How to Manage Your Diabetes When It's Hot Outside

From health.usnews.com

Don't let the heat get to you. Here's how to maintain your diabetes routine even in the summer.

Hot weather can bring time off, travel, increased outdoor activities and welcome changes in routine. It can also upset your diabetes routine if you’re not careful.

That can happen for a few reasons. First, in the hotter summer months, you’re more likely to change your routine. Kids are out of school, and you may go on a vacation. It’s common to get lax about what you eat or when you take your diabetes medications or insulin.

Second, you may exercise outside more if the weather is inviting – or you may move less if you’re living in a virtual sauna and can’t go outside regularly for a walk or run. In either case, a change in activity could change your blood sugar.

Finally, hotter temperatures require greater care of your insulin and diabetes supplies.

The bottom line: “Enjoy the summer and engage in many activities, but be vigilant [about diabetes],” advises Dr. Supneet Saluja, an endocrinologist at The Centre for Endocrinology at Mercy Medical Centre in Baltimore.

Here are a few areas to monitor when it’s hot out to maintain good diabetes care.

Physical Activity

Hotter weather could change your outdoor exercise routine, so make plans to accommodate for this. While visiting Phoenix recently, San Francisco-based Adam Brown, senior editor and columnist at diaTribe and author of “Bright Spots & Landmines: The Diabetes Guide I Wish Someone Had Handed Me,” walked outside at night to avoid the daytime heat. Or consider walking early in the morning before the heat and humidity hit their daytime highs. The important thing is that you stay consistent with an exercise routine.

“Diabetes is a condition of routines and habits, and summer brings different routines and changes,” Brown says. That’s why doing your best to maintain routines related to diabetes care is so important.

If you find it hard to fit longer stretches of exercise into your hot-weather routine, aim for small but consistent activity bursts. When Brown is strapped for time, he’ll wear a weighted vest while walking his dog. You could also exercise at home with low-cost equipment or online videos.

Make sure to hydrate before, during and after exercise outside, and check your blood sugar more regularly since physical activity can alter it. “You want to prevent dehydration and hypoglycemia,” says Lory Gonzalez, a nurse educator at the Diabetes Research Institute at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine.

Eating and Drinking

Let’s face it: You’re likely to be tempted this summer at a cookout with classic food like burgers and hot dogs. Plan how you’ll approach those kinds of meals. For example, you could eat the burger, but wrap it in lettuce or use no bun, to help cut down on carbs, Brown suggests.

If you do eat some of the summer staples that aren’t as good for you when you have diabetes, adjust your insulin accordingly, Saluja advises.

You could also plan to fill up on veggies at home before you head out for the cookout.

Having rules for how you’ll eat or exercise can help in unpredictable situations that are more likely to crop up in the summer, Brown says.

Another major hot-weather concern for everyone – not just those with diabetes – is staying hydrated. Carry a water bottle with you wherever you go so you’re always reminded to sip, Gonzalez says. The best drink to help you avoid dehydration is plain water. If that gets boring, add a squeeze of lemon or lime or flavour it with fruit. Other caffeine-free liquids you drink can count toward your water intake, but sodas and alcoholic drinks do not, Saluja says.

Generally speaking, you’ll want to avoid sports drinks to hydrate because of their added sugar. They may be part of your routine if you are exercising for more than an hour, but even then they should be used sparingly.

Watch out in the summer for signs of dehydration, as that can alter your blood sugar. Symptoms include a dry mouth, headache, a darker yellow urine or a weak feeling. Without proper hydration, you could pass out, even if you don’t have diabetes.

Diabetes Supplies

Diabetes supplies can be sensitive to heat, so they require extra care in the summer. For example, insulin should be refrigerated until it is open. Once open, it should stay at room temperature. If you leave your insulin in your car's glove compartment on a hot day, you could ruin it. It may be less effective or not work at all, and that can unexpectedly change your blood sugar.

To help remedy this, take your insulin with you. “If you’re comfortable, your insulin is comfortable,” Gonzalez says.

In fact, if you find that your blood sugar is running high and there’s no other obvious cause, consider whether your insulin has been exposed to heat.

Some diabetes experts favour a portable cooler pack that fills with water (no ice needed) and keeps insulin at the right temperature for up to two days.

You’ll also want to keep your testing strips at room temperature, as those can also get ruined by heat.

If you use an insulin pump or continuous glucose monitor, keep in mind that all of your summer fun in the sun can cause you to sweat more, making it easier for your devices to come off. Consider using a liquid adhesive to help the devices stick to your body, which can help you avoid a potential emergency. “If I go to the beach and my pump comes off, I’ll be in trouble in four to five hours. I could be in the hospital soon,” Brown says.

Finally, always have an ice pack or similar item for your diabetes supplies available, even at home. You never know when electricity might go out in a summer storm. “You have to have a plan B,” Saluja says.

http://health.usnews.com/health-care/patient-advice/articles/2017-05-30/how-to-manage-your-diabetes-when-its-hot-outside

3 Simple Steps To Prevent Diabetes In Women

From food.ndtv.com

Diabetes is a lifelong disease caused by high sugar level in the blood. This happens because the body is unable to produce sufficient insulin, or the body is not using it correctly .Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas. Its main function is to transport the glucose from the blood into the cells where it is used for energy. However if there isn't sufficient insulin the glucose builds up in the blood.

There are two types of diabetes:

 1. Type I diabetes

The cause for this is still unknown but in most people it is an outcome of destruction of the beta cells of the pancreas by our own immune system. Type I diabetes often develops in children, with a positive family history of a sibling or parent with diabetes. Certain viral infections like mumps, rotavirus or coxsakie virus B and cold climate may precipitate this to.

