Type 2 Diabetes - Inflammation and Complications of Gestational Diabetes

When diabetes develops in a previously healthy woman during pregnancy it is termed gestational diabetes. It is similar to Type 2 diabetes and women who suffer gestational diabetes have a high risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life. Researchers in the Department of Endocrinology, Hospital Puerta del Mar, in Cadiz, Spain, looked at women with a history of gestational diabetes to ascertain their levels of inflammation and risk of the metabolic syndrome and heart and blood vessel disease.

Their study, published in the medical journal Cytokine in November 2011 included:

63 women with gestational diabetes, and63 healthy pregnant women.

Women with gestational diabetes had:

a higher body mass index (BMI) before their pregnancy,higher levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha),higher leptin levels, andlower adiponectin levels than the healthy women.

The body mass index is a measure of height and weight and is closely related to the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. One particular study, published in 2006, associated obesity with a 16 times higher risk of Type 2 diabetes compared with normal weight individuals, and a high waist size was associated with a 20 times higher risk than that of a normal sized waist.

Heart and blood vessel disease, an important complication of Type 2 diabetes, is associated with being overweight and obesity. TNF-alpha is a protein made by the body's white blood cells to fight infections and cancer. When it is made in overly large quantities for too long it can be associated with inflammation. Diabetes is an inflammatory condition and has been associated with TNF-alpha. Several heart and blood vessel diseases are also associated with elevated levels of TNF-alpha. A study published in the Chinese Medical Journal in July of this year showed a possible link betwen TNF-alpha levels and irregular heartbeats. (Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin disease also associated with high TNF-alpha levels, and sometimes associated with diabetes).

Leptin is a hormone involved in fat metabolism. It is produced by fat cells and could be a signal to the brain that fat is present. Some studies suggest it has to do with pancreatic beta cells and their production of insulin. More study is needed before its complete role in the body is fully understood.

Adiponectin is a hormone that plays a role in the breakdown of fat and the regulation of blood sugar. Low levels are associated with a high risk of Type 2 diabetes. Low levels have also been found in the presence of heart and blood vessel disease.

Researchers concluded having a higher body mass index before pregnancy could be linked to the future development of Type 2 diabetes and heart and blood vessel disease. Women considering pregnancy should normalize their weight before conception for their future health and that of their children.

To discover answers to questions you may be asking yourself about Type 2 Diabetes, click on this link... Natural Diabetes Treatments

Type 2 Diabetes - The Effect Of Diabetic Medications On Heart And Blood Vessel Disease!

Heart and blood vessel diseases are amongst the worst known complications associated with Type 2 diabetes. People diagnosed with this form of diabetes are prone to high cholesterol and blood fat levels which can cause blood vessels to become clogged.

When the coronary arteries become clogged, the heart muscle itself can become starved for oxygen and various nutrients. When that happens, the heart can slow down or beat with less force, or both. When the heart is unable to pump blood in sufficient quantities to feed the needs of the rest of the body, congestive heart failure develops. Blood that is unable to enter the heart because of congestion, backs up into the lungs which then become congested with fluid.

Exenatide, or Byetta, is a medication that mimics a kind of hormone known as an incretin. It stimulates the pancreas to release more insulin when the food just eaten starts to raise the blood sugar. So, Byetta stimulates insulin secretion when blood sugars have actually risen after your meal, and the insulin secretion should stop when they drop. It also decreases the production of sugar by the liver.

The latest studies on exenatide (Byetta) show that it could also prove a valuable tool in fighting heart disease.

In one such study, published in January 2012 in the journal Diabetologia, investigators at the Karolinska Institutet in Sweden looked at how much blood the hearts of people with Type 2 diabetes were able to pump with and without exenatide. Twenty people with Type 2 diabetes were included in the study...
the hearts of these diabetics were found to be able to pump more blood while they took exenatide (Byetta) than when they took a placebo.this was because their hearts were able to beat faster. Pressure in their lungs was also reduced because the blood was able to flow out of their lungs and into their heart in a timely manner.

It was therefore concluded more study is definitely warranted on the effects of the drug exenatide on the heart.

Britain's National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) published in October 2011 recommendations for the clinical use of Bydureon, a long-acting form of exenatide. The long-acting form of this particular medication must be injected only once. In January 2012 Bydureon was included in NICE's formulary for the National Health Service.

A study called EXSCEL, which includes more than 9000 diabetics, is scheduled to be completed in the year 2017. It aims to discover what use exenatide (Byetta) might have for the prevention and treatment of heart disease.

To discover answers to questions you may be asking yourself about Type 2 Diabetes, click on this link... Natural Diabetes Treatments

Type 2 Diabetes - Eating Desserts When You Have Diabetes!

Dessert, we all love them. It would be so much easier to ask someone to completely give up desserts once they are diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. But for some, you might as well ask them to give up breathing, since desserts have that kind of hold over them.

So what does a diabetic do if they aren't supposed to eat them, and yet they aren't about to give them up, either? To understand this, you first have to break down how the different groups of carbs affect your body. There are two distinct ways your blood sugar level is affected by carbs. One is the type of carb you are consuming. But more importantly, it is the total number of carbohydrates that weighs the heaviest (no pun intended), on the results. As well, the amount of carbs in the dessert have the biggest impact on your blood sugar levels.

So, what does this mean? In the end, you can substitute some groups of carbs for other carbs. While this might sound contradictory to what the public believes, it makes perfect sense.

The rational thing would be to just enjoy a small portion of their favorites whenever they have the opportunity. After all, moderation is the key. But for many, moderation and desserts go together like lead and a balloon.

Despite popular belief, Type 2 diabetes does not originate because of sugar: it comes from overeating, despite what the food choices are. A person can just as easily be overweight from eating steak or ham continuously, as they would be from desserts. If they are overeating and not exercising properly, then the body will end up with the same results.

There is no reason why a person with Type 2 diabetes can't still enjoy dessert, once in a while, as long as they understand the consequences of not following the rules. The rules being they have:

to eat a balanced meal beforehand,the portion has to be reasonable for a Type 2 diabetic, andthey stop at one, yes, one portion.

