Having this mood disorder could mean you have symptoms of type 2 diabetes

From express.co.uk

THERE are many different symptoms for those with type 2 diabetes condition however a major change in your mood could mean you are at risk of type 2 diabetes. Do you have this mood symptom?

Type 2 diabetes plays havoc on one’s health with the increase of blood sugar levels. The symptoms of diabetes does not just affect a person physically but can affect you emotionally too. It occurs when the blood glucose levels are too high. In type 2 diabetes, the body doesn’t make enough insulin and when too much glucose stays in the blood it doesn’t reach the cells properly. This causes major health problems such as blurred vision, sores that don’t heal properly and a numbness or tingling feeling in your hands or feet.

A symptom of type 2 diabetes that often gets overlooked is a change in a person’s mood.
Diabetes can affect a person’s mood causing rapid and severe changes. Feelings such as irritability, high emotions that causes a person to cry for no reason or even anger are common symptoms of type 2 diabetes.
The reason for this is due to the brain not getting enough glucose.
As the brain is the centre for thoughts and emotions, it needs glucose to function properly and if it doesn’t function properly it can cause your brain to go haywire.
When the blood sugar levels are too high a person can feel grouchy and not in control of their emotions.
The severity of the mood swings are different for each person with some explaining feelings of weirdness, uncomfortableness and being emotionally off-balanced.

   Type 2 diabetes: Mood disorder could be a symptom of type 2 diabetes (Image: Getty Images)

Ways to help with the change in mood caused by type 2 diabetes:

Talk about how you feel
Expressing your emotions to loved ones and work colleagues is the first step to helping you feel better. Offloading some of what you’re feeling has many benefits. Sharing the burden will help you feel less alone and can take a weight off your mind.
Choosing the right kind of food
Having to pay close attention to what you eat can be stressful and some people find they eat more when they are stressed. The food we eat has a major impact on how we feel as many processed foods and saturated fats will make you feel worse. Choosing a healthy well-balanced diet will not only help you blood sugar levels but will also make you feel better.
Getting regular physical exercise
Exercising makes you feel better as the endorphins released will elevate your mood. When you exercise the insulin resistance is decreased and the cells can use the glucose in the body more effectively. Exercise will not only help you physically but emotionally too.

             Type 2 diabetes: Speaking about your emotions will make you feel more in control

                                                        (Image: Getty Images)

Learning to control the fluctuations in blood glucose levels can result in stabilising your mood.
Avoiding sugar as much as possible will help greatly Doctor Dawn Harper explained: “Excessive sugar consumption has a massive impact on our health and is a major factor in problems with diabetes, so its important we think carefully about how we can reduce the sugar content in our diet.
"There will always be times we want to eat treats or celebrate special occasions and when we do, its about managing this appropriately.”
It is important to speak with your doctor if you have experienced a change in your mood such as irritability, anger or sadness for no reason.
Luckily, if managed correctly your mood disorder can go away and learning to cope with type 2 diabetes will be easier.
Meditation and being mindful are other ways to help you control your emotions.

https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/health/1132831/type-2-diabetes-symptoms-what-is-type-2-diabetes-uk-insulin-diet

Are you at risk of Type 2 diabetes? These are the common causes, symptoms and treatment

From womanandhome.com/health-and-wellbeing

With more than 5.5 million people in the UK expected to be diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes by 2030, could you be next? If you are at risk, there are plenty of things you can do to take control.

Over the past 20 years, the number of people diagnosed with diabetes in the UK has more than doubled from 1.4 million to almost 3.7 million.

This dramatic rise has put an extreme burden on the NHS, costing £8.8 billion each year.

“As the number of people with Type 2 diabetes continues to grow, there’s a risk that these costs will rise to unsustainable levels,” warns Pav Kalsi, senior clinical advisor at Diabetes UK. Unlike irreversible Type 1 diabetes, where the body can’t produce insulin, 10% of the NHS budget is spent on Type 2 diabetes – that’s £1 million an hour.

“The good news is that Type 2 diabetes is a reversible condition for a lot of people, so costs could be saved,” says Dr Campbell Murdoch, GP and medical officer for diabetes.co.uk. “The challenge now is to empower as many people as possible.”

Diabetes: the different types

• Type 1 diabetes

This is an autoimmune disease where your body attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells. “Your pancreas shuts down and you don’t produce any insulin, causing the glucose to rise in your blood,” says Natasha Marsland, senior clinical advisor at Diabetes UK. This is why symptoms – including feeling thirsty and tired, needing to pee more often, unexplained weight loss and blurred vision – are often more obvious. The reason for Type 1 diabetes, which affects around 10% of all cases, is not yet known, although family history can be a factor. A misconception is that people are born with it, but the peak age for diagnosis is 10 to 14 years old.

• Type 2 diabetes

With the more common Type 2 diabetes, your pancreas may still produce insulin “but the amount may be reduced or the insulin it produces doesn’t work properly, meaning symptoms develop gradually,” explains Natasha. Our waistlines are mainly to blame, although there are other factors that can put you more at risk (see Q&A). “Symptoms often creep up on people,” says Dr Ian Lake, medical officer at diabetes.co.uk. “You might be more tired than normal, have central obesity, be getting up more at night to urinate, possibly have increased thirst and need to sleep more after a big meal. A lot of people also mention brain fog – so things that we put down to ageing.”

Type 3c diabetes

This is where part of the pancreas is not producing enough insulin, sometimes caused by inflammation. Typical symptoms include vague abdominal pain, loose fatty stools and vitamin deficiencies. It’s thought that far more people are likely to have Type 3c diabetes than diagnosed at present, as may have been misdiagnosed with Type 2, but the condition is still being researched. “Although lifestyle measures may help improve health, insulin therapy may also be needed,” says Dr Murdoch

Diabetes symptoms: which are the most common?

• Excessive thirst and hunger
• Frequent urination (from urinary tract infections or kidney problems)
• Weight loss or gain
• Fatigue
• Irritability
• Blurred vision
• Slow-healing wounds
• Nausea

How will I be diagnosed?

You need to see your GP for a urine and blood test. “Type 2 diabetes is diagnosed by detecting persistently high blood levels of glucose and HbA1c, which reflects blood glucose levels over the past three months,” says Dr Melanie Wynne-Jones.

“If you have borderline results (known as “pre-diabetes”), you should be rechecked annually.”

What happens next?

“You’ll need regular checks on your blood pressure, cholesterol, kidneys (blood/urine tests), feet, eyes and circulation to see whether you need more intensive treatment to prevent complications,” says Dr WynneJones.

“If you’re prescribed tablets or (occasionally) insulin, you’ll need to learn the symptoms of dangerously low blood sugar (sweating, hunger, irritability, confusion and/or unconsciousness), and tell the DVLA if you’re a driver. You may be offered weight loss surgery.”