2.Type-II diabetes

Where insulin is present but is not sufficient or is unable to work efficiently. The common risk factors for women are:

•    Overweight or obesity (BMI of 25 or above),
•    Older age of 45 and above. After menopause women are at a greater risk of obesity and higher waist circumference ,increasing the risk of Diabetes
•    Family history-parent or sibling with diabetes
•    Ethnicity-Indians are at a greater risk of DM2
•    Giving birth to a baby of 9 pounds or above
•    Presence of diabetes during pregnancy
•    High blood pressure with medication
•    Low HDL cholesterol and high triglycerides
•    Suffering from polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD)
•    History of heart disease or stroke

High sugar levels have a detrimental effect on the blood vessels and nerves. Nerve damage can lead to pain or loss of sensation in the affected area. Blood vessel damage can lead to heart diseases, stroke, blindness, kidney failure, amputation, hearing loss, problems in conceiving and during pregnancy, and repeated urinary and vaginal infections.

Are you at a risk? 

India has the dubious distinction for being the diabetes capital of the world. Though we as a population are genetically prone to diabetes, rapid urbanization, poor diet and exercise, obesity are the main causes for this epidemic. Women are as prone to diabetes as men, but women are less likely to seek and follow medical advice and treatment for themselves.

Prevention they say is better than cure: You just need to follow 3 simple rule to protect yourself against diabetes

1. Weight Management

The number one risk factor for the onset of diabetes is overweight. More fatty tissues in the body make it resistant to the action of insulin. Furthermore, the apple shaped body, where there is fat accumulation around the abdomen predisposing you to a higher risk of diabetes. Shed those extra kilos. In a study participants who lost about 7% of their weight improved their risk of not getting diabetes by 60%. Fad diets aren't the answer, you may lose some weight initially but will it stay off? Eat healthy and exercise regularly, the only way to maintain weight without compromising on your health.

Simple tricks to help you eat less are-
•    A smaller bowl or plate
•    Use a tea spoon or child fork to eat smaller bites
•    Eat slowly, chew your food well , it takes 20 minutes for your brain to register that the stomach is full
•    Do not eat in front of the TV
•    Drink a large glass of water 10 minutes before your meal
•    Fill your plate like this- 1/4th protein, 1/4th whole grain, ½ vegetable and fruit with some skimmed dairy

2. Eat: healthy

•    Whole grains protect against diabetes. In the Nurses' health study I and II which followed 160,000 women over 18 years, researchers found that women who ate two to three servings of whole grains reduced their risk of diabetes by 30%. Indian diets are based on whole grain cereals, find a chakki and get fresh whole grain atta, it will not only be beneficial for you but your entire family. Barley, steel cut oats, hand pounded rice, brown and red rice are other good choices.
•     Instead of drinking juices, eat whole fruits. In the same nurses study II women who drank 1or more sweetened drink increased their risk of diabetes by 83%. Sugary drinks may contribute to chronic inflammation, high triglycerides decreased HDL (good cholesterol) and insulin resistance. Our traditional chaas, nimbu pani, bael sharbat, aam panna, all taste fabulous without sugar. Fresh coconut water, plain water, sugar free green tea and coffee are all good choices.

•    Good fats like poly unsaturated oils from vegetable sources, nuts, seeds, protect against diabetes. Trans fats usually found in packed bakery goods, street foods, fast food restaurants can play havoc with your health. Any label that reads partially hydrogenated oil should be put away. Look for the amount of Trans fat on the label while buying ready to eat and ready to cook foods.
•    Evidence from the Nurses study I and II , Health professionals follow up study and another 6 long term studies highlighted the substitution of red and processed meat with  fish , poultry low fat milk and nuts decreased the risk of diabetes by 35%
All these points highlight that our traditional eating practises are the healthiest, we just need to re learn them.

3. Move your body

Being active helps you control your weight as well as improves insulin sensitivity.
•    Get active, start with 30 minutes a day for 5 days of the week. Walking is the easiest form of activity start and then you can try other forms of exercise.
•    Put on the radio and dance away your calories. Make your family join in for a fun filled jam session at home.
•    Download an exercise video and follow it
•    At office, walk for your water, to deliver a message, to catch up with a colleague
•    Walk to the market if safe instead of taking a car.
The benefits of even moderate exercise are humungous .Start today.

Preventing Diabetes is about making healthy choices for life, as the lady of the house you can create an environment where everyone benefits. You do not need to do anything separately, do it for the whole family.
Remember you are the pivot of the family and taking care of yourself is as important as taking care of others.
Happy Women's Day

http://food.ndtv.com/health/3-simple-steps-to-prevent-diabetes-in-women-1704588

Campaign aims to encourage Bath residents to fight diabetes with lifestyle changes

From bathecho.co.uk

People living with diabetes across the Bath area are sharing healthier twists on the “food you love” such as fish and chips or apple strudel in a new campaign by the charity Diabetes UK.

Five delicious recipes are being showcased by five people who have not let living with diabetes stand between them and their favourite food.

They are also sharing tips that have helped them manage their diabetes.

The eight-week “Food you Love” campaign aims to encourage people with diabetes and without to eat more healthily and maintain a healthy weight.

You can sign up to view free recipe videos and more at www.diabetes.org.uk/feelgood-food between 22nd May to 15th July 2017.

Some of the UK’s best known celebrity chefs are also lending their support to Diabetes UK’s campaign, with Jamie Oliver donating a recipe for Mega Veggie Burgers; Prue Leith, sharing her recipe for Ajiaco-Colombian chicken soup; and Ella Woodward offering her recipe for Chilli and Ginger Pho.

Diabetes UK south west regional head Annika Palmer said:  “Enjoying what you eat is one of life’s pleasures, but when it comes to healthy eating, sometimes we all need a bit of inspiration to get us started.

“Every day we get questions from people living with diabetes asking for advice from our experts about what they can or can’t eat. So we hope these tasty recipes for the food we love – but healthier – are a practical answer.”

In the UK, there are more than 4.5 million people who have diabetes, of which 1 million people have Type 2 diabetes but don’t know they have it because they haven’t been diagnosed.