But the problem is not only with the sugar content, but the fact most desserts also have a high carb percentage. As long as a diabetic plans to eat a desert, it doesn't have to be a negative experience. That means:

eating a balanced meal,not overdoing the dessert and, if possible,contributing some exercise into the day to burn off the extra sugar and calories.

That is the best way for a person with Type 2 diabetes to have their cake and eat it, too.

To discover answers to questions you may be asking yourself about Type 2 Diabetes, click on this link... Natural Diabetes Treatments

Type 2 Diabetes - The Importance Of Regular Blood Sugar Testing

You may have been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes on the basis of a random blood glucose test during a physical examination or even a screening at a health fair when you were feeling perfectly healthy. One of the instructions given to you by your doctor was to have your blood sugar tested regularly. Although this holds a great deal of significance, it is often ignored by the majority of people. Even so, the importance of this one point is immeasurable.

In Type 2 diabetes, there is insulin resistance and impaired insulin secretion. Insulin resistance refers to the decreased tissue sensitivity to insulin. So in order to overcome insulin resistance and the high levels of blood sugar, an increased amount of insulin is needed. But in order to determine that value, blood sugar monitoring is essential.

There are various methods used to help you keep tabs on your blood sugar. Among these are:

self-monitoring,continuous blood glucose monitoring systems,glycated hemoglobin (hemoglobin A1c, sometimes HbA1c), andurine glucose testing.

Each plays an important role and is especially suited for the specific needs of the individual diabetic.

Blood sugar monitoring is not only an essential part of the management of Type 2 diabetes, it is the foundation of it.

Self-monitoring helps you to know:

when and how to respond to the results, andwhen to adjust your food intake

in order to obtain optimal blood sugar levels.

It is important to conduct this testing regularly and not just when you are feeling ill. By the time you begin to feel the symptoms of unbalanced blood sugar, it is likely things have gone too far out of the spectrum.

There are also critical times when you should automatically monitor your sugar:

after exercising,when you first wake up,two hours after commencing your meal,right before bed, andanytime you are sick...

... are just a few. These are all examples of when your levels can bounce back and forth, even though you may not immediately feel the effects.

Regular monitoring of your blood sugar allows for detection and prevention of hypoglycemia (decreased blood glucose levels), and hyperglycemia (increased blood glucose levels). It also plays a crucial role in eventually normalizing your blood glucose (or sugar) levels, which in turn reduces the risk of long-term diabetic complications. There is a laundry list of conditions a diabetic can experience if they do not keep their blood sugar level under control.

As you gain better control over your disease, the goal is for you to be able to cut down on your dependence of medication. When your blood sugar levels improve, discuss this with your doctor. When many diabetics lose weight from their abdominal area, they are often able to control their symptoms so they can quit their medication completely.

To discover answers to questions you may be asking yourself about Type 2 Diabetes, click on this link... Natural Diabetes Treatments

Type 2 Diabetes - Women, Diabetes And The Estrogen Connection

The underlying connection was closed: A connection that was expected to be kept alive was closed by the server.

With the onset of a female's puberty and menstrual cycle, there are fluctuations in several different hormones throughout the body. Some of these affect the blood sugar levels which may be difficult to control. Maintaining these hormones levels are even difficult after the menstrual cycles become regular.

Estrogen definitely influences a woman's blood sugar levels and insulin requirements. Estrogen generally raises blood sugar, which interferes with your medication or insulin doses. This is one of the reasons estrogen-containing medications, for example, oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy after menopause, were once considered no-no's for women with diabetes,

A women who has been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in her reproductive years has certain aspects to take into consideration in order to minimize the effects of this disease:

1. Vaginal infections: The buildup of additional glucose or sugar, can trigger an overgrowth of yeast. Yeast infections can be easily treated once diagnosed.

2. Birth control: Birth control pills may raise the blood sugar. If contraceptive pills are taken for a period of more than one year, then the risk is even higher..

3. No desire for sex: Changes in sexual desire is observed in some women suffering from diabetes. This can occur because of vaginal infections, or due to changing hormones. These hormones not only affect a woman's sensations but her drive, as well.

Studies that looked specifically at the effect diabetes has on women and sexuality found that:

loss of libido was often caused by high blood sugar,vaginal infections and resulting pain or itching during intercourse,the fear of pain during intercourse, andnerve damage which affects blood flow to the female genitalia.

4. Vaginal changes: Type 2 diabetes can cause nerve damage, leading to vaginal dryness and difficulty in sexual arousal. It can also make intercourse painful.

5. Pregnancy: Type 2 diabetes affects the fetus as well the pregnant woman. Control of blood sugar is very important to avoid birth defects and high blood pressure of the pregnant woman. By controlling your blood sugar during pregnancy, it is possible to give birth to a healthy child. Diabetes can also cause trauma to the child during the pregnancy through to the birth. This can place the expectant mother in a high-risk category.

An important point to note here is many women develop gestational diabetes which means "diabetes during pregnancy". Gestational diabetes is not the same disease as Type 2 diabetes, it just behaves the same way. Some of the women who develop gestational diabetes will have their blood levels return to normal levels after delivery, while others will continue on with Type 2 diabetes after the birth.

6. Infertility: Though this is still a subject of debate between researchers, it is believed a woman suffering from diabetes can have hormone imbalance leading to PCOS or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (a common cause of infertility).

7. Other threats: Type 2 diabetic women are at a greater risk than men of blindness and cardiovascular disease. Estrogen loss increases all women's risk of heart disease, which is the major cause of death for postmenopausal women. However, the risk of heart disease is two to three times higher in postmenopausal women with diabetes.

There can be severe fluctuations in the blood sugar levels when the woman's body is moving towards menopause (or the time previous to menopause known as perimenopause). In these times, a woman often tends to gain weight as menopause slows down your metabolism. That means it will be easier to gain weight on fewer calories. The only way around this is to increase your activity or decrease your calorie intake.

Menopause also often masks the symptoms of low or high blood sugar. This is a good time to revisit blood sugar monitoring habits.

Type 2 diabetes also affects the timing of menopause as well as increases the risk of certain chronic illnesses.

