Diabetes affects as many as sixteen million Americans. The inability to use the glucose in the food is a hallmark of diabetes. Because of this, the glucose causes damage to organs including kidneys, hearts, nerves, and eyes because it gathers in their bloodstream. It is important to note that while diabetics can lead to life threatening complications; it is possible to lead a normal life if you keep an eye on a few obvious diabetes symptoms.

Diabetes comes in three ways, type I, Type II and Gestational diabetes. Being hereditary and most commonly in children is Type I. With this condition, the body has begun to fight the cells that produce insulin due to a failed immune system. This means that the body cannot function properly in a Type I diabetic person.

Nearly ninety percent of people who have been diagnosed with diabetes have Type II. This usually sets in later than Type I, the average age is around forty years. The link between being obese and Type II diabetes is very strong. The two keys to preventing Type II diabetes is proper diet and exercise. If you do get diagnosed with Type II, treatments can be diet, medicine, exercise and possibly insulin shots.

Diabetes that occurs during pregnancy is called gestational diabetes. This will, in most cages go away once the baby is born. Some side effects of gestational diabetes are an over sized baby, or it may have low blood sugar at the time of birth. If diagnosed with this, it is extremely important that the pregnancy be monitored closely. A diet can usually control it, but in some rear cases, insulin may have to be used.

Subtlety is another symptom of diabetes. Type I and Type II often have very similar systems. These can include blurry vision, dry mouth, increased thrust and frequent *********. Other diabetes symptoms include flu like ailments and rapid weight loss or gain along with sores that are slow to heal and tingling hands and feet, as well as red or swollen gums. It is very important to not ignore these diabetes symptoms. They maybe harder to pin point because they don’t hit you all at once like a cold, they will sneak up on you and are generally more difficult to recognize.

It is so important to watch and be aware of diabetes symptoms because sometimes they can be signs of other illness. Fructosuria and Zylulsuria, for example, will make the urine test positive for sugar, as does diabetes. Pancreatitis is another example because the pancreas releases insulin and glucagons, which can appear to be diabetes.

You may be wondering when the right time is to see your doctor. That is a very simple question to answer. When you first notice diabetes symptoms, call your doctor. The sooner you get treatment, the better. Proper diagnoses and treatment you can go on to have a normal every day life.

Summary:

Anyone can be affected with diabetes. Kidneys, heart and nerves as well as eyes can be severely damaged. But with proper diagnoses of the diabetes symptoms and its consequent treatment, you can keep it under control.



By: Brooke Hayles

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Although there are three different kinds of diabetes, the first set of symptoms to be experienced are typically those of hyperglycaemia, or an excess in blood sugar (glucose), and this is the first indicator something isn’t quite right.

The symptoms of hyperglycaemia may include blurred vision, fatigue, increased thirst and appetite and increased *********.

In a Type 1 diabetic, the onset of hyperglycaemia can be fairly abrupt due to fact the pancreas isn’t producing any insulin at all, or nearly no insulin at all. This means there is absolutely no outlet for the glucose, as the levels just build and build rapidly. Type 1 diabetes is extremely dangerous and can result in death. It used to be known as Juvenile Diabetes, as it usually only affects the young, and any symptoms shouldn’t be ignored and doctors should be consulted immediately as a matter of urgency.

For Type 2 diabetics, hyperglycaemia may take a long time to develop to the point the symptoms can be felt and noticed. Many people go through their entire lives unaware they have Type 2 diabetes, and take many of the symptoms as simply being signs of aging, especially since Type 2 Diabetes typically affects the middle aged adults onwards, hence its former name Adult Diabetes. In fairly recent years, due to the amount of children developing Type 2 Diabetes due to poor diets and obesity (the prime causes of Type 2 Diabetes), the name simply became Type 2 Diabetes.

As the symptoms of hyperglycaemia in Type 2 Diabetes can be extremely subtle, many people are completely unaware they have diabetes at all. Type 2 Diabetes is caused by one of two factors, the first factor being a lack of insulin production within the pancreas, the second being a condition known as ‘insulin resistance’. This is where the body begins to reject admission of the insulin, which carries the glucose. Therefore, a person’s body not only becomes starved of glucose as a fuel, but begins accumulating the glucose in the blood, which now has no outlet. The body may attempt to flush some of the glucose out of the body via urine.