My children are overweight, are they at risk of diabetes?

With the Health and Social Care Information Centre revealing that one in five children in England leave primary school obese, it won’t be long before Type 2 diabetes affects more under 18s. “Numbers are increasing,” warns Pav.

All food or drink high in fat, salt or sugar was banned across all children’s media in summer 2017, but it’s still too early to see if it has made a noticeable effect.

How can I cut my risk of diabetes?

Being a healthy weight is key. Women should keep their waist size below 31.5 inches/80cm. Reduce your intake of high-sugar, starchy foods, especially sugary drinks (including fruit juices and smoothies), confectionery, cakes and biscuits. Plus, make sure you get moving – 30 mins five times a week if you can (brisk walking is a great way to start), and 10 mins of standing and stretching for every hour of sitting.

Can natural cures for diabetes work?

“Before prescribing any medicines for Type 2 diabetes, your doctor may suggest you try natural approaches, such as improving your lifestyle,” says Dr Brewer. “During this phase, your GP may be willing to support you taking ayurvedic herbal medicines (including bitter melon, fenugreek, amla fruit, gymnema and turmeric), which can improve insulin release in the pancreas, reduce insulin resistance and suppress cravings.”

What happens if I ignore diabetes symptoms?

“Diabetes damages small arteries, and can lead to heart attacks, strokes, kidney damage, blindness and limb gangrene/amputation, so careful monitoring and effective lifestyle changes/treatment are vital,” says Dr Wynne-Jones.

What is the treatment for type 2 diabetes?

“Metformin is one of the main drugs prescribed to treat Type 2 diabetes, especially in overweight patients,” says Dr Sarah Brewer. “It helps to lower blood glucose levels and, while most people tolerate Metformin well, it can cause side effects.
“Doses are often gradually increased to help avoid taste disturbances, nausea, diarrhoea, loss of appetite or abdominal pain. If these occur, they tend to improve after a day or two, but tell your doctor.”

Will the Sugar Tax help?

In April last year, the Government launched the sugar tax, with 18p per litre on drinks with more than 5g of added sugar, and 24p for added sugar of 8g or more. But with 33% of us having no interest in quitting sugar, despite worrying about its effect on Type 2 diabetes, will it make a difference?

“It has had patchy success,” says Dr Lake. “The good news is that manufacturers are cutting sugar in their products to beat the tax. It is predicted to raise £1 billion per year (in the first seven months it raised £154 million), presumably to spend on complications of diseases made worse by added sugar. The bad news is that pure fruit juices and sugar added to milk are exempt.”

https://www.womanandhome.com/health-and-wellbeing/type-2-diabetes-diabetes-symptoms-diabetes-treatment-322216/

Diabetes Foot Care: How to File Buildup of Hard Skin or Corns

From healthxchange.sg

The Podiatry Department at Singapore General Hospital (SGH) shares how to properly file feet.

How to file build-up of hard skin or corns

1. Use a callus foot file to gently file any hard skin or corns' sites.
2. Do not file with too much force as it can cause a skin abrasion.
3. If the amount of hard skin or corn builds up quickly, you may have to increase the frequency of filing.

Do not use scissors, knives, blades or nail clippers to remove the hard skin or corn as it may cut the skin and injure it, resulting in a wound!

Do not use corn plasters or liquid corn/callus removals. They can cause the skin to break down and create wounds.

https://www.healthxchange.sg/diabetes/essential-guide-diabetes/diabetes-foot-care-how-file-buildup-hard-skin-corns

Diabetes Can Put Your Liver at Risk: The Mediterranean Diet Might Help

From healthline.com

People with type 2 diabetes are more likely to develop complications from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

The obesity epidemic has led to a ripple effect for the health of Americans, increasing their risk of many other health problems.
One of these is non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a chronic condition that affects between 30 and 40 percent of American adults. This condition can lead to scarring or cancer in the liver, and in some cases liver failure.
Researchers are now learning how NAFLD is strongly linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and abnormal blood lipid levels.
Among the new findings, people with type 2 diabetes are most at risk of developing serious liver complications if they have NAFLD.
With obesity and diabetes rates increasing in the United States, experts say there is a need for better NAFLD treatments, a focus on prevention and greater awareness of this condition among primary care doctors.

Obesity-related build-up of fat in liver

There are two types of NAFLD, which causes a build-up of excess fat in the liver. But in this case the fat in the liver is not related to heavy alcohol use.
The majority of people have simple fatty liver, in which there is excess fat in the liver, but little or no liver cell damage or inflammation.
About 20 percent of people with NAFLD have a second type called non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). This involves inflammation in the liver — hepatitis — and liver cell damage.
NASH can lead to scarring of the liver (cirrhosis) or liver cancer.
Dr. Maya Balakrishnan, an assistant professor of medicine and gastroenterology at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas, said several “red flags” indicate that someone with NAFLD may have the more serious type, or NASH — diabetes, older age, high blood pressure, metabolic syndrome, and an elevated liver enzyme test.
However, doctors need to use blood tests, medical imaging tests, and sometimes a liver biopsy to make a definite diagnosis of NAFLD or NASH.

Greater awareness of liver disease needed

Healthy eating and exercise have the best chance of preventing liver disease if you start early.
Unfortunately, a recent study published this month suggests that many people are diagnosed at a later stage of NAFLD or NASH.
This study, published in BMC Medicine, also found that fewer people than expected were being diagnosed with NAFLD or NASH at primary care centres.
The BMC Medicine study authors found that people with type 2 diabetes had the highest risk of developing liver complications from NASH such as cirrhosis or cancer.
The authors write that greater awareness of NAFLD among primary care physicians could lead to earlier detection of the condition, when treatments can be more effective.
“Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is the most common cause of chronic liver disease,” said Dr. Hugo Rosen, professor and chair of the department of medicine at the Keck School of Medicine of USC in Los Angeles. “Clearly, there needs to be increased awareness of NAFLD among primary care doctors.”
Balakrishnan said this is a good reminder that diabetes is a major risk factor for many adverse health problems, not just liver disease, but also kidney disease, stroke and foot complications.
Eating healthier and exercising regularly can reduce your risk of all of these.

Weight loss reduces liver fat

In addition to diabetes, overall obesity is a huge risk factor for this liver condition.
Some research has found that more than 90 percent of people with severe obesity who were undergoing bariatric surgery had NAFLD.
“Obesity is the most common and well-documented risk factor for NAFLD,” Rosen, said.
No medications have been approved to treat NAFLD or NASH, but lifestyle changes can reduce your risk of developing liver complications.
“We counsel all patients that weight loss is the best — and really the only — widely available treatment for the disease,” said Balakrishnan.
She said research suggests that someone with NAFLD needs to lose at least 5 percent of their original body weight to see a reduction of fat in the liver.
For a 200-pound person, this means losing 10 pounds.
If a person has NASH, or their doctor suspects they may have this condition, Balakrishnan said they should aim for 7 to 10 percent weight loss.
This greater weight loss is needed to reduce the scar tissue and inflammation in the liver that occurs in NASH.