To discover answers to questions you may be asking yourself about Type 2 Diabetes, click on this link... Natural Diabetes Treatments

Type 2 Diabetes - You Need To Eat Sugar-Free Foods In Moderation!

Type 2 diabetes is a diagnosis that brings fear to those who receive it, as well as their loved ones. However, while Type 2 diabetes is scary, it is something you can learn to live with. Though it may not be easy, with changes to your eating plan and lifestyle, this form of diabetes can be managed and, believe it or not, it is possible to reverse it. Having diabetes means you will have to change the way you eat, but you won't have to abandon the foods you love altogether.

An important part of controlling your diabetes, or more precisely your blood sugar levels, is to watch your intake of sugar and those foods that will turn into sugar very quickly. An important point to remember is that sugar-free means the product has no refined sugar added to them but they are usually sweetened with either artificial or natural sweeteners. Often, this still means an increase in your blood sugar level, it's just these sweeteners have a reduced glycemic response compared to that of sugar.

You will need to read food labels very carefully. The list of ingredients might not include the actual word "sugar", but there are approximately 50 different ways a food can be sweetened by a sugar by-product. Know these names so that you can watch out for these hidden sugar dangers. Maltitol and hydrogenated starch hydrolysate are just two artificial sweeteners... they are both natural sweeteners derived from corn. A few other sugar alcohols include sorbitol, mannitol, and xylitol. About 50 percent of these sugar alcohols convert to glucose, so they still have an effect on your blood sugar, just to a lesser degree than sugar.

Even if you don't want pre-packaged meals, you can order various sugar-free foods online or at your local grocery store. You may want to discuss with your doctor which particular types of sweeteners would be right for you. While some people may have sensitivities to artificial sweeteners, there are now many natural sweeteners that may not run your blood sugar up, but will still satisfy your sweet tooth.

Diabetic cookbooks will also help you find sugar-free options of some of your favorite goodies. This can be a great help when trying to live a more healthy lifestyle.

If you decide to make a recipe, you can still substitute sugar with an artificial sweetener. But it is not an equal trade. The amount of sweetener has to be adjusted according to which type of sweetener you are using. One type will measure out differently than others. Consult with a substitution table to see what the replacement will call for.

It is quite possible to control your blood sugar so that you can lead a normal life. But even sugar-free foods have to be consumed within reasonable limits. Finding ways to make your eating habits a little healthier is a great way, but everything in moderation. We can't just put all our eggs in the artificial sweetener basket. Don't expect that simply switching to sugar-free products will help you lose weight and keep it off. This is just one part of your living healthy plan. You need to eat right, avoid overeating, and exercise as much as you possibly can.

To discover answers to questions you may be asking yourself about Type 2 Diabetes, click on this link... Natural Diabetes Treatments

Clicking on this link will help you to learn more about Type 2 Diabetes Solutions... Beverleigh Piepers RN... the Diabetes Detective.

Type 2 Diabetes - How Alcohol Affects Blood Sugar

We know how the effects of alcohol can impact the body. From tissue, to how organs function, and to hormones, alcohol has the ability to negatively impact all of them, and more. But what exactly does alcohol do to blood sugar? And just how destructive are those effects long-term?

To understand how destructive alcohol is to blood sugar, you first have to understand exactly what it is that is being damaged. Glucose is the energy source for the body. The level of glucose in the body's blood is partially regulated by hormones. Without the right amount of glucose the body beings to suffer. One of the areas that is largely affected by a lack of glucose is the brain since the brain does not have the capability to manufacture or store glucose.

When an individual consumes alcohol, the alcohol interferes with the sources of glucose and how it's supply is regulated by hormones. This is further inhibited by the fact that alcoholics typically are not very interested in proper nutrition. Therefore, they are not getting the right amount of glucose from their choices of foods. Now, the effects of alcohol are interfering in two ways.

Alcoholics have a common tendency to skip meals because they are "drinking" them. This is interference number three. As an alcoholic is drinking, the body's glucose supply is restricted because the body is so focused on trying to metabolize the alcohol. Interference number four.

When you take numbers three and four and combine them, this is what is happening while the body is simultaneously experiencing episodes of very low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia. These episodes can hit a few hours after a period of heavy drinking, or they can be held off for even as long as a day or two.

As if the concept of a hypoglycemic episode wasn't enough, the body is unable to counteract the effects of the low blood sugar because the presence of massive amounts of alcohol are impeding it. Hormones, which would normally be called in to help out are restricted by alcohol. Interference number five.

All of these reasons are why many alcoholics can eventually develop Type 2 diabetes.

Many people harbor the belief that only acute alcoholics or those who have other health issues are at risk of having their blood sugar affected so dramatically. This could not be farther from the truth. Alcohol can affect the blood sugar levels in the healthiest of individuals, no matter what their medical history is or their level of fitness.

To discover answers to questions you may be asking yourself about Type 2 Diabetes, click on this link... Natural Diabetes Treatments

5 Ways To Manage Diabetes

It can be difficult to deal with diabetes if you are unsure how best to manage it. These tips will help you manage your condition better, and lead a healthier life.

1. Try to avoid stress in your life as much as you can. It is said that everyone needs a little stress in their lives, but too much of it is a very bad thing. You may find that your job has become very stressful - a diagnosis of diabetes might be frightening, but it may also give you the impetus you need to find a new, less stressful job if it's possible. Your home life may be stressful. Talk with your family to see if there are ways that they could help ensure that your life is made less stressful. By reducing stress in your life, both your blood sugar and blood pressure should stay at safer levels.

2. Try some relaxation to reduce your blood sugar. This might be something as simple as listening to some soothing music, or you could try one of the many relaxation audio CDs which are available. Practice your breathing technique by taking long, deep breaths, in the through the nose, and out through the mouth. Do just ten repetitions, and you'll be surprised how effective this can be, particularly if you close your eyes.

3. Are you carrying too much weight? Everyone should try losing weight if they need to, but for diabetics, this is even more important. Make sure you take advice from your GP on a suitable eating plan. Plan half an hour of gentle exercise into your daily schedule. The combination of healthy eating and exercise should see the excess weight coming off in no time at all.

