Clinic does note that it is unclear why whole grains help, they are easy to incorporate into your diet in the form of pasta, bread, and cereal.

4. Lose any extra weight. Carrying extra weight can put you at risk for many health issues, diabetes being one of them. The Mayo Clinic reports that people have experienced significant reductions in their risk for diabetes by losing a relatively little amount of weight, citing a study that showed a 16 percent risk reduction for every 2.2 pounds lost.

5. Ignore diet trends and make healthy choices. Although trendy diet plans may work in the short term, they may not necessarily contribute to diabetes prevention. Stick to a well-rounded, healthy meal plan that focuses on portion control.

At Always Best Care in Chapel Hill (www.alwaysbestcarechapelhill-durham.com), we understand that diabetes is a major concern for many people. Through our senior care services, we work with individuals who are trying to manage the disease and prevent diabetes from developing. By following these five tips from the Mayo Clinic, you can also work to keep this condition at bay.

Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

About the Author:
Since 1996, Always Best Care has helped families with non-medical in-home care, assisted living placement services and skilled home health care.

Living With Diabetes - Symptoms Of Diabetes

By Joel Gray 

Photo: img.webmd.com

Diabetic symptoms progress with systemic approaches according to the type and progression of a diabetic condition and the duration of high levels of blood sugars. Common symptoms of higher blood sugar durations include extreme thirst and hunger, weight loss and frequent periods of urinary urgencies. These conditions are known to be associated with rapid onset of diabetes type II and should be symptoms that prompt medical testing or diabetes.
These particular symptoms are the result of the actual progressive nature of diabetes. Problematic symptoms like incessant thirst and hunger, to growing urgencies for urination, indicate a serious inclination towards a diabetic condition. Undiagnosed and left untreated, these conditions may lead to pathological conditions dealing with urological, pancreatic, kidney, liver and other internal organ pathological conditions. Weight loss symptoms displayed in a diabetic condition is a result of an imbalanced metabolic system.
Severe weight loss needs immediate medical attention. Diabetic symptoms that display themselves as excessive thirst and hunger need appropriate medical testing to rule out any digestive conditions like Chron's Disease and diverticulitis. These three symptoms closely mimic the symptoms of diabetes insipidus, which is otherwise unrelated to diabetes mellitus. Frequency and the urge to urinate are symptoms of a diabetic condition known as polyuria. Conditions like dehydration can result in these cases, and medical evaluation should be prompt.
Most diabetic symptoms are results of a prolonged duration of high blood sugars, and start mildly, like unhealed sores and derma abrasions that do not go away. Unhealed sores and abrasions of the skin include abscesses, skin rashes, and infections of the skin, skin boils, and eventually debiticus ulcers (bedsores). These areas will fill up with pus and surround the tissues in hollowed cavities of the body. This inflammation is indicative to bacterial infections or parasitic infections. These infections can lead into internal abscess infections like abscesses on the brain, lungs, kidneys, and rectum, and breast, liver, spinal and oral abscesses. Skin rashes, infections of the skin and skin boils are open sources of viral and fungi portals. All of these signs of poor skin healing are milder symptom of a diabetic condition, but can cause a variety of other problematic conditions.
Additional symptoms include fatigue, blurred vision along with sores and abrasions that do not heal. Diagnostic evaluations should be performed to properly diagnose a diabetic condition. These symptoms require medical interventions that could prevent conditions known to be associated with diabetes. Blurred vision and fatigue are two other symptoms of a diabetic condition. Diabetic symptoms of blurred vision can lead to diabetic retinopathy and diabetic lens osmosis. A marked degree of eyesight changes occur with the aging process and are normal.
A certified physician should, immediately check out sudden blurred vision, spots and hairline shadows and loss of peripheral vision. Fatigue symptoms displayed in a diabetic condition is a signal that glucose levels may be dangerously low in the body. Chronic fatigue left untreated in a diabetic patient can be a serious sign of heart disease, which is linked to diabetes.

Discover the advantages of living a healthy lifestyle and see the benefits that a well balanced diet can do for you. For more information about weight loss, healthy living, getting the proper diet and exercise and other useful health tips go to my blog: Health Tips 101 and find out more!
Get Your "FREE" Diet & Exercise Tips Newsletter Today! And Discover How To Live Longer And Live Stonger!

