From timesofmalta.com
People who spend time walking or even just standing instead of sitting may be at lower risk of type 2 diabetes, a UK study suggests.
Findings from this study “provide further encouraging evidence” that simply substituting standing for sitting throughout the day may improve markers of type 2 diabetes, said study co-author Joseph Henson, a diabetes researcher at the University of Leicester.
“However, stronger associations were observed for stepping, thus highlighting the continued importance of more intense physical activity,” Henson said by e-mail.
Previous research has linked sedentary time to type 2 diabetes.
For the current study, researchers asked 435 adults at risk for developing diabetes to wear activity monitors for a week to see how much time they spent sitting, standing and walking.
Study participants were 67 years old on average. Most of them were either overweight or obese, and about one-third had a family history of diabetes.
Each day, participants spent an average of 9.4 hours sitting or lying down during their waking hours. This included a total of about 4.2 hours of brief periods of sitting for no more than a half hour, as well as 5.4 hours of prolonged bouts of sitting that lasted at least 30 minutes. In addition, participants typically spent an average of 4.5 hours a day standing and 1.7 hours a day walking.
People who replaced 30 minutes of prolonged sitting time with shorter bouts of sitting had a four per cent reduction in fasting insulin levels, the researchers calculated.
If participants replaced prolonged sitting with standing, however, they had a five per cent drop in fasting insulin levels, and walking instead was associated with an 11 per cent difference, they reported online in BMJ Open.
The study didn’t find an association between blood sugar or insulin levels when people swapped short periods of sitting for standing, however. Stepping instead of sitting for short periods was linked to a seven per cent drop in fasting insulin.
The study wasn’t a controlled experiment and can’t prove how different activity levels directly influence the risk of diabetes, the authors note.
Still, the results add to a growing body of evidence suggesting that even small reductions in sedentary time may help lower the risk of diabetes, said Bethany Barone Gibbs, a researcher at the University of Pittsburgh who wasn’t involved in the study.
“Breaking up prolonged sitting with walking or standing can improve how our body takes up blood glucose,” Barone Gibbs said.
When the body moves, it signals muscles and cells that will need fuel and they start absorbing sugar from the blood. When people are sedentary, these signals don’t go out.
“This is why blood sugar seems to go higher if we engage in prolonged sitting versus more active behaviours after eating,” Barone Gibbs added.
Even though the results mirror other studies linking reduced sedentary time to a lower diabetes risk, the use of statistical models rather than a controlled experiment makes it hard to see what would happen if people cut back on sitting in real life, said Peter Katzmarzyk of the Pennington Biomedical Research Centre in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20170130/health-fitness/Sitting-less-linked-to-lower-risk-of-diabetes.638044
Tuesday 31 January 2017
Saturday 28 January 2017
Cinnamon Lowers Blood Sugar Levels and Has a Powerful Anti-Diabetic Effect
From authoritynutrition.com
Cinnamon is well known for its blood sugar lowering effects.
Apart from the beneficial effects on insulin resistance, cinnamon can lower blood sugar by several other mechanisms.
First, cinnamon has been shown to decrease the amount of glucose that enters the bloodstream after a meal.
It does this by interfering with numerous digestive enzymes, which slows the breakdown of carbohydrates in the digestive tract.
Second, a compound in cinnamon can act on cells by mimicking insulin.
This greatly improves glucose uptake by cells, although it acts much slower than insulin itself.
https://authoritynutrition.com/10-proven-benefits-of-cinnamon/
Cinnamon is well known for its blood sugar lowering effects.
Apart from the beneficial effects on insulin resistance, cinnamon can lower blood sugar by several other mechanisms.
First, cinnamon has been shown to decrease the amount of glucose that enters the bloodstream after a meal.
It does this by interfering with numerous digestive enzymes, which slows the breakdown of carbohydrates in the digestive tract.
Second, a compound in cinnamon can act on cells by mimicking insulin.
This greatly improves glucose uptake by cells, although it acts much slower than insulin itself.
How Much Cinnamon Should I Eat?
From organicauthority.com
Once you’ve got your hands on some true Ceylon cinnamon, the recommended dosage, according to the U.S. Department of Health, is up to 6 grams daily for 6 weeks or fewer.
“I would suggest a week rest after the 6 weeks, before beginning again,” says Farley. "Turmeric can be taken during the rest week since it has similar benefits.”
You can also reduce your cinnamon consumption to 5 days a week without a rest week, says Parehk, though she – and we – urge anyone starting a new supplement regimen to consult with a qualified practitioner first and to be very careful of over-consumption of cinnamon, no matter which variety you have. Overconsumption of cinnamon or even a rapid increase of consumption of cinnamon can have some adverse effects.
One, explains Dizon, is that cinnamon’s anti-bacterial properties do not distinguish between good or bad bacteria in the gut, meaning that you could find yourself facing some cinnamon-related digestive issues. “Incorporate fermented foods to replenish your stomach with good bacteria,” she suggests.
http://www.organicauthority.com/health/11-health-benefits-of-cinnamon.html
Once you’ve got your hands on some true Ceylon cinnamon, the recommended dosage, according to the U.S. Department of Health, is up to 6 grams daily for 6 weeks or fewer.
“I would suggest a week rest after the 6 weeks, before beginning again,” says Farley. "Turmeric can be taken during the rest week since it has similar benefits.”
You can also reduce your cinnamon consumption to 5 days a week without a rest week, says Parehk, though she – and we – urge anyone starting a new supplement regimen to consult with a qualified practitioner first and to be very careful of over-consumption of cinnamon, no matter which variety you have. Overconsumption of cinnamon or even a rapid increase of consumption of cinnamon can have some adverse effects.
One, explains Dizon, is that cinnamon’s anti-bacterial properties do not distinguish between good or bad bacteria in the gut, meaning that you could find yourself facing some cinnamon-related digestive issues. “Incorporate fermented foods to replenish your stomach with good bacteria,” she suggests.
http://www.organicauthority.com/health/11-health-benefits-of-cinnamon.html
CGM improves glucose control in type 1 diabetes
From diabetestimes.co.uk
The use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) leads to a greater decrease in HbA1c levels compared with usual care, according to a new study.
The DIaMonD study (Multiple Daily Injections and Continuous Glucose Monitoring in Diabetes) was the first of its kind study that demonstrates the impact of CGM on HbA1C and hypoglycaemia in adults with type 1 diabetes on a multiple daily injection insulin regimen.
Dexcom CGM System users on multiple daily injections (MDI) achieved a one per cent average HbA1C reduction after 24 weeks of regular use, compared to baseline, according to the research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) has found.
In addition to better glucose control, participants also increased time spent in target range and spent less time in hypoglycaemia and hyperglycaemia when they used a Dexcom CGM System compared to those who used only a standard meter to monitor their glucose.Dr Roy Beck, from the Jaeb Center for Health Research in Tampa, Florida, who was one of the lead researcher on the study, said: “In the diabetes community, there is a commonly held belief that insulin pump users are better candidates for using CGM, and that patients on an MDI regimen wouldn’t benefit either because they wouldn’t be willing to wear a CGM device or they wouldn’t use the information to make the changes needed for better glucose control. The DIaMonD study makes significant headway in proving that a wide range of diabetes patients taking insulin injections can benefit from CGM use.”
The DIaMonD study included 158 adult participants with type 1 diabetes on MDI. At 24 weeks, the average HbA1c reduction in people assigned to the CGM group (n=105) was one per cent compared to baseline. People in the self monitoring of blood glucose control group showed only a 0.4 per cent reduction (n=53); (p < .001). A subset of people who were considered uncontrolled – an A1C greater than 8.5 per cent – saw a 1.3 per cent reduction in HbA1c from baseline at week 24.
The CGM System used in the study was the Dexcom G4® PLATINUM CGM System with Software 505, made by DexCom, Inc., (NASDAQ:DXCM).
Initially presented at the 76th Annual Meeting of the American Diabetes Association in June 2016, the DIaMonD study also tracked the amount of time patients spent in hypoglycaemia and found a significant reduction in the CGM group compared to baseline:
• 49 per cent reduction in time spent < 70mg/dL(3.9 mmol/L)
• 53 per cent reduction in time spent < 60 mg/dL(3.3 mmol/L)
• 69 per cent reduction in time spent < 50mg/dL (2.8 mmol/L)
CGM users showed a significant reduction in hypoglycaemia during the night, spending only 0.6 per cent of the time in hypoglycaemia vs. 2.9 per cent at baseline. The study also found that CGM patients spent significantly less time (58 minutes) in hyperglycaemia ( > 300mg/dL or 16.6 mmol/L) compared to baseline and demonstrated a substantial increase in time spent “in range” (70-180mg/dL or 3.9-10.0 mmol/L) of 1.3 hours.
People demonstrated significant HbA1c reductions regardless of education level, math ability, or age, the study concluded. A high level of adherence was also achieved with 93 per cent of patients still using the Dexcom CGM System ≥6 days/week at the end of the study.
http://diabetestimes.co.uk/cgm-improves-glucose-control-type-1-diabetes/
The use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) leads to a greater decrease in HbA1c levels compared with usual care, according to a new study.
The DIaMonD study (Multiple Daily Injections and Continuous Glucose Monitoring in Diabetes) was the first of its kind study that demonstrates the impact of CGM on HbA1C and hypoglycaemia in adults with type 1 diabetes on a multiple daily injection insulin regimen.
Dexcom CGM System users on multiple daily injections (MDI) achieved a one per cent average HbA1C reduction after 24 weeks of regular use, compared to baseline, according to the research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) has found.
The DIaMonD study included 158 adult participants with type 1 diabetes on MDI. At 24 weeks, the average HbA1c reduction in people assigned to the CGM group (n=105) was one per cent compared to baseline. People in the self monitoring of blood glucose control group showed only a 0.4 per cent reduction (n=53); (p < .001). A subset of people who were considered uncontrolled – an A1C greater than 8.5 per cent – saw a 1.3 per cent reduction in HbA1c from baseline at week 24.
The CGM System used in the study was the Dexcom G4® PLATINUM CGM System with Software 505, made by DexCom, Inc., (NASDAQ:DXCM).
Initially presented at the 76th Annual Meeting of the American Diabetes Association in June 2016, the DIaMonD study also tracked the amount of time patients spent in hypoglycaemia and found a significant reduction in the CGM group compared to baseline:
• 49 per cent reduction in time spent < 70mg/dL(3.9 mmol/L)
• 53 per cent reduction in time spent < 60 mg/dL(3.3 mmol/L)
• 69 per cent reduction in time spent < 50mg/dL (2.8 mmol/L)
CGM users showed a significant reduction in hypoglycaemia during the night, spending only 0.6 per cent of the time in hypoglycaemia vs. 2.9 per cent at baseline. The study also found that CGM patients spent significantly less time (58 minutes) in hyperglycaemia ( > 300mg/dL or 16.6 mmol/L) compared to baseline and demonstrated a substantial increase in time spent “in range” (70-180mg/dL or 3.9-10.0 mmol/L) of 1.3 hours.
People demonstrated significant HbA1c reductions regardless of education level, math ability, or age, the study concluded. A high level of adherence was also achieved with 93 per cent of patients still using the Dexcom CGM System ≥6 days/week at the end of the study.
http://diabetestimes.co.uk/cgm-improves-glucose-control-type-1-diabetes/
Friday 27 January 2017
How to exercise safely with type 1 diabetes
From belmarrahealth.com
Professor Mike Riddell of York University, along with a team of international researchers and clinicians, have published a new set of guidelines to improve the way people with type 1 diabetes exercise and stay safe. While regular exercise can aid in the achievement of blood lipids, body composition, and fitness goals for those with type 1 diabetes, it also comes with the risk of blood sugar fluctuations and hypoglycemia. Those with type 1 diabetes need to monitor their blood sugar levels before, during, and after any exercise to ensure they do not lose glycemic control.