Some 11.9 million people are at increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

The Food you Love campaign will be running throughout Diabetes Week, which takes place from 11th to 17th June, when Diabetes UK will be aiming to increase understanding of the condition.

http://www.bathecho.co.uk/news/health/campaign-aims-encourage-local-people-fight-diabetes-lifestyle-changes-73109/

9 Foods to Help Prevent Type 2 Diabetes

From health.usnews.com

First comes the bad news about food and preventing Type 2 diabetes.

“Unfortunately, there is no magic food or food combination that can help prevent Type 2 diabetes,” says Vandana Sheth, a registered dietitian nutritionist and certified diabetes educator in Los Angeles and a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Now, the good news: There are a lot of healthy and tasty food options to boost your overall health. Combine improvements to your diet with physical activity and weight loss when appropriate, and you can reduce your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
When it comes to food choices, the trick is balancing protein, healthy carbohydrates and fat, dietitians say. This combination helps you stay full longer without spiking your blood sugar too high.

“When we consistently take in large amounts of calories, our body has mechanisms to process all of this material, which works well in the short term but over the long haul can reduce insulin sensitivity and eventually wear out our insulin-making cells,” says Scott Keatley, a registered dietitian with Keatley Medical Nutrition Therapy in New York. “By having a diet in balance, we can avoid many of these long-term issues.”

Balance also means watching both the quality and quantity of what you eat. To help measure quality, dietitians are fans of the ChooseMyPlate.gov approach. ChooseMyPlate.gov advocates a plate that is half-filled with non-starchy vegetables and fruit, a quarter-filled with protein and a quarter-filled with healthy carbohydrates. (Read on for some ideas to build such a meal.)

Calories are also important – after all, excess calories mean excess weight, which raises your risk for Type 2 diabetes. However, it’s even more important that you make quality, filling food choices. For instance, you might have eggs and whole wheat toast for breakfast or opt for a sugary cereal, and both choices could have the same calorie count, says Despina Hyde Gandhi, a registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator at NYU Langone’s Weight Management Program in New York. Of course, the first choice is the better option to help prevent diabetes.

If you regularly combine protein, healthy carbs and a little fat, you’ll stay full longer and be less likely to overeat.
Here are some tasty food ideas that can promote better health and help reduce your risk for Type 2 diabetes.

Steel-cut oatmeal with peanut butter and fruit. If you’re eating just oatmeal and fruit for breakfast, your body will process that much more quickly than if you add a protein source like peanut butter, says Lori Zanini, a registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator in Los Angeles and a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Drinks with no added sugar. Drinks with added sugar are popular nowadays but can add extra calories and little nutrition, says Cara Lowenthal, a registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator at Joslin Diabetes Center in Boston. From flavored coffee drinks with whipped cream to sodas, it’s all too easy to suck down too much sugar with your beverages. Stick with water and flavored seltzer to hydrate. For your morning cup of joe, you can add a little regular milk if needed, Zanini suggests.

A hearty salad. If you’re already eating salad frequently, think for a minute about what it contains. Is it just greens and dressing? Or do you add nuts, beans or grilled shrimp? A hearty salad that combines veggies with protein sources as well as a dressing like vinegar and olive oil is a more filling approach than greens alone. Another idea: a caprese salad that combines ripe tomatoes, basil leaves, fresh mozzarella, salt, pepper and olive oil. The lycopene in tomatoes acts as an antioxidant to help reduce inflammation. “The mozzarella and olive oil have fat in them, but this will help you to feel full longer,” Keatley says.

Snacks that combine protein, healthy carbs and fat. Some ideas to consider:

• Hard-boiled eggs.
• A sandwich with whole-grain bread, lots of lettuce and tomatoes, 3 ounces of lean chicken, mustard and avocado.
• Veggies and hummus.
• Almonds or walnuts.
• Greek yogurt.
• A piece of fruit and some nuts or a string cheese.
• Cottage cheese and fruit.
• A slide of whole grain bread and peanut butter or almond butter.

Beans. From garbanzo beans to hummus to edamame, beans are a nutritional superstar you can add to many meals. They provide healthy carbohydrates to the body and are a source of protein. Add them to salads, combine hummus with veggies and munch on edamame when you’re on the go.

Whole wheat bread. Surprisingly, bread can have hidden sugar, Zanini says. However, whole wheat bread, where the first ingredient listed is 100 percent whole wheat flour, is less likely to have a lot of sugar. It also provides fibre and will not spike your blood sugar like white bread does.
Haddock lightly covered with panko (Japanese-style breadcrumbs). “The haddock is an incredibly lean protein, and most of the fat in the fish is the good kind – omega-3 fatty acids,” Keatley says. He advises combining the haddock with sliced lemon and asparagus, which are both loaded with vitamin C and fibre, to help keep glucose levels from spiking. Other good dinnertime vegetables that contain vitamins and fibre include broccoli, string beans and cauliflower, Lowenthal says.
Grilled pear halves with ricotta cheese and honey. This could be an awesome after-meal indulgence. “Pears are some of the most fibre-rich fruits, reducing the spiking of glucose. Combined with the cheese and honey, they give a feeling of fullness that will last the entire night,” Keatley says. For your sweet tooth, berries are also a good choice. They’re low in sugar and great for you, Zanini says.

A small dessert item. When you think about diabetes, you naturally may think about avoiding sugar. There’s naturally occurring sugar in a number of foods, and it’s not realistic to avoid sugar completely in the long term, Gandhi says. For this reason, she tells clients that if they are going to have a dessert, they should set a limit on how much they’ll consume. For example, a 100-calorie serving can still allow a cookie or three Hershey’s kisses. “That way, they don’t feel deprived,” Gandhi says.

http://health.usnews.com/health-care/patient-advice/articles/2017-05-25/9-foods-to-help-prevent-type-2-diabetes

Student shows that wild pepper can treat diabetes

From standardmedia.co.ke

An undergraduate student at Kenyatta University has successfully treated diabetic mice with a herbal extract from wild pepper.
The development is crucial because it provides scientific evidence of the plant’s effectiveness in treating diabetes.
Wild or black pepper, botanically known as Piper capense, or mdeka in Kiswahili, is a common plant found in most wet highland areas and traditionally used as medicine.