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

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6816870

Diabetes and the Elderly

By Sarah A Manchester  

Photo: adultfamilyhomesvancouverwa.com

When people get older, it seems some simple tasks become more difficult, but if you or someone you know has diabetes and is elderly, things can be more of a challenge. There are two types of diabetes, Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 diabetes is also referred to as Juvenile Diabetes and is diagnosed in children and young adults. Type 2 diabetes is the most common type and normally is something people who are diagnosed with this type live with for life.
Diabetes in senior citizens can be difficult to diagnose and to take care of. Many of the symptoms of diabetes like weight loss, changes in vision, frequent urination, and thirst can be mistaken as signs of aging. To determine if someone with these symptoms is showing signs of diabetes versus aging, they need to visit their doctor on a regular basis to have tests run.
There are many complications that can occur in senior citizens who have diabetes. Of course these complications can happen to any one of any age, but the elderly are more susceptible to developing these problems. One of these problems is cognitive impairment; diabetes increases the risk of developing dementia and has been well documented. However, the connection of diabetes and Alzheimer's isn't as strong as that with dementia.
Elderly patients who have diabetes also experience problems in mobility during daily tasks. It has been reported that many senior citizens that have this disease have trouble walking more than 400 meters. This is more relevant in elderly women than elderly men. This makes doing normal household chores very difficult and it also increases the chances of falls and hip fractures. One of the treatments of diabetes is to keep moving and to get enough exercise, but for those who have trouble with mobility, this becomes a daunting task and makes it that much more difficult to treat.
The treatment can vary from person to person depending on what form they have and how old they are. However, the common treatments for diabetes involve a change in diet and exercise to help control blood sugar. For some, the easiest way to control their blood sugar is by using an insulin shot or pump. People who have diabetes should take care of their extremities like their feet and hands. Diabetes can affect blood flow and circulation making it difficult for the extremities to receive blood. Exercise can help stimulate blood flow to these body parts.
For the elderly and senior citizens who have diabetes, going to regular doctor visits and getting tests done regularly can help control their blood sugar and diabetes. If you or someone you know is under care of a nurse or is in a nursing home, make sure that whoever is taking care of them knows that they have diabetes and what type it is. Not getting the proper treatment can be disastrous, so making sure that someone with diabetes will be well taken care of is important. If you want to know more about diabetes and how it may affect you or an elderly member of your family, talk to your doctor to get more information.

Sarah Manchester
Senior Care Options
Alzheimer's Care

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

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6813060

Type 2 Diabetes Treatment

By: Type Free Diabetes

Photo: diabeteshealthysolutions.com

Diabetes treatment for those suffering from type 2 diabetes focuses on improving the habits and lifestyle of the patient and may include medication and insulin therapy in severe cases. Diabetes treatment also invariably includes a more active lifestyle with at least a one-hour-a-day exercise.

Type 2 Diabetes Triggers
Type 2 diabetes is a condition where the body becomes resistant to insulin due to damage in the insulin receptor cells. There may be various medical causes for the damage to the cells, but generally speaking, Type 2 diabetes is often considered a lifestyle disease. People following a less active lifestyle combined with diets high in saturated fats and trans-fatty acids with little or no fiber intake are at a higher risk for Type 2 diabetes.

Type 2 Diabetes treatment
Type 2 diabetes treatment stresses on healthy eating and regular exercise to control weight. The reason is because more than 55% of people with Type 2 diabetes are obese. Healthy eating involves a diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables and low in fats and calories. Diabetes treatment for Type 2 may also make use of certain medications as well as insulin therapy depending on the patient's needs. When we talk of medication for diabetes treatment, it could mean taking drugs to slow down the movement of food in the stomach to avoid a spike in blood sugar levels.