Mediterranean diet for healthy liver

Rosen said that weight loss surgery — bariatric surgery — has been shown to greatly improve NAFLD and NASH, as well as reduce a person’s risk of dying from cardiovascular disease.
Non-surgical weight loss through dietary changes and exercise can also be effective — if you can keep the weight off.
Many healthy diets can help you lose weight, but some may have extra benefits for the liver.
“Research shows that following a Mediterranean diet is probably the healthiest choice for both promoting weight loss and promoting liver health,” said Balakrishnan.
There are many version of the Mediterranean diet, but in general it involves eating mainly fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grains, fish, seafood and olive oil.
Rosen said all patients with NAFLD should also add regular exercise — aerobic or resistance training — to their daily routine, since this has been shown to have liver benefits beyond just helping you lose weight.
Cutting back on alcohol intake may also help the liver. Rosen pointed to a recent study that found even moderate alcohol consumption was associated with a worsening of fibrosis, or scarring, of the liver.

https://www.healthline.com/health-news/diabetes-increases-risk-of-deadly-liver-cirrosis-moderate-exercise-could-offer-protection#Mediterranean-diet-for-healthy-liver

A guide to low-carb diets for diabetes

From medicalnewstoday.com

A low-carb diet can help people with diabetes better manage their blood sugar levels.

Carbohydrates or carbs raise blood glucose more than other foods, meaning the body must produce more insulin to digest them.
Reducing carb intake can help stabilize blood glucose. It may also counteract some other effects of diabetes, such as weight gain and heart disease.
Despite this, low-carb diets also carry some risks, including vitamin and mineral deficiencies. For some people, low-carb diets are challenging to stick to over time.
In this article, learn more about a low-carb diet for people with diabetes. People should remember to speak to a doctor before making significant dietary changes, especially ones that affect diabetes management.

Carb recommendations

There is no longer any expert-recommended standard carb intake for people with diabetes.
A person's carb needs vary with their activity level, weight, health goals, and other factors. Working with a doctor or dietitian can help people set specific carb targets.
A very low-carb diet includes just 30 grams (g) or less per day. Low-carb diets include 130 g or fewer of carbs, while moderate-carb diets include between 130 and 225 g of carbs.
To get an idea of how significant a change in diet will be, people can try counting their daily carb intake for a few days, then set a new target.
Another strategy — which may be more sustainable — is to slowly and steadily reduce carb intake and see how blood glucose levels change.
For example, a person might replace their morning toast with a hard-boiled egg, then slowly replace other carbs with further nutrient-rich alternatives.

Foods to eat and avoid

Most of the calories in a low-carb diet should come from healthful, natural sources, including:

• vegetables
• lean protein, such as eggs, fish, nuts, and tofu
• good fats, such as olives or avocados
• fruit in moderation

People following a very low-carb diet may wish to limit fruit intake since fruit also contains sugar. For most people, however, fruit is a healthful substitute for sugary snacks and processed foods.
As part of a healthful, low-carb diet, people should avoid or limit intake of the following:

• processed foods, such as pre-packaged meals and salty snacks
• sugar-rich foods, such as cakes, candies, pastries, cookies, sodas, and juices
• starches, especially white bread or bagels
• alcoholic beverages
• potatoes, including potato chips
• other starchy vegetables
• white pasta

Whole-grain bread, lentils, and beans are also high in carbs, but they can be a vital part of a healthful diet. Eat these foods in moderation or as a substitute for unhealthful carbs, such as cakes and pies.

Meal plan

When devising a low-carb meal plan, it is useful to know how many calories a person needs each day and to stay within that range. Daily calorie intake varies depending on a person's height, weight, and activity level.

Variety can help make meals more enjoyable, so a person may wish to develop a list of tasty low-carb options.

Some simple ideas for meals include:

Breakfast

• hard-boiled eggs
• low-sodium cottage cheese
• sliced avocados
• fibre-rich smoothies with avocado, frozen berries, and a banana
• low-fat yogurt
• eggs and vegetables fried in extra virgin olive oil

Lunch and dinner

• baked or grilled chicken
• cauliflower rice with vegetables and tofu
• salmon
• salad with toasted nuts
• zucchini noodles
• bunless hamburgers or cheeseburgers
• pizza with a cauliflower crust
• chicken stuffed with vegetables and cheese
• whole-grain pasta with vegetables or fish
• tuna, including packaged tuna and tuna steaks
• spaghetti squash stuffed with vegetables
• eggplant lasagne

Snacks

• nuts
• fruit
• hummus and vegetables
• string cheese
• beef jerky
• olives
• dark chocolate
• kale chips
• apples and peanut butter
• steamed edamame
• sardines

How do carbs affect diabetes?

A low-carb diet may be one of the most effective diabetes management strategies, especially for people who might be able to avoid medication.
Carbs elevate blood glucose more than any other food. For people with insulin resistance, blood glucose may remain elevated for hours after eating carbs.
For those with type 1 diabetes who do not produce enough insulin, carbs can also cause blood glucose spikes, so a low-carb diet may help people with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Carbs can also affect a person's health in other ways. Carb-rich foods tend to be high in calories but low in some important nutrients, such as protein. Eating too many of these "empty calories" can lead to weight gain.
Research shows that people who eat carb-rich foods may also feel more hunger between meals, causing them to overeat.
A low-carb diet may also:

• give a person more energy
• lower average blood glucose, or HbA1c levels
• reduce food cravings, especially for sugar
• lower the risk of hypoglycaemia
• aid weight loss efforts
• decrease the risk of long-term diabetes complications
• lower cholesterol

Risks and considerations

Without proper planning, a low-carb diet can make it more difficult to get specific nutrients.

People on a low-carb diet may also eat large amounts of protein, which may accelerate kidney damage if they already have kidney disease.

Other risks include:

• osteoporosis and bone fractures
• low-fibre intake
• clogged arteries

These risks may be due to eating too many processed protein sources, such as cold cuts and red meat. Limiting fruit and whole-grains can also be problematic if a person is not getting enough fibre.
Some people struggle to maintain a low-carb diet in the long term. Eating a low-carb diet may cause some people to feel hungry, moody, or have trouble concentrating.
Anyone who wants to try a low-carb diet to help manage diabetes may want to speak to a doctor or dietitian first, as healthcare professionals can help ensure they get all the nutrients they need.

