Diabetes is a serious condition that can cause complications ranging from numbness to loss of vision to coma. It also significantly raises the risk for other problems, such as stroke and heart disease.
About diabetes
There are three types of diabetes.
1. Type 1 diabetes
2. Type 2 diabetes
3. Gestational diabetes
Type 1 is most common among the children, so it is also called children-onset diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is also called diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, the pancreas cannot make the insulin needed to process glucose. It can not be cured by natural therapies, but natural therapies may help by type 1 diabetes to work carefully with the doctor prescribing insulin before contemplating the use of any herbs, supplements, or dietary changes. Any change that makes the body more receptive to insulin could require critical changes in insulin dosage that must be determined by the treating physician.
People with this type of diabetes cannot properly process glucose, a sugar the body uses for energy. As a result, glucose stays in the blood, causing blood glucose to rise. At the same time, however, the cells of the body can be starved for glucose. People with diabetes are at high risk for heart disease, atherosclerosis, cataracts, retinopathy, stroke, poor wound healing, infections, and damage to the kidneys and nerves.
Type 2 is the most common form of diabetes among the people and found in over 90% of all cases, so it is called adult- onset diabetes. Type 2 diabetes, which has also been called non-insulin-dependent diabetes. However, type 2 diabetes may also affect children and may also require treatment with insulin. With type 2 diabetes, the pancreas often makes enough insulin, but the body has trouble using it. Type 2 diabetes mostly responds well to natural therapies. So people with type 2 diabetes should also take help of natural therapies along with medicines.
People with this type of diabetes cannot properly process glucose, a sugar the body uses for energy. As a result, glucose stays in the blood, causing blood glucose to rise. At the same time, however, the cells of the body can be starved for glucose. In addition, those with diabetes have a higher mortality rate if they also have high homocysteine levels.
3. Gestational diabetes
Gestational diabetes generally seen during pregnancy and is normally limited to the pregnancy period and sometimes it is seen few months afterwards. This may be related to the increased stress, changes in hormones, and differences in diet and physical activity associated with pregnancy. This can usually be controlled with dietary interventions and, rarely, insulin.
Because the symptoms of diabetes can be hard to detect many people are surprised to learn they have diabetes. Diabetes can be hereditary so if you have a family history you should be aware that you may be a candidate yourself.
Red alerts for diabetes
Following points may be the cause of diabetes among the people.
Symptoms
- High blood levels of glucose can cause several problems, including frequent urination, excessive thirst, hunger, fatigue, weight loss, and blurry vision. However, because type 2 diabetes develops slowly, some people with high blood sugar experience no symptoms at all.
- High blood levels of glucose can cause several problems, including frequent urination, excessive thirst, hunger, fatigue, weight loss, and blurry vision. However, because type 2 diabetes develops slowly, some people with high blood sugar experience no symptoms at all.
- High blood levels of glucose can cause several problems, including frequent urination, excessive thirst, hunger, fatigue, weight loss, and blurry vision. However, because type 2 diabetes develops slowly, some people with high blood sugar experience no symptoms at all.
- High blood levels of glucose can cause several problems, including frequent urination, excessive thirst, hunger, fatigue, weight loss, and blurry vision. However, because type 2 diabetes develops slowly, some people with high blood sugar experience no symptoms at all.
Symptoms of type 1 diabetes:
- Frequent bathroom trips
Increased thirst
Weight loss in spite of increased appetite
Fatigue
Nausea
Vomiting
- Patients with type 1 diabetes usually develop symptoms over a short period of time, and the condition is often diagnosed in an emergency setting.
Symptoms of type 2 diabetes:
- Frequent bathroom trips
Increased thirst
Increased appetite
Fatigue
Blurred vision
Slow-healing infections
Erectile dysfunction among men
Diabetes prevention tips
Lose extra weight
If you are overweight then you are at high risk for diabetes. So try to lose your extra weight. Every kg or pound you lose can improve your health. And you may be surprised by how much. To keep your weight in a healthy range, focus on parameters like exercise and food eating habits. Motivate yourself by remembering the benefits of losing weight, such as a healthier heart, more energy and improved self-esteem.
Skip fad diets
Low fat, low-carb, high-protein or other fad diets may help you lose weight at first sight, but it will not helpful to you for a long time. Because it may not provide you all the nutrition you need. Instead, think variety and portion control as part of an overall healthy-eating plan. Choose healthy foods low in fat and calories, including fruits, vegetables and various lean foods from the other major food groups. And if necessary take a help of dietician to maintain your weight.
Be more physically active
Increase your physical activity; it may help you to lose weight. But even if it doesn't, it's still important to get off the couch. Whether you lose weight or not, physical activity lowers blood sugar and boosts your sensitivity to insulin — which helps keep your blood sugar within a normal range.