The guidelines were developed by Riddell and 21 of his colleagues by examining observational studies and clinical trials focused on people with type 1 diabetes who exercise regularly over the course of two years. It includes glucose targets for safe exercising, as well as dietary and insulin dose adjustments to manage and prevent blood sugar fluctuations due to exercise. Fellow researcher Dr. Remi Rabasa-Lhoret of the Montreal Clinical Research Institute commented on the need for these guidelines, stating “These guidelines fulfil a major unmet need to help patients with T1D, and their healthcare professionals, to overcome barriers for exercise and this, in turn, should help them achieve the multitude of health benefits that exercise affords.”
Regular exercise can help reduce the risk of diabetic eye disease and kidney disease in adults with type 1 diabetes, as well as aid them in achieving healthier levels of glycated hemoglobin, blood pressure levels, and a better body mass index. In spite of this, many type 1 diabetes patients are overweight or obese and often lead inactive lifestyles. This may be due to the previous lack of information on how these individuals can safely engage in moderate exercise, and is an issue the authors of the guideline hope to address.
In most circumstances, aerobic exercises like walking, jogging, and cycling have been known to reduce glycaemia, while in contrast, anaerobic exercises and interval sports like hockey, weightlifting, and sprinting are associated with higher blood glucose levels. Either of these types of exercise can cause hypoglycemia to occur later in the recovery period, often during sleep, making a better understanding of how exercise affects blood sugar levels extremely beneficial.
With the help of this guideline, researchers hope to increase the level of activity in the lives of those with type 1 diabetes, as it provides them with strategies for exercising in a manner that will not result in hypoglycemia and in turn can help reduce their risk of developing complications due to a sedentary lifestyle.
http://www.belmarrahealth.com/exercise-safely-type-1-diabetes/
Professor Mike Riddell of York University, along with a team of international researchers and clinicians, have published a new set of guidelines to improve the way people with type 1 diabetes exercise and stay safe. While regular exercise can aid in the achievement of blood lipids, body composition, and fitness goals for those with type 1 diabetes, it also comes with the risk of blood sugar fluctuations and hypoglycemia. Those with type 1 diabetes need to monitor their blood sugar levels before, during, and after any exercise to ensure they do not lose glycemic control.
Regular exercise can help reduce the risk of diabetic eye disease and kidney disease in adults with type 1 diabetes, as well as aid them in achieving healthier levels of glycated hemoglobin, blood pressure levels, and a better body mass index. In spite of this, many type 1 diabetes patients are overweight or obese and often lead inactive lifestyles. This may be due to the previous lack of information on how these individuals can safely engage in moderate exercise, and is an issue the authors of the guideline hope to address.
In most circumstances, aerobic exercises like walking, jogging, and cycling have been known to reduce glycaemia, while in contrast, anaerobic exercises and interval sports like hockey, weightlifting, and sprinting are associated with higher blood glucose levels. Either of these types of exercise can cause hypoglycemia to occur later in the recovery period, often during sleep, making a better understanding of how exercise affects blood sugar levels extremely beneficial.
With the help of this guideline, researchers hope to increase the level of activity in the lives of those with type 1 diabetes, as it provides them with strategies for exercising in a manner that will not result in hypoglycemia and in turn can help reduce their risk of developing complications due to a sedentary lifestyle.
http://www.belmarrahealth.com/exercise-safely-type-1-diabetes/
Monday 23 January 2017
Simple & Effective Methods To Control Diabetes
From boldsky.com
In the recent times, diabetes has turned out to be the largest chronic diseases to be prevalent across the world. Though the main reason for diabetes is insulin resistance and hereditary factors, the modern-day lifestyle also plays a significant role in being a contributor of diabetes.
In this article, we will present to you some of the best natural methods to control diabetes. One must take extreme precaution when dealing with diabetes, otherwise it might lead to severe conditions like heart disease, stroke, foot ulcers, kidney failure, eye damage, etc.
Diabetes is caused by two main reasons; and this article will let you know how to control diabetes naturally at home. The first reason is when the pancreas do not produce enough insulin to regulate the blood sugar levels.
The second reason is when the body doesn't utilize the insulin in a proper way. Further, there are three types of diabetes, namely, type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes.
Your body also shows some early symptoms of diabetes that you must never ignore.
Dryness of the mouth, increased hunger and thirst, frequent urination, urine infection, sudden weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, headache, itching and numbness of the limbs are some of the top most common symptoms of diabetes that you need to be wary of.
Continue reading in order to know the simple and natural methods to control diabetes.
Opting for a low-calorie vegetarian diet will help control diabetes and regulate the glucose level in the body, as a vegetarian diet contains soluble and insoluble fibres when compared to a non-vegetarian diet. Eating plenty of non-starchy vegetables like cabbage, beats, sprouts, cucumber and many more will help.
Another one of the best effective and natural methods to control diabetes is through following a regular exercise pattern. Brisk walking, stretching or yoga will help with weight management, as it helps to burn the stored glucose in the body.
Drinking more than one cup of coffee per day (2-3 cups) will help reduce the blood glucose level in the body, as observed by recent studies. Coffee also increases the insulin sensitivity and lowers the glucose levels.
Citrus fruits have powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help in fighting the free radical damage and inflammation. These also help increase the insulin sensitivity of the cells.
Green tea contains polyphenols and polysaccharides that help in reducing the blood glucose levels effectively. It also helps in keeping the blood glucose levels under control.
Stress and anxiety increase the levels of stress hormones called norepinephrine and cortisol. These hormones raise the blood glucose levels and disrupt the sugar balance in the body.
Eating more of fibrous foods like oats helps keep us satiated for longer hours and as it takes time in digesting these foods, these prevent the blood sugar levels from fluctuating in the body.
Soda interferes with diabetes control, as it promotes weight gain and reduces the body's ability to absorb glucose.
If you have been wondering how to control diabetes naturally at home, then drinking plenty of water will help. Water helps in regulating the blood glucose levels and also balances the blood sugar level.
This is the best way to know how to cure diabetes permanently. Consuming ¼th spoon of cinnamon every day in the morning is considered to be the best natural method to control diabetes.
In the recent times, diabetes has turned out to be the largest chronic diseases to be prevalent across the world. Though the main reason for diabetes is insulin resistance and hereditary factors, the modern-day lifestyle also plays a significant role in being a contributor of diabetes.
In this article, we will present to you some of the best natural methods to control diabetes. One must take extreme precaution when dealing with diabetes, otherwise it might lead to severe conditions like heart disease, stroke, foot ulcers, kidney failure, eye damage, etc.
Diabetes is caused by two main reasons; and this article will let you know how to control diabetes naturally at home. The first reason is when the pancreas do not produce enough insulin to regulate the blood sugar levels.
The second reason is when the body doesn't utilize the insulin in a proper way. Further, there are three types of diabetes, namely, type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes.
Your body also shows some early symptoms of diabetes that you must never ignore.
Dryness of the mouth, increased hunger and thirst, frequent urination, urine infection, sudden weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, headache, itching and numbness of the limbs are some of the top most common symptoms of diabetes that you need to be wary of.
Continue reading in order to know the simple and natural methods to control diabetes.
1. Go For A Vegetarian Diet:
2. Go For Regular Exercises:
3. Drinking 2-3 Cups Of Coffee:
4. Include Citrus Fruits:
5. Have Green Tea:
6. Avoid Stress:
7. Consume Fibrous Foods:
8. Avoid Soda:
9. Drink Water Regularly:
10. Take Cinnamon Every Morning:
Major Edinburgh diabetes study seeks to unlock key mysteries behind disease
From heraldscotland.com
A MAJOR new diabetes project launching in Edinburgh today[mon] will analyse the genetics and lifestyle of thousands of patients in a bid to unlock why some go on to develop complications while others do not.
Scientists behind the project will also unpick population data from across Scotland to try to shed light on what is driving a mysterious rise in type 1 diabetes.
Around 350 million people worldwide are affected by diabetes with rates of both type 1 and type 2 increasing. The number of known diabetics in Scotland is at an all-time high with around one in every 20 people living with the condition.
NHS Scotland spends £1 billion a year on diabetes - nearly 10 per cent of the health budget - with more than three quarters spent on treating complications triggered by the disease including heart disease, kidney disease and blindness.
However, researchers believe that clues to tackling the condition could also lie in Scotland.
Professor Helen Colhoun, an expert in medical informatics and epidemiology at Edinburgh University, is spearheading a €1.5 million (£1.3m) study to pinpoint patterns among patients which predict their risk of developing diabetes-related complications.
The project, bankrolled by the AXA Research Fund, will mine information from sources including diabetic blood samples and Scotland's electronic health records, which are among the most comprehensive in the world.
The hope is that this would improve outcomes for patients and cut costs for the health service.
Prof Colhoun said: "The idea is to develop tools that allow you to differentiate among people with diabetes who's on a path to a worse outcome so that we can identify them earlier, have greater intensification of treatments at a more appropriate, earlier stage and therefore slow the rate of complications, while avoiding over-treatment of people who don't need it."
While obesity is responsible for around 80 per cent of type 2 diabetes cases and can increase the risk of complications, Prof Colhoun added that it "doesn't completely explain" different outcomes between patients. Genetics also appear to play a part.
"There's quite good evidence that there's a substantial component of kidney disease in diabetes patients that is inheritable," said Prof Colhoun. "But so far finding the genetic variant that underpins that has proven very challenging."
One of the biggest puzzles facing scientists is the global rise of type 1 diabetes. Since 2007, the rate of children under-10 diagnosed with the condition in Scotland has increased 45 per cent, from 22 per 100,000 to 32 per 100,000 by 2015, but around half of cases are diagnosed in adulthood. It is caused when the insulin-producing cells in the body are destroyed, but has nothing to do with weight or lifestyle.
Prof Colhoun hopes that the large-scale genetic analysis underway in Edinburgh will help unpick the mystery as well as shedding light on the "understudied" genetics behind childhood versus adult onset.
She said: "Over the last three decades, type 1 diabetes has increased in incidence. We don't know why, but we are seeing the same pattern of increase in many northern countries - Finland has experienced it as well, for example. In fact, most countries have experienced it.
"The main theory is that there are viruses which, because of someone's genetic make-up, may trigger an auto-immune reaction. What those viruses are is not known.
"One possibility is that those viruses have just become more common, but there are also theories that some aspect of our lifestyle may be making us more susceptible to getting the virus or responding the way we do."
http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/15039929.Major_Edinburgh_diabetes_study_seeks_to_unlock_key_mysteries_behind_the_disease/
A MAJOR new diabetes project launching in Edinburgh today[mon] will analyse the genetics and lifestyle of thousands of patients in a bid to unlock why some go on to develop complications while others do not.
Scientists behind the project will also unpick population data from across Scotland to try to shed light on what is driving a mysterious rise in type 1 diabetes.
Around 350 million people worldwide are affected by diabetes with rates of both type 1 and type 2 increasing. The number of known diabetics in Scotland is at an all-time high with around one in every 20 people living with the condition.
NHS Scotland spends £1 billion a year on diabetes - nearly 10 per cent of the health budget - with more than three quarters spent on treating complications triggered by the disease including heart disease, kidney disease and blindness.
However, researchers believe that clues to tackling the condition could also lie in Scotland.
Professor Helen Colhoun, an expert in medical informatics and epidemiology at Edinburgh University, is spearheading a €1.5 million (£1.3m) study to pinpoint patterns among patients which predict their risk of developing diabetes-related complications.
The project, bankrolled by the AXA Research Fund, will mine information from sources including diabetic blood samples and Scotland's electronic health records, which are among the most comprehensive in the world.
Prof Colhoun said: "The idea is to develop tools that allow you to differentiate among people with diabetes who's on a path to a worse outcome so that we can identify them earlier, have greater intensification of treatments at a more appropriate, earlier stage and therefore slow the rate of complications, while avoiding over-treatment of people who don't need it."
"There's quite good evidence that there's a substantial component of kidney disease in diabetes patients that is inheritable," said Prof Colhoun. "But so far finding the genetic variant that underpins that has proven very challenging."