Summary

A low-carb diet can help people with diabetes avoid complications. It can help keep blood pressure low, reduce energy slumps, aid weight loss, and even reverse the course of the disease.
For people who want to avoid medication or whose doctor has only recently diagnosed diabetes, a low-carb diet may be the first line of treatment.
Low-carb diets are not for everyone as an unhealthful low-carb diet — such as living off of fried, fatty meats — can be even more harmful to a person's health than lots of carbs.
Likewise, a person must be able to stick with a low-carb diet long-term to fully reap its benefits.
Before trying any new diet, always talk to a doctor or dietitian. People can consider keeping a log of their symptoms and what they have eaten, to measure how the diet affects their health over time.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325195.php

Research: More nuts, less risk, for those with Type 2 diabetes

From news4jax.com/health

Nuts are an important part of a healthy, whole food diet.
A recent study shows when people with Type 2 diabetes eat nuts, especially tree nuts, they can lower their risk of heart disease and death.
                                
“They showed a significant reduction in cardiovascular risk factors with diabetics when they’re eating at least five servings of nuts a week; and the serving size was about an ounce -- 28 grams -- which is exactly what we recommend,” said Dr. Julia Zumpano, of Cleveland Clinic, who did not take part in the study. 

The study involved 16,217 men and women with diabetes.
Researchers found the people who ate tree nuts -- such as walnuts, almonds, Brazil nuts, hazelnuts and pistachios -- saw the most benefit in terms of reduced heart disease risk, as well as overall death risk.

Zumpano said nuts are a healthy addition to anyone’s diet, but especially for people with Type 2 diabetes.
She said nuts provide us with high monounsaturated fatty acids, high protein and fiber and low carbohydrates -- which means all of these nutrients help fill us up, while keeping blood sugar low.
Nuts have also been shown to improve good cholesterol and lower bad cholesterol.

Zumpano also said when people eat nuts instead of a carbohydrate-rich or fat-filled snack food when they get hungry, it helps keep their numbers in check.
“Regular nut intake gives you such satiety and fullness and nutrient density, so that you’re not looking for other snacks to fill up on, therefore, helping manage your blood sugars better and your cholesterol profile better,” she said. 

Zumpano suggests aiming for 3-5 servings of nuts each week. A serving size is an ounce, or a quarter of a measuring cup, or the amount that would fit in the palm of the hand.
Complete results of the study can be found in Circulation Research.

https://www.news4jax.com/health/research-more-nuts-less-risk-for-those-with-type-2-diabetes

Ways to prevent gestational diabetes

From medicalnewstoday.com

Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that can occur during pregnancy. It is not always possible to prevent it, but a pregnant woman can take steps to reduce her risk.

According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), gestational diabetes develops in approximately 2–10% of pregnancies in the United States each year.
Gestational diabetes can negatively affect both the woman and foetus. Possible effects include:

• an increase in the woman's blood pressure
• a higher risk of preeclampsia
• an increased risk of the woman developing type 2 diabetes later in life
• high birth weight of the baby
• premature birth
• the baby having low blood sugar levels at birth

Keep reading for tips on how to help prevent gestational diabetes. We also cover risk factors and early signs and symptoms.

Prevention

Although gestational diabetes is not always avoidable, women can take some steps to help reduce their chances of developing it.

Go into pregnancy at a healthy weight

A woman looking to conceive should make lifestyle choices that can help her reach and maintain a healthy weight ahead of getting pregnant.

The authors of a 2018 study looked at 10 years of data on gestational diabetes and concluded that being overweight was a significant risk factor.

Other research confirms that having a BMI higher than 25 increases a woman's likelihood of developing gestational diabetes. However, the researchers also noted that making dietary changes reduced the risk.

People looking to lose weight can take steps to modify their diet, such as:

• measuring out smaller portion sizes
• avoiding packaged food and "junk food"
• replacing candy with fruit
• eating more lean protein, such as fish and tofu, to stay fuller for longer
• increasing fibre intake by eating plenty of vegetables and whole grains
• replacing juices, dairy-laden coffee drinks, and sodas with herbal tea, black coffee, or sparkling water with lemon or lime slices

Exercise

Exercise is a vital part of maintaining a healthy weight. Both before and during pregnancy, exercise can help prevent gestational diabetes. Exercise helps the body become more sensitive to the insulin that the pancreas creates, which helps regulate blood sugar levels.
It is a good idea to start getting active before becoming pregnant, even if it means making simple, long-term lifestyle changes. For anyone with a sedentary lifestyle, steps that may help include:

• walking or cycling to work
• parking farther away from the destination and walking the rest of the way
• taking the stairs
• doing active leisure activities, such as hiking, gardening, or playing with children outdoors
• trying yoga, ideally a class specifically for pregnant women or beginners
• doing low-impact exercise, such as swimming
• joining a running club to stay motivated

Anyone looking to prevent gestational diabetes should try to do about 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise on 4–5 days of the week. Moderate-intensity exercise should cause a person to break a sweat.
Good cardio options include stationary biking, walking, swimming, and using an elliptical machine.

However, pregnant women should speak to a doctor about any new exercise regimens and discuss which types are safe to do at each stage of pregnancy.

Eat well during pregnancy

During pregnancy, morning sickness, cravings, and food aversions can make it challenging to eat a nutritious diet.
However, eating well can help prevent gestational diabetes and ensure that a woman only gains a healthy amount of weight during each trimester.
Healthful food choices include:

• lean proteins, such as beans, fish, tofu, and white poultry
• healthful fats from nuts, olive oil, coconut oil, and other plant-based fat sources
• whole grains, such as brown rice, pasta, oatmeal, and bread
• low-fat dairy products, such as Greek yogurt
• non-starchy vegetables
• fruits

It is best to avoid:

• processed foods
• sugary beverages, including store-bought coffee drinks, energy drinks, juices, and sodas
• extra or added sugar

Attend routine care appointments

A woman should see a gynaecologist regularly during pregnancy for routine care. During these visits, the doctor will ask about the pregnancy and any new symptoms.
They will also do a pelvic exam and use an ultrasound to look at the developing foetus. A doctor may recognize some of the early signs of gestational diabetes and suggest ways to help prevent it.
Between 24 and 28 weeks, a pregnant woman will have a gestational diabetes screening. If the results come back positive for gestational diabetes, the doctor will talk to her about how to prevent further complications.

Risk factors

There are several primary risk factors for developing gestational diabetes, including:

• being overweight or having obesity
• having had gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy
• having a close family member with type 2 diabetes
• being African American, American Indian, Alaska Native, Hispanic, or a Pacific Islander
• having prediabetes

Early signs and symptoms

Many women with gestational diabetes do not experience significant symptoms. The symptoms may also be difficult to distinguish from those that occur due to regular changes during pregnancy.
Possible early signs and symptoms of gestational diabetes include:

• extreme thirst
• fatigue
• frequent, large-volume urination
• sugar in the urine
• numerous bladder, vaginal, or skin infections
• blurred vision
• nausea

When to see a doctor

It is usually possible to discuss gestational diabetes at a regular scheduled appointment during pregnancy.
However, anyone who experiences changes in symptoms or other complications should speak to a doctor or another healthcare professional as soon as possible.
A doctor can ask the individual about their symptoms and determine whether further tests are necessary.