Gestational Diabetes may perhaps be the most difficult form of diabetes to detect as the symptoms are so similar to a regular pregnancy it can be almost impossible to differentiate. For example, fatigue, increased appetite and thirst, and increased *********.

Gestational Diabetes is usually a temporary form of diabetes which disappears soon after the pregnancy, although it may leave the mother and child susceptible to developing permanent Type 2 Diabetes in the future.

Another worry concerning Gestational Diabetes is the damage it can do to the baby, which may be respiratory or cardiac problems, stillborn or death soon after birth. Untreated Gestational Diabetes can also be a contributing factor in later health problems as the baby reaches adulthood such as chronic obesity.

If you think you have even slightly felt any of the aforementioned symptoms of hyperglycaemia, it is highly important you see your G.P. as soon as possible. Diabetes isn’t a disorder you want to second guess yourself, as it can be fatal, particularly in the case of Type 1 Diabetes.

Although diabetes can be an extremely dangerous disorder, upon diagnosis it is extremely treatable. The most important things for a diabetic to do are to take any prescribed medication and monitor blood sugar levels regularly. If you have been advised by your doctor to take with you an emergency insulin / glucose kit, you should do so at all times, as it may be fatal not to. The other factors include plenty of exercise to help regulate glucose levels, and a healthy balanced diet.



By: Nicky Pilkington

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The menopause is a life change experienced by women aged around 50 years old, although it can often occur anytime between the ages of 40 and 55. Defined as the end of the last menstrual period, the menopause can bring about a range of symptoms. These include mood swings, excessive perspiration, urinal and vaginal problems, hot flushes, emotional problems, vaginal bleeding, and various other symptoms. Many women also find that they experience weight gain during the menopausal years.

Although many women do experience weight gain when going through menopause, the results of various studies have shown that it is not the menopause itself that causes weight gain but the various bodily and lifestyle changes that are brought about as a result of the change of life. This includes factors such as reduced metabolism, lower levels of activity, and stress. For instance, the menopause can catalyze various emotional issues, and this can lead to comfort eating for many, which generally results in weight gain.

In order to combat excessive weight gain during the menopause, women need to make sure that they lead as healthy a lifestyle as possible. This is true both in relation to activity levels, and what they eat.

It is important to remember that the menopause can affect a number of physiological and psychological areas. For example, menopause can affect the function of the thyroid, and an under-active thyroid can result in weight gain. The mood swings and emotional issues that come about as a result of menopause can result in appetite changes and even uncharacteristic comfort eating. Fatigue or depression can lead to a reduction in physical activity.

Weight gain brings about a range of health risks if it puts you at a seriously overweight level. There are indications that weight gain during the menopause could actually increase the risk of ****** cancer, although this risk can be reduced by the same amount – or even more – if the weight is lost after menopause.

In order to combat weight gain during menopause it is important to take sensible steps towards maintaining a healthy weight. This means a balanced and sensible diet, which is rich in vitamins and minerals and low in fat and calories. By at least supplying your body with the nutrients it needs, cravings can be better controlled. If your body is under-nourished, the inclination to junk food can be greater.

You should also ensure that you do not let your levels of physical activity slip during peri-menopause. In times of deep emotional flux, this is easy to do. However, if you find you’re having problems with your weight, or stress, exercise really does help. Find exercise or physical activities you really enjoy, and perhaps seek a buddy to work out with. It can be easier to motivate yourself to continue fitness activities with the support of a friend.



By: Rebecca Prescott

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Are you finding yourself battling dizziness? Do you have the need to wake up and use the bathroom in the wee hours of the morning? Is you weight yo-yoing for no apparent reason? These are symptoms that have been associated with diabetes. If you answered yes to more than one of these diabetes symptom questions, you should see your doctor. But, if you answered yes to these questions, don’t automatically assume that you are diabetic. Following are some things to keep in mind when waiting to talk to your doctor.

There are two types of diabetes; Type one or Type II that show different symptoms. Blood sugar levels in the body that are elevated is a hallmark of the disease. And insulin production, or rather how it is used, is what differentiates the two types.

