Tag Archives: type 1 diabetes

FAQ, Healthcare

Statins And Diabetes

Diabetes is a relatively common illness that impacts millions of people. A person is said to be diabetic if his or her ability to create and/or respond to insulin is impaired. This means the body cannot process food for energy in the normal way that it should. The body’s lack of insulin or the misuse of it causes an elevated glucose level and an abnormal metabolism of carbs. This article will discuss both statins and diabetes as well as how to spot the symptoms of diabetes and ways to support healthy living with diabetes.

TYPES OF DIABETES
Diabetes is typically divided into two types: type 1 and type 2. Type 1 diabetes is sometimes called insulin-dependent, and it can also be referred to as juvenile onset diabetes. This form of the disease can develop at any age. However, in most cases it presents itself before a person has reached adulthood. Type 1 is the least common of the two types, as it accounts for only about 5% to 10% of total diagnosed cases.

Some risk factors for type 1 diabetes are genetics and family history. For instance, a person who has a parent or a sibling with the disease is slightly more likely to develop it. Some research also shows that autoimmune factors can lead to the development of type 1 diabetes.

SOME AUTOIMMUNE DISEASES THAT CAN POTENTIALLY INCREASE THE RISK OF DIABETES ARE AS FOLLOWS:
Thyroid disease

Addison’s disease

Gastritis

Celiac disease

Type 2 diabetes is also known as non-insulin-dependent or adult-onset diabetes. Most diabetics have type 2. In fact, estimates show that about 90% of diabetes cases are classified as type 2.

SOME RISK FACTORS FOR TYPE 2 ARE AS FOLLOWS:
Advanced age

Obesity

History of gestational diabetes

Family history of diabetes

Impaired tolerance for glucose

Lack of regular physical exercise

In addition to the above risk factors, certain races and ethnicities are more likely to develop diabetes. If you are black American, Latin American, Native American, or Asian American, you might be slightly more likely to develop type two diabetes.

In a small percentage of pregnancy cases, a woman will develop diabetes. This form of the disease is called gestational diabetes, and it typically goes away at the end of the pregnancy. However, in some cases, a woman who develops gestational diabetes goes on to develop diabetes later in life. Gestational diabetes tends to occur more frequently in Hispanics, blacks, Asians and American Indians. It is also more likely to appear in those who have a family history of diabetes.

In a very small percentage of cases, people get diabetes as a result of an infection, a surgery or a genetic disorder. Malnutrition also accounts for a small percentage of cases.

SYMPTOMS OF DIABETES
For some diabetics, the warning signs may be mild and almost unnoticeable. In fact, some diabetics don’t know they have the disease until they are treated for another health concern. This is especially the case for many type 2 diabetics. However, with type 1 diabetes, symptoms tend to be more severe and they may happen suddenly and unexpectedly.

SOME SIGNS OF DIABETES TO LOOK FOR ARE AS FOLLOWS:
Hunger

Thirst

Frequent urination

Fatigue or weakness

Blurry vision

Dry mouth

Itchy skin

Sores and cuts that are slow to heal

Yeast infections

Numbness in feet or legs

Pain in feet or legs

The above symptoms most frequently occur at the early onset of the disease and are especially prevalent in type 2 diabetics. Type 1 diabetics might also experience some unexplained weight loss. This weight loss may occur even in those who have not changed their exercise or eating habits. The weight loss is a result of the body not getting enough energy from food. Thus, the body burns fat and muscle, which results in the weight loss.

Type 1 diabetics are also susceptible to both vomiting and nausea. This is caused by the body’s process of burning fat. When fat is burned, a diabetic can develop ketones. Ketones are chemicals made in the human liver. Everyone has them. However, in diabetics, when too many ketones are produced, the body cannot use them for fuel in the way they are supposed to. This results in a diabetic feeling nauseated and also vomiting. In the worst case scenario, too many ketones can be fatal.

A person’s ketone level can be monitored at home using either a blood test or a urine test. These testing devices are available for purchase over-the-counter. Both tests can, of course, also be given at a doctor’s office. A patient should check his or her ketone level when pregnant and also when feeling physically injured or sick. A blood sugar level above 250 mg/dl also indicates that a person might have a high level of ketones, and thus the ketone level should be checked regularly.

WHAT ARE STATINS?
Statins and diabetes: Statins are a specific type of drug often prescribed to treat patients who have high levels of LDL cholesterol, also known as harmful or “bad” cholesterol. LDL is considered the bad cholesterol because it deposits fatty residue in a person’s arterial walls located in the brain and heart. As these fat deposits build up, the arteries can be blocked. A blockage can lead to a stroke or a heart attack, both of which can be fatal. With Statins and diabetes, statins work by blocking a substance in the liver used to make LDL cholesterol. Fortunately with statins and diabetes, statins benefit patients with high cholesterol by lowering LDL cholesterol.

IN ADDITION TO LOWERING A PATIENT’S RISK OF SUFFERING A STROKE OR HEART ATTACK, STATINS ARE ALSO USEFUL IN THE FOLLOWING WAYS:
heart attack, statins and diabetes
Decrease inflammation

Lower the risk of developing blood clots

Improve and strengthen the lining of blood vessels

While statins perform many important functions in the body, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has recently cautioned diabetics about taking statins. While the use of statins and diabetes does help, the FDA has warned that statin use may raise a patient’s risk of developing diabetes type 2. This puts people in a quandary because so many patients with heart disease and high LDL cholesterol need statins to lower LDL cholesterol. However, if a patient has a history of cardiac trouble or suffers from heart disease, taking statins may be necessary, regardless of the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

WHO SHOULD TAKE STATIN DRUGS?
Not every patient with a heart problem needs to take statins. According to some heart specialists, there are several groups who can benefit from statins. The first group includes those who are at risk for cardiovascular disease but have not developed the disease. The second group of people who might benefit from statins would be those who are at high risk for heart attack and also have risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Smokers, those who have hypertension, diabetes, and/or high cholesterol all fall into this second group.