Summary

It is not always possible to prevent gestational diabetes. Certain risk factors make it more likely that a woman will develop gestational diabetes during pregnancy.
However, maintaining a healthy weight before and after conception, eating well, and exercising regularly during pregnancy can all reduce the risk.
Anyone worried that they might have gestational diabetes or a higher risk of it should discuss this with a doctor at their next pregnancy checkup.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325156.php

Healthy Cooking Starts With Pure Clay Cookware

By Sharon Ray

Truly healthy cooking means cooking food in a way all its nutrients stay intact and it is free from all kind of toxins. To achieve this, the first step would obviously be choosing the right ingredients - all-natural, organic, unprocessed and rich in nutrients. The second step is even more important - cooking these ingredients the right way.

Most people are good at choosing healthy ingredients but not everybody uses the healthiest cookware - the one that is 100% non-toxic and preserves delicate nutrients by cooking with food friendly heat. It must also lock steam leaving the food because this steam is water-soluble nutrients.

Our ancestors used pure clay pots for cooking, no wonder they lived a life with a lot less health problems than we do. Today, conventional metal and ceramic cookware are widely used for cooking which is turning our to be extremely harmful for health. Metals and ceramics leach metal and chemical toxins while cooking that react with food's nutrients and form compounds that keep accumulating in the body. When this keeps happening over a long period of time, it affects the body at cellular level and starts damaging organs. This contributes to causing common diseases like diabetes, heart problems, blood pressure and life threatening diseases like cancer. This is probably the reason the richest people face the most health issues, for they have access to the most expensive cookware made from ceramics and non-stick cookware with harmful coatings.

Thankfully it is still possible to get a cookware that is as healthy as the one our ancestors used. Unglazed cookware made from all-natural pure clay cooks food without contaminating it and preserving all its nutrients. 'Unglazed' because all kinds of glazes and enamels are full of chemicals that poison the food while cooking.

Pure clay is the best quality of clay, also known as primary clay that is harvested from unfarmed and non-industrialized land after testing samples for all kinds of toxins. After procuring the raw material, the next step is to make cooking pots without using chemicals. Any mechanized process would call for use of chemicals, so the best way to make pots and pans from pure clay is using the old fashioned method of throwing clay on a potter's wheel and using skilful hands to shape it into usable pots. The process is tedious but is worth the effort because this is the only way to make the healthiest cookware.

The pot thus made is free from toxins and keeps food's nutrients intact so you get the healthiest and most nutritious food every time you cook in a pure clay pot!

https://ezinearticles.com/?Healthy-Cooking-Starts-With-Pure-Clay-Cookware,-Find-Out-How?&id=10117842

What are the best cereals for people with diabetes?

From medicalnewstoday.com

In addition to their health concerns, some people with a recent diabetes diagnosis worry that they will no longer be able to eat the foods they enjoy, including cereal.

However, there are many types of cereal that people with diabetes can eat without worrying, as long as they take a few things into consideration.

Cereals are high in carbohydrates, which can cause blood glucose levels to rise. For this reason, eating cereal may mean finding other ways to cut carbs from the diet.
Choosing the right cereal, such as one that does not contain lots of added sugar, can allow people with diabetes to enjoy cereal more often.
In this article, we discuss the best types of cereal for people with diabetes to eat, as well as ingredients to look for or avoid.

Can people with diabetes eat cereal?

People with diabetes do not have to eliminate specific foods from their diet. Instead, the goal should be to eat a balanced, nutritious diet that includes both comfort foods and more healthful options.

Most cereals are high in carbs and sugar, both of which can raise blood glucose.
Some people follow a low-carb diet because research suggests that reducing carb intake may lower the risk of experiencing diabetes-related complications, aid weight loss, and help maintain healthy blood glucose levels.

People with diabetes who want to continue eating cereal should try the following strategies:

• Limit portion sizes. Recommended serving sizes tend to be smaller than that which the average person may eat, so try measuring a serving.
• Reduce intake of other sugary and carb-rich foods. A person who wants to enjoy cereal for breakfast should avoid eating sugary snacks and other carb-heavy foods that day.
• Choose whole-grain or bran cereal. These fibre-rich ingredients may help control blood sugar. A 2013 analysis of research published in 1965–2010 found a correlation between bran and whole grains in the diet and a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
• Monitor blood glucose. Some people with diabetes might find that their bodies cannot process even relatively low-carb cereals, while others will be able to manage an occasional sugary treat.
• Eat a balanced diet. No single food can make or break a person's diet. Instead, focus on eating lots of fruits and vegetables and lean proteins.
• Stay physically active. Exercising regularly can help a person lower and manage their blood glucose.
• Be mindful of calorie content. Even if a cereal is relatively low in carbs, it may be high in calories. This can be problematic for people trying to lose weight.

Best cereals for people with diabetes

People with diabetes who want to enjoy cereal should consider the following options:

• Lower-sugar cereals. Steer clear of cereals that manufacturers market to children, which tend to contain a lot of sugar. Frosted cereals offer little nutritional value. Try a shredded whole-wheat cereal instead.
• Oatmeal. Oatmeal is an excellent high-fibre alternative to cold cereal. Try sprinkling cinnamon or adding a bit of honey or maple syrup for more flavour. Avoid the highly processed instant oatmeal with lots of added sugar, or choose a low-sugar variety.
• Cereals containing fruit and nuts. It is possible to increase the nutritional value of cereal by sprinkling berries or dried fruit on top.
• Cereals rich in bran or whole grains. These options have fewer carbs, more fibre, and less sugar than many other brands.

Ingredients to look for or avoid

Although many cereals contain lots of sugar, which people with diabetes should treat as an occasional indulgence, some are rich in fibre and other nutrients. Choosing these foods can help control appetite.
Beneficial ingredients to look for include:

• fruit
• proteins such as nuts and seeds
• whole grains
• fortified vitamins such as B-12

The authors of a 2012 meta-analysis found that adopting a fibre-rich diet may lower fasting blood sugar and HbA1c levels. HbA1c levels are a person's average blood sugar levels over several months.
Some ingredients to avoid in cereals include:
     added sugar

hydrogenated oils

refined flour instead of whole grains

high-fructose corn syrup and other artificial sweeteners

Cereals, especially those for children, can be very high in sugar. An analysis by the Environmental Working Group found that the average serving of cereal contains 9 grams of sugar.
When choosing a breakfast cereal, remember to check the carb content on the label, as some seemingly healthful cereals are still very high in carbs.
Having a high carb content is not necessarily bad, but for people with diabetes trying to monitor their carb intake, consuming a single bowl of cereal may take them very close to daily overall carb limits.