4. If you've been prescribed medication, make sure you follow the directions on how to take it properly. If you need to have medication at a certain time, or after meals, make sure you do. It's also sensible to take your medication at the same time every day. If you sometimes can't remember if you've taken your medication or not, buy a pill box which has different sections for each day of the week, and sections for different times of the day. Fill it up once a week, and you'll be able to see if you have taken the correct medication each day or not.

5. Avoid drinks with hidden sugar. Always check the label of any soft drink to see if it contains sugar. If you're visiting a coffee shop, ask the barista if your drink contains sugar - if it does, then choose one which doesn't have any sugar. It's really easy to get caught out with sugary drinks that you don't know contain sugar.

These tips should help you manage your diabetes, but if you're ever in any doubt, always check with your GP.

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

Heart and blood vessel disease are some of the most dreaded complications people diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes have to face. It has been found people with diabetes suffer twice as many heart attacks and strokes as anyone without diabetes. Type 2 diabetics usually have high cholesterol levels, which lead to clogged arteries and lack of circulation to the heart muscle and the brain.

In January 2012, the journal Cardiovascular Diabetology reported on the results of a study of the diabetes drug, linagliptin (Tradjenta and Trajenta), and its possible protective effect on the heart and blood vessels.

A total of 5239 volunteers diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes were included in the study. A group that included:

3319 diabetics received liniagliptin, and the remaining1920 diabetics received the drugs glimepiride (Amaryl) or voglibose (Volix).

Eleven volunteers, or 0.3 per cent, of those receiving linagliptin showed signs and symptoms of heart and blood vessel diseases. Twenty-three, or 1.2 per cent, of the diabetics taking other medications, were treated for conditions involving the heart and blood vessels. The diabetic volunteers taking linagliptin had an almost two-thirds lower risk of heart and blood vessel disease as those taking other medications.
From these results, the researchers concluded linagliptin (Tradjenta and Trajenta) could have benefits for keeping the heart and blood vessels healthy in Type 2 diabetics.

Linagliptin was approved by the US Federal Drug Administration (FDA) in the Spring of 2011 and is marketed by the proprietary name Trajenta. It belongs to the class of medications called dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors. The class also includes sitagliptin, vildagliptin, saxagliptin, dutogliptin, gemigliptin, and alogliptin.

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

DPP-4 inhibitors work by increasing incretin, which in turn causes less glucagon to be released from the pancreas. When glucagon is suppressed, more insulin is released, the stomach empties more slowly, and carbohydrate is absorbed more slowly, all of which lowers blood sugar levels.

Linagliptin is taken once a day with or without food. It can be taken alone or along with drugs such as metformin, sulphoylureas or pioglitazone. Side effects include inflammation of the nose and throat and inflammation of the pancreas, or low blood sugar when used with sulfonylureas.

Many medications are available for lowering blood sugar levels. If linagliptin can also prevent heart attacks then it can serve an important dual purpose.

To discover answers to questions you may be asking yourself about Type 2 Diabetes, click on this link... Natural Diabetes Treatments

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

During pregnancy, women are forced to have better dietary plans in order to ensure good nutrition intakes for the babies. In normal conditions, there are plenty of guidelines providing great deals of information about recommended foods and dietary restrictions for pregnant women. However, not all women are having the same privilege to enjoy normal life because they develop a certain medical condition such as diabetes.

Gestational diabetes (diabetes suffered by pregnant women) needs special treatments and dietary rules. In one side, pregnant women have to consume plenty of nutritious meals to ensure health and growth of the unborn child. However, diabetes brings more difficulties to make a diet plan. Diabetes is developed inside the body because of insulin dysfunction. Insulin is either not produced or unusable that makes the glucose level in the blood keeps on increasing. High blood sugar is very dangerous for the unborn child; women with gestational diabetes have to be able to control it. Keeping a good glucose level in the blood can be a real pain for almost everyone as there will be too many kinds of foods should be avoided.

Especially for pregnant women who develop diabetes, one good way to acquire good information about a suggested dietary plan is by visiting registered dietitian or nutritionist. A professional will measure weights, heights, physical strength, and the growing baby's needs before a suggested dietary plan is made. The good thing about visiting a nutritionist is that almost all aspects about good diets are carefully examined. The amounts of calories needed, carbohydrate, protein, fats, and many others aspects of diets are accurately measured. Even better, a nutritionist will ask questions about any preferable meal that patients would like to put on the menu. In some cases, changing the diets will not be sufficient enough to keep the glucose level under a critical point. Nutritionists will recommend a regular insulin injection to gain better health condition. Pregnant women have to take the insulin injection regularly at a medical facility. The glucose level will be examined to measure the perfect dose of insulin to be given.

Nevertheless, some points on many dietary plans are commonly found on any recommendation by nutritionists or dietitians. Some of the common diet plans include the suggestions to take small amount of carbohydrates, milk, and any food that contains much sugar. There will be some recommendation to consume more protein and fiber. The amounts of carbohydrates should be reduced as they contain a lot of glucose. The case is the same with milk and some beverages that contain simple sugar such as soda, juice and desserts. Surprisingly, any gestational diabetes diet plan will not recommend to skipping meals. It is believed that good distribution of nutrition helps the body to maintain the good level of glucose in the blood. Of course, patients need to be consistent on the amount of food consumed each time.

Anyway, the above recommendations are based on a common dietary plan. It is recommended to consult doctors or nutritionists to get specific explanations. Indeed, it is not easy to strictly follow any gestational diabetes diet plan. However, in order to ensure the good growth of the unborn child, pregnant women with diabetes have to try at their best.

There are also other dietary plans available on Gestational Diabetes Diet, where you can find plenty of different plans with specific categories for gestational diabetes. Learn also about signs of diabetes in men and women here.

The Best Way to Manage Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a common disease that affects a very large segment of the population. It is an incurable disease, but you can work with your doctor to find effective ways to manage your blood sugar level get off insulin and effectively reverse the disease. Once you begin to effectively manage your Type 2 Diabetes, you will begin to reduce some of the risks involved in having this disease, or leaving it untreated. Managing type 2 diabetes takes a complete commitment to the new lifestyle. It is not an overnight activity and it requires that you continue the changes for months and years to come.