The other group of people who could benefit from learning about statins and diabetes are those who have already been diagnosed with cardiovascular disease. This group includes those who have atherosclerosis, a term used to describe hardening of the arteries, and patients that have already suffered from a stroke or heart attack caused by a blood vessel blockage. People who have a history of surgery to repair or replace coronary arteries and those with peripheral artery disease all fall into this last group.

Two other groups, who may benefit from understanding statins and diabetes, are those who have excessively high LDL cholesterol and patients who have diabetes. This high LDL cholesterol group includes those whose cholesterol reads at least 190 mg/dl.

THE DIABETIC GROUP THAT MAY BENEFIT MOST FROM STATINS AND DIABETES INCLUDES INDIVIDUALS WHO FIT INTO THE FOLLOWING CATERGORIES:

People who have an LDL reading between 70 and 189 mg/dl

Those who show risk factors for heart disease

Those who show signs of vascular disease

Smokers

Those over 40 years old

People with hypertension

Some experts recommend starting low to moderate dosages of statins for adults aged 40 to 75 who display at least one risk factor for cardio disease. A low to moderate dose is also recommended for those who have cardio disease and have at least a slight chance of having a cardiac episode within the next decade.

If a heart patient is concerned about type 2 diabetes, then he or she should speak with a physician about their options. This is especially true for patients who have a family history of diabetes and also for those who think they may already shows signs of the disease. Sometimes, a doctor might recommend a different statin or a different dosage for a patient who is at risk of developing diabetes.

ADVERSE HEALTH EFFECTS OF STATINS
In addition to raising a person’s risk of developing type 2 diabetes, statins and diabetes also have several worrying side effects. Among the most common side effects are as follows:

Mental lapses or fuzziness

Liver damage (in rare cases)

Muscle pain

Digestive problems

Not everyone who takes statins will experience the side effects listed above. Patients who take multiple drugs to treat high cholesterol are at a greater risk of developing the above side effects.

OTHER RISK FACTORS THAT MAKE A PATIENT MORE SUSCEPTIBLE TO SIDE EFFECTS FROM STATIN DRUGS ARE AS FOLLOWS:
Having a petite body

Being female

Advanced age (age 80 and above)

Excessive alcohol use

Liver disease

Having hypothyroidism

Kidney disease

Having amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

HOW TO COMBAT PREDIABETES
A person is said to have prediabetes if he or she has elevated glucose levels and is at a great risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Typically, a physician will help a patient manage their prediabetes by cutting most simple sugars from his or her dietary plan. To learn more about statins and diabetes, a patient should direct questions to their doctor or other healthcare provider. This is especially important because two diabetics might have slightly different health concerns and treatment plans. What works for one patient may not work for another.

RISK FACTORS FOR PREDIABETES ARE AS FOLLOWS:
Being overweight

Advanced age (over 45 years old)

Family history (a sibling or parent already has the disease)

Do not exercise regularly (Most experts suggest exercising at least three times weekly, if possible)

Have birthed a baby larger than nine pounds

Have ever developed gestational diabetes

If you are black, Latino, Asian or Native American

It is possible to reverse prediabetes or outright prevent it with some basic lifestyle changes. For instance, an overweight person could lose weight by changing eating habits and exercising regularly. Most physicians can recommend steps a patient can take to lose weight and eat healthier.

HOW TO MANAGE DIABETES
In most cases type 1 diabetes is treated with injections of insulin. Type 1 diabetics should also monitor the amounts of carbs and sugars they consume and also check their blood sugar frequently. Type 2 diabetics should also monitor their blood sugar readings and take either insulin or oral medications or sometimes both.

A physician can help a patient develop an individual and personalized care plan that involves both a dietary plan and an exercise regimen. Some family doctors will recommend that a diabetic be treated by a specialist who has handled many diabetes cases. A doctor or specialist can also inform the patient of their target glucose reading range. That way, when the patient consistently tests above that range, the patient knows to contact the doctor.

Diabetics usually check their own blood sugar at home. Some may even be required to check their reading multiple times per day, especially if the patient takes insulin. In fact, careful blood glucose monitoring is the best and most efficient way to ensure the reading stays within a healthy range.

In addition to checking blood glucose levels, daily insulin injections are required for many diabetics. Several specific kinds of insulin are available for use. Patients may use long-acting insulin, rapid-acting or intermediate insulin. Some patients use a variety of different types, and this depends on their needs and the doctor’s specific instructions.

Insulin tablets are ineffective because swallowing insulin orally would enable stomach acids to weaken the effects of the insulin. Most often, diabetics inject insulin using a small needle or insulin pen. Insulin pumps are now available, too. The pump is a small device worn outside the patient’s body. It can fit in a pocket or on a belt and is about the size of a cellular phone. A small tube connects a catheter under the skin to a small reservoir of insulin.

One other option is the tubeless pump, which dispenses a certain amount of insulin. The specific amount is programmed into the pump. However, the amount can be adjusted to pump less or more insulin, depending upon physical activities performed, the recent meals consumed and the current blood sugar reading.

In addition to insulin injections, some diabetics must also take oral medications. These medicines stimulate the patient’s pancreas so that it creates and releases more insulin. Other drugs prescribed for diabetics block processes in the stomach and intestines that break down carbs. Some other oral meds block the production of glucose from the liver. As a result, a person needs less insulin to move the sugars into the body’s cells.