Portions

Eating smaller portions can help people with diabetes better control their blood glucose levels, especially when they eat high-carb foods such as cereal.
People with diabetes should not make portion decisions based on the size of the bowl, as this may mean eating very large portions. Instead, look at the portion size listed on the food's label and measure this amount or less.
The following are some other strategies for creating healthful portion sizes:

• Split a portion of cereal in half, and eat half in the morning and half in the evening. Dividing the portion means that the body has to process less sugar at once, potentially lowering the risk of blood sugar spikes.
• Eat low-sugar, low-carb foods along with cereal. For example, do not choose jam-covered toast and cereal for breakfast.
• Eat cereal as a snack, rather than as a main meal such as breakfast.

Summary

Eating a balanced diet is one of the most important strategies for managing diabetes, but that does not mean that people have to give up all the foods they love.
For help with choosing the right diet and finding the best cereal for their health, a person can talk to a doctor or dietitian.
The types of cereal in this article are available in grocery stores and online.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325150.php

Type 2 diabetes symptoms: The sign in your eyes you could have the condition

From express.co.uk

DIABETES type 2 symptoms could includes blurred vision, which is sometimes an early warning sign of the condition. This sign occurs in your eye due to a build up of fluid caused by the blood sugar levels rising.

Diabetes affects over 3.7 million people in the UK and has more than doubled in the last twenty years. It is estimated that there are nearly one million people who are living with the condition and don’t even know it. Type 2 diabetes often creeps up on you and that is why it is imperative to look out for the early signs of diabetes and to speak with your doctor about your risk. So how can you tell if you have diabetes?

The early symptoms are often so mild that they could be unnoticeable. 
Noticing a change in your eyes is an early sign of type 2 diabetes which includes blurred vision.
The changing of fluid levels in the body due to the blood glucose level changes the shape of the eye and their ability to focus thus causing the blurriness. 
An excess of sugar in the blood damages the tiny blood vessels in eyes. 

A person with diabetes who leaves this condition untreated could cause such damage to the blood vessels that a permanent vision loss may occur.

     Type 2 diabetes: Blurry vision could be an early sign of type 2 diabetes (Image: Getty Images)

Diabetes UK states: “High levels of blood sugar resulting from diabetes can affect your ability to see by causing the lens inside the eye to swell, which can result in temporary blurring of the eyesight.
“Blurring vision may also occur as a result of very low blood sugar levels. If your blood sugar levels are fluctuating over time, you may notice that your vision improves and worsens for periods of time.”
Your vision may be blurry because fluid is leaking into the lens of your eye and the shifting fluids make it difficult for the eye to focus. 
Macular edema is the build-up of fluid in the macula (an area in the centre of the retina) which could lead to vision loss when the fluid reaches the macula. 
This fluid over time causes your vision to become more and more blurred. 

Other early symptoms of diabetes include:

• Frequent urination
• Unexplained weight loss
• Headaches
• Increased thirst
• Dry mouth
• Fatigue

Blurry vision is a major first warning sign of type 2 diabetes and if you’re experiencing sudden blurred vision you should speak with your doctor and get your eyes checked. 
Diabetic macula edema may be detected during an annual eye screening test.

https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/health/1124852/Type-2-diabetes-symptoms-signs-eyes-blurry-vision-macular-edema

How do you prevent type 2 diabetes?

From medicalnewstoday.com/articles

There are steps that people can take to significantly reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Maintaining a healthy weight, eating well, and exercising often are three very effective preventative measures.

According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), over 9% of the population of the United States are living with diabetes. In 2015, the number of people living with prediabetes was over 84 million.
Since diabetes is a growing health concern, many people want to learn about ways to prevent it.
There are two types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2. It is not possible to prevent type 1 diabetes. However, there are several steps a person can take to significantly reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
In this article, learn which steps to take to help prevent type 2 diabetes from developing.

How to prevent type 2 diabetes

There are three ways a person can help prevent type 2 diabetes:

Maintaining a healthy weight

One of the most important steps a person can take to help prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes is to reach or maintain a healthy weight.

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases suggest that if a person who is overweight loses about 5–7% of their body weight, they can lower their chances of developing type 2 diabetes.
According to the ADA, being overweight can increase a person's risk of:

• type 2 diabetes
• heart disease
• stroke
• high blood sugar
• high blood pressure
• harmful cholesterol levels

If a person who is overweight reduces their total weight by just 10–15 pounds, they may reduce their risk of developing these conditions significantly.

However, effectively controlling weight can be challenging. Results are often slow to come and require changes to physical activity as well as eating habits.
Some strategies a person can try to help reach and maintain a healthy weight include:

• joining a support group
• keeping a food journal
• eating smaller portions
• drinking plenty of water
• making a meal plan
• joining a gym, running club, or yoga class
• spending less time sitting during the day
• getting enough sleep

People who want to lose weight should consider talking to their doctor about safe and effective methods.

Eating a balanced diet

Maintaining a balanced diet can help reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. It is a crucial part of reaching and maintaining a healthy weight.
Eating a balanced diet does not mean simply cutting calories. Eating a balanced diet involves eating foods rich in vitamins, minerals, fibre, protein, and good fats.
It also means avoiding or cutting back on foods with added sugars and sodium.
Some of the best foods to include in a preventative diet include:

• green, leafy vegetables
• beans
• non-starchy vegetables
• fresh or frozen fruits
• lean proteins, such as fish and tofu
• nuts and seeds
• oatmeal and whole grains

Foods to avoid include:

• sugary beverages, including energy drinks, sodas, and juices
• processed meats, such as bacon
• packaged snacks
• sweets and desserts

It is a good idea to start with small steps and changes. For example, somebody who regularly drinks soda can try replacing it with sparkling water and lime. Another example is replacing white grains and pasta with whole-grain versions.

Also, try reducing meal sizes and drinking water a few minutes before eating meals. This can help reduce the amount of calories a person consumes at meal times.

Exercising regularly

An essential part of reaching and maintaining a healthy weight is exercising regularly. This has a range of health benefits, including:

• improving blood flow
• reducing the risk of heart disease
• improving stamina
• reducing weight
• providing stress relief
• improving flexibility

There are several types of exercise a person can try to help prevent the development of type 2 diabetes. These include:

• aerobic exercise, such as walking, cycling, swimming, or running
• strength training using weights or bands
• stretching exercises, such as yoga or Pilates

A person can also incorporate more movement into their day by using a standing desk, parking farther away from the workplace, and using active transport.
According to the ADA, a person should aim to move or stretch every 30 minutes during the day.
Also, for maximum benefit, a person should aim to do at least 30 minutes of an aerobic activity once per day for 5 days of the week.