Diabetes treatment includes daily monitoring
Blood glucose monitoring is another important aspect of Type 2 diabetes treatment. Since diabetes treatment focuses on maintaining the ideal blood sugar levels, it becomes essential to monitor it on a daily basis. This is done with the help of a device known as a glucometer. This procedure that forms a part of the patient's diabetes treatment plan involves pricking the finger with a lancet to extract a small drop of blood that is placed on a testing strip. The testing strip is inserted into the glucometer which gives a reading in about 30 seconds. Your doctor or health care practitioner in charge of your diabetes treatment plan will help you set up a regular glucose monitoring schedule to be followed.

Hygiene and attention to yourself as part of the Diabetes treatment
Self care is important in your diabetes treatment plan. Diabetics usually suffer from foot problems due to lack of proper blood circulation and nerve damage leading to an inability to fight infections. As part of diabetes treatment plan it is essential that diabetics take proper care of their feet to avoid further complications. Make checking your feet for sores and cuts a routine part of your diabetes treatment plan so that problems do not go unnoticed. Wear comfortable shoes and soften dry skin with lotion or petroleum jelly. Diabetics can also suffer from problems relating to the teeth, gums and eyes. Hence, diabetes treatment should involve scheduled visits to the dentist and ophthalmologist at least once a year.

Diabetes treatment without insulin
Some people with Type 2 diabetes are able to manage their blood glucose levels with a healthy diet and regular exercise, thus avoiding the conventional diabetes treatment. However, there are others who are not so fortunate and may require diabetes treatment involving insulin therapy. Depending upon the patient's requirement, doctors may prescribe rapid action insulin and long-acting insulin. Insulin can either be injected with a needle and syringe or with an insulin pen. The other option is an insulin pump. The patient can choose the method of insulin therapy for diabetes treatment depending on his convenience.

The significance of self care, healthy diet and regular exercise cannot be stressed enough in type 2 diabetes treatment. These are lifestyle changes that the individual must take seriously for successful diabetes treatment.

Check out for Type 2 diabetes weight loss and Type 2 diabetes information blog

Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

About the Author:
TypeFreeDiabetes.com is the premier source for your diabetic needs on-line.

Type 2 Diabetes - Vitamin D And The Metabolic Syndrome

 By Beverleigh H Piepers 

Photo: assets.nydailynews.com

Vitamin D deficiency has been demonstrated in people diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes and the metabolic syndrome. In December 2011, the journal Clinical Investigative Medicine reported on a study of the metabolic syndrome and vitamin D in Canadians.
A total of 1818 volunteers from the Canadian Health Measures Survey from 2007 to 2009 were included in the study. It was found that 8.9 per cent of these volunteers had the metabolic syndrome. The ones with the highest levels of vitamin D had half the risk of developing the metabolic syndrome, as those with the lowest levels.
Insulin resistance was also correlated with low vitamin D levels. The researchers concluded low vitamin D levels were correlated with metabolic syndrome and linked to increased levels of insulin resistance.
Your doctor can order a test to check your vitamin D level. The optimal range in the body today is 60 to 90 ng/mL (nanograms per milliliter) or as expressed by some labs, 25 to 200 nmol/L (nanomoles per liter). In fact, vitamin D may be all some people with mild Type 2 diabetes need to take.
Vitamin D is also important for bone growth and repair because it aids in the use of calcium. Rickets is a disease seldom seen today in developed countries, but it was once caused by severe vitamin D deficiency. It has been suggested that Dickens' tiny Tim might have suffered vitamin D deficiency.
Today vitamin D is necessary for growth in children and for preventing osteoporosis in adults. Low levels of vitamin D have also been associated with certain types of:

• cancer,
• brain impairment in older adults,
• increased risk of heart disease,
• asthma in children,
• high blood pressure, and
• multiple sclerosis.

Bone pain and muscle weakness can be indications of vitamin D deficiency.
One of the ways people get vitamin D is by allowing skin to manufacture it when it is exposed to sunlight. Getting enough vitamin D can be a problem for people who live in northerly countries such as Canada, because not enough sunlight reaches land less than 35 degrees from the North Pole. The same goes for those living less than 35 degrees from the South Pole.
Lack of sun exposure due to:

• being homebound,
• working during daylight hours,
• wearing clothes that cover all the body's skin, or
• having extremely dark skin that blocks the sun's rays

can also cause vitamin D deficiency.
Fortunately, vitamin D is also available in some foods and supplements. Osteoporosis Canada recommends daily supplements of:

• 400 to 1000 International Units (IU) of vitamin D for Canadians under 50 years of age without osteoporosis, and
• 800 to 2000 IU for those over 50.