Type I diabetes is where there is not enough insulin made by the body to balance sugar levels in the blood. Teenagers and young children are more common like to have this which is why this is also known as Juvenile Diabetes.

When the body struggles to produce insulin is the Type II diabetes. This is the more common form of the ailment. Between the ages of 35-45 is when this will usually show itself. Also, three to five percent of pregnant women will experience gestational diabetes. The hormonal imbalance during pregnancy is the reason for this to occur during the 24th to 28 week of pregnancy.

There are a few major considerations when checking to see if the given symptoms and some minor ones as well. However, it is important to know that even minor diabetes symptoms, if left untreated can cause major problems. Amputation and loss of eyesight are some problems that can happen when major diabetes symptoms are ignored.

Excessive thirst is one of the minor diabetes symptoms. Even after a full meal, some people will still feel hungry. Frequent urination, particularly in the middle of the night is another sign that you may have diabetes. Fatigue is another thing that may point to diabetes as well as a sudden change in weight. I large weight gain, or more commonly, weight loss, is something to talk your doctor.

Blurred vision is an example of a major diabetic symptom that can lead to blindness if not treated. Tingling and numbness in the hands and feet can also occur as well as a weaken immune system. Dry or overly itchy skin can result from a reduced sweat gland and decreased circulation.

Additional problems can happen with any major or minor diabetes symptoms are ignored. Diabetics, for example, suffer from foot problems and poor circulation; these are urgent things to be taken care of. When your feet aren’t happy, generally speaking, the rest of you aren’t happy either.

Performing a self check on the internet before you go to your family doctor will help you determine whether or not you are experiencing more than one diabetes symptom. You find checklists and quizzes on line that may help you detect the aliment. You will want to make an appointment when ever you fell it is necessary to do so, but if the list gets too long, make the appointment whether or not you feel like it is a must.

Summary:

There are several symptoms associated with diabetes. If you suspect this is what has been bothering you, go on line and look for checklists and quizzes. Major and minor diabetes symptoms to look for are dizziness, nerve damage, blurred vision and excessive thirst and hunger.



By: Brooke Hayles

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Diabetes is a problem that affects so many people, both in the U.S. and worldwide, surprisingly, however, very little is known about the disease.

There are a number of organizations that are researching exactly what causes diabetes, as well new and better methods for controlling it, monitoring blood sugar levels, getting insulin into the blood, newer medicines to correct the problems and even how to stop it before it starts.

There are numerous groups and organizations involved in research such as the FDA, the Diabetes Action Research and Education Foundation, or DAREF, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, the Diabetes Research Institute and the Diabetes Research and Wellness Foundation and many, many others, in the United States, Great Britain, Australia and many other countries.

Some of the research being done includes;

• A vaccination against the autoimmune response that causes type 1 diabetes. Testing is currently being carried out on animals.

• Genetic engineering to make liver cells that produce insulin. Although insulin is produced there is no internal control mechanism as there is with the pancreas, so the insulin levels from such cells remains constant regardless of the body’s requirement for this hormone.

• Stem cells are the very basic building blocks of the human body and have the ability to develop into any kind of cell. It is possible that researchers will find a way to use stem cells to make insulin producing cells to replace those that have been damaged by the autoimmune problem that causes type 1 diabetes.

• Immunoassay for type 1 diabetes.

• The impact of exercise training for those with diabetes.

• A recent report that transplanted pig cells have been successful in reversing diabetes in test monkeys.

• Arterial issues.

• Enhancing the cell survival of important agents in diabetes.

• A type 1 diabetes medication that helps the beta cells in the pancreas to live longer, the loss of the beta cells is one thoughts of causes of type 1 diabetes, is currently underway by the Diabetes Action Research and Education Foundation (DAREF) that may prove to help patients create insulin on their own, thus reducing the dependence on outside sources of insulin

Other research currently underway is the use of cinnamon to lower blood sugar levels. Dr. Richard Anderson at the United States Department of Agriculture’s Human Nutrition Resource Center has been able to effectively isolate a compound in cinnamon that causes lowered blood sugar.

The reason that cinnamon is so helpful to someone with diabetes is the way that it inhibits enzymes in the body that may be responsible to insulin resistance. This is especially noteworthy to those who are afflicted with Type II diabetes and have insulin resistance problems. Cinnamon also was shown to increase the body’s sensitivity to insulin causing insulin to be used more efficiently.