People should always speak with a doctor before starting an exercise regime for the first time to discuss safety and risks.

Risk factors

Risk factors that a person can reduce include their cholesterol levels and weight. Having higher levels of bad cholesterol and excess weight both increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
People can reduce some, but not all, of their risk factors for type 2 diabetes. Risk factors that a person cannot change include:

• Age: Older people have a higher risk of developing diabetes than young people.
• Race: American Indians, African Americans, Native Hawaiians, Mexican Americans, Pacific Islanders, and Asian Americans are at a higher risk of diabetes.
• Family history: Having a close family member, such as a sibling or parent, with type 2 diabetes increases a person's risk.
• Gestational diabetes: Women who develop gestational diabetes during pregnancy are at greater risk of type 2 diabetes.

Early signs of diabetes

There are several potential early warning signs that a person may experience that indicate they have diabetes. These include:

• increased thirst
• a frequent need to urinate
• feeling of constant hunger
• blurred vision
• fatigue
• developing darker patches of skin
• itchiness
• numbness or tingling in hands or feet
• cuts that heal slowly

When to see a doctor

As people age, they should see their family doctor for annual check-ups. The doctor will usually order blood work to check for factors such as blood sugar levels, cholesterol, and other health warning signs.
At annual check-ups, a person can ask their doctor about strategies that help prevent diabetes, especially if they have a family history of the condition.
If a person experiences any signs or symptoms of diabetes, it is best to speak to a doctor. This is because diagnosing diabetes early can help keep symptoms under control.

Summary

Type 2 diabetes is a growing concern for many people. Although there are some risk factors that people cannot change, such as age and family medical history, there are several steps they can take to reduce their likelihood of developing the condition.
Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and exercising regularly can all help reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325130.php

16 Low Sugar Fruits To Eat On A Low Carb Diet

From asweetlife.org

Are you on a low carb diet? If so, you’ve probably been told by well-meaning family members, friends, and all of your health care professionals, that you need to eat a lot of fruit, and that fruit is an essential part of a healthy diet.
It’s true, fruit does contain vitamins, minerals, and fibre, all of which may be good for you. The problem is that most fruit is also packed with sugar. So, if you’re on a low carb diet, an apple – which may seem like an ideal, natural, whole food snack – can actually contain a whole day’s worth of carbs.
The good news is that you can get plenty of vitamins and minerals from low carb vegetables like leafy greens and peppers. And when you’re in the mood for some sweetness, try one of these low carb fruit options, which may satisfy your craving without making your blood sugar soar.

The following fruits have fewer than 10 grams of sugar per 100 grams.

1. Avocados 0.66
2. Lemons 2.50
3. Carambolas (Starfruit) 3.98
4. Raspberries 4.42
5. Blackberries 4.88
6. Strawberries 4.89
7. Watermelon 6.20
8. Cantaloupe 7.86
9. Honeydew melon 8.12
10. Peaches 8.39
11. Sour cherries 8.49
12. Kiwis 8.99
13. Clementines 9.18
14. Apricots 9.24
15. Plums 9.92
16. Blueberries 9.96

Source: USDA Food Composition Databases

https://asweetlife.org/16-low-sugar-fruits-to-eat-on-a-low-carb-diet/?utm_source=ASweetLife.org+List&utm_campaign=bfa0240a89-ASweetLife+Weekly+Update++-+Nov.+14%2C+2017_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_5125b14cf8-bfa0240a89-413392997

Diabetes Diet: Eat Onion To Beat The Summer Heat And Regulate Blood Glucose Levels

From ndtv.com

Diabetes is a condition that affects the body's ability to process blood sugar normally, leading to an excess of glucose in the blood. There are two different types of diabetes - Type-1 diabetes and Type-2 diabetes. While the former is a result of the pancreas producing little or no insulin, the latter is a lifestyle disorder, resulting from the body becoming insulin resistant. Diabetes affects millions of people in India every year and common symptoms of the condition include frequent thirst, frequent urge to urinate, fatigue and hunger and even blurred vision in some cases. Diabetics need to be very careful about what they eat on a daily and even hourly basis.

There are certain foods and drinks that people can include in their diet to regulate their levels of blood sugar and onion is one of them. The vegetable may prove to be beneficial for diabetics, especially during summers.

Onion For Summers

Onion is an indispensable part of the Indian cuisine. It's used in preparing almost every curry and rice dish, and is a common part of sides and accompaniments like chutneys, salads etc. Onion also comes with a number of health benefits, including boosting skin and hair health, as well as protecting the body against symptoms of heat stroke. Red onions, which are the most common onions used across the Indian subcontinent, are rich in the compound quercetin, which is a flavonoid and which is said have anti-histamine properties. This means that it stops the release of allergen histamine from cells. It may, therefore, help prevent rashes due to heat on the skin. It also helps in preventing allergies and fights inflammation in the body.

Onion For Diabetes

Onion or onion juice may be consumed during summers to fight adverse impacts of the heat, as well as to regulate levels of blood sugar. A recently published review of studies on the impact of quercetin has indicated that the compound may help diabetics. The review that was published in the journal Phytopherapy Research said that daily consumption of quercetin supplements in dosage 500 mg or above for eight weeks, lowered blood glucose levels in metabolic syndrome patients. The participants were at a high risk of developing diabetes.

Another study conducted on rats concluded that diets containing 5 percent onion extracts for a period of 28 days were able to decrease fasting blood glucose levels. These anti-diabetic effects of red onions come from the presence of both quercetin and sulphur compounds in it.

Include red onions in your salads, sandwiches, savoury porridges, brown rice dishes etc. to reap the benefits of the vegetable. Pregnant women may be advised to stay away from excessive consumption of too much onion. In case of food allergies or chronic illnesses, it is advised to consult your dietitian or physician before adding any food to your diabetes diet.

https://food.ndtv.com/food-drinks/diabetes-diet-eat-onion-to-beat-the-summer-heat-and-regulate-blood-glucose-levels-2033569

What are the early signs of type 2 diabetes?

From medicalnewstoday.com/articles

Type 2 diabetes causes a person's blood sugar levels to become too high. Recognizing the early signs and symptoms of this chronic condition can result in a person getting treatment sooner, which reduces the risk of severe complications.