One of the biggest puzzles facing scientists is the global rise of type 1 diabetes. Since 2007, the rate of children under-10 diagnosed with the condition in Scotland has increased 45 per cent, from 22 per 100,000 to 32 per 100,000 by 2015, but around half of cases are diagnosed in adulthood. It is caused when the insulin-producing cells in the body are destroyed, but has nothing to do with weight or lifestyle.
Prof Colhoun hopes that the large-scale genetic analysis underway in Edinburgh will help unpick the mystery as well as shedding light on the "understudied" genetics behind childhood versus adult onset.
She said: "Over the last three decades, type 1 diabetes has increased in incidence. We don't know why, but we are seeing the same pattern of increase in many northern countries - Finland has experienced it as well, for example. In fact, most countries have experienced it.
"The main theory is that there are viruses which, because of someone's genetic make-up, may trigger an auto-immune reaction. What those viruses are is not known.
"One possibility is that those viruses have just become more common, but there are also theories that some aspect of our lifestyle may be making us more susceptible to getting the virus or responding the way we do."
http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/15039929.Major_Edinburgh_diabetes_study_seeks_to_unlock_key_mysteries_behind_the_disease/
Thursday 19 January 2017
5 Ways to Reduce Your Risk for Type 2 Diabetes
From 9news.com
You may have a family history of diabetes or have been told that you are “pre-diabetic,” which means you have an increased risk of acquiring the disease. So, what now? The incidence of diabetes in America is quite staggering. It effects about 10% of the general population, however in seniors, that rate rises to about 26%. Over 86 million Americans over age 20 have pre-diabetes. What that basically means is that in addition to not having good control over our blood sugar, we are at increased risk of acquiring a bunch of other health challenges including eye problems, heart disease including stroke and heart attack, high blood pressure, hypoglycemia, and elevated cholesterol levels.
The most obvious response may be, cut the sugar out of your diet. YES, that is very important. AND, also one of the most challenging things for most Americans to do. Yet, it’s not only about cutting the sugar out, it’s about decreasing the (not-so-obvious) foods that quickly convert to sugar in the body as well.
Here are 5 proven diet and lifestyle strategies to cut your risk for type 2 diabetes:
1. Work out vigorously every day. Do something to elevate your heart rate. Even if you only have 10 minutes a day, get your body moving and lifting weight. Resistance (strength) training and interval workouts helps the body respond better to insulin and use blood sugar more efficiently.
2. Consider yoga. In a study of over 100 (non-smoking) adults (ages 40-75) with type 2 diabetes, a 3-month program including the practice of yoga at least 3 times per week resulted in reducing oxidative stress (inflammation) and improving glycemic control
3. Cut the carbs. Consider cutting the starchy carbohydrates altogether and choose mostly fresh vegetables and lower glycemic fruits like cherries, fresh apples, pears, grapefruit, prunes.
4. Get outdoors and consider supplementing vitamin D. Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with increased risk for type 2 diabetes. Early morning exposure to the sun is one way to get a small dose of this extremely important vitamin. Talk to your doctor about supplementing Vitamin D3 or doing a blood test to see if you are in need.
5. Cut the soda, cut the alcohol, but don’t let go of the coffee. Soda and alcohol both can wreak havoc on blood sugar levels. Coffee, on the other hand, has been shown to actually decrease the risk for type 2 diabetes.
And one more bonus tip – go nuts. Consuming nuts and seeds like almonds, pecans, walnuts, flax seeds is good for heart-health, metabolism, and may help decrease your risk for type 2 diabetes. And look for hidden sugars. Read labels. Manufacturers love to add sugar to almost everything. Aim for no more than 25 grams added daily. This would not include fresh fruits and vegetables, but rather the “hidden sugars” that you will be looking for on labels.
http://www.9news.com/life/wellness/optimum-wellness/5-ways-to-reduce-your-risk-for-type-2-diabetes/387059216
You may have a family history of diabetes or have been told that you are “pre-diabetic,” which means you have an increased risk of acquiring the disease. So, what now? The incidence of diabetes in America is quite staggering. It effects about 10% of the general population, however in seniors, that rate rises to about 26%. Over 86 million Americans over age 20 have pre-diabetes. What that basically means is that in addition to not having good control over our blood sugar, we are at increased risk of acquiring a bunch of other health challenges including eye problems, heart disease including stroke and heart attack, high blood pressure, hypoglycemia, and elevated cholesterol levels.
The most obvious response may be, cut the sugar out of your diet. YES, that is very important. AND, also one of the most challenging things for most Americans to do. Yet, it’s not only about cutting the sugar out, it’s about decreasing the (not-so-obvious) foods that quickly convert to sugar in the body as well.
Here are 5 proven diet and lifestyle strategies to cut your risk for type 2 diabetes:
1. Work out vigorously every day. Do something to elevate your heart rate. Even if you only have 10 minutes a day, get your body moving and lifting weight. Resistance (strength) training and interval workouts helps the body respond better to insulin and use blood sugar more efficiently.
2. Consider yoga. In a study of over 100 (non-smoking) adults (ages 40-75) with type 2 diabetes, a 3-month program including the practice of yoga at least 3 times per week resulted in reducing oxidative stress (inflammation) and improving glycemic control
3. Cut the carbs. Consider cutting the starchy carbohydrates altogether and choose mostly fresh vegetables and lower glycemic fruits like cherries, fresh apples, pears, grapefruit, prunes.
4. Get outdoors and consider supplementing vitamin D. Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with increased risk for type 2 diabetes. Early morning exposure to the sun is one way to get a small dose of this extremely important vitamin. Talk to your doctor about supplementing Vitamin D3 or doing a blood test to see if you are in need.
5. Cut the soda, cut the alcohol, but don’t let go of the coffee. Soda and alcohol both can wreak havoc on blood sugar levels. Coffee, on the other hand, has been shown to actually decrease the risk for type 2 diabetes.
And one more bonus tip – go nuts. Consuming nuts and seeds like almonds, pecans, walnuts, flax seeds is good for heart-health, metabolism, and may help decrease your risk for type 2 diabetes. And look for hidden sugars. Read labels. Manufacturers love to add sugar to almost everything. Aim for no more than 25 grams added daily. This would not include fresh fruits and vegetables, but rather the “hidden sugars” that you will be looking for on labels.
http://www.9news.com/life/wellness/optimum-wellness/5-ways-to-reduce-your-risk-for-type-2-diabetes/387059216
Sunday 15 January 2017
How to manage your diabetes before a crisis
From knowridge.com
A diagnosis of diabetes can be a frightening thing, and it can overturn someone’s world.
For almost 10 percent of the population, diabetes is a reality and working to manage their condition is a daily task.
Claudia Perkins, RD, diabetes educator at the Texas A&M Coastal Bend Health Education Centre, advises how to best manage the condition before a crisis strikes.
The onset of diabetes
Many people who think they aren’t at risk for diabetes actually may have some risk factors.
According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an estimated 86 million Americans have prediabetes, and nine out of 10 of those people with prediabetes don’t know they have it.
Some warning signs for diabetes—fatigue, hunger and frequent urination—can be very easy to ignore, and many people will not realize that they have a serious problem.
This is worrisome because diabetes, a medical condition that results in high blood sugar levels, can have very serious outcomes.
“Diabetes can be very serious if it’s not managed appropriately,” Perkins said. “Serious complications include blurred vision and blindness, kidney damage, increased risks for heart attack and stroke, and nerve damage to—and eventual amputation of—extremities.”
After the diagnosis
The first few days after a diagnosis may be difficult, but this is when lifestyle changes, such as adjusting diet, frequent exercise, medication and follow-up visits to your health care provider, should be made.
“It’s important to make the changes sooner rather than later,” Perkins said. “It’s more beneficial to make adjustments before the condition is critical, and this can happen more quickly than people think.”
Perkins recommends people who are newly diagnosed promptly find a diabetes education class. “There’s a lot of information online and elsewhere that may not work for you specifically,” Perkins said.
“Find a diabetes educator who can give personalized advice to help you maintain a healthier lifestyle with diet and exercise.”
How to start managing your diabetes
Many people with diabetes may also fall into the false belief that if they are faithfully taking their medication, then their condition is under control.
However, this mindset can be harmful, as lifestyle choices play an important role in managing your diabetes.
“Learn about your medications,” Perkins said. “Know the dose, what its main action is and how to take them properly to avoid issues with hyper-or hypoglycemia.”
Making full lifestyle changes overnight can be extremely difficult, and cutting out your favourite foods cold turkey is often easier said than done.
Although diet is one of the most important factors to controlling your diabetes, Perkins recommends trying a baby-steps approach.
“What we eat will manage diabetes, and a good start would be to eliminate excess sugar and sugary drinks and then work on carbohydrate counting and portion control,” Perkins said.
“The better control you have of your blood sugar, then the more likely you are to avoid complications.”
One recommendation that Perkins has to limit blood sugar is to count carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are responsible for raising blood sugar levels, so managing the quantity and type of carbohydrates are important.
“Americans eat excess carbs, and that can be harmful for someone with diabetes,” Perkins added. “The average carbohydrate intake in a meal plan is about three or four carb choices per meal, and some restaurants serve between 10 and 15 carb choices.” (One carb choice is about 15 grams of carbohydrates.)
According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), one cup of pasta or rice is about three carb choices.
Along with a changed diet, frequent exercise and contact with your health care provider are important to managing your diabetes.
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), physical activity can keep your blood sugar within the target range and helps insulin absorb glucose into your body’s cells for energy.
“Talk with your health care team about how much physical activity you should be doing,” Perkins said.
“Frequent communication with your health care team and knowing your A1C test numbers—which measure average levels of blood sugar over past three months—will help put you on the right track to best manage your health.”
Diabetes can be a serious condition, but it can be managed. “As long as you follow the plan discussed with your health care provider, there’s no reason to let diabetes take control of your life,” Perkins added.
https://knowridge.com/2017/01/how-to-manage-your-diabetes-before-a-crisis/
A diagnosis of diabetes can be a frightening thing, and it can overturn someone’s world.
For almost 10 percent of the population, diabetes is a reality and working to manage their condition is a daily task.
Claudia Perkins, RD, diabetes educator at the Texas A&M Coastal Bend Health Education Centre, advises how to best manage the condition before a crisis strikes.
Many people who think they aren’t at risk for diabetes actually may have some risk factors.
According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an estimated 86 million Americans have prediabetes, and nine out of 10 of those people with prediabetes don’t know they have it.
Some warning signs for diabetes—fatigue, hunger and frequent urination—can be very easy to ignore, and many people will not realize that they have a serious problem.
This is worrisome because diabetes, a medical condition that results in high blood sugar levels, can have very serious outcomes.
“Diabetes can be very serious if it’s not managed appropriately,” Perkins said. “Serious complications include blurred vision and blindness, kidney damage, increased risks for heart attack and stroke, and nerve damage to—and eventual amputation of—extremities.”
After the diagnosis
The first few days after a diagnosis may be difficult, but this is when lifestyle changes, such as adjusting diet, frequent exercise, medication and follow-up visits to your health care provider, should be made.
“It’s important to make the changes sooner rather than later,” Perkins said. “It’s more beneficial to make adjustments before the condition is critical, and this can happen more quickly than people think.”
Perkins recommends people who are newly diagnosed promptly find a diabetes education class. “There’s a lot of information online and elsewhere that may not work for you specifically,” Perkins said.
“Find a diabetes educator who can give personalized advice to help you maintain a healthier lifestyle with diet and exercise.”
How to start managing your diabetes
Many people with diabetes may also fall into the false belief that if they are faithfully taking their medication, then their condition is under control.
However, this mindset can be harmful, as lifestyle choices play an important role in managing your diabetes.
“Learn about your medications,” Perkins said. “Know the dose, what its main action is and how to take them properly to avoid issues with hyper-or hypoglycemia.”
Making full lifestyle changes overnight can be extremely difficult, and cutting out your favourite foods cold turkey is often easier said than done.
Although diet is one of the most important factors to controlling your diabetes, Perkins recommends trying a baby-steps approach.