A pancreas transplant is an option for some patients, though these risky surgeries are not often recommended. As with any organ transplant, there are many risks involved. For instance, if a patient undergoes transplant surgery, he or she must also take many drugs in attempt to ensure the body does not reject the organ. The downside is that the drugs have many serious side effects. The risks and side effects are so severe that in most cases physicians don’t recommend transplants. However, in successful transplant cases, the patient no longer requires insulin therapy.

Some diabetics undergo stomach surgery to reduce their body weight. Some patients see a significant improvement in blood sugar readings after the surgery. However, more research and studies must be conducted to draw a conclusion on the long-term effects and benefits of gastric bypass as a viable treatment for diabetes.

WHEN TO CONTACT A DOCTOR
When a person experiences debilitating symptoms from their diabetes and are unable to control their blood sugar at home, he or she should contact a physician.

SOME REASONS OR CONDITIONS FOR WHICH A PATIENT SHOULD SEEK EMERGENCY CARE ARE AS FOLLOWS:
Hyperglycemia, especially if persistent, or if blood sugar is excessively high

Hypoglycemia, especially if persistent, or if blood sugar is excessively low

High ketones count in urine

Warning signs for a diabetic coma

A person is said to be suffering from low blood sugar when his or her blood sugar falls below his or her targeted range set by a physician. Low blood sugar is also referred to as hypoglycemia. Blood sugar may drop for several different reasons. For instance, people who take medication to control blood sugar may notice a drop in their glucose level when they skip a meal or exercise more than usual. Taking the wrong dosage of insulin or another diabetes-specific medication can also impact blood glucose levels.

To prevent blood sugar from getting too low, the patient should monitor blood sugar levels daily or as often as directed by a physician.

SIGNS THAT INDICATE ABNORMALLY LOW BLOOD SUGAR ARE AS FOLLOWS:
Sweatiness

Shaky feeling

Weak and fatigued feeling

Dizziness

Hunger

Seizures

Losing consciousness

Heart palpitations

Blurry vision

Diffculty speaking or slurred speech

Drowsy feeling

Low blood sugar can be treated at home by consuming carbs. Glucose tablets or fruit juice can typically bring blood sugar levels up. However, in cases where blood sugar cannot be controlled at home, or when a patient consistently shows low blood sugar readings, the patient should contact a physician.

A patient is said to be suffering from hyperglycemia when the blood sugar level has risen dangerously high. This condition can be caused by many factors, including failure to take medications and insulin, eating too much or not following dietary guidelines. Sickness or infection can also impact blood sugar levels. To combat hyperglycemia, the patient should check sugar levels as often as recommended by a physician.

THE PATIENT SHOULD ALSO BEWARE OF THE FOLLOWING HYPERGLYCEMIA SIGNS:
Thirst

Dry mouth

Frequent urge to urinate

Fatigue and weakness

Nauseated feeling

Blurry vision

Those with hyperglycemia should contact a doctor immediately for further instructions. Ambulatory care is required if the patient is unable to bring down their blood sugar with diet or medication. Ambulatory care is especially important if hyperglycemia persists over time.

A diabetic coma is a life-threatening condition that occurs most commonly in type 2 diabetics, though it could occur in either type. These comas typically occur in patients who have a blood sugar reading higher than 600 mg/dl. A person is said to be in a diabetic coma when he or she becomes severely dehydrated as a result of high blood sugar.

Diabetic comas have many warning signs, such as extreme thirst combined with a parched mouth and dry skin that does not sweat. A high fever is typically present in the patient along with difficulty with vision, sleepiness, hallucinations and confusion. A patient might also complain of a weak feeling on one side of his or her body.

Because a patient might lose consciousness as a result of diabetes-related health problems, it is important that all diabetics wear an ID bracelet. Such bracelets identify patients as diabetic, and this warns others to call for help when a patient behaves strangely, loses consciousness or cannot make decisions independently. An ID bracelet also alerts medical professionals that the patient has special and specific medical needs.

It is also important that diabetics alert their friends and family of what to do in emergency situations. Family members should be able to recognize signs that a diabetic is in distress. Patients should carry all diabetes medications and insulin with them at all times. It might also be a good idea to carry hard candies, just in case an insulin boost is needed.

ADDITIONAL TIPS FOR MANAGING DIABETES
Diabetics should always be careful in regards to diet and exercise, and this is especially true if a diabetic takes statins. Overall, there are several day-to-day things diabetics should do to live a healthier lifestyle. For starters, all vaccinations must be kept current. This is because high blood sugar often weakens the immune system. The hepatitis B vaccine, the pneumonia vaccine and also the yearly flu shots are recommended for diabetics, though patients should speak with their physicians before taking these shots.

In addition to getting vaccinated, diabetics should also monitor their cholesterol and blood pressure. If a doctor prescribes medications for these issues, the patient should be sure to take all medicines on time as prescribed. Patients with statins and diabetes should seek emergency medical help when experiencing any severe or ongoing issues with blood pressure or blood sugar.

Diabetics should also be mindful of the condition of their feet. Washing and drying feet daily is important. Drying the spaces between the toes is also recommended, especially because diabetics are prone to skin infections and slow-healing cuts and sores. Skin should be checked daily for any sores, blisters, cuts or swelling. A medical consult is imperative for anyone who finds slow-healing cuts on the body.

It is also important that diabetics practice good oral hygiene. Good dental care is important for everyone, but especially for diabetics, and this is because diabetics are more susceptible to gum infections.

A FEW STEPS TO TAKE TO IMPROVE AND MAINTAIN GOOD ORAL HYGIENE ARE AS FOLLOWS:
toothbrush, brushing, oral hygiene
Brush teeth at least twice daily

Floss teeth daily

Schedule regular dental exams

Call a dentist or dental hygienist when signs of gum infection are present (ie. swollen gums, red gums or bleeding gums)

Smoking and alcohol use can cause harmful complications for diabetics. For instance, smoking increases a person’s risk of developing cardiovascular disease, and diabetic smokers with cardiovascular disease are more likely to die from it than nonsmokers. Even smokeless tobacco is harmful for those with cardiovascular disease. Thus, diabetic smokers and smokeless tobacco users should quit their tobacco use.