Before you start the process of properly managing your type 2 diabetes, you should know what is type 2 diabetes. Type II diabetes occurs when your body cannot properly regulate the sugar level in your cells, or it may not create sufficient insulin to normalize glucose levels. Some of the symptoms you may experience with this illness include increase thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision, slow healing sores, weight loss and a host of others. This disease has no known cause, but it is believed to occur due to being overweight, sedentary lifestyle and family genetics.

Your medical provider can determine if you have type II diabetes by doing laboratory testing such as the Glycated hemoglobin (A1C) test to determine your blood sugar level.

Having type 2 diabetes left untreated can result in death. Since there is no cure for this disease, so your best option is to properly manage your type 2 diabetes. To manage your type II diabetes, change your diet, eat more fruits and vegetables and add whole grains such as oats and legumes. Implement an exercise regimen of at least 30 minutes daily, you can even break up the 30 minutes into 10 minutes increment. Since, studies have shown that exercise in 10 minutes increment give you the same benefit, just make sure you do at least 30 minutes daily. Exercising daily will help you lose the weight while lowering your cholesterol.

Then, closely monitor your body and your blood sugar to see if any changes are occurring. Type 2 diabetes can sometimes cause vision impairment, and cuts and bruises may heal slowly, so always make sure that any changes in your body are addressed immediately. Most importantly follow the direction of your health care provider because they can help you manage blood sugar levels and help you live the life you desire.

Type 2 Diabetes - The Importance Of Using A Blood Sugar Meter

The device necessary for calculating blood sugar levels is known as a blood glucose meter, a glucometer or monitor. Using a glucometer is a simple process and this convenient device provides reliable results in only a few seconds. It makes sense for almost everyone with diabetes to have a monitor on hand. This is the fastest and simplest way to detect whether you have higher or lower than normal blood sugar levels. They're quick... you'll know your numbers within seconds. By helping you keep your blood sugar in line, your monitor can help you ward off diabetes-associated conditions such as heart disease and neuropathy.

Until manufacturers come up with a needle-less lancet device that is affordable, a blood sugar check will involve a needle prick. Finger-prick testing is usually performed on the four fingers, not the thumb. When using a glucometer, the blood is dribbled onto a special paper test strip and then inserted into a convenient opening in the monitor. As technology has advanced, so have the requirements for blood sampling. Now, only a tiny speck of blood is required.

It is important to consult with your health care provider to determine what an accurate reading is for you. As individuals differ, so does diabetes itself. What is a comfortable level for one person might not be accurate for another. Appropriate target blood sugar levels are often determined on a case-by-case basis. The acceptable range two hours after the start of a meal is usually less than 180 mg/dL or 10 mmol/L.

Although all readings are helpful, readings taken in the morning, before meals, two hours after meals, and before bedtime, give particularly valuable clues as to whether your diabetes management is on track. You and your doctor will come up with a testing schedule that will give sufficient information without you having to test your blood sugar constantly.

Following this type of close monitoring, peaks and valleys in blood sugar can be detected quickly so that the appropriate action can be taken. This reduces the level of stress your body goes through with abnormal levels.

When blood sugar is carefully monitored, people with Type 2 diabetes are in a position to choose the type and range of food they need to keep levels balanced.

Using a glucometer has become simplified and easy. Some are unusually small and light with large displays or audio readouts for those who are visually impaired. Make sure you talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or diabetes instructor about your preferences. What matters more than the brand or the features the glucometer offers, is that you use the proper testing technique and record the information consistently.

To discover answers to questions you may be asking yourself about Type 2 Diabetes, click on this link... Natural Diabetes Treatments

Type 2 Diabetes - Diabetic Foot Infections

Unfortunately infections are common for people with either Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, especially in the lower extremities. In fact, foot infections rank as the most common of all. But why the foot? How serious of a problem can foot infections become? And what can be done to avoid them?

The good news is an ounce of prevention right now is worth pounds of cure in the future when it comes to your feet and toes. Feet are often neglected during the day when we take them over all types of terrain and squash them into unsuitable shoes.

The reason infections are so much more of a problem for diabetics than they are for non-diabetics, is because of several different factors. One reason has to do with the fact many diabetics have a sedentary lifestyle, meaning they have little or no physical activity. This helps to lead to poor circulation of their feet and can advance to a serious state before the diabetic is even aware they have a problem.

Another problem is many diabetics do not maintain healthy blood sugar levels. The elevated sugar then goes to work to cause a myriad of complications. One is a buildup of plaque in the arteries that restricts blood flow. Another is the excess amount of sugar in the bloodstream which attacks and begins to destroy nerve endings, most commonly in the legs and especially in the feet.

But the worst way is how the body reacts to foot infections. In a normal setting, the body would sense an infection and immediately send white blood cells to begin repairing the infected area. But since a diabetic has impaired circulation, the number of phagocytic cells (cells that attack and destroy bacteria), are greatly decreased. This means there is a very limited amount of antibodies available to help the infected tissue.

Even the type of infection can range in severity. Foot infections can start with soft tissue infections and progress to severe, chronic infections involving both tissue and bone. From there, they can increase to peripheral vascular disease which involves the large blood vessels and then infections which advance to gangrene.

Not only are the infections more severe as compared to infections non-diabetics develop, but they also take much longer to control and cure. If conditions are not drastically improved and the infection dealt with in an aggressive and consistent manner, there is the probability the foot, or at the very least part of the foot, would have to be amputated.

There are many cases where part of the foot is removed, the infection continues to spread and another amputation is needed in order to stop progression of the damage.

The best way to limit the possibility of developing a foot infection is to thoroughly inspect your feet each day. There is no greater act of prevention than awareness. If necessary use a magnifying glass... some pharmacies carry a device which is a long stick with a magnifying lens on the end (this would make it much easier to view the sole of your foot). And use a good light! Take special note of skin color, temperature, sensation, or changes in the integrity of the skin. Don't forget to check between each of your toes. As well as feeling great, foot massages can help with circulation also.