Vegan diets are the best kind for avoiding and treating Type 2 diabetes, and food sources of vitamin D should fit into a vegan dietary plan. Soymilk, rice milk, and orange juice are often fortified with vitamin D. One cup of Silk Light soy milk contains about 30 per cent of the recommended daily vitamin D allowance. Check the labels for the vitamin D content of other brands of soymilk, rice milk and orange juice.
Eat healthy, and don't forget the vitamin D.

To discover answers to questions you may be asking yourself about Type 2 Diabetes, click on this link... Natural Diabetes Treatments
Clicking on this link will help you to learn more about Type 2 Diabetes Solutions... Beverleigh Piepers RN... the Diabetes Detective.
Beverleigh Piepers is the author of this article. This article can be used for reprint on your website provided all the links in the article are complete and active. Copyright (c) 2011 - All Rights Reserved Worldwide

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

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6772882

How To Choose And Use Your Blood Glucose Meter

By: Type Free Diabetes

Photo: 0.tqn.com

Blood glucose monitoring system is a way of testing the concentration of glucose in the blood (glycemia). Particularly important in the care of diabetes mellitus, a blood glucose test is performed by piercing the skin (typically, on the finger) to draw blood, then applying the blood to a chemically active disposable Glucose Test Strips. Different manufacturers use different technology, but most systems measure an electrical characteristic, and use this to determine the glucose level in the blood.

Contrary to expectations, not all of are comfortable around digital or electronic devices. Having barely mastered the art of receiving and making calls on the cell phone, the last thing we want to do is learn to use yet another digital gizmo this one a blood glucose meters. Fortunately, the modern day Blood Glucose Monitor is extremely easy to use. Today I shall explain how to use your new Blood Glucose Monitor.

Using Blood Glucose Monitors

1. Ensure you hands are clean.

2. Open the package containing your new Blood Glucose Monitor.

3. Remove from the package and keep ready the lancing device, the box containing the glucose monitoring strips and the blood sugar monitor.

4. Insert a fresh unused lance in the lancing device, set it to 3 (by rotating the base of the lancing device) and prime it (usually achieved by pressing the top once).

5. Extract the code chip (a small white rectangular plastic) from the box containing the blood glucose strips and insert the chip into the receptacle (usually located on the side of the Blood Glucose Monitor). This needs to be done each time you open a fresh box of blood glucose strips (not each time you take a blood glucose test).

6. After inserting the code chip into the blood glucose test meter, switch on the Blood Glucose Monitor and wait until a code number appears this ensures that the Blood Glucose Monitor and the diabetes test strips are synchronized.

7. Extract a fresh glucose strip from the box and keep ready.

8. Hold the lancing device vertically on the tip of any finger and release the trigger (usually a small round button on the side of the diabetic lancing devices. A very tinny almost invisible hole will be created in your skin.

9. You may need to press the around the hole so that a small drop of blood becomes visible on the surface of your skin.

10. Switch on the Blood Glucose Monitor and wait for the blood icon to flash (takes about 10 seconds).

11. Take the glucose strip and swipe (the end with the round hole) across the drop of blood. You would want to ensure the blood is evenly spread across the hole of the glucose strip.

12. Insert the glucose strip into the receptacle of the Blood Glucose Monitor and wait for the results (takes a few seconds).

13. Note down the time, the contents of your meal and the blood glucose result in a diary or notebook specially set aside for this purpose.

14. Push out the cover from the lower end of the lancing device this exposes the lance.

15. Carefully remove the used lance from the lancing device and also the used glucose strip from the Blood Glucose Monitor and bag it separately before discarding.

16. Switch off the Blood Glucose Monitor and put the kit away in a safe place so your children do not have access to it.


Difficulty in extracting blood

The depth to which the needle of the lancing device enters the skin can be controlled. For children, the lancing device can be set to a depth of 1 or 2. This results in shallow penetration but should be okay for kids. For adults, the lancing device needs to be set to a minimum depth of 3. If this does not produce the desired result, try 3.5 or 4 or more.