“What we eat will manage diabetes, and a good start would be to eliminate excess sugar and sugary drinks and then work on carbohydrate counting and portion control,” Perkins said.
“The better control you have of your blood sugar, then the more likely you are to avoid complications.”
One recommendation that Perkins has to limit blood sugar is to count carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are responsible for raising blood sugar levels, so managing the quantity and type of carbohydrates are important.
“Americans eat excess carbs, and that can be harmful for someone with diabetes,” Perkins added. “The average carbohydrate intake in a meal plan is about three or four carb choices per meal, and some restaurants serve between 10 and 15 carb choices.” (One carb choice is about 15 grams of carbohydrates.)
According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), one cup of pasta or rice is about three carb choices.
Along with a changed diet, frequent exercise and contact with your health care provider are important to managing your diabetes.
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), physical activity can keep your blood sugar within the target range and helps insulin absorb glucose into your body’s cells for energy.
“Talk with your health care team about how much physical activity you should be doing,” Perkins said.
“Frequent communication with your health care team and knowing your A1C test numbers—which measure average levels of blood sugar over past three months—will help put you on the right track to best manage your health.”
Diabetes can be a serious condition, but it can be managed. “As long as you follow the plan discussed with your health care provider, there’s no reason to let diabetes take control of your life,” Perkins added.
https://knowridge.com/2017/01/how-to-manage-your-diabetes-before-a-crisis/
Friday 13 January 2017
Type 2 diabetes prevention programme expanded
From diabetestimes.co.uk
NHS England’s national drive to prevent type 2 diabetes will be expanded.
The Healthier You: NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme will support 100,000 people a year across the whole country by 2020 through tailored, personalised help.
And now NHS England has announced a further £15m in extra funding to further roll out the programme, which is the world’s first nationwide scheme to stop people developing the condition.
The expansion over the next two years will make up to 50,000 more places available across 13 new areas and is in addition to funding for a second year in the 27 sites currently up and running.
The new measures to curb type 2 diabetes were pledged by the chief executive of NHS England, Simon Stevens. These include funding more specialist nurses, providing diabetic foot care teams and a major evaluation of how digital technology such as apps and wearable technology could provide bespoke and easy-to-access support to many millions more people at risk.
In December, an application process to access £44m to improve diabetes care was opened by NHS England.
Simon Stevens, Chief Executive at NHS England, said: “The NHS is now upping its game on prevention, helping 50,000 high risk individuals stave off type 2 diabetes.
“But unless we also take back control of our own health, 2017 is going to mean another two hundred thousand people getting obesity-related type 2 diabetes. It doesn’t have to be that way – small lifestyle changes prevent large life-altering health problems. Eating a bit less and losing five to ten pounds is far more useful than an unused gym membership or wildly ambitious New Year’s resolutions.
“As parents now’s the time of year to think about what we want for our children in the year ahead. Coming on the heels of new figures showing that nine in ten of us cant now recognise when our kids are overweight, we’re going to need a bit more ‘tough love’ so that every day of the year isn’t a Christmas-like splurge on supersized fizzy drinks and junk food.”
The Healthier You: NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme is run collaboratively by NHS England, Public Health England and Diabetes UK and provides education on healthy eating and lifestyle, help to lose weight and bespoke physical exercise programmes, all of which have been proven to reduce the risk of developing the disease.
Professor Jonathan Valabhji, NHS England’s national clinical director for diabetes and obesity, said: “Diabetes prevention and patient care is a top priority for the NHS. Today we can announce significant extra investment that will provide support for millions more people across England who are living with the condition and helping those at high risk of developing it to reduce their chances of doing so.”
Chris Askew, chief executive of Diabetes UK, said: “Every day, around 65 people with diabetes die before their time. This is way it’s so important we invest in preventing type 2 diabetes and improves care for people who have type 1 or type 2 diabetes.
“We want this money to transform NHS care so that millions of people currently living with diabetes get the right support to manage their condition and avoid devastating complications such as blindness and amputations.”
Duncan Selbie, chief executive of Public Health England, said: “We should all be worried that the number of people with type 2 diabetes is still on the rise. Preventing it is one of the big health challenges of our time. We need to get the message across that diabetes is not an inevitable part of ageing and we can control what happens to our health.
“Making changes to our diets, especially cutting down on snacks high in sugar and saturated fat, and taking regular exercise is often all people need to do to avoid potentially devastating consequences to their long-term health.”
http://diabetestimes.co.uk/type-2-diabetes-prevention-programme-expanded/
The Healthier You: NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme will support 100,000 people a year across the whole country by 2020 through tailored, personalised help.
And now NHS England has announced a further £15m in extra funding to further roll out the programme, which is the world’s first nationwide scheme to stop people developing the condition.
The expansion over the next two years will make up to 50,000 more places available across 13 new areas and is in addition to funding for a second year in the 27 sites currently up and running.
The new measures to curb type 2 diabetes were pledged by the chief executive of NHS England, Simon Stevens. These include funding more specialist nurses, providing diabetic foot care teams and a major evaluation of how digital technology such as apps and wearable technology could provide bespoke and easy-to-access support to many millions more people at risk.
In December, an application process to access £44m to improve diabetes care was opened by NHS England.
Simon Stevens, Chief Executive at NHS England, said: “The NHS is now upping its game on prevention, helping 50,000 high risk individuals stave off type 2 diabetes.
“But unless we also take back control of our own health, 2017 is going to mean another two hundred thousand people getting obesity-related type 2 diabetes. It doesn’t have to be that way – small lifestyle changes prevent large life-altering health problems. Eating a bit less and losing five to ten pounds is far more useful than an unused gym membership or wildly ambitious New Year’s resolutions.
“As parents now’s the time of year to think about what we want for our children in the year ahead. Coming on the heels of new figures showing that nine in ten of us cant now recognise when our kids are overweight, we’re going to need a bit more ‘tough love’ so that every day of the year isn’t a Christmas-like splurge on supersized fizzy drinks and junk food.”
The Healthier You: NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme is run collaboratively by NHS England, Public Health England and Diabetes UK and provides education on healthy eating and lifestyle, help to lose weight and bespoke physical exercise programmes, all of which have been proven to reduce the risk of developing the disease.
Professor Jonathan Valabhji, NHS England’s national clinical director for diabetes and obesity, said: “Diabetes prevention and patient care is a top priority for the NHS. Today we can announce significant extra investment that will provide support for millions more people across England who are living with the condition and helping those at high risk of developing it to reduce their chances of doing so.”
Chris Askew, chief executive of Diabetes UK, said: “Every day, around 65 people with diabetes die before their time. This is way it’s so important we invest in preventing type 2 diabetes and improves care for people who have type 1 or type 2 diabetes.
“We want this money to transform NHS care so that millions of people currently living with diabetes get the right support to manage their condition and avoid devastating complications such as blindness and amputations.”
Duncan Selbie, chief executive of Public Health England, said: “We should all be worried that the number of people with type 2 diabetes is still on the rise. Preventing it is one of the big health challenges of our time. We need to get the message across that diabetes is not an inevitable part of ageing and we can control what happens to our health.
“Making changes to our diets, especially cutting down on snacks high in sugar and saturated fat, and taking regular exercise is often all people need to do to avoid potentially devastating consequences to their long-term health.”
http://diabetestimes.co.uk/type-2-diabetes-prevention-programme-expanded/
Thursday 12 January 2017
Diabetes UK Helpline (UK)
From diabetes.org.uk
*Our lines are open 9am-7pm for membership enquiries, however if you require emotional, social, psychological or practical support from our Helpline, please be aware that they are temporarily operating a reduced service of 9am-5pm whilst training takes place. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.
Email: helpline@diabetes.org.uk
If you're in Scotland:Call: 0141 212 8710*, Monday to Friday, 9am–7pm.
Email: helpline.scotland@diabetes.org.uk
The confidential helpline is staffed by trained counsellors who have extensive knowledge of diabetes. They can provide information about the condition, take the time to talk things through and explore emotional, social, psychological or practical difficulties.
Please be aware that we don't have access to your medical records, so you may need to go back to your healthcare team for answers to some questions.
You can also email Helpline Scotland using carelinescotland@diabetes.org.uk.
Diabetes UK Helpline
Wells Lawrence House
126 Back Church Lane
London
E1 1FH
Diabetes UK Helpline Scotland
The Venlaw
349 Bath Street
Glasgow
G2 4AA
https://www.diabetes.org.uk/helpline?utm_source=bronto&utm_medium=email&utm_term=Our+Helpline+comes+highly+recommended+by+recent+callers.&utm_content=Our+Helpline+comes+highly+recommended+by+recent+callers.&utm_campaign=Enewsletter+January+2017
How to contact Helpline
Call: 0345 123 2399*, Monday to Friday, 9am–7pm**Our lines are open 9am-7pm for membership enquiries, however if you require emotional, social, psychological or practical support from our Helpline, please be aware that they are temporarily operating a reduced service of 9am-5pm whilst training takes place. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.
Email: helpline@diabetes.org.uk
If you're in Scotland:Call: 0141 212 8710*, Monday to Friday, 9am–7pm.
Email: helpline.scotland@diabetes.org.uk
What is the Diabetes UK Helpline?
The Diabetes UK Helpline is a dedicated diabetes helpline for all people with diabetes, their family or friends, and people who are worried they might be at risk.The confidential helpline is staffed by trained counsellors who have extensive knowledge of diabetes. They can provide information about the condition, take the time to talk things through and explore emotional, social, psychological or practical difficulties.
How can we help?
We can help with queries about a range of topics. Here are just a few examples of the questions we are often asked:- I've just been diagnosed. What should I do now?
- I'm finding it difficult to accept the diagnosis – how do I cope?
- What can I and can't I eat? Can I still drink alcohol?
- What are the different types of tablets and insulin? What are the possible side effects?
- When and how often should I test?
- What should my blood glucose levels be? What if they go too high or too low?
- What's the law about driving?
- I'm about to go on holiday abroad. How do I keep my insulin cool in a hot country? What else do I need to consider when travelling?
- My child has diabetes and finds it hard to give up his treats. Why don't you recommend diabetic chocolate and sweets?
Please be aware that we don't have access to your medical records, so you may need to go back to your healthcare team for answers to some questions.
Other languages
If you would like to speak with us in a language other than English, just call the Helpline number and tell us your name, telephone number and the language you wish to speak in. We will then arrange for an interpreter to call you back within a few minutes.Helpline in Scotland
Uses a different telephone number (0141 212 8710) to Diabetes UK Helpline. Calls originating in Scotland are answered by qualified counsellors based in Diabetes Scotland's Glasgow office. If no-one in Helpline Scotland is available, calls will automatically be forwarded to the Helpline service in London.You can also email Helpline Scotland using carelinescotland@diabetes.org.uk.
Contacting Helpline by letter
Send your letters to:Diabetes UK Helpline
Wells Lawrence House
126 Back Church Lane
London
E1 1FH
Diabetes UK Helpline Scotland
The Venlaw
349 Bath Street
Glasgow
G2 4AA
https://www.diabetes.org.uk/helpline?utm_source=bronto&utm_medium=email&utm_term=Our+Helpline+comes+highly+recommended+by+recent+callers.&utm_content=Our+Helpline+comes+highly+recommended+by+recent+callers.&utm_campaign=Enewsletter+January+2017
7 Drinks That Fight Off Diabetes
From blackdoctor.org
Diabetes is one of those diseases that is more sneaky than you think. One day, you’re going along eating the foods you want and drinking the drinks you want and the next day, diabetes may be knocking at your door. But the good news about this disease is that it is preventable. You can stop it.
Here is a list of how you can fight back simply by drinking the right liquids. This combined with a healthy lifestyle is like a one-two punch knockout to diabetes. Take a look below:
1. Chamomile Tea
No calories, big flavour, and a boatload of antioxidants have made chamomile tea trendy for health reasons, especially for diabetics. Research performed at the University of Toyama in Japan and Aberystwyth University in Wales suggests that regularly drinking chamomile tea may help lower blood sugar in addition to preventing complications including nerve and circulatory damage, kidney disease, and blindness that can occur due to the condition.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar Water
This is another great concoction to control blood sugar. It has been show to suppress complex sugar activity and improve insulin sensitivity after meals. It also aids in metabolism and weight loss, which are extra perks for diabetics.