To discover answers to questions you may be asking yourself about Type 2 Diabetes, click on this link... Natural Diabetes Treatments

Type 2 Diabetes - The Metabolic Syndrome And Inflammatory Bowel Disease

The metabolic syndrome consists of high blood sugar, high blood cholesterol, high blood fats, obesity and high blood pressure. Inflammatory bowel disease consists of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, two conditions involving the large intestine. Researchers in the Department of Gastroenterology, Goztepe Training and Research Hospital in Istanbul, Turkey, set out to discover whether the two conditions could be associated. The results of their work were published in the Saudi Journal of Gastroenterology in the month of November 2011.

Sixty-two participants with Crohn's disease and 115 volunteers with ulcerative colitis were included in the study...

34 participants with ulcerative colitis, and11 with Crohn's disease

were found to have the metabolic syndrome. The metabolic syndrome was found in 10.3 per cent of the participants under 45 years of age and 55 per cent of those over 45.

Since both the metabolic syndrome and inflammatory disease were studied at the same time, the results show an association but it is not clear which condition might be a risk factor for the other. Anyone with either diagnosis should be aware of the signs and symptoms of the other.

Signs and symptoms of diabetes include:

unusual hunger or thirst,unintended weight loss,unusual headaches,faintness,unusual fatigue,blurred vision,darkened skin (especially under the arms),frequent urination, andsores or infections that heal slowly.

Anyone experiencing signs or symptoms should be seen by a family doctor or endocrinologist, a doctor specializing in diseases of the glands.

People with ulcerative colitis can experience:

rectal bleeding,rectal mucous,feelings of urgency,diarrhea,fatigue,bloating,left-sided pain,abdominal cramping,unintended weight loss, anddiarrhea.

Crohn's disease can cause:

diarrhea,abdominal cramping,reduced appetite,weight loss,nausea and vomiting, andoccasionally bleeding.

Some scientists have suggested the two conditions are simply slightly different presentations of the same disease. A family doctor or gastroenterologist, a specialist working with diseases of the digestive system, can diagnose inflammatory bowel disease.

Type 2 diabetes has traditionally been diagnosed by fasting blood sugar levels. Hemoglobin blood sugar levels could replace fasting blood sugar levels as the diagnostic test of choice.

Inflammatory bowel diseases are diagnosed by colonoscopy, which consists of inserting a tube called a colonoscope in the rectum and viewing the length of the large intestine.

Both conditions can be treated with diet and medications:

vegan diets are known to be the best kind of diet for people with Type 2 diabetes to follow, and could also be effective for inflammatory bowel disease, although high fiber diets can be irritating.exercise is directly beneficial in lowering blood sugar levels in Type 2 diabetes and is under investigation for inflammatory bowel disease. Since inflammatory bowel disease is at least partly related to stress, exercise could be at least indirectly helpful.

To discover answers to questions you may be asking yourself about Type 2 Diabetes, click on this link... Natural Diabetes Treatments

Type 2 Diabetes - Dealing With Depression As A Diabetic

Receiving a diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes often comes along with other issues such as depression. Getting depressed or having a long-term chronic illness can get the best of anyone. However, you don't have to live with depression if you know how to combat it effectively.

Here are some ideas about overcoming depression when you have diabetes.

First of all, if your depression lasts more than just a few days at a time, you should see a professional. It's very important you maintain good mental health in your life, so seeing a professional counselor or psychiatrist doesn't mean that you are weak. It simply means you need the help and assistance of someone who's more experienced and qualified in the subject of depression. Once you have seen someone for this condition, you will be better equipped to deal with it.

So, what is depression? When someone is continually affected by stressful circumstances, it's not unusual to find depression develop. The basic feelings of depression are feeling hopeless and helpless. These feelings usually occur when a situation is continually seen as an uncontrollable threat. This threat can be real or imagined and as long as the threat persists, the reaction corresponds with a type of depression. This depression can vary from feeling down to being unable to perform daily basic functions and where diabetes is concerned, this means depression makes the effective management of diabetes almost impossible

If you know someone who has gone through depression, make sure to chat with them about it. Getting the viewpoint of other people is very important when it comes to dealing with anxiety disorders and other mental issues. Having depression doesn't mean that you're crazy. Lots of people go through this at some point during their lives. Sometimes it comes on as a result of stress while other times it can come on out of nowhere.

It is not unusual for depression to cause other problems. For example, the increase of alcohol and sugary foods. As a diabetic and a depressed person, it is important you avoid alcohol and other sugary foods and drinks. This is because sugar causes major blood sugar swings in your body. When your blood sugar dips too high or too low, it can have an immense effect on your emotions and mood. In addition, it can cause other complications and problems with your Type 2 diabetes and blood sugar. The last thing you want to do is have more problems with your diabetes.

Support Groups: Finally, it's important to understand you are not alone in this journey. There are many support groups and other ways of getting help when you have depression. If you feel like you can't leave the house or get out of bed in the mornings, you may need some medication just to get you over the hump. Once you take part in counseling, you'll be able to find some other means of coping. There are tools that can assist you in managing your stress and depression, skills that will give you better control of your diabetes and life in general.

It's completely possible you won't have to be on medication for the rest of your life. But, even if you do, it's more important you have a happy life even if it involves taking medication to help you.

To discover answers to questions you may be asking yourself about Type 2 Diabetes, click on this link... Natural Diabetes Treatments

Type 2 Diabetes - Diabetes And The Flu!

Getting the flu is no fun for anyone, but it can be especially dangerous for someone who has Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. This is because getting sick in any way can wreak havoc on a diabetic's blood sugar levels. In addition, being sick can affect how much and how often you eat. It can also affect what you are able to eat. If you have a cold and sore throat, you may not be able to eat normally which can greatly affect your blood sugar levels.

Having diabetes makes people more susceptible to severe cases of the flu because of a weakened immune system. This is one of the reasons why many doctors recommend anyone diagnosed with diabetes get the influenza vaccination each year to give them that extra layer of protection over the potentially deadly illness. Just because you have diabetes, this does not mean you shouldn't have the same vaccinations as other people. The time to get a flu shot is usually between October and the middle of November... before the flu season actually begins.