Alcohol use should also be kept to a minimum, especially because it can impact blood sugar levels. Most experts recommend no more than 1-2 drinks daily. Diabetics who drink should be sure to do so in moderation and only with food, never on an empty stomach.

Stress management is also essential in regards to managing diabetes. This is because hormones in the body of a diabetic can inhibit insulin from working, which results in raised blood sugar levels, and this is especially true for people who endure high levels of stress over time.

A FEW WAYS TO MANAGE STRESS ARE AS FOLLOWS:
Learn relaxation techniques, such as meditation or yoga

Set daily, realistic goals at work and at home

Prioritize important tasks

Go to bed at a reasonable hour

While there is no cure for diabetes, the disease can be managed by making the proper lifestyle choices. It may be necessary for diabetics and prediabetics to take statin drugs to improve their quality of life and help lower LDL cholesterol levels. If taking a statin drug, diabetics should be extra careful about monitoring their blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels.

When a diabetic experiences severe or long-lasting side effects from statins and diabetes or from other medications or insulin, he or she should seek advice from a physician. Drug dosages can be adjusted, or the patient may be placed on another statin drug. With statins and diabetes, for patients who rely on statins, the side effects might be worth enduring if the drug can prevent a life-threatening emergency, such as a stroke or a heart attack.

Overall, diabetics can control their symptoms with proper diet, exercise and medications. Statin drugs may pose some risks to diabetics in terms of raising blood sugar. However, diabetics and their healthcare providers can monitor daily changes in blood sugar and decide how to treat problems on a case-by-case basis. By practicing good personal care and communicating with physicians, many diabetics can relieve their symptoms. To educate others on statins and diabetes, share this article on social media.

FAQ, Healthcare

How To Reverse Type 2 Diabetes Naturally

This article takes a look at how to reverse type 2 Diabetes naturally.

 

Diabetes is one of the most popular diseases affecting people around the world. It is a condition which causes your blood sugar levels to become higher than usual. Diabetes can be categorized into Type 1 and Type Diabetes with the latter being the most common.

 

What is Type 2 Diabetes?

 

This is a chronic condition which makes your body fail to use the insulin it produces appropriately. Insulin is responsible for regulating the movement of sugar into your cells. With type 2 diabetes, instead of the body converting sugar into energy, it stores it in the bloodstream.

 

The difference between type 2 Diabetes and type 1 diabetes is that the latter is caused by inadequate insulin in the body due to the immune system in some people destroying the cells that generate insulin. Unlike type 2 Diabetes, a person’s lifestyle doesn’t contribute to the development of type 1 diabetes which makes it hard to prevent..

 

Why Type 2 Diabetes Occurs

 

This type of diabetes occurs due to the body cells becoming insulin resistance where they ignore to take sugar from the blood. When there is too much sugar in your bloodstream for a prolonged period, muscle and fat cells will ignore the directions of insulin to take sugar from the blood hence more sugar accumulation in your bloodstream. Under normal condition, your pancreas produces adequate insulin to drive sugar into your cells. However, during the development stage of type 2 diabetes, your cells ignore to take sugar hence the sugar continues to move freely in your bloodstream. This forces the pancreas to produce more insulin to try to maintain the normal sugar levels but fails to keep up with the pace in the long run. The excess sugar in your body is sometimes converted and stored as cholesterol which is why most victims of this diabetes type are overweight. Inactive lifestyle, smoking, poor diets are the main factors associated with the development of this diabetes condition. The disease can also be hereditary. Although the disease can affect a person of any age, people at their early to mid-forties are at higher risk of getting this condition.

 

What It’s Like On A Day To Day Basis For People Living With Diabetes Type 2

 

People living with type 2 diabetes are most likely to experience increased hunger, fatigue, hand and feet numbness, excessive thirst, and urge to urinate frequently. Blurred vision, weight loss, and slow healing of infections other symptoms that people with diabetes suffer from. These symptoms develop gradually such that some people will not note the change in life and will not even know they are suffering from this condition. This condition is progressive and may result in devastating effects if it is not controlled on time. Over time, high sugar levels in the bloodstream can cause damage to small blood vessels and nerves of the eye, kidneys or worse the heart. Large arteries are at high risk of hardening which can result in heart failure and stroke. Frequent urination may result in excessive loss of water in the body making one to be dehydrated. The kidneys are also forced to work harder which can cause them to fail. In the worst condition, type 2 diabetes can lead to organ failures resulting in amputation. Staying under medication is a struggle people who have Type 2 Diabetes have to endure every day for the rest of their life.

 

Treatment For Diabetes Type 2

 

If you, a family member or a friend is diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, you will be glad to know there are some treatment means that can control or even reverse the condition.

 

Diet And Exercise Treatment Approach

 

The first approach to treating type 2 diabetes is following a healthy diet and exercising regularly to keep your body fit. Exercising makes your body use high amounts of energy hence the need to process more sugar. If more sugar is processed, there will be no excess sugar roaming in your blood. When it comes to diet, one should avoid a high intake of proteins and fats and instead make complex Carbohydrates a large part of your meals. Such carbohydrates include whole grains, potatoes, and pasta. You should also take meals regularly in small amounts to ensure gradual sugar release into the bloodstream. If one maintains a healthy lifestyle, you can easily fight the disease without using drugs.