You can drink a splash of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water mixed with lemon, lime, and cinnamon for better flavour. It also helps to add water for those with acid reflux.
3. Almond Milk
This drink is a favourite for those who are lactose intolerant. It just so happens that it can help lower blood sugar too. Buy the unsweetened version so you aren’t accidentally drinking added sugars. Throw in half a banana and a spoon of peanut butter to make a smoothie that will help stabilize fluctuating sugar.
4. Coconut Water
A better alternative to sports drinks is coconut water. It is great for a diabetic because it is low in sugar and is plenty rich in minerals and vitamins which actually work to stabilize sugar. It’s sweet, it’s light, can serve as the base for many great tasting smoothies. It’s honestly one of Mother Nature’s perfect drinks.
5. Black Tea
One Chinese study showed that black tea has the highest levels of polysaccharides, which slow the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream. A new German study found, sipping three to four cups a day could lower the risk for developing diabetes by 16 percent. Tea may also help reduce your risk of stroke and heart disease.
6. Real Hot Chocolate
Now, we’re not talking the sugary, watered-down mess you may get from a local picnic. Make yourself some real hot chocolate with almond milk: it’s a fantastic excuse to indulge in chocolate. Cocoa has been shown to improve glucose metabolism and decrease blood pressure. Use highly nutritious, low-fat, low-sugar almond milk and add dark cocoa powder or melt down real dark chocolate.
7. Water
Yep, just plain, ol’ water. It might sound simple, but this drink is often overlooked. Water is life and since our body is made up of so much water, it’s only natural that keeping your body hydrated with it can help fight off a number of diseases, including diabetes. Be sure to get in at least 4-6 glasses of water a day. You can even supplement that by eating foods high in water.
http://blackdoctor.org/508820/7-drinks-that-fight-off-diabetes/2/
Diabetes is one of those diseases that is more sneaky than you think. One day, you’re going along eating the foods you want and drinking the drinks you want and the next day, diabetes may be knocking at your door. But the good news about this disease is that it is preventable. You can stop it.
Here is a list of how you can fight back simply by drinking the right liquids. This combined with a healthy lifestyle is like a one-two punch knockout to diabetes. Take a look below:
No calories, big flavour, and a boatload of antioxidants have made chamomile tea trendy for health reasons, especially for diabetics. Research performed at the University of Toyama in Japan and Aberystwyth University in Wales suggests that regularly drinking chamomile tea may help lower blood sugar in addition to preventing complications including nerve and circulatory damage, kidney disease, and blindness that can occur due to the condition.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar Water
This is another great concoction to control blood sugar. It has been show to suppress complex sugar activity and improve insulin sensitivity after meals. It also aids in metabolism and weight loss, which are extra perks for diabetics.
You can drink a splash of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water mixed with lemon, lime, and cinnamon for better flavour. It also helps to add water for those with acid reflux.
3. Almond Milk
This drink is a favourite for those who are lactose intolerant. It just so happens that it can help lower blood sugar too. Buy the unsweetened version so you aren’t accidentally drinking added sugars. Throw in half a banana and a spoon of peanut butter to make a smoothie that will help stabilize fluctuating sugar.
4. Coconut Water
A better alternative to sports drinks is coconut water. It is great for a diabetic because it is low in sugar and is plenty rich in minerals and vitamins which actually work to stabilize sugar. It’s sweet, it’s light, can serve as the base for many great tasting smoothies. It’s honestly one of Mother Nature’s perfect drinks.
5. Black Tea
One Chinese study showed that black tea has the highest levels of polysaccharides, which slow the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream. A new German study found, sipping three to four cups a day could lower the risk for developing diabetes by 16 percent. Tea may also help reduce your risk of stroke and heart disease.
6. Real Hot Chocolate
Now, we’re not talking the sugary, watered-down mess you may get from a local picnic. Make yourself some real hot chocolate with almond milk: it’s a fantastic excuse to indulge in chocolate. Cocoa has been shown to improve glucose metabolism and decrease blood pressure. Use highly nutritious, low-fat, low-sugar almond milk and add dark cocoa powder or melt down real dark chocolate.
7. Water
Yep, just plain, ol’ water. It might sound simple, but this drink is often overlooked. Water is life and since our body is made up of so much water, it’s only natural that keeping your body hydrated with it can help fight off a number of diseases, including diabetes. Be sure to get in at least 4-6 glasses of water a day. You can even supplement that by eating foods high in water.
http://blackdoctor.org/508820/7-drinks-that-fight-off-diabetes/2/
Wednesday 11 January 2017
Teen creates website on food choice after diabetes deaths in family
From indianexpress.com
Having lost three of her family members to diabetes, a 16-year-old has created a website that has a comprehensive database on nutritional value of Indian food.
The website ‘thehealthybeat’ promotes awareness about the importance of preventing lifestyle disorders such as diabetes amongst the worldwide Indian community.
The US-based Indian, Avni Madhani is currently studying at Saratoga High School, US and founded the website after she lost three of her close family members to diabetes. Through the website, which is available in Hindi and English, users can check their ideal weight, learn about food groups, and find their recommended calorie intake.
Users can also mirror their real life choices by adding different items onto a virtual platter to calculate the total calories and composition of a meal.
The Diabetic Association of India (DAI), the largest association in India for diabetes with 41 branches all over the country, has made TheHealthyBeat available to its members. The health portal has been featured in the TiE Conference in Silicon Valley, USA.
“I observed how general unawareness about the composition of a healthy diet and lifestyle leads to problems such as diabetes, obesity, and heart disease. I also realised that society does an extremely small amount to educate its citizens about decisions affecting their health, and the information available to those who seek it is often complicated and conflicting.
“Thus, theHealthyBeat is an attempt to increase societal awareness on nutrition by offering a simple guide to nutritional education, so that people can make well-informed decisions about diet,” Avni said.
Indian cuisine is high in carbohydrates and fat, which can be detrimental to health unless carefully controlled and monitored. India has 69.2 million cases of diabetes and, with one million deaths resulting from diabetes in 2015 alone, the country contributes to 20 per cent of the worldwide diabetes-related mortality rate.
http://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/health/teen-creates-website-on-food-choice-after-diabetes-deaths-in-family-4468156/
Having lost three of her family members to diabetes, a 16-year-old has created a website that has a comprehensive database on nutritional value of Indian food.
The website ‘thehealthybeat’ promotes awareness about the importance of preventing lifestyle disorders such as diabetes amongst the worldwide Indian community.
The US-based Indian, Avni Madhani is currently studying at Saratoga High School, US and founded the website after she lost three of her close family members to diabetes. Through the website, which is available in Hindi and English, users can check their ideal weight, learn about food groups, and find their recommended calorie intake.
Users can also mirror their real life choices by adding different items onto a virtual platter to calculate the total calories and composition of a meal.
The Diabetic Association of India (DAI), the largest association in India for diabetes with 41 branches all over the country, has made TheHealthyBeat available to its members. The health portal has been featured in the TiE Conference in Silicon Valley, USA.
“I observed how general unawareness about the composition of a healthy diet and lifestyle leads to problems such as diabetes, obesity, and heart disease. I also realised that society does an extremely small amount to educate its citizens about decisions affecting their health, and the information available to those who seek it is often complicated and conflicting.
“Thus, theHealthyBeat is an attempt to increase societal awareness on nutrition by offering a simple guide to nutritional education, so that people can make well-informed decisions about diet,” Avni said.
Indian cuisine is high in carbohydrates and fat, which can be detrimental to health unless carefully controlled and monitored. India has 69.2 million cases of diabetes and, with one million deaths resulting from diabetes in 2015 alone, the country contributes to 20 per cent of the worldwide diabetes-related mortality rate.
http://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/health/teen-creates-website-on-food-choice-after-diabetes-deaths-in-family-4468156/
Monday 9 January 2017
What medicines should you take for diabetes?
From knowridge.com
The medicine you take will vary by your type of diabetes and how well the medicine controls your blood glucose levels, also called blood sugar.
Other factors, such as your other health conditions, medication costs, and your daily schedule may play a role in what diabetes medicine you take.
The medicine you take will vary by your type of diabetes and how well the medicine controls your blood glucose levels, also called blood sugar.
Other factors, such as your other health conditions, medication costs, and your daily schedule may play a role in what diabetes medicine you take.
Type 1 diabetes
If you have type 1 diabetes, you must take insulin because your body no longer makes this hormone. You will need to take insulin several times during the day, including with meals.
You also could use an insulin pump, which gives you small, steady doses throughout the day.
Type 2 diabetes
Some people with type 2 diabetes can manage their disease by making healthy food choices and being more physically active.
Many people with type 2 diabetes need diabetes medicines as well. These medicines may include diabetes pills or medicines you inject under your skin, such as insulin.
In time, you may need more than one diabetes medicine to control your blood glucose. Even if you do not take insulin, you may need it at special times, such as during pregnancy or if you are in the hospital.
Gestational diabetes
If you have gestational diabetes, you should first try to control your blood glucose level by making healthy food choices and getting regular physical activity.
If you can’t reach your blood glucose target, your health care team will talk with you about diabetes medicines, such as insulin or the diabetes pill metformin, that may be safe for you to take during pregnancy.
Your health care team may start you on diabetes medicines right away if your blood glucose is very high.
No matter what type of diabetes you have, taking diabetes medicines every day can feel like a burden sometimes.
You may also need medicines for other health problems, such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol, as part of your diabetes care plan. View resources that may help you manage your medication plan.
https://knowridge.com/2017/01/what-medicines-should-you-take-for-diabetes/
You also could use an insulin pump, which gives you small, steady doses throughout the day.
Type 2 diabetes
Some people with type 2 diabetes can manage their disease by making healthy food choices and being more physically active.
Many people with type 2 diabetes need diabetes medicines as well. These medicines may include diabetes pills or medicines you inject under your skin, such as insulin.
In time, you may need more than one diabetes medicine to control your blood glucose. Even if you do not take insulin, you may need it at special times, such as during pregnancy or if you are in the hospital.
Gestational diabetes
If you have gestational diabetes, you should first try to control your blood glucose level by making healthy food choices and getting regular physical activity.
If you can’t reach your blood glucose target, your health care team will talk with you about diabetes medicines, such as insulin or the diabetes pill metformin, that may be safe for you to take during pregnancy.
Your health care team may start you on diabetes medicines right away if your blood glucose is very high.
No matter what type of diabetes you have, taking diabetes medicines every day can feel like a burden sometimes.
You may also need medicines for other health problems, such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol, as part of your diabetes care plan. View resources that may help you manage your medication plan.
https://knowridge.com/2017/01/what-medicines-should-you-take-for-diabetes/
Shedding ‘just a few pounds’ cuts risk of diabetes and stroke
From scotsman.com
Shedding just a few pounds can dramatically reduce the risk of diabetes patients suffering a heart attack or stroke, according to new research. A study found a weight loss programme boosted cardiovascular health among obese individuals - including those who slimmed down only a little. It followed 129 participants with an average BMI (body mass index) of 38 who managed an average loss of body weight of 9.7 per cent (24 lbs) at the completion of the initial 12 week intervention. This evened out to 6.4 per cent (16 lbs) after five years. They had been enrolled in the Why WAIT (Weight Achievement and Intensive Management) programme.
Even those who maintained relatively little loss of weight after demonstrated reduced risks of cardiovascular disease. A BMI higher than 30 is considered obese. Professor Osama Hamdy, of the Joslin Diabetes Centre, Boston, said: “This weight loss was very impressive, since we know from previous research if this population can maintain a seven per cent weight loss, they show a marked improvement in insulin sensitivity and many other cardiovascular risk factors. “To the best of our knowledge, this is the longest follow up in the real world of clinical practice to show encouraging results that weight loss can be achieved and maintained.”