Once you use the lancing device is used, the drop of blood (usually) does not automatically appear on the skin; it needs to be coaxed out by pressing the area surrounding the prick. Usually, a light squeeze does the trick.

Typefreediabetes offers a full line of diabetes supplies, including diabetes socks, durable diabetes medical equipment, Body Fat Scales and facts about diabetes. Typefreediabetes offers quality products at discounted prices on a wide selection of quality name brand equipment and supplies.

Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

About the Author:
TypeFreeDiabetes.com is the premier source for your diabetic needs on-line. At TypeFreeDiabetes.com, you can enjoy a balanced diabetic lifestyle by learning about - how to control blood sugar, lower body fat, diet to prevent diabetes, reduce diabetes medications and reverse diabetes complications.

Why Do I Need to Eat So Often?

 By Crystal M Shores 

Photo: thefoodinmybeard.com

Life is so busy today. It never slows down, and responsibilities keep piling up. Your day can go by and suddenly you look at the clock and you haven't eaten since breakfast. You may be shaky, irritable, have blurred vision, or be fatigued. When people are in this state, they tend to grab whatever they can as fast as they can. This typically is not a nice green salad loaded with fresh veggies and lean meat. The craving tends to be a simple carbohydrate meal or snack that will satisfy the overwhelming urge and craving because your body needs sugar. Often this urge is met with some sort of fast food, gas station candy bar, or the leftover donuts from the morning.
Blood sugar balance...
Our bodies are full of wonderful mechanisms. Our body systems all work together to achieve homeostasis, which is the ideal environment inside our body. Maintaining an optimal blood glucose (sugar) level is essential for a healthy metabolism (how efficiently we burn calories) and foundational for good health. We know high blood sugar can lead to diabetes, so it makes sense we would want a low blood sugar level, right? The answer to that question is sort of tricky.
Low blood sugar is a relative term... What is hypoglycemia?
Hypoglycemia is a low blood glucose level. This means that there is not enough glucose in your blood to properly deliver fuel throughout your body.
How low is too low?
That depends on who you ask. After a fasting blood glucose test your doctor sends your blood off to the lab they use for testing. It is important to know that during testing, each lab has its own set of lab reference ranges (numbers) that they use as a guideline. There is no universal standard. A low number in one lab in the US is 45 mg/dl while to another lab low is 60 mg/dl.
Do you have warning signs of Reactive Hypoglycemia?
Reactive hypoglycemia is a state where your fasting blood glucose level is within the 'normal' laboratory reference range but you still have typical low blood sugar symptoms. These symptoms include difficulty waking up in the morning, difficulty falling asleep at night, craving salty and sweet foods, "crashing" in the afternoon and craving caffeine.
Why should I be concerned?
If your blood glucose level is too low, then your brain and other vital organs are not getting the fuel they need in order to function correctly. This can manifest in many different ways. It can lead to poor cognitive function, confusion, tremors, blurred vision, etc. When your brain is not getting enough glucose, it initiates a stress response. This leads to the release of hormones in your body that release glucose from storage as well as from fat. While burning fat is usually a good thing, this is not the way to do it. If the hormones that cause the release of glucose are circulating in your blood too often, they have their own negative consequences on your health, including weight gain. While skipping meals may seem like the right thing to do to lose weight, you in fact are causing weight gain over time.
If you routinely have hard time losing weight, are irritable or shaky, have 'brain fog' after not eating, or have food cravings, you most likely have a blood sugar imbalance that needs to be addressed immediately. These signs and symptoms mean that your body and mind are suffering.

If this sounds familiar it is essential that you contact an expert to discover the actions you need to take today in order to get your health to the level that you deserve! Click here http://www.dynamicbalancehealth.com for a FREE phone consultation with a health and nutrition expert.

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

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6807908

The Top 10 Foods To Eat If Youre Trying To Control Your Diabetes

By: The Sider Group

Photo: thenutritionpost.com

While medication and the supervision of a physician are often central components to managing diabetes, one of the most important things any diabetic can do to keep his or her health in check is eat the right foods. Enriching your diet with the following 10 foods, along with exercise and a healthy lifestyle, will help you control your diabetes.