With the advice of your doctor, make a routine to exercise 30 minutes a day. To avoid boringness of the repetition try every day a new activity. You can take a fast daily walk, or ride your bike or swim laps. If you can't fit in a long workout, break it up into smaller sessions spread throughout the day. Even trading the elevator for the stairs and parking farther from your destination are steps in the right direction. Some activities such as weight-lifting may not be safe for you, particularly if you have high blood pressure or diabetic eye disease.
Go for more fibrous food
Fibrous food can reduce the risk of diabetes by improving your blood sugar control. Fiber also reduces the risk of heart disease. It can even promote weight loss by helping you feel full longer. Aim for 25-50 grams of fiber a day. Foods high in fiber include fruits, vegetables, beans, whole grains, nuts and seeds.
Pay Attention To Your Feet
Inspect your feet and between your toes every day. Diabetes can damage nerve endings in your feet and toes, making it difficult for you to feel sores, blisters, and other injuries. Look for cuts, breaks in the skin, or swollen, red areas. Keep your feet clean and dry. Bathe your feet with warm water and mild soap every day. Dry them carefully, especially between the toes. Apply a thin coat of moisturizing lotion if the skin on your feet feels unusually dry. Wear clean socks and comfortable, well-fitting shoes. Never go barefoot. You are more likely to get injured if you do.
Avoid Large Meals
Spread your calories, especially those that come from carbohydrates, throughout the day in order to keep your blood sugar levels at optimal levels. So instead of two large meals, you may want to eat five or six smaller meals like half a sandwich and an orange.
Pick healthy oils
Olive and fish oils are full of good fats that slash the risk of heart attack and help keep blood sugar steady. Make sure to add some fish to your diet and toss out the butter. Nuts, avocadoes and vegetable oil are also good for your health.
Treat Yourself
In the past, people with diabetes were told that they could not eat certain foods, namely refined carbohydrates like sugar, cookies, or sweets. However, all carbohydrates have similar effects on blood sugar. That means a cookie elevates blood sugar about as much as a slice of bread or piece of fruit. Moderation is the key. Try to keep your simple-sugar intake down to 10 percent of your total calories each day.
Know Your Enemy
Learn as much as you can about diabetes. The better you understand the disease, the more likely you are to be able to control it. Ninety-nine percent of the care and management of diabetes is in the patient's hands. You have to prepare your meals, and monitor your blood sugars. You have to know what to do and when to do it. And you can do it if you don't have the knowledge and skills.
General Health Care Tips for diabetes
- Lose weight if you are overweight.
Avoid smoking
Avoid drinking alcohol
Follow your meal plan, eat healthy
Eat meals at the proper time and on a regular schedule
Use a scale to weigh portions of food
Learn how to make healthy choices when you eat out
Eat food and drinks with carbohydrates and fat in moderation
Drink water or other calorie-free drinks (diet soda) when you have the urge to eat between meals
Choose a diet with plenty of vegetables and grains
Keep your blood sugar under control.
Prevent high blood pressure by using less salt and fat.
Take your medicine as directed.
Ask your doctor what you should eat.
Ask your health care provider for a list of signs and symptoms of low blood sugar (dizziness, nausea, sweating, hunger, shakiness)
Carry a sugared snack with you at all times to treat a low blood sugar attack
Always carry identification that says you have diabetes, in case of an emergency.
See an eye doctor for a dilated eye exam every year, even if you are able to see well.
Do not miss your doctor's appointments.
For Women Only
- You must control your diabetes before getting pregnant.
Learn about diabetes and what can happen to you and your unborn baby.
Learn how to test your blood sugar at home.
Foot care
- Check your feet every day, and report sores or changes and signs of infection.
Wash your feet every day with lukewarm water and mild soap, and dry them thoroughly.
Soften dry skin with lotion or petroleum jelly.
Wear clean socks every day.
Protect feet with comfortable, well-fitting shoes.
Cut your toenails straight across and not too short.
Never walk anywhere in bare feet.
Do not use hot water bottles or heating pads on your feet to keep warm.
Be aware of problems with your feet. See your doctor as soon as possible if you have cuts, sores or blisters.
Exercise daily to promote good circulation.
Remove shoes and socks during a visit to your health care provider and remind him or her to examine your feet.
Stop smoking, which hinders blood flow to the feet.
Skin care
- Bathe daily with mild soap and lukewarm water.
Apply a small amount of moisturizing lotion while your skin is moist.
Avoid scratches, punctures, and other injuries.
Wear gloves when you do work, like gar-dening, that may injure your hands.
Use sunscreen and good sense to avoid sunburn.
Prevent frostbite by dressing warmly. In very cold weather, avoid staying outdoors for long periods of time.
Treat injuries quickly. Wash all cuts and scrapes with soap and water. Cover them with a dry, sterile bandage.
Dental care
- Brush and floss your teeth daily.
If you have dentures, remove them and massage your gums daily.
See your dentist every 6 months.
Tell your dentist you have diabetes.
Tell your dentist if your dentures are too loose or too tight.
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