“This is not news since the herb is widely used in treating diabetes by local herbalists,” says Lucy Njeri Kimani, a science student.
She adds: “But the study provides scientific evidence supporting the traditional use of the plant in treating diabetes, hence validating its folkloric usage.”
After successfully treating a group of mice, Kimani now proposes similar experiments on primates such as apes to further understand how the extract works in humans.
Kimani, who graduated last year, worked on the study closely with her supervisor, Eliud Njagi, at the School of Pure and Applied Sciences. She says their work proves that wild pepper has a strong action against diabetes.
Njagi and Kimani attribute this not to a single component but what they say is possibly a host of compounds in the plant acting together to normalise sugar activity in the body.
The demonstrated anti-diabetic activity, Kimani says, could be due to several chemicals in this particular plant.
She told The Standard that she had worked on about 40 mice, some of which were induced with diabetic conditions. These were then treated with a root extract from the herb using different doses.
All the treated mice, the study reported in the April 30 online issue of the Journal of Diabetes and Metabolism, recovered without any side effects.
Traditionally, says Dr Shadrack Moimett of Koibatek Herbal Clinic, Piper capense has been used to cleanse the human pancreas and kidneys to maximise their efficiency.
The treatment, Moimett explained, improves chemical activity in the body or what is called metabolism, hence minimising conditions that sustain diabetes.
“It also strengthens the body's immunity, eradicating the need for a diabetic person to stay on medication for life,” he said.
Ideally, Kimani says, her next step would be to work towards a standardised treatment from the wild pepper but this is far into the future.
“The most important thing to learn from this study is that in wild pepper we have an effective, relatively inexpensive anti-diabetic, especially for drug-resistant patients,” says Kimani.
She adds that prior knowledge that Piper capense was widely used in the treatment of diabetes around Gilgil in Nakuru Country had pricked her curiosity to find out whether the medicine really worked. Around Gilgil, the plant goes by the name 'muruya'.

https://www.standardmedia.co.ke/health/article/2001240648/student-shows-that-wild-pepper-can-treat-diabetes

Type 2 Diabetes - The Best Time to Eat Carbohydrates

By Beverleigh H Piepers

Sometimes it may seem like there is too much fuss about carbohydrates. Rarely, if ever, are they neglected in a diet or nutrition conversation? But is their importance overstated? And just how accurate is the information spread about carbohydrates?These are profound questions beyond the scope of this discussion. That said, we will touch on these topics indirectly as we talk about timing and consumption of carbohydrates.
Type 2 diabetics are aware their carbohydrate intake has an effect on their body's blood sugar. Which leads us to our first point: carbohydrates need not be totally avoided, because they are not altogether harmful. It is only under certain circumstances the situation gets out of hand leading to a continual rise in blood sugar and in turn pre-diabetes or Type 2 diabetes. Being...

• physically inactive,
• eating an unhealthy diet containing too many sugary foods, and
• lacking in control of portion sizes,

are some of the culprits.

Timing and the consumption of carbs are essential to healthy living. By choosing to eat your carbs at the wrong time, you leave yourself vulnerable to elevated blood sugar and weight gain, which act as catalysts in the development of Type 2 diabetes.
In short, you should aim to consume most of your carbohydrates around the time you engage in physical activity. Eating carbs before exercise will give you a boost in energy, which is useful if you are going to have a moderate to an intense workout. A fruit like an apple or banana is an excellent choice.
More importantly, the carbs you consume after exercise will be used to replenish the carbohydrates your body spent for energy. Provided you do not over consume, eating carbohydrates after exercising is beneficial to the body. A blood sugar spike following a workout is not harmful because nutrient partitioning is necessary at this time.
Furthermore, it is unlikely you will eat all of your daily carbohydrates before or after exercise: this is why it is important to eat healthy sources throughout the rest of the day. Complex carbs such as...

• whole grains,
• oats,
• fruits, and
• vegetables

do not have adverse effects on blood sugar. Not to mention they contain vitamins and minerals as well.

Carbohydrates are essential. And the importance of their timing and consumption should not be understated.
You will be doing yourself many favours health wise if you structure most of your carbohydrate intake around your exercise routines. Whether it is a walk, a jog, or a resistance training routine is irrelevant. After all, by this point in time, you already know you have no choice but to exercise in some way if you expect to be healthy.

Although managing your disease can be very challenging, Type 2 diabetes is not a condition you must just live with. You can make simple changes to your daily routine and lower both your weight and your blood sugar levels. Hang in there, the longer you do it, the easier it gets.

http://ezinearticles.com/?Type-2-Diabetes---The-Best-Time-to-Eat-Carbohydrates&id=9707466

How Much Weight Do I Need to Lose to Prevent Diabetes?

From nytimes.com

Q. How can a blood test determine if I have prediabetes? How much weight do I need to lose to bring my numbers down?

A. Doctors typically perform one of three blood tests to diagnose prediabetes, a condition marked by blood sugar (glucose) levels that are higher than normal but not high enough to qualify as diabetes. While prediabetes often leads to full-fledged Type 2 diabetes, many people can hold the condition in check if they lose a relatively small amount of weight and increase their physical activity, said Dr. Rhonda Bentley-Lewis, an assistant professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School. “I stress to my patients that we’re not talking about a huge amount of weight,” she said, “just 5 to 7 percent of one’s body weight” — or 10 to 14 pounds for someone who weighs 200 pounds.

Two of the tests require fasting, which helps prevent results being distorted by a prior meal and provides “an even baseline,” Dr. Bentley-Lewis said. One, the fasting plasma glucose test, checks blood glucose levels after an 8 to 10 hour fast; results of 100 to 125 milligrams per deciliter indicate prediabetes. The other, the oral glucose tolerance test, is the most sensitive. It checks blood glucose levels after fasting and then two hours after you consume a sweetened drink; levels of 140 to 199 after the drink indicate prediabetes.