1. Beans With plenty of dietary fiber to keep you full, beans also slow down the digestive process and prevent the blood sugar spikes that often occur after meals.

2. Cereal Sugary cereals are bad for diabetics, but the right cereal can do wonders. Look for cereals made from whole grains that are high in fiber, and add skim or nonfat milk and some fruit.

3. Cinnamon It may sound silly, but this spice can work wonders for diabetics. Simply sprinkling cinnamon in tea, on top of fruit, in baked goods or in recipes such as chicken dishes can help lower blood sugar and insulin use.

4. Fish Any kind of fish is good for diabetics, even the high-fat kinds, which are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids. Fish is a much healthier protein than red meat, and offers good cholesterol to help diabetics lower their triglycerides and raise their HDL levels.

5. Fruit Fruits contain lots of nutrients and fiber, and they are typically very low in calories. You also get antioxidants that boost your immune system from many fruits.

6. Nuts This is another source of good fat and protein, as well as fiber and antioxidants in the form of vitamin E. Nuts help diabetics control blood sugar and reduce insulin resistance.

7. Olive Oil When cooking, diabetics should use olive oil as opposed to butter, lard or vegetable oils. Its another good fat that helps fight heart disease and control blood sugar levels.

8. Poultry Breast Chicken or turkey breast, or the breast of any other kind of bird, is a low-fat protein that lowers bad cholesterol and may increase resistance to insulin.

9. Vegetables From asparagus to zucchini, vegetables have tons of nutrients and fiber without a lot of calories. Eating veggies to replace simple carbs (like non-whole grains) and saturated fats is especially advantageous for diabetics.

10. Yogurt This is low-fat protein with a unique advantage: yogurt also offers lots of calcium, which aids in weight loss and reduces insulin resistance.

Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

About the Author:
HealthDegreesU.com provides the opportunity to research and request free information about top allied health schools and health care degrees program for potential students looking to start or expand their career in the field of health care. Choose best health care programs for you and start your in allied healthcare.

Type 2 Diabetes - Vitamin D in Obese Adolescents

By Beverleigh H Piepers  

Photo: rsefitness.com

According to a growing body of evidence, a vitamin D deficiency is associated with insulin resistance, the cause of Type 2 diabetes, as well as full-blown Type 2 diabetes itself, and heart and blood vessel disease. Type 2 diabetes is a growing problem among overweight and obese adolescents in developed countries. In 2011 the journal Polish Endokrynology reported the results of a study on vitamin D in insulin resistance in obese young people.
Sixty-four obese adolescents were included in this study:

• half the participants were deficient in vitamin D, while
• 14 percent had a sufficient amount, and
• 36 percent had borderline values.

Levels of vitamin D were naturally higher during summer than winter months. Those with the:

• highest percentage of body fat,
• those with acanthosis nigricans, a discoloration of the armpits sometimes seen in diabetes, and
• the highest blood sugar levels,

had the lowest blood levels of vitamin D.
Vitamin D is made when the skin is exposed to sunlight. While obese adolescents might be shy about being seen in a swimsuit at the beach or public swimming pool, walking outside with one's face and arms exposed is a good way to get vitamin D in the spring, summer and fall.
Vitamin D is also available in foods and food supplements made from fungi:

• soymilk is often fortified with vitamin D. Check the labels for the amount of vitamin D listed. Soymilk can be used in most places as a substitute for dairy milk.
• cereals can also be fortified with vitamin D.

A cup of Cheerios or three quarters of a cup of Total cereal with a cup of Silk soymilk can supply 40 per cent of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin D.
Try making a smoothie with soymilk and your favorite fruit:

• Silksoymilk.com recommends making a smoothie with soymilk, strawberries, banana, a sweetener of choice, and optional vanilla.

Allrecipes.com recommends making pancakes with soymilk, all-purpose flour (substitute whole wheat), sugar (substitute stevia), baking powder, baking soda, egg, (substitute vegan egg substitute), vegetable oil, vanilla, and almonds.
Mushrooms contain some vitamin D, and if you buy the kind that have been grown under ultraviolet light, you can get even more:

• Monterey Mushrooms advertises a 3 ounce serving of its mushrooms contains more than 100 per cent of the RDA of vitamin D.
• mushrooms are low in calories and delicious.