If you or someone you know is afflicted with this chronic illness, funding a research team may allow you to benefit immediately and enable you to play a role in research and the treatment of the millions of other diabetes sufferers in the world.

A couple of the more recent treatments currently in trials are -

A medicine that is based on the saliva of a venomous lizard – the Gila Monster. The drug containing this new treatment is delivered by injection in much the same way as insulin, however the early trials have seen many participants withdraw because of an increase in side effects when compared to those caused by insulin. All research so far undertaken has been sponsored by the pharmaceutical company that produces this drug.

Another new treatment going through trials is the delivery of insulin through inhalation. The insulin is prepared in a dry micro fine powder form which is inhaled directly into the lungs from where it is absorbed into the blood stream.

This would have obvious advantages when treating children in particular, as the use of needles to deliver the essential insulin shots can make the condition doubly distressing for the patient and for the parents who often have to administer the injections. There are concerns about the long term problems that may be caused by this method of delivery and it is thought not to be suitable for smokers or asthma sufferers.

All new treatments offer hope for the future but the effectiveness of any of them will not be fully appreciated until they have been tested over time.



By: Mike Herman

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Diabetes Mellitus is an insidious disease that causes a whole slew of complications that can have life altering and threatening effects for anyone who suffers from it. From heart disease to kidney problems, blindness and nerve damage, recognizing the symptoms of diabetes mellitus early and getting proper medical treatment is key to managing it effects and the complications it can cause.

It is estimated that 17 million people suffer from diabetes in the United States alone. Further more nearly 5.9 million of those 17 million have not been diagnosed and are suffering the effects of not managing their condition. Many people remain undiagnosed because they do not recognize or understand their symptoms and never seek medical help until their symptoms have manifested into the later complications.

The treatment of diabetes is about managing the condition through proper diet, exercise, and medication. The sooner a positive diagnosis is made the better the chances of avoiding potential life threatening complications that this disease is known for. There is no known cure but millions of people with diabetes live normal lives through healthy lifestyle choices.

The symptoms of diabetes mellitus as listed by the American Diabetes Association include:

1. Increased ********* – Increased blood flow through the kidneys due to high blood sugar levels contributes to this.

2. Excessive Thirst – Caused by the increased urine output that brings about dehydration.

3. Hungry All the Time – Because glucose (sugar) is unable to leave the blood stream and enter the cells due to a lack of insulin or insulin resistance the cells do not get the fuel they need for energy. The body senses this energy deficit and thinks it needs more calories to fuel its metabolic processes.

4. Weight Loss – Even though the diabetic is eating more the body starts to break down its own protein and fat stores to feed the perceived lack of energy for the cells.

5. Fatigue – Decreased energy levels lead to constant feelings of fatigue and lethargy.

6. Irritability and Depression.

7. Eye Problems – High blood glucose levels cause an increase in blood volume which can cause the lens of the eye to swell.

These signs will usually start out as nothing more than minor annoyances, but with time they will increase in severity. Many people attribute them to other things and brush them aside. Many of the symptoms can be attributed to other things like the stress of everyday life which can cause fatigue, depression, and irritability.

Many people are often surprised when they are diagnosed with diabetes mellitus saying things like “I don’t feel sick”. Many people are visiting their doctor for other concerns when they are first diagnosed. But once they putt all their symptoms together along with the results of their blood glucose test that the doctor will order the diagnosis is easily seen.

Recognizing the symptoms of diabetes mellitus early in the disease’s stages is the single most important factor when it comes to minimizing the long term complications that are associated with this disease.



By: Andrew Bicknell

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In the United States alone there is an estimated 17 million people that suffer from diabetes. Of those 17 million who suffer this disease nearly 5.9 million have not been medically diagnosed. The reason for this could well be that many of the early warning signs of diabetes are shrugged off by those who suffer them because the symptoms do not seem that severe.

Even when those who heed the early symptoms of diabetes do go to the doctor they often express disbelief that they are diagnosed as being diabetic. In the early stages of diabetes the symptoms can be more of a minor annoyance, leading those who are diagnosed saying things like “I don’t feel sick”. In fact many people are diagnosed with diabetes when they visit the doctor because they think they have something else wrong with them. Many of the early signs of diabetes are often attributed to some other ailment or condition.