A third test, the A1C test, may be the most convenient because it doesn’t require fasting. It measures your average blood glucose levels over the past two to three months; results of 5.7 percent to 6.4 percent, which indicate the percentage of red blood cells that have glucose attached to them, indicate prediabetes.

Though doctors often repeat a test to confirm a diabetes diagnosis, they do not always do so for a prediabetes diagnosis, Dr. Bentley-Lewis said.

Doctors can treat prediabetes with medication, but many patients prefer to try weight loss and exercise first, Dr. Bentley-Lewis said. Among thousands of people with prediabetes who participated in a national study called the Diabetes Prevention Program, those who received counseling about lifestyle changes, like losing a modest amount of weight, stepping up physical activity and reducing the amount of fat and calories in their diets, were able to reduce their risk of developing diabetes by 58 percent.

https://www.nytimes.com/2017/05/19/well/live/how-much-weight-do-i-need-to-lose-to-prevent-diabetes.html?_r=0&register=email&auth=register-email

New diabetes research centre opens in Newcastle

From diabetestimes.co.uk

A pioneering diabetes research centre which will focus on islet cell transplantation has opened in Newcastle.
The Newcastle Isolation and Innovation Hub is a laboratory based at Newcastle University and the team there will be focusing their energies on testing new drugs for people with type 1 diabetes.
James Shaw, professor of regenerative medicine for diabetes at Newcastle University and honorary consultant physician at Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, who is leading the Hub, said: “We hope that the research we are doing will one day mean that eventually insulin won’t be required for any type of diabetes.
“Our first goal is to pioneer islet cell transplant therapy for diabetes delivering long-term freedom from insulin injections without the need for toxic anti-rejection drugs.
“In parallel, the Hub will provide scientists with human islet cells to gain a deeper understanding of the effects of diabetes on the pancreas with the aim of finding curative new drug treatments.”

The Newcastle Isolation and Innovation Hub is based within the city’s NHS Blood and Transplant Centre on Barrack Road and is one of the first of its kind in the UK.
Tissue and high quality islet cells from donated pancreases will be generated from donor organs within the Hub for researchers of the Regenerative Medicine for Diabetes group at Newcastle University.
Engineers and molecular biologists will collaborate with other experts with the aim of making cell transplantation a safe, routine procedure for people with type diabetes at highest risk of complications.
Islet cell transplantation involves taking cells from a donated pancreas and transplanting them into the patient and the recipient must then take anti-rejection drugs.
Professor Shaw said: “The overarching goal is to develop new tablet treatments which will enable cells in the pancreas to start making insulin again. We aim to provide a unique bank of pancreas tissue and cells obtained from people with diabetes.
“Our research and clinical practice has been building towards this service for the last 15 years which will benefit scientists working towards a cure throughout the UK and the rest of the world.”

A core team of three researchers will work at the Hub and collaborate with bioengineers internationally to design new state-of-the art equipment for islet cell transplantation.
Helen Gavillet, research technician at Newcastle Isolation and Innovation Hub, said: “We will now have access to the highest quality human cells and will be able to put these to excellent use to help push research into type 1 diabetes forwards.”

http://diabetestimes.co.uk/new-diabetes-research-centre-opens-in-newcastle/

Maintaining the same weight as you age may prevent diabetes – even if you’re overweight to begin with

From dailymail.co.uk

It is well known that losing weight reduces your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Our latest research shows that maintaining the same weight as you age may also prevent diabetes, even in people who are moderately overweight.

Type 2 diabetes is a global health problem that affects about 414 million adults.

The disease usually develops over many years as the body’s ability to absorb and metabolise sugar and carbohydrates slowly declines.

It is mainly caused by diet, inactivity and smoking, but genes also play a role.

Although the number of people newly diagnosed with diabetes appears to be stabilising, and perhaps even decreasing, the total number of people living with the disease is increasing.

Diabetes is a chronic disease with many health consequences that often need lifelong treatment.

The disease decreases a person’s quality of life and places a strain on the health service.

We know that being overweight is strongly associated with type 2 diabetes and that obese people who lose weight, exercise and improve their diet can lower their risk of developing diabetes.

In many parts of the world, public health campaigns are focused on identifying and treating those at high risk of diabetes as a result of being obese and having high levels of blood sugar.

But from a public health perspective, it is also worth exploring if other strategies could be more effective at preventing the occurrence of new cases of diabetes. 

We studied over 30,000 people aged 30 to 60 from Västerbotten county in northern Sweden.

The participants had their weight and blood sugar measured on two occasions, ten years apart.

We wanted to see if what people weighed at the beginning of the study could tell us something about their risk of developing diabetes.

But we also wanted to know the impact of weight change over time on the risk of developing diabetes.

An estimated 4.5 million people are diagnosed with diabetes in the UK, 90% have type 2

The distribution of weight in the people we studied was very similar to that in the general Swedish population.

Based on their body mass index (BMI), just over a third of people were overweight and about a tenth were obese. (Putting on a bit of weight in middle age is normal.)

We found that, after ten years, just under a third of people had maintained the same weight, just over half had gained weight and about a sixth had lost weight.

When comparing occurrence of newly diagnosed diabetes after 10 years in those who gained any weight to those who maintained their weight, we found that the risk of diabetes was considerably lower in those who maintained their weight.

This was true not only for people who were a normal weight at the start, but also for those who were moderately overweight.

As expected, people who lost moderate amounts of weight had an even lower comparative risk of developing diabetes, especially among those who were overweight or obese at the start.

Putting on a bit of weight in middle age is normal. 

As well as studying risk, we were also interested in how big a change in average weight, at a population level, would be needed to achieve a meaningful reduction in the occurrence of type 2 diabetes.

We found that if everyone who gained weight had instead maintained their weight, an estimated one in five of all new diabetes cases could be prevented.

This proportion should be compared to the fact that current prevention strategies that target those at high risk could only prevent an estimated one in ten of all new cases.