Knowing the symptoms of the flu can also help you to identify it early so that you can go get treatment from your doctor. Some of the symptoms include:

fever,body aches,headache,chills,fatigue,cough,runny or stuffy nose,sore throat, andsome people might experience diarrhea or vomiting.

When you're sick with a cold or the flu, it's very important to do everything you can to rest and take it easy. You should continue to take any diabetic medications or insulin that your doctor has instructed you to take... but contact your healthcare provider to see if you need to make any adjustments in your medication or insulin. You should also make sure to continue testing your blood sugar levels every four hours so that you can keep track of how they're doing while you're sick.

You should be drinking plenty of fluids and eating as much as you normally would be. If anything, at least try to have liquids and soft foods that are balanced in sugar. You should also check your temperature each morning and evening to make sure that you don't have a fever as that can be a sign of infection.

If you find that you are losing weight without trying or feeling too sick to eat like you normally would, contact your healthcare provider or go to the nearest emergency room. This is also true if you're having severe diarrhea or are unable to keep down food. Having diabetes can make you more prone to other issues, so don't wait until it's too late to see someone. If you get a temperature over 101° or your blood sugar is dropping too low or going too high, you should also seek emergency assistance.

To discover answers to questions you may be asking yourself about Type 2 Diabetes, click on this link... Natural Diabetes Treatments

Type 2 Diabetes - Choosing The Right Blood Glucose Meter

When choosing a blood glucose meter or glucometer, there are many things that should be considered. Does it have enough memory? Are the results clear and accurate? Is it easy to use? Can the results from previous dates be stored somewhere else? Believe it or not, there are all different kinds of meters on the market today.

Blood glucose meters are small computerized devices that measure the amount of glucose or sugar in a sample of your blood. The levels are then displayed on a screen.

The idea is to get a meter that will work best for your own needs and comfort: This can mean getting a meter that is small in size, that is light and portable and can fit in your pocket or purse... to make it easier to carry with you throughout the day.

some individuals have problems seeing and should think about getting a monitor that displays large numbers.there are also meters that will even "talk" the reading for you.those who are sensitive to sharp objects need to look for one that takes smaller blood samples from the fingers. If you do not like being poked in the fingers, then consider a meter that will calculate blood samples taken from other parts of your body.

Cost: Do not buy a particular meter if you know you cannot afford it. Make sure you purchase one that includes a generous amount of strips for a reasonable price. Some meters will require too much money for the additional needed items throughout the month, so take that into consideration. It's really about the cost of the strips.

If you have insurance, check to see what meters it might be able to cover... most insurance plans will cover the cost of meters, and sometimes there are great rebates. Some insurance plans cover the cost of your glucometer, testing strips, or lancets.

Speed: You want a meter that will tell you your results straight away. New meters on the market today take only seconds to display your blood sugar results; but some take over a minute, Faster is better where blood sugar levels are concerned.

Time Display and Record: Some people forget what time of day they have taken their blood sugar. Try and aim for a meter that will tell you the time when you last took your blood sugar. You can also use this information to track your progress for your next doctor's visit.

Convenience: Your doctor may want to keep tabs on your sugar as well. Check for a meter that allows you to download the results to a computer.

Be sure to evaluate the information on how to contact the maker of the product in case there are problems with your glucometer.

Overall, get a blood glucose meter that will meet all of your needs now and in the future by taking all of these factors into consideration.

To discover answers to questions you may be asking yourself about Type 2 Diabetes, click on this link... Natural Diabetes Treatments

Diabetes: The Three Most Common Symptoms

Diabetes is present in 8% of people in the United States. 90-95% of the people with diabetes have Type 2 diabetes.

Diagnosis of diabetes depends on laboratory documentation of an elevated fasting blood sugar >125 mg/dl, an elevated 2-hour blood sugar of 200 mg/dl or more 2-hours after a 75 gram oral glucose tolerance test, or a random blood sugar of 200 mg/dl or more with typical diabetes symptoms.

An HA1c of 6.5% or more may also be used as another method of diagnosis. The HA1c must be obtained from a laboratory (not one of the mail-order or pharmacy self-test kits).

Before diabetes is diagnosed, many people complain of symptoms which suggest elevated blood sugar levels.

Although symptoms typically appear when blood sugar levels are greater than 200 mg/dl, there is considerable variability.

Some people notice symptoms with sugar levels in the mid-100's, while others may deny complaints even when sugar levels rise well above 200 mg/dl.

Lack of symptoms is especially common when sugar levels have been elevated for prolonged periods of time.

#1)Increased Urination

Increased frequency of urination is the most common reason that people seek medical attention for diabetes.

There is no threshold for diagnosis of increased urinary frequency. It is simply an increase from your baseline.

Increased urinary frequency may also be due to increased fluid intake, a urinary tract infection, or, less commonly an inability of your body to hold on to water.

The different causes of urinary frequency can often be diagnosed in your physician's office by obtaining a careful history and providing a urine sample.

Once blood sugar levels return to normal, urinary frequency also quickly returns to normal.

If increased urinary frequency persists in the setting of normal blood sugar levels, alternative causes need to be considered.

#2)Changes in Vision

Visual changes are another reason people seek medical attention to rule out diabetes.

Changes may include complaints of "double vision", difficulty reading printed materials or watching TV, or a significant change in prescription glasses.

Visual symptoms are due to sugar-induced changes in the shape of the lens of your eye.

Since similar complaints can be caused by eye problems not related to elevated sugars, evaluation by an opthamologist is critical.

Once sugar levels are normalized, visual complaints gradually resolve. Unlike urinary frequency, the return to normal vision may take several weeks.

#3)Numbness

Another common complaint associated with elevated blood sugars is numbness.

The numbness typically occurs in the feet, but may also involve the hands.

Characteristically, the numbness begins in the toes, then "spreads" to the feet. Numbness may later extend to the foot and mid-leg. The thigh is rarely involved.

Numbness is worse at rest (people often complain of symptoms at night when trying to go to sleep), and is almost always bilateral.

