DIABETES - ABOUT AND CONTROL

• What is diabetes ?

Diabetes,often referred to by doctors as diabetes mellitus, describes a group of metabolic diseases in which the person has high blood glucose (blood sugar), either because insulin production is inadequate, or because the body's cells do not respond properly to insulin, or both. Patients with high blood sugar will typically experience polyuria (frequent urination), they will become increasingly thirsty (polydipsia) and hungry (polyphagia).

• Fast facts on diabetes.

• Diabetes, describes a group of metabolic diseases in which the person has high blood glucose because insulin production is inadequate, or because the body's cells do not respond properly to insulin, or both.
• Type 1 Diabetes - the body does not produce insulin. Approximately 10% of all diabetes cases are type 1.
• Type 2 Diabetes - the body does not produce enough insulin for proper function. Approximately 90% of all cases of diabetes worldwide are of this type.
• Gestational Diabetes - this type affects females during pregnancy.
• The most common diabetes symptoms include frequent urination, intense thirst and hunger, weight gain, unusual weight loss, fatigue, cuts and bruises that do not heal, male sexual dysfunction, numbness and tingling in hands and feet.
• If you have Type 1 and follow a healthy eating plan, do adequate exercise, and take insulin, you can lead a normal life.
• Type 2 patients need to eat healthily, be physically active, and test their blood glucose. They may also need to take oral medication, and/or insulin to control blood glucose levels.
• As the risk of cardiovascular disease is much higher for a diabetic, it is crucial that blood pressure and cholesterol levels are monitored regularly.
• As smoking might have a serious effect on cardiovascular health, diabetics should stop smoking.
• Hypoglycemia - low blood glucose - can have a bad effect on the patient. Hyperglycemia - when blood glucose is too high - can also have a bad effect on the patient.

• EAT PLENTY OF

1. Regular meals and snacks to avoid fluctuation in blood sugar level.
2. A balance of carbohydrate,protein and fat at each meal.
3. Low-fat,high-fiber foods to achieve and maintain a normal weight.

• LIMIT

1. "Empty calories" foods such as sweets, which can contribute to obesity.
2. Saturated fats and foods made with hydrogenated fats.

• THE WEIGHT CONNECTION

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes is increasing as more baby boomers move into the high-risk age group and become increasingly overweight. Not every overweight person will get diabetes, but 85% of type 2 diabetics weigh more than thy should. Extra fat, especially abdominal fat in the apple shape body, is associated with insulin resistance. Newly diagnosed, overweight type 2 diabetics may banish the disease by adopting a healthier lifestyle to reach and maintain their ideal weight. Even if they don't reach their ideal weight, any loss makes the disease easier to control with diet and exercise alone.

• MYTH BUSTER

   Myth : Diabetics have to give up sweet desserts.

  Reality : Contrary to popular belief, there is no need for people with diabetes to cut out.      An occasional sweet treat is fine.

• DIET STRATEGY

Diet is the cornerstone of diabetes management. An appropriate diet can help maintain optimal blood glucose level and prevent or delay long term complications.Carbohydrates are the basic currency of glucose. For most diabetics, carbohydrate-rich foods such as vegetables,bread,cereals and pasta should account for 45%-65% of their daily calories. 

Soluble fibre - the kind found in oatmeal-may actually help lower blood-sugar levels and it also helps lower cholesterol. And Insoluble fiber, found in whole grains and many vegetables, helps you feel full on fewer calories.

People with diabetes should follow a lower-fat diet. High fat diet contributes to obesity and high cholesterol levels. Saturated fats from animal foods and hydrogenated fats in packaged foods should also be limited. On the other hand , monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats-such as those found in vegetable oils.nuts,fish and avocados-are good for the heart and also slow the digestion process, helping to stabilize blood sugar levels. They may also reduce insulin resistance.