The study published in BMJ Open Diabetes Research & Care found reaching the target seven per cent weight loss after a year was a good predictor of maintaining weight loss over longer periods. The researchers divided the participants into two groups, depending on whether they reached that level. The group that didn’t achieve this goal saw an average weight loss of 3.5 per cent after five years, while the second group (with 53 per cent of participants) maintained an average loss of nine per cent at that time. These varied results were reflected in measurements of hemoglobin A1C levels. a standard assessment of blood glucose levels over two to three months, and people with type 2 diabetes seek to keep these below seven per cent.
Those who lost the most weight saw average A1C levels drop from 7.4 per cent to 6.4 per cent at 12 weeks and then slowly climb to 7.3 per cent over the five year period. In the lower-weight-loss group, results were not so positive, with average A1C decreasing from 7.5 per cent to 6.7 per cent at 12 weeks and then rising to eight per cent at five years. These trends were reflected in patient use of insulin and drugs that help maintain control of blood glucose levels, blood pressure and cholesterol level. Prescriptions of these medications increased significantly among lower-weight-loss participants, but either did not change or dropped in the higher-weight-loss group. But the lower-weight-loss group maintained better LDL (bad cholesterol) and HDL (good cholesterol) levels over five years, and their average blood pressure remained unchanged during that time.
The higher-weight-loss group also maintained improvements in their LDL and HDL levels over the length of the study. Additionally, they showed lower blood pressure at 18 months, although blood pressure returned to baseline levels after five years.
Obese people with type 2 diabetes generally continue to gain weight over time, increasing their risks of cardiovascular damage, Prof Hamdy explained. Launched in 2005, the Why WAIT programme aims to deliver an innovative and achievable combination of nutritional, exercise, medication, learning and monitoring offerings. Among its benefits, for example, “the plan is designed to maintain muscle mass during weight loss so most of the weight loss is from the fat mass, and people will retain high energy expenditure for long-term,” Prof Hamdy says. “This study demonstrated that they were able to do this.” He added: “This programme is giving hope to many people with diabetes there is something that works for weight loss and can work for a long time. People can maintain their weight loss, and their big benefits in cardiovascular risk factors and diabetes control.”
http://www.scotsman.com/news/shedding-just-a-few-pounds-cuts-risk-of-diabetes-and-stroke-1-4334552
Shedding just a few pounds can dramatically reduce the risk of diabetes patients suffering a heart attack or stroke, according to new research. A study found a weight loss programme boosted cardiovascular health among obese individuals - including those who slimmed down only a little. It followed 129 participants with an average BMI (body mass index) of 38 who managed an average loss of body weight of 9.7 per cent (24 lbs) at the completion of the initial 12 week intervention. This evened out to 6.4 per cent (16 lbs) after five years. They had been enrolled in the Why WAIT (Weight Achievement and Intensive Management) programme.
Even those who maintained relatively little loss of weight after demonstrated reduced risks of cardiovascular disease. A BMI higher than 30 is considered obese. Professor Osama Hamdy, of the Joslin Diabetes Centre, Boston, said: “This weight loss was very impressive, since we know from previous research if this population can maintain a seven per cent weight loss, they show a marked improvement in insulin sensitivity and many other cardiovascular risk factors. “To the best of our knowledge, this is the longest follow up in the real world of clinical practice to show encouraging results that weight loss can be achieved and maintained.”
The study published in BMJ Open Diabetes Research & Care found reaching the target seven per cent weight loss after a year was a good predictor of maintaining weight loss over longer periods. The researchers divided the participants into two groups, depending on whether they reached that level. The group that didn’t achieve this goal saw an average weight loss of 3.5 per cent after five years, while the second group (with 53 per cent of participants) maintained an average loss of nine per cent at that time. These varied results were reflected in measurements of hemoglobin A1C levels. a standard assessment of blood glucose levels over two to three months, and people with type 2 diabetes seek to keep these below seven per cent.
Those who lost the most weight saw average A1C levels drop from 7.4 per cent to 6.4 per cent at 12 weeks and then slowly climb to 7.3 per cent over the five year period. In the lower-weight-loss group, results were not so positive, with average A1C decreasing from 7.5 per cent to 6.7 per cent at 12 weeks and then rising to eight per cent at five years. These trends were reflected in patient use of insulin and drugs that help maintain control of blood glucose levels, blood pressure and cholesterol level. Prescriptions of these medications increased significantly among lower-weight-loss participants, but either did not change or dropped in the higher-weight-loss group. But the lower-weight-loss group maintained better LDL (bad cholesterol) and HDL (good cholesterol) levels over five years, and their average blood pressure remained unchanged during that time.
The higher-weight-loss group also maintained improvements in their LDL and HDL levels over the length of the study. Additionally, they showed lower blood pressure at 18 months, although blood pressure returned to baseline levels after five years.
Obese people with type 2 diabetes generally continue to gain weight over time, increasing their risks of cardiovascular damage, Prof Hamdy explained. Launched in 2005, the Why WAIT programme aims to deliver an innovative and achievable combination of nutritional, exercise, medication, learning and monitoring offerings. Among its benefits, for example, “the plan is designed to maintain muscle mass during weight loss so most of the weight loss is from the fat mass, and people will retain high energy expenditure for long-term,” Prof Hamdy says. “This study demonstrated that they were able to do this.” He added: “This programme is giving hope to many people with diabetes there is something that works for weight loss and can work for a long time. People can maintain their weight loss, and their big benefits in cardiovascular risk factors and diabetes control.”
http://www.scotsman.com/news/shedding-just-a-few-pounds-cuts-risk-of-diabetes-and-stroke-1-4334552
Sunday 8 January 2017
Delicious way to a diabetes-free future: Six quick and easy meals which include sensational suppers and lip-smacking lunches
Chicken with Mediterranean vegetables takes just 25 minutes to prepare and is made using 100g of aubergine:
To make this meal , preheat the oven to 180C. Scoop out the seeds from the pumpkin, creating a 'bowl':
Chop the spring greens (if not pre-chopped) and, when the mackerel is about halfway through cooking, add them to the roasting pan along with the asparagus:
Pork medallions with mustard and creme fraiche sauce (pictured) takes 20 minutes to prepare:
Chicken 'satay' with kale crisps takes 20 minutes to prepare and is made using 60g chicken breast fillets:
Broccoli and bacon cheese takes just 20 minutes to prepare and you need 30g of back bacon:
Snappy snacks include a spiced cocoa shot, coleslaw with sunflower seeds and cucumber with minted yogurt dip:
Alternative treatment options for diabetes
From knowridge.com
When medicines and lifestyle changes are not enough to manage your diabetes, a less common treatment may be an option.
Other treatments include bariatric surgery for certain people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, and an “artificial pancreas” and pancreatic islet transplantation for some people with type 1 diabetes.
Bariatric surgery
Also called weight-loss surgery or metabolic surgery, bariatric surgery may help some people with obesity and type 2 diabetes lose a large amount of weight and regain normal blood glucose levels.
Some people with diabetes may no longer need their diabetes medicine after bariatric surgery. Whether and for how long blood glucose levels improve seems to vary by the patient, type of weight-loss surgery, and amount of weight the person loses.
Other factors include how long someone has had diabetes and whether or not the person uses insulin.
Recent research suggests that weight-loss surgery also may help improve blood glucose control in people with type 1 diabetes who are obese.
Researchers are studying the long-term results of bariatric surgery in people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Artificial Pancreas
The NIDDK has played an important role in developing “artificial pancreas” technology. An artificial pancreas replaces manual blood glucose testing and the use of insulin shots or a pump.
A single system monitors blood glucose levels around the clock and provides insulin or a combination of insulin and a second hormone, glucagon, automatically. The system can also be monitored remotely, for example by parents or medical staff.
In 2016, the FDA approved a type of artificial pancreas system called a hybrid closed-loop system. This system tests your glucose level every 5 minutes throughout the day and night, and automatically gives you the right amount of insulin.
You still need to manually adjust the amount of insulin the pump delivers at mealtimes. But, the artificial pancreas may free you from some of the daily tasks needed to keep your blood glucose stable—or help you sleep through the night without the need to wake and test your glucose or take medicine.
The hybrid closed-loop system is expected to be available in the U.S. in 2017. Talk with your health care provider about whether this system might be right for you.
The NIDDK has funded several important studies on different types of artificial pancreas devices to better help people with type 1 diabetes manage their disease. The devices may also help people with type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes.
Pancreatic islet transplantation
Pancreatic islet transplantation is an experimental treatment for poorly controlled type 1 diabetes. Pancreatic islets are clusters of cells in the pancreas that make the hormone insulin.
In type 1 diabetes, the body’s immune system attacks these cells. A pancreatic islet transplant replaces destroyed islets with new ones that make and release insulin.
This procedure takes islets from the pancreas of an organ donor and transfers them to a person with type 1 diabetes.
Because researchers are still studying pancreatic islet transplantation, the procedure is only available to people enrolled in research studies. Learn more about islet transplantation studies.
https://knowridge.com/2017/01/alternative-treatment-options-for-diabetes/
When medicines and lifestyle changes are not enough to manage your diabetes, a less common treatment may be an option.
Other treatments include bariatric surgery for certain people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, and an “artificial pancreas” and pancreatic islet transplantation for some people with type 1 diabetes.
Bariatric surgery
Also called weight-loss surgery or metabolic surgery, bariatric surgery may help some people with obesity and type 2 diabetes lose a large amount of weight and regain normal blood glucose levels.
Some people with diabetes may no longer need their diabetes medicine after bariatric surgery. Whether and for how long blood glucose levels improve seems to vary by the patient, type of weight-loss surgery, and amount of weight the person loses.
Other factors include how long someone has had diabetes and whether or not the person uses insulin.
Recent research suggests that weight-loss surgery also may help improve blood glucose control in people with type 1 diabetes who are obese.
Researchers are studying the long-term results of bariatric surgery in people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Artificial Pancreas
The NIDDK has played an important role in developing “artificial pancreas” technology. An artificial pancreas replaces manual blood glucose testing and the use of insulin shots or a pump.
A single system monitors blood glucose levels around the clock and provides insulin or a combination of insulin and a second hormone, glucagon, automatically. The system can also be monitored remotely, for example by parents or medical staff.
In 2016, the FDA approved a type of artificial pancreas system called a hybrid closed-loop system. This system tests your glucose level every 5 minutes throughout the day and night, and automatically gives you the right amount of insulin.
You still need to manually adjust the amount of insulin the pump delivers at mealtimes. But, the artificial pancreas may free you from some of the daily tasks needed to keep your blood glucose stable—or help you sleep through the night without the need to wake and test your glucose or take medicine.
The hybrid closed-loop system is expected to be available in the U.S. in 2017. Talk with your health care provider about whether this system might be right for you.
The NIDDK has funded several important studies on different types of artificial pancreas devices to better help people with type 1 diabetes manage their disease. The devices may also help people with type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes.
Pancreatic islet transplantation
Pancreatic islet transplantation is an experimental treatment for poorly controlled type 1 diabetes. Pancreatic islets are clusters of cells in the pancreas that make the hormone insulin.
In type 1 diabetes, the body’s immune system attacks these cells. A pancreatic islet transplant replaces destroyed islets with new ones that make and release insulin.
This procedure takes islets from the pancreas of an organ donor and transfers them to a person with type 1 diabetes.
Because researchers are still studying pancreatic islet transplantation, the procedure is only available to people enrolled in research studies. Learn more about islet transplantation studies.
https://knowridge.com/2017/01/alternative-treatment-options-for-diabetes/
Saturday 7 January 2017
Dental health important for diabetes patients
By ANDREW SMITH and DIANA F. RAMIREZ
Many people don’t associate their smile with a healthy life, but the mouth is the gateway to your body. Having a healthy mouth is the start to having a healthy body.