 

Medication Approach And Managing Type 2 Diabetes

 

Even though the above treatment approach is simple and easy to follow, one may not be sure it will work hence the need for medication. Drugs are mostly administered to make the body more responsive to insulin. Below are some of the drugs that people have to take to survive when they have diabetes type 2.

 

Metformin andquot; This drug works by reducing the amount of sugar released by the liver and decreasing rate of sugar absorption in the digestive tract. This automatically lowers blood sugar levels hence sensitizes cells to insulin. However, this drug may cause bloating, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.

 

Sulfonylureas and quot; This drug works by boosting insulin production. However, they may fail to work after some time, cause weight gain, and abnormally decrease sugar levels.

 

Biguanides andquot; These drugs function by decreasing the amount of glucose produced in the body. The side effect of this drug includes weight loss.

 

Megalitinides andquot; These drugs are taken before meals with the aim of boosting the production of insulin. Their impact is short-lived even though they give immediate effects. They can cause low blood sugar levels and make one to gain weight.

 

Thiazolidinediones – These drugs work by enabling body cells to accept insulin. They can, however, cause a heart attack. SGLT2 inhibitors – They work by preventing re-absorption of sugar into the blood by the kidneys by instead get rid of it in urine. They can, however, cause low blood pressure, vaginal yeast infections, diabetic ketoacidosis, and Urinary tract infections. Regardless of their side effects, these drugs are good for patients at risk of heart attack or stroke.

 

DPP-4 Inhibitors andquot; They block the functionality of dipeptidyle peptidase IV enzyme hence lowering sugar levels in the bloodstream. Their side effects include joint pain and pancreatitis.

 

GLP-1 receptor agonists and quot; These are injections that work by slowing metabolic rate hence lowering blood sugar. They can cause weight loss, pancreatitis, and nausea.

 

The decision to use drugs may be influenced by various factors which include blood sugar level and other health issues you may have, among others. Finding the ideal treatment for diabetes type 2 may require seeking medical advice. You may be required to combine various drugs to control your disease.

 

Does one have to endure taking the above drugs for a lifetime? Is it possible to reverse diabetes type 2? Well, there are some programs out there made to help people suffering from Type 2 Diabetes that treat the condition naturally. One such program is The Big Diabetes Lie.

 

The Big Diabetes Lie. This is a 456 pages book written by Max Sidorov and The International Council for Truth in Medicine (ICTM). It contains strategies on how to reverse Type 2 Diabetes naturally. If you have diabetes, the book promises to deliver you from the slavery of medications through a procedural health guide called The 7 Steps to Healthy and the Big Diabetes Lie.

 

How It Works

 

The program enlightens the users about everything to do with Type 2 diabetes right from how it develops and how to fight it. With this program, one learns about the adjustments they can make in their lifestyle to keep them safe from not only type 2 diabetes but also from other diseases. The program poses the question to the reader are your current diet choices keeping you diabetic? Some of the lessons one will learn from this book include healthy foods and the ones to avoid, choice of vitamins, differentiating healthy fats from the unhealthy ones, and how to reduce food craving among others. The book also teaches one how to maintain the appropriate PH level to make your body unfriendly to diseases like cancer. Overall, the guide emphasizes on healthy eating and lifestyle routines as the key to controlling and even reversing type 2 diabetes and preventing an attack from other diseases.

 

The Big Diabetes Lie claims the pharmaceutical industry is out to exploit the people living with Type 2 diabetes. Based on the authors’ argument, the industry is after profit by selling drugs that they know can’t completely treat Type 2 Diabetes but insist one cannot survive without their usage. The big pharmaceutical companies are afraid that other successful approaches will affect their bottom line and put them out of business. According to the authors, drugs treat symptoms instead of getting rid of the disease’s root cause and even causes more life-threatening side effects compared to those of the disease itself. This is evident in the above drugs since none of them lacks a side effect.

 

Why It Is Successful

 

Unlike the drugs which only address the symptoms of Type 2 diabetes, this program tackles the root cause of the problem to make the patient free forever. It teaches you how to reverse type 2 diabetes naturally. Drugs are just meant to profit the pharmaceutical industry. The guide also uses natural strategies and will not cause any ill effects to the user. The program has worked for thousands of people around the world and maybe your solution too.

 

Conclusion Overall, Type 2 diabetes is mainly a lifestyle disease. Even though there are other contributing factors, poor lifestyle is the main culprit. Educating people about this disease is the first step to fighting it. How do we inform the victims and prevent others from being diagnosed? Understanding everything about the condition is the key. The above guide outlines practically everything about this disease. There should be public awareness of what people should eat, how they should exercise, control their weight, and change their lifestyle. Most people have a hectic life and have little or no time to exercise. To make the matter worse, they are consuming junk foods in high amounts hence making them easy prey for type 2 diabetes. With proper education on how to observe a healthy lifestyle, Type 2 Diabetes can become history. This could be the diabetes breakthrough that saves your life.

 

Learn what it’s like to live with Type 2 Diabetes and how to reverse type 2 Diabetes naturally.

 

 

 

 

FAQ, Healthcare

How to Prevent Pre-Diabetes From Getting Worse

Introduction

Diabetes is a very serious chronic disease suffered by millions of people worldwide.

If you are diabetic and fail to control your blood glucose levels you are likely to end up with one or more serious medical conditions, such as heart disease, kidney failure, and damaged nerves among many others.

Pre-diabetes is a condition in which your blood glucose levels are higher than they should be but not so high that you are diagnosed as diabetic. Research suggests that up to 70% of persons with pre-diabetes go on to develop full type 2 diabetes.

But this means that 30% manage to halt the development of diabetes before it becomes a chronic disease. So, if you have been diagnosed as pre-diabetic, developing full-blown diabetes is not inevitable.