Try baking them with a drizzle of olive oil for a snack, or include them in a wrap with thin flat bread, along with baked sliced tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers. Or cut them up for a salad along with some kale, Romaine lettuce, chopped onions and grated carrots. Top off with some balsamic vinegar and olive oil.
There's more than one way to get your daily intake of vitamin D. Because of all the research that's been done in recent years, vitamin D is one of the most important nutrients you can take if you have Type 2 diabetes.

To discover answers to questions you may be asking yourself about Type 2 Diabetes, click on this link... Natural Diabetes Treatments
Clicking on this link will help you to learn more about Type 2 Diabetes Solutions... Beverleigh Piepers RN... the Diabetes Detective.
Beverleigh Piepers is the author of this article. This article can be used for reprint on your website provided all the links in the article are complete and active. Copyright (c) 2011 - All Rights Reserved Worldwide

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

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6770748

Type 2 Diabetes - Types of Exercise and Blood Sugar Levels!

By Beverleigh H Piepers  

Photo: img.webmd.com

Exercise is a very important tool used in the management of Type 2 diabetes. Exercise is just as important as diet and, in many instances, as important as drugs in managing diabetes. Researchers continue to investigate the merits of endurance-type (cardio) and resistance-type (strength training) activity. Most studies so far have looked at the benefits of either one or the other type of program.
Investigators in the Department of Human Movement Sciences, Maastricht University Medical Centre, in the Netherlands, reported results of a study comparing resistance and endurance-type exercises and their effect on 24-hour blood sugar in individuals with poor sugar tolerance and those with Type 2 diabetes.
Their study, published in the journal Diabetologia November 2011, included:

• 15 volunteers with impaired sugar tolerance,
• 15 people diagnosed with Type 2 diabetics and treated with insulin, and
• 15 Type 2 diabetics treated with oral anti-diabetic medications.

They were all given the same diet for 3 days.
Their blood sugars were measured during a 24-hour period:

• after a 45-minute session of resistance-type exercise,
• a 45-minute session of endurance exercise, and
• a day of no exercise.

For all the three groups, blood sugar levels went down significantly during the 24 hours following their exercise program. Resistance and endurance exercises produced similar results. Abnormally high blood sugar readings were reduced by over one-third as the result of both types of exercise.
From these results it was concluded either resistance or endurance exercise could be helpful if it was incorporated into a regular program of treatment for Type 2 diabetes.
Endurance-type (or cardio) exercises are those that increase your pulse rate and the rate of breathing.

• fast walking,
• running,
• aerobics,
• swimming, and
• bicycle riding are typical examples of endurance exercises.

Housework such as mopping and gardening activities, for example raking leaves, fall into the category of endurance activities, as does dancing. Parking far from the office and walking upstairs instead of taking the elevator can provide some physical activity throughout the day.
As endurance for the exercise is increased, so is general endurance, making people feel generally healthier after a hard week at the office or during final exams.
Research has found people with Type 2 diabetes who do eight weeks of aerobic exercise wind up with their HbA1c levels about 8 percent lower than nonexercisers.
Resistance-type (or strength training) physical activities are those in which muscles are moved against opposing forces.

• lifting free weight or using weight machines, and pushing against a wall are examples of resistance exercises.
• large rubber bands are sometimes used to provide resistance, or
• a person's own body can provide resistance, as in performing push-ups.

This form of exercise builds muscle, and that extra muscle soaks up more blood sugar in the form of glycogen.
Consult your doctor first, plan an exercise program, and start your new exercise program.

To discover answers to questions you may be asking yourself about Type 2 Diabetes, click on this link... Natural Diabetes Treatments
Clicking on this link will help you to learn more about Type 2 Diabetes Solutions... Beverleigh Piepers RN... the Diabetes Detective.
Beverleigh Piepers is the author of this article. This article can be used for reprint on your website provided all the links in the article are complete and active. Copyright (c) 2011 - All Rights Reserved Worldwide

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

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6758839