The sooner the symptoms of diabetes are recognized and diagnosed the better the chances of a managing this condition and avoiding many of the serious and sometimes life threatening complications this disease can bring. Diabetes is the sixth leading cause of death by disease in the United States today.

The American Diabetes Association has a list of the early warning signs of diabetes and they include:

1. Increased ********* – This is caused by high blood sugar levels which increase the amount of blood that flows through the kidneys.

2. Excessive Thirst – The increased output of urine can lead to dehydration.

3. Extreme Hunger – Because diabetes is characterized by a lack of insulin or insulin resistance glucose is unable to cross over from the blood stream into the cells where it is needed for energy production. The body thinks it’s hungry because of the energy deficit and manifests hunger pangs.

4. Unexplained Weight Loss – The body will start to break down its own proteins (muscle) and fat to make up for the perceived lack of cellular energy. This despite the fact that the person is actually eating more.

5. Fatigue – Caused by the decreased energy levels.

6. Irritability and Depression.

7. Vision Impairment – An increase in blood volume caused by high blood glucose levels can lead to swelling of the eye’s lens.

Taken by themselves, or even as a group it is easy to see why these diabetic symptoms could be seen as part of any number of other conditions that can cause them. Everyday stress can cause fatigue, irritability, and depression. Depression is known to cause weight loss. Many of these signs and symptoms start out small; barely noticeable and as time progresses many people don’t actually see the changes because of the slow rate at which they occur.

These symptoms will get progressively worse as the affects of the diabetes creates a variety of complications that affects many of the bodily systems. It is important to note that these symptoms will not resolve themselves.

The sooner one can recognize the early warning signs of diabetes the sooner they can seek medical attention. Diagnosing diabetes early is key to successfully managing its long term affects. There is no known cure for diabetes but with lifestyle changes and proper medical treatment it can be controlled and its affects minimized.



By: Andrew Bicknell

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Did you know that approximately a quarter of all Americans are suffering from full blown Type 2 diabetes or pre-diabetes (syndrome X)? Diabetes has become an epidemic that allopathic (traditional western) medicine has been unable to halt. Ninety percent of diabetic patients have difficulty managing glucose levels using drugs that can have serious side effects.

The Diabetes Diet, created by Dr Richard Bernstein, may well be the best diet for everyone, not just diabetics. The reason for this is that it has the potential to not only control diabetic symptoms, but also to reverse them.

The Diabetes Diet has had enormous success – without side effects!

One of the major difficulties people have in recognizing they have the symptoms of diabetes is that they occur gradually. In fact, for the first couple of years, there may be no symptoms at all. Yet, once a person has Type 2 diabetes, they are at serious risk of life threatening complications if they do not carefully follow the low-carbohydrate Diabetes Diet prescribed by Bernstein.

Type 2 diabetes is largely a lifestyle disease and, unfortunately, far too few people understand how extremely dangerous it is. Consequently, patients are often far too casual about getting regular medical check ups to check on blood sugar levels and general health.

Not only do many sufferers find it extremely difficult to radically alter their diet from western convenience foods to the Diabetes Diet containing whole nutritious foods, avoiding sugar and fat as much as possible, they often become depressed and anxious and paralyzed by negative emotions. This can keep them from taking the very actions required to improve their health and keep them alive. It also suppresses the motivation necessary to undertake a regular exercise program.

This diet for Diabetics was created to control blood sugar levels in diabetics, however it clearly benefits everyone. The diet focuses on eating protein, good fat and complex carbohydrates found in whole grains and fruit and vegetables.

By eating this way, people can avoid the fluctuating blood sugar levels caused by a high carbohydrate (simple carbohydrates). Bernstein describes the modern Western diet as SAD (standard American diet) and claims it has directly caused a massive increase in obesity, high blood pressure and damage to the lining of the blood vessels.

Dr. Bernstein, who has Type 1 diabetes, did not experience a healthy life until he devised his own diet to regulate his blood sugar levels. Many diabetics, both Type 1 and Type 2, have experienced a balancing of blood sugar levels and an overall improvement in health and well being after going on The Diabetes Diet. In fact, Bernstein claims that sticking to this diet for as little as two weeks can provide an enormous benefit. Once you have experienced this, he believes you’ll never want to go back to SAD.