Type 2 diabetes is a common condition. A 2017 report from the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that 30.3 million adults in the United States have diabetes. The report also estimated that another 84.1 million U.S. adults have prediabetes.
People with prediabetes have higher-than-normal blood sugar levels, but doctors do not consider them to have diabetes yet. According to the CDC, people with prediabetes often develop type 2 diabetes within 5 years if they do not get treatment.
The onset of type 2 diabetes can be gradual, and symptoms can be mild during the early stages. As a result, many people may not realize that they have this condition.
In this article, we look at the early signs and symptoms of type 2 diabetes and the importance of early diagnosis. We also discuss the risk factors for developing this condition.

Early signs and symptoms

The early signs and symptoms of type 2 diabetes can include:

1. Frequent urination

When blood sugar levels are high, the kidneys try to remove the excess sugar by filtering it out of the blood. This can lead to a person needing to urinate more frequently, particularly at night.

2. Increased thirst

The frequent urination that is necessary to remove excess sugar from the blood can result in the body losing additional water. Over time, this can cause dehydration and lead to a person feeling more thirsty than usual.

3. Always feeling hungry

People with diabetes often do not get enough energy from the food they eat.
The digestive system breaks food down into a simple sugar called glucose, which the body uses as fuel. In people with diabetes, not enough of this glucose moves from the bloodstream into the body's cells.
As a result, people with type 2 diabetes often feel constantly hungry, regardless of how recently they have eaten.

4. Feeling very tired

Type 2 diabetes can impact on a person's energy levels and cause them to feel very tired or fatigued. This tiredness occurs as a result of insufficient sugar moving from the bloodstream into the body's cells.

5. Blurry vision

An excess of sugar in the blood can damage the tiny blood vessels in the eyes, which can cause blurry vision. This blurry vision can occur in one or both of the eyes and may come and go.
If a person with diabetes goes without treatment, the damage to these blood vessels can become more severe, and permanent vision loss may eventually occur.

6. Slow healing of cuts and wounds

High levels of sugar in the blood can damage the body's nerves and blood vessels, which can impair blood circulation. As a result, even small cuts and wounds may take weeks or months to heal. Slow wound healing also increases the risk of infection.

7. Tingling, numbness, or pain in the hands or feet

High blood sugar levels can affect blood circulation and damage the body's nerves. In people with type 2 diabetes, this can lead to pain or a sensation of tingling or numbness in the hands and feet.
This condition is known as neuropathy, and it can worsen over time and lead to more serious complications if a person does not get treatment for their diabetes.

8. Patches of dark skin

Patches of dark skin forming on the creases of the neck, armpit, or groin can also signify a higher risk of diabetes. These patches may feel very soft and velvety.
This skin condition is known as acanthosis nigricans.

9. Itching and yeast infections

Excess sugar in the blood and urine provides food for yeast, which can lead to infection. Yeast infections tend to occur on warm, moist areas of the skin, such as the mouth, genital areas, and armpits.
The affected areas are usually itchy, but a person may also experience burning, redness, and soreness.


Importance of early diagnosis

Recognizing the early signs of type 2 diabetes can allow a person to get a diagnosis and treatment sooner. Getting appropriate treatment, making lifestyle changes, and controlling blood sugar levels can greatly improve a person's health and quality of life and reduce the risk of complications.
Without treatment, persistently high blood sugar levels can lead to severe and sometimes life-threatening complications, including:

• heart disease
• stroke
• nerve damage, or neuropathy
• foot problems
• kidney disease, which can result in a person needing dialysis
• eye disease or loss of vision
• sexual problems in both men and women

Untreated diabetes can also lead to hyperosmolar hyperglycemic nonketotic syndrome (HHNS), which causes a severe and persistent increase in blood sugar levels. An illness or infection will usually trigger HHNS, which can require hospitalization. This sudden complication tends to affect older people.
Keeping blood sugar levels under control is crucial for preventing some of these complications. The longer that blood sugar levels remain uncontrolled, the higher the risk of other health problems.

Risk factors for type 2 diabetes

Anyone can develop type 2 diabetes, but certain factors can increase a person's risk. These risk factors include:

• being 45 years of age or older
• living a sedentary lifestyle
• being overweight or obese
• eating an unhealthful diet
• having a family history of diabetes
• having polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• having a medical history of gestational diabetes, heart disease, or stroke
• having prediabetes
• being of African American, Alaska Native, Hispanic or Latino, American Indian, Asian American, Native Hawaiian, or Pacific Islander descent.

Takeaway

Type 2 diabetes is a common condition that causes high blood sugar levels. Early signs and symptoms can include frequent urination, increased thirst, feeling tired and hungry, vision problems, slow wound healing, and yeast infections.
Anyone who experiences possible signs and symptoms of diabetes should see a doctor for an evaluation, especially if they have other risk factors for developing this condition. The early detection and treatment of type 2 diabetes can improve a person's quality of life and reduce the risk of severe complications.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323185.php

Newer Diabetes Drug Shows Promise in Kids, Teens

From usnews.com/news/health-news

TUESDAY, April 30, 2019 (HealthDay News) -- A type 2 diabetes drug for adults also controls blood sugar levels in children and teens with the disease, researchers report.

Type 2 diabetes is on the rise among children and teens, but they have fewer treatment choices than adults, the study authors said. Currently, the only drugs approved for treatment of children and teens with type 2 diabetes are metformin and insulin.

                                                                   (HealthDay)

This study, led by researchers at Yale University, looked at how the drug liraglutide (Victoza) affected blood sugar and glycated hemoglobin (or A1c) levels in patients aged 10 to 16 with type 2 diabetes who were already taking metformin with or without insulin.

Half of the patients took metformin plus liraglutide, and the other half took metformin plus an inactive placebo. The participants' blood sugar and A1c levels were checked after six months and one year.

For those with type 2 diabetes, an A1c level below 7% means their diabetes is relatively well-controlled, the study authors noted.

After six months, those in the liraglutide group had substantially lower blood sugar levels and their A1c levels were 1.1 percentage points lower than those in the placebo group, the findings showed.

After one year, the liraglutide group had A1c levels 1.3 percentage points lower than the placebo group, which had an average 0.5 percentage point increase.

The investigators also found that, after one year, nearly two-thirds of the liraglutide group had A1c levels under the 7% target, compared to one-third of the placebo group.

The study, published online April 28 in the New England Journal of Medicine, was funded by the drug's maker, Novo Nordisk.

The findings could be "transformational" for children and teens with type 2 diabetes, according to study first author Dr. William Tamborlane, a pediatric endocrinologist at Yale.

Metformin is the most popular initial treatment for type 2 diabetes in children and teens, but it often leads to an early loss of blood sugar control, and add-on treatment with insulin usually fails to lower blood sugar levels, the researchers explained in a university news release.

"As a result of this study, we anticipate that youth with type 2 diabetes will soon have a third option that has not previously been available," Tamborlane said.

https://www.usnews.com/news/health-news/articles/2019-04-30/newer-diabetes-drug-shows-promise-in-kids-teens