These results show that diabetes can be prevented even in people who are moderately overweight, and that it is worth investing in public health measures that support people in maintaining a healthy lifestyle and a healthy weight throughout their life.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-4518922/Diabetes-risk-cut-stay-weight-age.html

6 travel tips for diabetics to keep blood sugar in check

From thehealthsite.com

Everyone loves to travel and explore new places in summer vacation. However, for a diabetic going on a vacation could be tricky. A lot can go wrong while on a holiday: skipping of medications, untimely meals, dehydration – all of which can have an effect on the blood sugar levels, especially if you are travelling abroad or crossing different timelines. So for a person with diabetes, it is essential to pack the essentials first before the journey.
Here are some travel tips for people with diabetes by Dr Pradeep Gadge, leading diabetologist, Gadge Diabetes Centre.

1. Ensure proper insulin storage
Those taking insulin must make sure it is stored properly; an insulin cooling pouch is a must in summers. The fluctuation in temperature can harm the insulin storage. Not many are aware of this facility which makes it convenient for diabetics who are avid travellers. Those planning to travel overseas must carry essential documents that will provide permission to carry insulin syringes and other similar essentials in the flight.
2. Always carry a water bottle around
Keep a small water bottle filled when you are on the move. It is essential to keep yourself hydrated during summer, more so if you are a diabetic. People suffering from diabetes are more prone to dehydration due to high glucose in the blood and hence drinking at least two litres of water is essential. However, if there is an underlying health condition (like a kidney condition) that needs you to restrict your water intake don’t go overboard. Instead, plan your activities in a way, so you don’t get tired soon.
3. Take care of your feet
Since it is a given that you would be travelling a lot during your holidays, it is imperative that you take care of your feet. Foot injuries for a diabetic could be injurious. Specially designed socks and shoes are available for diabetics. These prevent injuries, but those who are planning trips to religious places must not walk barefoot for long and be extra careful to avoid injuries.
4. Keep your medicines handy
Not all countries or cities will have the same medicines that are required for diabetics. To ensure you do not miss out on any medications, it is essential to make a list and pack everything along with the prescriptions and receipts. Always carry adequate medicines that can be used for the entire duration of the trip.
5. Keep tab of your diet pattern
When your routine food pattern changes, it leads to fluctuations in sugar levels and hence precautions must be taken. Maintaining the diet is important as some countries serve food which is rich in carbohydrates and fluctuation in sugar levels is not advisable for diabetics. Hence, you should carry some healthy snacks made of ragi or oats to ensure you are not hungry. Always ensure to consume hygienic food to prevent gastro intestine infections, which are common for diabetics. Small packs of healthy snacks should always be handy as staying hungry, or long gaps between meals will affect the sugar levels.
6. Sleep enough
Travel could disturb your sleep cycle and cause jet lag. Remember jet lag can cause sugar fluctuations. So sleep well after you reach your destination and consult a doctor before taking a flight to ensure what is beneficial for your health.

http://www.thehealthsite.com/diseases-conditions/diabetes/travel-tips-for-diabetics-to-keep-blood-sugar-in-check-d0517/

A Yogurt a Day May Keep Disorders at Bay

From worldhealth.net

Just about everyone loves yogurt. It tastes amazing, has a lovely texture and provides a number of health benefits. Yogurt is one of the many fermented foods that is fantastic for gut health. Researchers at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln are studying the nuances of the gut microbiome. The hope is that an improved understanding of the gut microbiome will help reduce the prevalence of heart disease, diabetes, and inflammatory disorders.

About Fermented Foods
Fermented foods are considered to be the original version of processed food. Fermentation allows for preservation to keep foods nutritious and tasty. Fermented foods have soared in popularity over the recent years as the general public became more interested in health food. Scientists continue to learn more about the important functions of microorganisms for digestion and overall health.
Aside from yogurt, examples of fermented foods and drinks include wine, beer, cheese, salami, fermented pickles, coffee, bread, and chocolate. These items are altered by helpful bacteria, fungi, and yeasts. These foods are safe to consume for extended periods of time after the alteration. In many instances, fermentation makes the food that much more healthy and flavourful to boot.
About the Research
The research effort is being spearheaded by Robert Hutkins, an accomplished food science researcher. Maria Marco of the University of California is also leading the study. They are working in tandem with an international crew of scientists to determine if eating certain fermented foods like yogurt increases the number of helpful microorganisms.
Prior studies have proved that foods like yogurt, miso, and sauerkraut are tied to a reduced rate of diabetes, heart disease, gastrointestinal disorders and other health problems. Hutkins and a dozen other researchers are reviewing this data. He states that the data shows numerous health benefits to consuming fermented foods like yogurt. He recommends that fermented foods should be included in all diets.
Hutkins' Background
Hutkins is affiliated with the Nebraska Food for Health Centre. This group was established last year to study how gut microbes ward off disease and boost human health. It's food, animal and plant scientists work closely with medical experts to identify and develop foods that boost the human microbiome as well as the micro-organisms that reside in the gut. These scientists are focused on developing foods that boost the body's immune system and metabolic processes.
About Microorganisms
Microorganisms within the gut are fed by the foods one consumes. Therefore it should come as no surprise that diet is an important factor that determines the functionality of the gut microbiome. This is an excellent opportunity to marry agriculture and medicine to alter how we think about warding off disease and treating disease. The hope is that improved knowledge of the main properties of fermentation methods will provide insights in terms of health benefits. However, at the current moment, only yogurt has been identified as a provider of specific health benefits. European health authorities made this recognition.
Hutkins' Findings
Hutkins and fellow researchers from the Netherlands, Canada, the United States, Ireland and France have encouraging findings following a thorough review of the latest research into fermented foods. The group determined the increased interest in the impact of microbiomes on health justifies additional research along with clinical trials to study the functions of micro-organisms that reach the gastrointestinal tract via beverages and food.
Some of the studies within Hutkins' group show that yogurt consumption is tied to a decreased rates of diabetes. Additional research determined that beneficial relationships exist between yogurt and digestion, blood pressure, osteoporosis, and cholesterol. One particular study determined those who consume yogurt on a daily basis were less irritable.

http://www.worldhealth.net/news/yogurt-each-day-may-keep-disorders-bay/

For diabetics, smart foot care is crucial

From postcrescent.com

When people have diabetes, there’s rightly a lot of concern about managing blood sugar. A second hot topic is taking good care of one’s feet.
How do diabetes and foot health go together? In my practice, I help many people whose diabetes has caused nerve damage known as neuropathy. This condition leaves the nerves in their feet with limited or no sensitivity to pain. Calluses, small foot cuts and scrapes can quickly become dangerous wounds and infections.
My most important advice to diabetics, or anyone who suffers from neuropathy, is to have someone inspect their feet daily. A second set of eyes that can clearly see the side, bottom and toenails of each foot means we can catch a minor issue before it becomes infected. The key is to stay on top of any concerns before they get serious. Even normal calluses on a diabetic person’s foot can cause serious problems to the soft skin underneath.