You can’t change your past behavior, your age, or your genes but you can change your lifestyle… how you disport yourself and what you eat and drink. Continue reading →

FAQ, Healthcare

What Is Diabetes? Types Of Diabetes

Diabetes is also referred to as diabetes mellitus, and may broadly be classified as a category of ailments wherein a person has high blood glucose levels. This could be either because insulin production in one’s body is not sufficient, or the body fails to respond to the insulin in the required way. Some of the symptoms that are very commonly associated with diabetes are frequent thirst, hunger and urination.

In some cases, diabetes could be a lifelong condition, characterized by high blood glucose levels. The condition is commonly prevalent, and in the year 2013, 382 million people across the world were suffering from the disorder.

Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes

Diabetes is very often classified as Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes. When one suffers from type 1 diabetes, the body ceases to produce insulin. This type of diabetes is relatively rarer, and only 10% of people suffering from the ailment are ailing from Type 1 diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes is also sometimes referred to as insulin dependent diabetes or early onset diabetes. And this type of diabetes is more prevalent in people under 40 years of age, even in one’s teenage years or early adulthood.

If one is ailing with type 1 diabetes, he has to take insulin injections for the rest of his life, follow a specific diet and also monitor his blood glucose levels by carrying out blood tests at regular intervals.

However, type 2 diabetes is a lot more prevalent type of diabetes, and nearly 90% of people who suffer this disorder are ailing with type 2 diabetes. When one suffers from type 2 diabetes, the body does not produce insulin in adequate quantities, or the body cells do not react to insulin, in a condition known as insulin resistance.

For many people, type 2 diabetes is a condition relatively easier to control, and one can keep a check on symptoms of type 2 diabetes by maintaining one’s weight in recommendable limits, making sure that one consumes a healthy diet, getting some regular exercise, and monitoring one’s blood glucose levels at regular intervals.

Gestational Diabetes

An important classification of diabetes is gestational diabetes which affects women during pregnancy. During pregnancy, women sometimes have blood glucose levels which are more towards the higher side, and their body does not produce adequate insulin to transport this glucose into their cells.

Diagnosis of gestational diabetes can be made only during pregnancy, and a vast majority of patients can control their condition by means of diet and exercise. However, 10-20% of patients need to take specific medications to keep a check on their blood glucose levels.

An important way that can enable one to prevent the condition is by making sure that one consumes a low cholesterol diet during pregnancy.

When Do People Get Diabetes?

When one is overweight, he is at a higher risk of developing diabetes. One of the reasons for the same is because when one is obese, the body releases chemicals which can work towards destabilizing body’s metabolic and cardiovascular systems.

So being overweight, not consuming the right kind of a diet and developing type 2 diabetes are all interrelated. Another important factor that is known to greatly enhance the risk of developing type 2 diabetes is aging.

Alternately, some of the other factors that can cause diabetes are genetics, one’s family history, or even following an unhealthy diet regimen.

Some Simple Lifestyle Changes To Overcome Diabetes!

To keep a check on diabetes, one must avoid skipping meals. This could hike the blood sugar levels, and could even lead to weight gain. Taking care of one’s diet is a factor that can go a long way in enabling one keep a check on diabetes, or even overcome the condition.

Similarly, consuming a diet which is high on fruits and vegetables can help control diabetes, because fruits and vegetables are full of fibers. This helps us keep full, and the high vitamin and mineral content in fruits and vegetables helps ensure that the body receives nutrition. This keeps one energetic, and one is not tempted to go for sugary foods.

As a rule, one must avoid all foods which have a higher glycemic index, like chips and salty snacks, and one must keep a check on consumption of fatty foods as well. Similarly, starches from white rice, potatoes and whole grains could also influence diabetes.

Something as simple as drinking 6-8 glasses of water every day is a factor which can go a long way towards prevention and control of diabetes. In the same way, even a slight weight loss can work wonders for someone who is a diabetic. While being the healthiest way to get over diabetes, a slight weight loss of up to 5-10% can have the same effect on a diabetic as anti-diabetic pills!

And if you are considering getting some good exercise, walking stands out as one of the best options!

Walking reduces risk of many ailments like diabetes, dementia and osteoporosis; this keeps the heart stronger and also helps you lose weight.

http://teleskyshopping.com/diabetes.html

If you have a loved one who is afflicted by diabetes, you might find a diabetes related product or two you would love to use for gifting purposes.

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FAQ, Healthcare

Diabetes in Senior Citizens

Your body obtains glucose from the food you take in, the liver and muscles also supply your body with glucose. Blood transports the glucose to cells throughout the body. Insulin, a chemical hormone, helps the body’s cells to take in the glucose. Insulin is made by the beta cells of the pancreas and then released into the bloodstream.

If the body does not make enough insulin or the insulin does not work the way it should glucose is not able to enter the body’s cells. Instead the glucose must remain in the blood causing an increase in blood glucose level. This high blood glucose level causes pre-diabetes or diabetes.

Pre-diabetes means that blood glucose level is higher than average but not high enough for a diabetes diagnosis. Having pre-diabetic glucose levels increases risk for developing type 2 diabetes as well as heart disease and stroke. Still, if you have pre-diabetes there are many ways to reduce your risk of getting type 2 diabetes. Moderate physical activity and a healthy diet accompanied by modest weight loss can prevent type 2 diabetes and help a person with pre-diabetes to return to normal blood glucose levels.

Symptoms of diabetes include excessive thirst, frequent urination, being very hungry, feeling tired, weight loss without trying, the appearance of sores that slowly heal, having dry and itchy skin, loss of feeling or tingling in feet, and blurry eyesight. Still, some people with diabetes do not experience any of these symptoms.

Diabetes can be developed at any age. There are three main types of diabetes: type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes is also referred to as juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes. It is usually diagnosed in children, teens, or young adults. In this type of diabetes, the beta cells of the pancreas are no longer able to produce insulin because they have been destroyed by the body’s immune system.