The numbness may be accompanied by severe, stabbing pains as well as extreme sensitivity to touch.

Although symptoms typically resolve soon after sugar levels have returned to normal, some people note continued complaints.

Since other nerve-related problems may cause numbness of the feet and hands, careful medical evaluation is needed. Other causes should be considered if the numbness or pain is associated with exercise, if the symptoms are one-sided, or if there is associated back pain.

Other symptoms of high blood sugar include unintentional weight loss, increased hunger, increased frequency of infections (especially vaginal yeast infections in women), slow healing of wounds and unexplained fatigue.

If you have any of these symptoms, contact your physician to schedule further evaluation.

Remember that there can be significant variability in the severity and duration of these symptoms.

Take an active role in the management of your health.

Make a difference in your life, starting today.

Type 2 Diabetes - Diabetics And Infections

Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar which affects many systems in the body, one of which is the immune system. This means people with diabetes are more prone to infections because high blood sugar levels weaken the immune system. Some diabetes-related health issues like diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage) and decreased blood flow to the extremities also contribute to the development of these infections.

Some of the more common diabetic infections include foot complications, urinary tract infections and yeast infections.

Diabetic neuropathy causes a lack of sensation in the lower extremities, which means foot injuries can easily go unnoticed. If these injuries are left untreated, they get infected. Some types of neuropathy can also cause skin dryness leading to cracks and fissures of the foot. These splits in the skin allow for the entry of infections into the body from such areas of origin as foot ulcers and calluses. Decreased blood flow to the extremities also hampers the normal immune defenses and promotes infection.

People with diabetes spend more days in the hospital with foot infections than with any other complication. At some point in their lives, approximately 15 percent of people diagnosed with diabetes will develop a foot ulcer.

High blood sugar levels cause an increase in sugar in the urine as the body attempts to remove the excess sugar via the kidneys. This serves as food to the bacterial cultures in the urinary tract. Most often, bacteria E coli causes infection. When an increased bacterial growth develops in the bladder it causes a urinary bladder infection called cystitis. If cystitis is left untreated, bacteria can migrate from the bladder to the kidneys. Once there, it can cause kidney infections known as Pyelonephritis.

Yeast cells (candida albicans) that occur naturally on the skin and mucus membrane, can enter the body through the insulin injection site. Once the yeast cells enter the blood stream, they interfere with the normal defense mechanism of the white blood cells. When the white blood cells get impaired, the yeast cells replicate unchecked, causing yeast infections.

High blood sugar levels also serve as food for the candida albicans and work to promote the infections. The common yeast infections in diabetics include:

vaginal yeast infection,oral thrush,skin, andnail-bed infections.

The untreated yeast infection can even enter the bloodstream causing a life-threatening systemic yeast infection.

Diabetics are usually advised to maintain close diligence of their skin at all times. Any cuts or sores should be closely monitored so that they do not develop into infections. If they do, your doctor should be notified immediately. Some infections of the feet can increase into such severity that amputation is necessary.

You feet should be checked at every visit by your doctor. If you have a problem with your feet, such as ingrown toenails or a fungal infection, your doctor should immediately refer you to a foot specialist, preferably one experienced in treating people with diabetes.

To discover answers to questions you may be asking yourself about Type 2 Diabetes, click on this link... Natural Diabetes Treatments

Type 2 Diabetes - Planning a Pregnancy With Diabetes

Pregnant women with Type 2 diabetes have increased risks such as giving birth to a stillborn baby or a baby with severe birth defects. At the same time, pregnant women who manage their diabetes well can have a healthy pregnancy and go on to deliver a healthy baby. The key is to keep your diabetes under control before and during your pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester when development is at its most intricate.

Poorly controlled Type 2 diabetes during pregnancy can increase the risk of birth defects up to 10%.

OK... although you have Type 2 diabetes, you still want to get pregnant. So, what do you need to do so you have a happy, healthy pregnancy and give birth to a healthy baby.

The key is to plan ahead! If you are looking to become pregnant, it is important to consider a few things and to seek preconception care prior to attempting to become pregnant.

The Plan: Many doctors and specialists recommend women to establish and maintain exceptional blood sugar control for three to six months before becoming pregnant. Then you can be sure your glycosylated hemoglobin levels or HbA1c levels are within the normal ranges during this time. A normal level would indicate your diabetes is well-managed; therefore the risk of birth defects is low. The risk of birth defects is more probable when you have high blood sugar levels in the early stages of pregnancy.

You doctor then will likely assess any concerns or questions you may have about Type 2 diabetes and pregnancy as well as acquire a complete medical history and physical examination. The following tests are also usually recommended prior to becoming pregnant:

an eye examination in order to rule out diabetic eye disease,blood pressure and urine tests to check your kidney function,a gynecological examination,a general examination to rule out heart disease or any circulatory issues.

Then a unique and comprehensive plan will be designed to assist you to maintain a healthy pregnancy. If you are taking oral anti-diabetic medications, you will be advised to control your diabetes through:

diet and exercise alone, orgo on insulin prior to pregnancy, and during your pregnancy.

Everyone is different and for this reason, each management plan of action may differ from one patient to another.

Where weight is concerned, regardless of having Type 2 diabetes, obesity is a warning your pregnancy may become a high risk. Obesity means you weigh at least 20% more than you should for your age and height.

studies have revealed women who are obese at the beginning of a pregnancy are more likely to have their baby delivered by cesarean section, than a women of average weight.blood sugar monitoring by use of a personal blood glucose meter is essential to observe stable, normal blood sugar levels.

Some women with Type 2 diabetes will be considered "high risk", so it will likely be necessary to follow-up via ultrasound tests throughout the pregnancy. This is a normal part of dealing with an ongoing health issue and being pregnant at the same time.

Medical professionals no longer discourage women becoming pregnant while dealing with Type 2 diabetes... although it is important to seek medical consultation prior to conception. Seeking preconception care will allow women with Type 2 diabetes to become more knowledgeable on how to properly care for themselves as well as their growing child despite their Type 2 diabetes.

To discover answers to questions you may be asking yourself about Type 2 Diabetes, click on this link... Natural Diabetes Treatments