Diabetes also damages a person’s blood vessels and this can mean a person’s feet do not get enough blood and oxygen. This makes it harder for foot injuries to heal if a sore or infection sets in, and serious cases can even lead to amputation.
Secondly, I recommend all my diabetic patients invest in high quality-diabetic shoes. They are wider and deeper than average shoes to help a person’s feet move freely without rubbing up against the inside of the shoe. They tend to be constructed with seamless interiors and designed to facilitate good blood and air circulation.
Remember the old-fashion shoe stores where the salesperson helped measure your feet and fit your shoes? Well, you’re in luck. Go to a specialty shoe store where the staff has been specially trained to assess the style and fit of the diabetic shoes you need. Remember, if you have neuropathy, you won’t really be able to tell if a shoe fits you properly. You’ll need someone to help you. Your doctor or pharmacist can recommend where to buy diabetic shoes and advise you about possible Medicare coverage.
Speaking of shoes, I know it’s almost summer, but flip flops and sandals should be worn very little or not at all. They leave your feet exposed to debris on the ground, stubbed toes and other dangers that can cut or infect your skin. And if you’re thinking about going barefoot around the house, think again. It is essential that people with diabetes protect their feet all the time. This means slippers at home, too.
Beyond footwear, I counsel my patients with diabetes to establish and keep these healthy foot care habits:
Keep your diabetes well managed. People with high glucose levels tend to have dry skin and less ability to fend off harmful bacteria. Both conditions increase the risk of infection.
Get medical attention for any calluses that form on the feet. Ulcers can form under a seemingly-normal callus and cause a significant wound or infection.
Wash your feet every day. Dry them carefully, especially between the toes.
Keep your skin soft and smooth. Scratching dry or itchy skin can open it up and allow infection to set in. Rub a thin coat of skin lotion over the tops and bottoms of your feet, but not between your toes. Moist skin between your toes is an ideal place for foot fungus to grow.
Treat cuts right away. Wash minor cuts with soap and water. Only use an antibiotic cream or ointment if your doctor says it's okay. Cover minor cuts with sterile gauze. See a doctor right away if you get cut, burn, or infection that does not immediately heal on its own.
Protect your feet from hot and cold. This means wearing shoes even at the beach.
Don’t use hot water bottles, hot foot soaks, heating pads, or electric blankets because you can burn your feet without realizing it.
Check inside your shoes before wearing them. Make sure there are no objects inside that can puncture your skin. I’ve have found some interesting things in patients’ feet (not just their shoes), including a sewing needle, glass, and even a toothpick!
Buy good quality diabetic socks because they are designed to be non-binding to encourage circulation. The fabric helps wick away moisture to reduce the risk of infection.
If you can see and reach your toenails, trim them when needed. Trim your toenails straight across and file the edges with an emery board or nail file. If you have a hard time reaching or seeing your feet, go to an area foot care clinic staffed by specially-trained foot care nurses. Many people find them relaxing, too.
Your health care provider should perform a complete foot exam annually and more often if you have foot problems. If your doctor says, “Take everything off and put on this gown, but you can leave your socks on,” remember you should take your socks off! This will remind both of you to check your feet.
A person’s healthy feet take them where they need to go, especially if they are carefully managing their diabetes: the grocery store, the farmer’s market, on a bike ride, or brisk walk. Take care to build a healthy lifestyle from the ground up. Go feet first.

http://www.postcrescent.com/story/life/2017/05/14/diabetics-smart-foot-care-crucial/100847152/

Recipe: Keralan-style vegetable curry

From diabetes.org.uk

Ingredients

• 75g split peas (dried)
• 500ml boiling water
• 2 tsp rapeseed oil
• 2 onions, chopped (220g)
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed
• half butternut squash, peeled, deseeded and cubed (400g)
• 1 tbsp curry paste
• 1 x 400g can chopped tomatoes
• 200ml boiling water
• 1 aubergine, diced (250g)
• 1 pack okra, stalks trimmed (175g)
• 1 bag (200g) fresh spinach
• 25g fresh coriander, chopped
• 2 tbsp 0% yogurt
• 80g pomegranate seeds
• 80g cucumber, diced
• 2 spring onions, chopped
• 1 small red chilli, chopped

Method

1. Rinse the split peas and add to a pan with boiling water to fully cover them. Simmer for 40 minutes, then drain.
2. Meanwhile, add the oil to a pan with the onion and cook for 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, butternut squash and curry paste, then cook for 2 minutes, stirring regularly.
4. Add the tomatoes and water, mix well, then bring to the boil. Turn down the heat, cover, then leave to simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Add the aubergine, cover, and cook for 5 minutes.
6. Next, add the okra, mix well, cover and cook for a further 5 minutes, before add the spinach and mix again. Cover and cook for 2-3 more minutes.
7. Check the split peas are tender then drain and add to the pan along with the coriander and yogurt. Mix well and serve scattered with pomegranate, cucumber, spring onion and chilli.