Type 2 diabetes is also referred to as adult-onset diabetes or non insulin-dependent diabetes. It may be developed at any age, including childhood. In this type of diabetes is the result of insulin resistance, a condition in which the body’s cells do not interact properly with insulin. At first, the pancreas is able to produce more insulin to keep up with the increased demand for insulin. However, it loses the ability to make up for the body’s cells inability to interact properly with insulin with time. The insulin is unable to help the cells take in glucose, this results in high blood glucose levels. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. An unhealthy weight contributed by a high calorie diet and lack of physical activity increases the risk for developing this form of diabetes.

African Americans, Hispanic Americans, American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Asian and Pacific Islanders are at especially high risk for developin Type 2 diabetes.

Gestational diabetes refers to the development of diabetes in the late stages of pregnancy. It is caused by hormones associated with pregnancy and a shortage of insulin. This form of diabetes goes away after the baby is born, but puts both the mother and child at a greater risk for developing type 2 diabetes in later life.

Diabetes is a serious disease and when it is not well controlled, it damages the eyes, kidneys, nerves, heart, gums, and teeth. Having diabetes makes one more than twice as likely as someone without diabetes to have heart disease or stroke.

It is important to keep blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol under control to avoid the serious complications associated with diabetes. Taking steps to control diabetes can make a large impact in the one’s health.

Risk Factors and Prevention

Diabetes is a serious disease with no cure. Controlling blood glucose levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol can help prevent or delay complications associated with diabetes such as heart disease and stroke. Much research is being done to find ways to treat diabetes.

Risk Factors

Type 1 diabetes is classified as an autoimmune disease. An autoimmune disease is the result of the body’s own immune system, which fights infections, turning against part of the body.

Currently, it is unclear what exactly causes the body’s immune system to turn on itself attacking and destroying the insulin producing cells of the pancreas. There are genetic and environmental factors, such as viruses, involved in the development of type 1 diabetes. Researchers are working to identify these factors and prevent type 1 diabetes in those at risk.

Type 2 diabetes is associated with being overweight, high blood presure, and abnormal cholestorol levels. Being overweight can contribute to one’s body using insulin correctly.

Other risk factors include:

  • Having a family history of diabetes, perhaps in a parent, brother, or sister.
  • Being of African American, American Indian or Alaska Native, Asian American or Pacific Islander, or Hispanic American/Latino descent.
  • Having a history of heart disease.
  • Having a history of gestational diabetes.
  • An inactive lifestyle

Prevention 

Modest changes in lifestyle can help prevent the development of type 2 diabetes in those at risk. Here are some helpful tips.

  • Maintain a healthy body weight. Being overweight has many negative effects on one’s health and can prevent the body from properly using insulin. It also can contribute to high blood pressure. Research shows that even a modest amount of weight loss can reduce one’s risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
  • Make healthy food choices. What we put into our bodies has big consequences in our health and how our body functions. Eating healthy helps control body weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.
  • Be active. Find a physical activity you enjoy and that gets your heart pumping, perhaps walking briskly, dancing, or yard work. Try to be physically active for at least 30 minutes a day 5 days a week – research shows that this helps to reduce the risk for type 2 diabetes.

Symptoms and Diagnosis 

Diabetes is sometimes referred to as a “silent” disease because people may not show any signs or symptoms. Symptoms of diabetes include: excessive thirst frequent urination, being very hungry, feeling tired, weight loss without trying, the appearance of sores that slowly heal, having dry and itchy skin, loss of feeling or tingling in feet, and blurry eyesight. Still, some people with diabetes do not experience any of these symptoms.

Symptoms for type 2 diabetes develop gradually, while type 1 diabetes develops more quickly.

Doctors use different tests to diagnose diabetes. Tests to diagnose diabetes and pre-diabetes include the fasting plasma glucose (FPG) test and the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). A random plasma glucose test allows doctors to diagnose only diabetes.

If any of these tests show that you might have diabetes, your doctor will need to repeat the fasting plasma glucose test or the oral glucose tolerance test on a different day to confirm the diagnosis.

Because type 2 diabetes is more common in older people, especially in people who are overweight, doctors recommend that anyone 45 years of age or older be tested for diabetes. If you are 45 or older and overweight, getting tested is strongly recommended.

Older adults are at higher risk for developing Type 2 diabetes, particularly if they are overweight. Doctors recommend that those over 45 years of age be tested for diabetes especially if they are overweight.

Diabetes is a serious disease that can lead to pain, disability, and death. Sometimes people have symptoms but do not suspect diabetes. They delay scheduling a checkup because they do not feel sick.

Despite the risk of diabetes due to age and weight status, people often delay having a checkup because they do not feel any symptoms. Sometimes, people experience symptoms do not realize that it may be diabetes. Still, diabetes is a serious disease which, if left untreated, may lead to hazardous complications and even death.

Often times, people are not diagnosed with diabetes until they experience one of its complications, such as heart trouble or difficulty seeing. Early detection can prevent or delay such complications, making checkups all the more important.

Treatment

There is no cure for diabetes, but with careful control of blood glucose level, as well as cholesterol levels and blood pressure, it can be managed.

People with type 1 diabetes use insulin injections, by shots or an insulin pump, to control their blood glucose levels. People with type 2 diabetes use oral medications, insulin, or both to control their blood glucose levels. In some cases of type 2 diabetes, a person can use diet and exercise alone to maintain appropriate blood glucose levels.

Managing your blood glucose includes several lifestyle changes. These include:

  • Follow a meal plan that makes sense for you and how your body responds to the different foods that you eat.
  • Incorporate physical activity into your daily life.
  • Take the appropriate diabetes medicine and check your blood glucose levels in a manner that is consistent with your doctors recommendations is also key.