Diabetes can have serious affects on your body and takes a toll on your teeth. We all know that diabetes affects your body’s ability to process the sugars in foods we eat. But what does that have to do with your teeth? Severe to mild diabetic individuals produce far less saliva than non-diabetics from certain medication taken to treat diabetes. So why does that matter? Not only would less saliva affect how food tastes, but also saliva protects your teeth from cavities and from forming plaque. So what does this mean? As a diabetic you are more likely to get cavities, plaque build-up, and you will have an increased risk of dental infection.
This means that you should at least brush your teeth twice a day (electric toothbrushes are the best at removing plaque) for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste and floss at least once a day. These steps along with regular cleanings with your hygienist or dentist are essential to remove plaque.
So what if you forget to floss, miss a cleaning or just can’t clean your teeth well enough? If plaque and bacteria aren’t completely removed from your teeth daily you will produce calculus. This is not that hard math class, it is worse! Calculus is hardened plaque that cannot be removed by regular flossing and brushing. Only your dentist or hygienist will be able to remove this calculus. If the calculus is not removed, your gums will swell and you will bleed more easily. Then you could potentially develop a disease of your mouth called periodontitis. Periodontitis destroys the bone that supports your teeth. In time, your bone will recede around your teeth which will causes them to loosen and then fall out.
“Wow, that’s awful! That sounds so painful! How could something like this happen?” is something we hear all the time when we warn people about periodontitis. The worst thing gum disease is that it is not painful at all until your teeth are too loose and have to be removed. This causes the warning signs to be over looked, making it hard for the average person to detect the condition early enough.
The best way to know if you are developing or already have periodontitis is to visit your dentist at least two times a year. There are some additional things to prevent tooth loss and improve your overall smile which are; monitoring and managing your blood sugar, healthy diet, limiting your alcohol and not smoking.
For good dental health, keep these healthy food chooses in mind; Drink plenty of water, Eat a variety of foods from each of the five major food groups; whole, grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, low fat and fat free dairy foods.
http://www.themonitor.com/life/vidahealth/dental-health-important-for-diabetes-patients/article_6c45bd32-d447-11e6-9fe7-d3d5b4663c4a.html
Diabetes can have serious affects on your body and takes a toll on your teeth. We all know that diabetes affects your body’s ability to process the sugars in foods we eat. But what does that have to do with your teeth? Severe to mild diabetic individuals produce far less saliva than non-diabetics from certain medication taken to treat diabetes. So why does that matter? Not only would less saliva affect how food tastes, but also saliva protects your teeth from cavities and from forming plaque. So what does this mean? As a diabetic you are more likely to get cavities, plaque build-up, and you will have an increased risk of dental infection.
This means that you should at least brush your teeth twice a day (electric toothbrushes are the best at removing plaque) for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste and floss at least once a day. These steps along with regular cleanings with your hygienist or dentist are essential to remove plaque.
So what if you forget to floss, miss a cleaning or just can’t clean your teeth well enough? If plaque and bacteria aren’t completely removed from your teeth daily you will produce calculus. This is not that hard math class, it is worse! Calculus is hardened plaque that cannot be removed by regular flossing and brushing. Only your dentist or hygienist will be able to remove this calculus. If the calculus is not removed, your gums will swell and you will bleed more easily. Then you could potentially develop a disease of your mouth called periodontitis. Periodontitis destroys the bone that supports your teeth. In time, your bone will recede around your teeth which will causes them to loosen and then fall out.
“Wow, that’s awful! That sounds so painful! How could something like this happen?” is something we hear all the time when we warn people about periodontitis. The worst thing gum disease is that it is not painful at all until your teeth are too loose and have to be removed. This causes the warning signs to be over looked, making it hard for the average person to detect the condition early enough.
The best way to know if you are developing or already have periodontitis is to visit your dentist at least two times a year. There are some additional things to prevent tooth loss and improve your overall smile which are; monitoring and managing your blood sugar, healthy diet, limiting your alcohol and not smoking.
For good dental health, keep these healthy food chooses in mind; Drink plenty of water, Eat a variety of foods from each of the five major food groups; whole, grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, low fat and fat free dairy foods.
http://www.themonitor.com/life/vidahealth/dental-health-important-for-diabetes-patients/article_6c45bd32-d447-11e6-9fe7-d3d5b4663c4a.html
Thursday 5 January 2017
Nuts protect against type 2 diabetes: Miracle diet staple 'reduces risk' of condition
By Olivia Lerche
EATING nuts everyday could reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by nearly 40 per cent, breakthrough research has revealed.
Experts have revealed just a 1oz portion is enough to slash the risk of developing the potentially dangerous condition, which is linked to limb amputation, kidney failure and blindness.
Almonds, macadamias, pistachios, walnuts and cashews all have properties to protect against type 2 diabetes while raising levels of good cholesterol and reducing inflammation, experts have said.
A study in the journal Diabetes Care previously revealed nuts have benefits for both blood glucose control and blood lipids and may be used to improve diabetes control without weight gain.
Dr David Jenkins, from the University of Toronto Department of Nutritional Sciences said: “The study indicates that nuts can provide a specific food option for people with Type 2 diabetes wishing to reduce their carbohydrate intake."
A study reported in BMC Medicine analysed the medical records of 800,000 people. The figures revealed that eating at least 20g - the equivalent of a handful - of nuts a day can also reduce risk of heart disease by 30 per cent, cancer by 15 per cent and half the deaths from respiratory disease such as lung disease.
"Even though nuts are quite high in fat they are also high in fibre and protein and there is some evidence that suggests nuts might actually reduce your risk of obesity over time," said Dagfinn Aune, co-author of the study, from Imperial College London.
“In nutritional studies so far much of the research has been on the big killers such as heart disease, stroke and cancer, but now we’re starting to see data for other diseases.”
“We found a consistent reduction in risk across many different diseases.
“It's quite a substantial effect for such a small amount of food."
Nuts are considered a superfood because they posses anti-inflammatory qualities and are also high in protein and fibre.
Juliette Bryant, author and nutritionist said: “Since prehistoric times nuts have been widely eaten as a storable source of essential fats and protein.
“In recent years some people have avoided these amazing foods due to the fear that their fat content will increase weight.
“If eaten roasted and salted the delicate fats can actually be changed into something harmful, and lead to storage of fat in the body.
“However, if eaten raw the body easily processes the essential fats, which support overall health.”
The research published in BMC Medicine, provided by Imperial and the Norwegian University of Science and Technology found eating nuts could also reduce cancer risk.
“Some nuts, particularly walnuts and pecan nuts, are also high in antioxidants which can fight oxidative stress and possibly reduce cancer risk.
"Even though nuts are quite high in fat they are also high in fibre and protein and there is some evidence that suggests nuts might actually reduce your risk of obesity over time.”
There was little evidence more than 1oz of nuts a day provided significant health benefits.
Dr Aseem Malhotra, cardiologist, said the analysis confirms the positive health impact of regular nut consumption.
"Their mechanism of benefit appears to be through anti-inflammatory properties,” he added.
“It’s time doctors started prescribing nuts to patients which will not only help prevent heart attacks and deaths within a short space of time but combined with other lifestyle interventions would save the NHS billions.”
The findings come after a separate study showed walnuts helped stave off heart disease by reducing levels of bad cholesterol.
http://www.express.co.uk/life-style/health/750110/nuts-reduce-risk-diabetes-type-2
EATING nuts everyday could reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by nearly 40 per cent, breakthrough research has revealed.
Experts have revealed just a 1oz portion is enough to slash the risk of developing the potentially dangerous condition, which is linked to limb amputation, kidney failure and blindness.
Almonds, macadamias, pistachios, walnuts and cashews all have properties to protect against type 2 diabetes while raising levels of good cholesterol and reducing inflammation, experts have said.
A study in the journal Diabetes Care previously revealed nuts have benefits for both blood glucose control and blood lipids and may be used to improve diabetes control without weight gain.
Dr David Jenkins, from the University of Toronto Department of Nutritional Sciences said: “The study indicates that nuts can provide a specific food option for people with Type 2 diabetes wishing to reduce their carbohydrate intake."
"Even though nuts are quite high in fat they are also high in fibre and protein and there is some evidence that suggests nuts might actually reduce your risk of obesity over time," said Dagfinn Aune, co-author of the study, from Imperial College London.
“In nutritional studies so far much of the research has been on the big killers such as heart disease, stroke and cancer, but now we’re starting to see data for other diseases.”
“We found a consistent reduction in risk across many different diseases.
“It's quite a substantial effect for such a small amount of food."
Nuts are considered a superfood because they posses anti-inflammatory qualities and are also high in protein and fibre.
Juliette Bryant, author and nutritionist said: “Since prehistoric times nuts have been widely eaten as a storable source of essential fats and protein.
“In recent years some people have avoided these amazing foods due to the fear that their fat content will increase weight.
“If eaten roasted and salted the delicate fats can actually be changed into something harmful, and lead to storage of fat in the body.
“However, if eaten raw the body easily processes the essential fats, which support overall health.”
The research published in BMC Medicine, provided by Imperial and the Norwegian University of Science and Technology found eating nuts could also reduce cancer risk.
“Some nuts, particularly walnuts and pecan nuts, are also high in antioxidants which can fight oxidative stress and possibly reduce cancer risk.
"Even though nuts are quite high in fat they are also high in fibre and protein and there is some evidence that suggests nuts might actually reduce your risk of obesity over time.”
There was little evidence more than 1oz of nuts a day provided significant health benefits.
"Their mechanism of benefit appears to be through anti-inflammatory properties,” he added.
“It’s time doctors started prescribing nuts to patients which will not only help prevent heart attacks and deaths within a short space of time but combined with other lifestyle interventions would save the NHS billions.”
The findings come after a separate study showed walnuts helped stave off heart disease by reducing levels of bad cholesterol.
http://www.express.co.uk/life-style/health/750110/nuts-reduce-risk-diabetes-type-2
Tuesday 3 January 2017
Metformin still best choice for type 2 diabetes treatment, doctors say
From upi.com
MONDAY, Jan. 2, 2017 -- Newly updated guidelines reaffirm that metformin is the first-line drug for people with type 2 diabetes, and that several other medications -- including newer ones -- can be added if needed.
The recommendations come from the American College of Physicians (ACP). The American Academy of Family Physicians endorsed the new guidelines. The ACP updated the guidelines because of new research into diabetes drugs, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval of new diabetes drugs.
"Metformin, unless contraindicated, is an effective treatment strategy because it has better effectiveness, is associated with fewer adverse effects, and is cheaper than most other oral medications," ACP president Dr. Nitin Damle said in a college news release.
"The escalating rates of obesity in the U.S. are increasing the incidence and prevalence of diabetes substantially. Metformin has the added benefit of being associated with weight loss," Damle said.
The ACP recommends that if a patient needs to take a second drug by mouth to lower blood sugar levels, physicians should look at adding a sulfonylurea, thiazolidinedione, SGLT-2 inhibitor, or a DPP-4 inhibitor.
Examples of sulfonylurea drugs include glyburide (Diabeta, Glucovance, Micronase), glimepiride, glipizide (Glucotrol) and tolbutamide. Thiazolidinedione drugs include pioglitazone (Actos) and rosiglitazone (Avandia).
SGLT-2 inhibitors include canagliflozin (Invokana), empagliflozin (Jardiance) and dapagliflozin (Farxiga). DPP-4 inhibitors include sitagliptin (Janumet, Januvia) or linagliptin (Jentadueto, Tradjenta). Brand names for metformin include Glumetza, Glucophage, and Fortamet.
"Adding a second medication to metformin may provide additional benefits," Damle said.
"However, the increased cost may not always support the added benefit, particularly for the more expensive, newer medications. ACP recommends that clinicians and patients discuss the benefits, adverse effects, and costs of additional medications," he added.
An estimated 29 million people in the United States have diabetes, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The guidelines are published in the Jan. 3 issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine.
http://www.upi.com/Health_News/2017/01/02/Metformin-still-best-choice-for-type-2-diabetes-treatment-doctors-say/9451483412324/
MONDAY, Jan. 2, 2017 -- Newly updated guidelines reaffirm that metformin is the first-line drug for people with type 2 diabetes, and that several other medications -- including newer ones -- can be added if needed.