While Type 2 diabetes can be caused by some medications, it is usually a direct result of poor nutrition, inadequate exercise and a diet high in sugar and fat. Therefore, it is probably unrealistic to expect that a person can change the habits of a lifetime overnight.

Yet, this is what must happen to improve the lives and futures of type 2 diabetics. Health must become the top priority. The Diabetes Diet provides an excellent map to reclaiming health.

Change is necessary and must not be avoided. However, neither should it be so overwhelming that the patient can’t cope with the thought of it. The answer is to make gradual, but consistent, changes in lifestyle.

For example, the first step might be to start walking every day. Just go as far as comfortable and try for a little more the next day. Drink more water. Cut out all fast foods. These changes would be radical enough for most Type 2 diabetics but, in fact, they don’t go far enough.

However, doing them will improve health and mood and put the patient in a more positive and hopeful frame of mind so they can take further steps. If they continue, eventually, the patient’s lifestyle will be completely overhauled and internal resistance to these changes will have been limited. It is certainly possible to eat according to this weight loss program without undue suffering.

The answer to positive lifelong change in a person’s lifestyle lies in their own motivation. It is possible to encourage that motivation through gradual, supportive change. The Diabetes Diet provides the guidance and support a lot of people need.



By: Ken Black

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With diabetic food, it all comes down to the nutrition facts. It’s that list of nutrition information found on the package of foods sold in the grocery store. Reading food labels can help you make wise choices about the foods you buy. The labels will tell you what ingredients were used, the amount of calories, and other pertinent information essential to a diabetes patient.

For instance, a typical food label would contain the total amounts per serving for the following nutrients:

• Calories

• Total fat

• Saturated fat

• Cholesterol

• Sodium

• Total carbohydrate

• Fiber

Use the nutrition facts found in food labels to compare similar types of foods and buy the one that contains fewer calories, lower fats, cholesterol, etc.

Pay close attention to free foods like sugar-free gelatin desert, sugar-free ice pops, sugarless gum, diet soft drinks, and sugar-free syrups. Just because they are called “free” does not mean they are entirely free of calories so don’t be overconfident. Instead, read the label. Most free foods should have less than 20 calories and 5 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Another thing, “no-sugar added” means no sugar was added during the manufacture and packaging of the foods. The ingredients do not include sugar. However, the food may be high in carbohydrates still so be sure to read the label carefully.

Fat-free foods could still mean that they contain lots of carbohydrates. Often, they contain almost the same amount of calories as the foods they replace so be sure to pay attention to the label. Buying fat-free foods instead of regular foods does not necessarily mean that you are making a wise choice.

Now, you know that sweets are generally discouraged among diabetic foods. However, having diabetes does not necessarily mean that you cannot have sweets. Imagine how bad life can be for the sweet tooth with diabetes. But as long as you keep your intake of sweets in moderation, there is no reason you have to eschew sugar from your life forever. After all, glucose (sugar) is still the most basic source of energy that the body needs.

So sweeten your foods with these following diabetic food options:

• Sugar and other sweeteners with calories: honey, brown sugar, molasses, fructose, cane sugar, and confectioners sugar

• Reduced calorie sweeteners: erythritol, hydrogenated starch hydrolysates, isomalt, lactitol, maltitol, mannitol, sorbitol, and xylitol

• Low calories sweeteners: ascelfume potassium, aspartame, saccharin, and sucralose

Research has overturned the long standing belief that sugar caused diabetes. The new studies show us that sugar has in fact the same effect on blood glucose levels as other carbohydrates like bread and potatoes. Based on this discovery, experts agree that a diabetic can now consume sugar as long as they incorporate it into their meal plan the way they would with any ordinary carbohydrate-containing foods.

Now that you have been pointed to the right direction with these tips to improve your diabetic food diet, you can go ahead and live a healthier, fuller life where nothing – no carb nor sweets – is denied you, as long as you keep it all in moderation.

Always consult your doctor when considering which types of diabetic foods are best for your health situation.



By: Dean Shainin

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