Treatment and Research – Diet and Exercise 

Follow a Meal Plan

To keep your blood glucose level in the correct range, it is very important to make healthy choices when it comes to what foods you eat. People with diabetes should have their own meal plan that makes sense with how their body responds to the different type so of food that they eat. If you ask, doctors can give you the contact information of a dietitian or diabetes educator who can help you to construct an appropriate meal plan.

When you develop your meal plan, several things should be considered such as your weight, daily physical activity, blood glucose levels, and medications. A meal plan will help you to achieve a healthy weight for those who are overweight in addition to helping control blood glucose levels. A dietitian can help clarify misconceptions about healthy eating as well as ease you and your family into a plan that fits your goals and lifestyle.

It is not necessary for people with diabetes to only eat particular foods, rather food that are good for everyone are also good for diabetics. Such food includes those that are low in fat, salt, and sugar. Foods that are high in fiber, such as whole grains, beans, fruits, and vegetables are also great choices. Making healthy choices in your diet will help you to achieve and maintain a healthy weight, control your blood glucose levels, and prevent heart disease.

Get Regular Physical Activity

Staying active is very important for people diagnosed with diabetes. Research has shown better blood glucose levels in older adults and senior citizens who take part in a regular fitness program. Exercise offers many health benefits that are especially important for people with diabetes. It helps you to reach and maintain a healthy weight, promotes insulin functioning to lower blood glucose, strengthens the heart and lungs, and increases energy.

If exercise is new to you, talk with your doctor before you begin. Some exercises, for example weightlifting, may not be safe for people with eye problems or high blood pressure. Ask your doctor to check your heart and feet to make sure you do not have any special problems associated with diabetes. Moreover, ask you doctor to help you find exercises that are safe for you.

Make physical activity a part of your daily life. Go on walks, ride a bike, or garden. Try dancing or swimming, or simply stay active by doing work around the house. Try different activities and look for ways to increase physical activity in your everyday life. Try to get some sort of exercise every day for at least 30 minutes. If you are new to exercising, start slowly and gradually increase the amount and intensity of your exercise.

Medication

Insulin

People with type 1 diabetes and some people with type 2 diabetes use Insulin to lower blood glucose levels. People must take insulin when their body does not take enough of it. Insulin is a liquid hormone that must be injected with shots or an insulin pump.

Diabetes Pills

In many cases of type 2 diabetes, the body makes enough insulin but is not properly used by the body. Diabetes pills are used to correct this problem. Some are taken once daily while others must be taken more often. It is important to ask your doctor or pharmacist how to take your pills. Also, be sure to talk with your doctor if you are experiencing side effects or your pills make you sick. Finally, remember that diabetes pills should be used in addition to a healthy diet and exercise.

Other cases of type 2 diabetes do not require insulin or diabetes pills, rather a healthy diet and regular physical activity will treat their diabetes.

Self-Monitoring

It is important to keep track of your blood glucose levels regularly by using a blood glucose monitor. Logging these levels in a diary may also be helpful to get a better idea of how your treatment is going. Some people must check their blood glucose levels several times a day while others check it once daily. Ask your doctor how often you should test your blood.

Monitoring your glucose levels will help you detect “highs” and “lows.” A condition referred to as hypoglycemia results when glucose levels fall too low. When this happens a person may become shaky and confused. If blood glucose levels decrease too much, a person may faint. Following the treatment plan recommended by your doctor as well as monitoring your blood glucose levels can help you avoid “lows.” If you check your glucose level and it is too low, you can increase it by taking in sugary foods or drinks like fruit juice.

A condition referred to as hyperglycemia results when glucose levels are too high. If blood glucose is too high, it can cause a person to go into a coma. If you experience persistent “highs,” talk with your doctor, you may need to adjust your treatment plan.

ABCs of Monitoring Diabetes

People with diabetes are at especially high risk for developing heart disease and stroke. Because of this, it is very important to monitor your diabetes using your “ABCs.”

A. A1C or average blood glucose
B. Blood pressure
C. Cholesterol

The A1C (A-one-C) test is a good measure of what your blood glucose level is most of the time. A test result lower than 7 is positive sign that your diabetes is under control. A test result that is greater than 7 means that blood glucose levels are too high. If your A1C is too high, take action. Talk with your doctor about changing your treatment plan and lifestyle to reach your goal. Lowering your A1C to a healthy level, will help you avoid the complications associated with diabetes such as heart disease and kidney damage.

High blood pressure can lead to stroke, kidney disease, and other complications. Generally people with diabetes want to keep their blood pressure less than 130/80. Have your blood pressure checked at every doctor visit. If it is too high, talk with your doctor about how you can lower it.

Cholesterol, particularly LDL cholesterol, is a fat like substance that builds up in your arteries. If your cholesterol levels are too high it causes your arteries narrow. This can lead to heart disease or a heart attack. People with diabetes should try to keep their cholesterol less than 100. Have your doctor check your cholesterol, and if it is too high talk with him or her about how to reach your cholesterol goal.

Foot and Skin Care

High glucose levels and decreased blood supply to the limbs can cause severe nerve damage and loss of feeling. Unnoticed injuries can contribute to ulcers, which may lead to amputation. Because of this, foot care is very important for people with diabetes. Check your feet every day for cuts, ret spots, sores, infected toenails, and swelling. Report any issues to your doctor, and be sure to have your feet checked at every doctor visit. People with diabetes are more likely to experience skin injuries and infections; for this reason, taking care of your skin is also important.

The Caring Space
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David Crumrine at the Caring Space
We are an organization that connects caregivers and care seekers, providing an easy and affordable resource for families seeking care for friends/loved ones and caregivers seeking employment.