The recommendations come from the American College of Physicians (ACP). The American Academy of Family Physicians endorsed the new guidelines. The ACP updated the guidelines because of new research into diabetes drugs, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval of new diabetes drugs.
"The escalating rates of obesity in the U.S. are increasing the incidence and prevalence of diabetes substantially. Metformin has the added benefit of being associated with weight loss," Damle said.
The ACP recommends that if a patient needs to take a second drug by mouth to lower blood sugar levels, physicians should look at adding a sulfonylurea, thiazolidinedione, SGLT-2 inhibitor, or a DPP-4 inhibitor.
Examples of sulfonylurea drugs include glyburide (Diabeta, Glucovance, Micronase), glimepiride, glipizide (Glucotrol) and tolbutamide. Thiazolidinedione drugs include pioglitazone (Actos) and rosiglitazone (Avandia).
SGLT-2 inhibitors include canagliflozin (Invokana), empagliflozin (Jardiance) and dapagliflozin (Farxiga). DPP-4 inhibitors include sitagliptin (Janumet, Januvia) or linagliptin (Jentadueto, Tradjenta). Brand names for metformin include Glumetza, Glucophage, and Fortamet.
"Adding a second medication to metformin may provide additional benefits," Damle said.
"However, the increased cost may not always support the added benefit, particularly for the more expensive, newer medications. ACP recommends that clinicians and patients discuss the benefits, adverse effects, and costs of additional medications," he added.
An estimated 29 million people in the United States have diabetes, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The guidelines are published in the Jan. 3 issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine.
http://www.upi.com/Health_News/2017/01/02/Metformin-still-best-choice-for-type-2-diabetes-treatment-doctors-say/9451483412324/
Sunday 1 January 2017
End of daily injection for type one diabetes on horizon as scientists begin building 'smart' insulin capsule
From telegraph.co.uk
A world in which type one diabetics no longer need to inject themselves every day may be just a few years away, after British scientists launched an ambitious project to create a system which delivers insulin automatically.
Currently people with type one diabetes must undergo prick tests several times a day to monitor their blood sugar, and inject themselves with insulin when it gets too high.
The daily chore is time-consuming and invasive, and for children if often means they cannot attend parties, sleep-overs and camps where parents cannot monitor their condition.
But now scientists at the University of Birmingham are developing smart capsules which would travel through the body and release insulin when they came across high levels of blood sugar.
The team has already discovered molecules which binds to glucose from which they plan to build a shell which can contain insulin but melts away in the presence of sugar, releasing its payload.
“We want to make the lives of patients better,” said Dr John Fossey, a senior lecturer in the school of chemistry at Birmingham, who is leading the project.
“Imagine if patients could go through a week without having to worry about their blood sugar levels, or injecting themselves.
"I've talked to the parents of kids with type one diabetes and they say, if only my children could do things, like go to sleepovers, their lives would be so much better. Most parents aren’t confident enough to entrust injections to other adults.
“We’re trying to create a system which will deliver insulin in response to glucose levels, releasing more if blood sugar is high.
“We can now recognise glucose in the body and my proposal is to take the same chemistry, take these molecules and build a container for insulin which will break open when it comes across glucose and deliver its cargo.
“The a patient could be injected with these containers, say once a week, and they would slowly degrade in the presence of glucose to keep blood sugar at a constant level.”
Around 400,000 people in Britain have type one diabetes of which nearly 30,000 are children.
The Birmingham scientists say they are confident that the capsule will be ready for animal trials within five years, and humans soon after.
“This could be a step change in the management of type one diabetes,” said Dr Fossey.
“It will give people the freedom to live their lives without constantly worrying about monitoring their condition.”
The new project is partly funded by the Juvenile Diabetes and Research Foundation (JDRF), the British charity which is working with scientists to find a cure for type one diabetes.
Sarah Johnson, Director of Mission at JDRF: "We are pleased to be funding Dr Fossey’s work. This early stage of research could lay the foundations for a glucose responsive insulin that would be injected once a day, or even a week, and respond to glucose levels just like a healthy pancreas.
“This would be a life changing treatment for all those living with type 1 diabetes."
Scientists across the globe are hunting for a solution to type one diabetes. In January US researchers from Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) announced they had successfully switched off the disease for several months in mice, which could equate to years if replicated in humans.
Their treatment involves creating millions of insulin-producing cells in the lab and injecting them into the body. It could mean patients would simply need a transfusion of engineered cells every few years.
The University of North Carolina has also developed a ‘smart patch’ which monitors glucose levels and delivers insulin automatically via hundreds of micro-needles.
The high-tech device, which sticks to the skin like a plaster, can detect even slight increases in blood sugar levels meaning that tiny doses of insulin can be given when needed.
Although it has only been tested on mice so far, developers say it could be a ‘game changer’ for humans.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/science/2016/12/31/end-daily-injection-type-one-diabetics-horizon-scientists-begin/
A world in which type one diabetics no longer need to inject themselves every day may be just a few years away, after British scientists launched an ambitious project to create a system which delivers insulin automatically.
Currently people with type one diabetes must undergo prick tests several times a day to monitor their blood sugar, and inject themselves with insulin when it gets too high.
The daily chore is time-consuming and invasive, and for children if often means they cannot attend parties, sleep-overs and camps where parents cannot monitor their condition.
But now scientists at the University of Birmingham are developing smart capsules which would travel through the body and release insulin when they came across high levels of blood sugar.
The team has already discovered molecules which binds to glucose from which they plan to build a shell which can contain insulin but melts away in the presence of sugar, releasing its payload.
“We want to make the lives of patients better,” said Dr John Fossey, a senior lecturer in the school of chemistry at Birmingham, who is leading the project.
“Imagine if patients could go through a week without having to worry about their blood sugar levels, or injecting themselves.
"I've talked to the parents of kids with type one diabetes and they say, if only my children could do things, like go to sleepovers, their lives would be so much better. Most parents aren’t confident enough to entrust injections to other adults.
“We’re trying to create a system which will deliver insulin in response to glucose levels, releasing more if blood sugar is high.
“We can now recognise glucose in the body and my proposal is to take the same chemistry, take these molecules and build a container for insulin which will break open when it comes across glucose and deliver its cargo.
“The a patient could be injected with these containers, say once a week, and they would slowly degrade in the presence of glucose to keep blood sugar at a constant level.”
Around 400,000 people in Britain have type one diabetes of which nearly 30,000 are children.
The Birmingham scientists say they are confident that the capsule will be ready for animal trials within five years, and humans soon after.
“This could be a step change in the management of type one diabetes,” said Dr Fossey.
“It will give people the freedom to live their lives without constantly worrying about monitoring their condition.”
The new project is partly funded by the Juvenile Diabetes and Research Foundation (JDRF), the British charity which is working with scientists to find a cure for type one diabetes.
Sarah Johnson, Director of Mission at JDRF: "We are pleased to be funding Dr Fossey’s work. This early stage of research could lay the foundations for a glucose responsive insulin that would be injected once a day, or even a week, and respond to glucose levels just like a healthy pancreas.
“This would be a life changing treatment for all those living with type 1 diabetes."
Scientists across the globe are hunting for a solution to type one diabetes. In January US researchers from Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) announced they had successfully switched off the disease for several months in mice, which could equate to years if replicated in humans.
Their treatment involves creating millions of insulin-producing cells in the lab and injecting them into the body. It could mean patients would simply need a transfusion of engineered cells every few years.
The University of North Carolina has also developed a ‘smart patch’ which monitors glucose levels and delivers insulin automatically via hundreds of micro-needles.
The high-tech device, which sticks to the skin like a plaster, can detect even slight increases in blood sugar levels meaning that tiny doses of insulin can be given when needed.
Although it has only been tested on mice so far, developers say it could be a ‘game changer’ for humans.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/science/2016/12/31/end-daily-injection-type-one-diabetics-horizon-scientists-begin/
Diabetes can be prevented and reversed with carbohydrate restricted diet, says UAB expert
From news-medical.net
According to a new comprehensive financial analysis reported in the Journal of the American Medical Association and The Washington Post diabetes leads a list of just 20 diseases and conditions that account for more than half of all spending on healthcare in the United States.
U.S. spending on diabetes diagnosis and treatment totalled $101 billion in 2013, and has grown 36 times faster than spending on heart disease, the country's No. 1 cause of death, researchers reported.
University of Alabama at Birmingham Professor of Nutrition Barbara Gower, Ph.D., conducts research on diet composition and disease risk and says that diabetes can both be prevented and reversed with a carbohydrate restricted diet.
Type 2 diabetes can be managed with diet alone in many cases. However, this message is not getting to the patients; they are told to take drugs. A clinic at UAB treats diabetics with a diet that dramatically reduces carbohydrates. In most cases, patients can eliminate all medication.
"They are thrilled to stop injecting insulin, and they question why "no one ever told them" they could control their diabetes diet alone," Gower said. "The conventional advise to diabetics is to eat carbs, and then inject insulin - or take other drugs.
Why do this?
"The medication is needed because diabetes is a disease of carbohydrate intolerance; if the patient does not eat carbs, they do not have to use medication," she said.
"I use the 'cigarette' analogy. We know it is bad to smoke, so we tell patents not to smoke. Why don't we do the same thing with sugar and processed starches? The excuse I hear is that 'people won't stop eating sugar and starches.' However, by the same analogy, we could have thrown up our hands and said, 'people can't give up smoking.'"
"We need to treat diabetes like lung cancer and COPD; all of these diseases are preventable with lifestyle," Gower said. "Further, even with established, long-term, type 2 diabetes, it can be managed with diet. It is not impossible to eat a low-carb diet that is healthful and satisfying. We do it all the time, and we teach our patients to do it. They love it.
"Carbohydrates are not essential nutrients for the human body, and with proper instruction, patients can adjust their diets to minimize them."
http://www.news-medical.net/news/20161230/Diabetes-can-be-prevented-and-reversed-with-carbohydrate-restricted-diet-says-UAB-expert.aspx
According to a new comprehensive financial analysis reported in the Journal of the American Medical Association and The Washington Post diabetes leads a list of just 20 diseases and conditions that account for more than half of all spending on healthcare in the United States.
U.S. spending on diabetes diagnosis and treatment totalled $101 billion in 2013, and has grown 36 times faster than spending on heart disease, the country's No. 1 cause of death, researchers reported.
University of Alabama at Birmingham Professor of Nutrition Barbara Gower, Ph.D., conducts research on diet composition and disease risk and says that diabetes can both be prevented and reversed with a carbohydrate restricted diet.
Type 2 diabetes can be managed with diet alone in many cases. However, this message is not getting to the patients; they are told to take drugs. A clinic at UAB treats diabetics with a diet that dramatically reduces carbohydrates. In most cases, patients can eliminate all medication.
"They are thrilled to stop injecting insulin, and they question why "no one ever told them" they could control their diabetes diet alone," Gower said. "The conventional advise to diabetics is to eat carbs, and then inject insulin - or take other drugs.
Why do this?
"The medication is needed because diabetes is a disease of carbohydrate intolerance; if the patient does not eat carbs, they do not have to use medication," she said.
"I use the 'cigarette' analogy. We know it is bad to smoke, so we tell patents not to smoke. Why don't we do the same thing with sugar and processed starches? The excuse I hear is that 'people won't stop eating sugar and starches.' However, by the same analogy, we could have thrown up our hands and said, 'people can't give up smoking.'"
"We need to treat diabetes like lung cancer and COPD; all of these diseases are preventable with lifestyle," Gower said. "Further, even with established, long-term, type 2 diabetes, it can be managed with diet. It is not impossible to eat a low-carb diet that is healthful and satisfying. We do it all the time, and we teach our patients to do it. They love it.
"Carbohydrates are not essential nutrients for the human body, and with proper instruction, patients can adjust their diets to minimize them."
http://www.news-medical.net/news/20161230/Diabetes-can-be-prevented-and-reversed-with-carbohydrate-restricted-diet-says-UAB-expert.aspx
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