Chef's tips

• Try using other vegetables such as carrots, courgettes, mushrooms, peppers and any type of squash.
• For a vegan version, use a non-dairy yogurt or oat-based cream alternative in place of yogurt.
•  Freezing instructions: Suitable for freezing once cooked, without the toppings. Defrost in the fridge and reheat until piping hot throughout.

https://www.diabetes.org.uk/Guide-to-diabetes/Recipes/Keralan-style-vegetable-curry-/?utm_source=bronto&utm_medium=email&utm_term=Aubergine,+okra+and+butternut+squash+with+split+peas+in+a+creamy+yogurt+and+tomato+sauce.&utm_content=Aubergine,+okra+and+butternut+squash+with+split+peas+in+a+creamy+yogurt+and+tomato+sauce.&utm_campaign=Enewsletter+May+2017

10 foods that can help prevent diabetes

From foxnews.com

Diabetes is an epidemic in the United States, with about 29 million people who have it, another 8 million who are undiagnosed and 86 million who are considered pre-diabetic, according to the American Diabetes Association.

Type 2 diabetes, the most common form, is a disease in which the body’s cells don’t use insulin properly. At first, the pancreas makes more insulin to get glucose into the cells, but over time, the pancreas can’t make enough to keep blood glucose levels normal and the result is type 2 diabetes.
Type 2 diabetes increases a person’s risk for several health conditions including high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke. It’s also responsible for as many as 12 percent of deaths in the U.S., three times higher than previous estimates, a January 2017 study in the journal PLOS ONE found.
Although genetics can increase your chances of developing type 2 diabetes, both diet and exercise also play a big role.
In fact, people with pre-diabetes who lost just 5 to 7 percent of their body weight reduced their risk by 54 percent, a study out of John Hopkins in July 2013 found.

Here, experts weigh in with 10 foods that balance your blood sugar and can prevent diabetes:

1. ApplesYou might think fruit is off the menu because of its sugar content, but fruit is filled with vitamins and nutrients that can help ward off diabetes.
Apples are one of the best fruits you can eat because they’re rich in quercetin, a plant pigment. Quercetin helps the body secrete insulin more efficiently and wards off insulin resistance, which occurs when the body has to make more and more insulin to help glucose enter the cells. Insulin resistance is the hallmark characteristic of type 2 diabetes.
“It’s filled with antioxidants, and also there’s fibre in the fruit that naturally slows the digestion of the sugars,” Karen Ansel, a registered dietitian nutritionist in Syosset, New York, and author of  “Healing Superfoods for Anti-Aging,” told Fox News.
But be sure to eat apples with the skin because this part of the fruit has six times more quercetin than its flesh.

2. YogurtEating a serving of yogurt every day can cut your risk for type 2 diabetes by 18 percent, a November 2014 study out of the Harvard School of Public Health found.
Although it’s not clear whether that’s because yogurt has probiotics, one thing is for sure: The snack, especially the Greek variety, is high in protein, which makes you feel satiated and prevents large blood sugar spikes, Marina Chaparro, a spokeswoman for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND), and a certified diabetes educator in Miami, Florida, told Fox News.
Although yogurt contains natural sugars, be sure to read labels to avoid excess sugar, and select varieties that have 12 to 15 grams of carbohydrates.

3. AsparagusLow in calories and high in fibre, asparagus and other types of green leafy vegetables are rich in antioxidants, which reduce inflammation and can balance blood sugar levels.
In fact, people who ate one and half extra servings of green leafy vegetables a day cut their risk for type 2 diabetes by 14 percent, an August 2010 meta-analysis in the British Medical Journal found.

4. Beans and legumesStudies suggest that people who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet are less likely to   develop type 2 diabetes than their meat-eating counterparts.
Chickpeas, lentils and beans are all low in calories and saturated fat, have a low glycemic index and a ton of fibre, which takes a long time to digest, so blood sugar doesn’t rise as quickly, Chaparro said.
In fact, eating a cup of beans a day has been shown to reduce blood sugar, an October 2010 study published in the journal Archives of Internal Medicine found.

5. Chia seeds
Because type 2 diabetes can lead to heart disease and stroke, it’s also a good idea to eat foods like chia seeds. Two tablespoons of chia seeds  provides 4 grams of protein and 11 grams of fibre, as well as heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
Chia seeds are also versatile: Add them to oatmeal or muffins, blend them into a smoothie, or make a chia pudding.

6. Berries
Strawberries, raspberries, blackberries and blueberries are all low in calories and carbohydrates, and have a low glycemic index to keep your blood sugar steady. Although they all contain fibre, raspberries and blackberries in particular take the lead to fill you up.

7. CoffeeWhen it comes to preventing type 2 diabetes, coffee remains controversial, but some studies suggest a coffee habit can be a good thing for preventing diabetes.
In fact, people who drank more than one and a half cups a day for 10 years were 54 percent less likely to develop diabetes than non-coffee drinkers, a July 2015 study in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition found.
However, if you’re going to drink coffee, enjoy it black or with a small amount of milk, but skip the sugar. Those fancy sugar-laden drinks at Starbucks will definitely spike your blood sugar and negate any benefit, Chaparro said.

8. Pumpkin seeds
Pumpkin seeds are rich in plant chemicals known as lignans, as well as magnesium, both of which help the body use insulin more efficiently. They also contain globulins, or proteins that help lower blood sugar.
Pumpkin seeds are an excellent source of protein, which is slowly digested so it keeps blood sugar stable, and fibre, which curbs hunger, can prevent overeating and help you lose weight.
Enjoy them as a snack, or add them to a salad or baked goods.

9. Brown ricePeople who ate three to five servings of whole grains per day were 26 percent less likely to develop type2 diabetes in a July 2012 study published in the Journal of Nutrition. One of the best types of whole grains is brown rice, which is rich in magnesium and fibre, and has a low glycemic index.
If you haven’t been able to make the switch, try medium-grain brown rice, which has a more tolerable texture than the whole-grain variety. Or mix brown and white rice together until you’re able to nix the white rice altogether.

10. Vinegar
Vinegar has acetic acid, a compound that can lower blood sugar and insulin levels after you eat carbohydrates.
“It’s suspected to reduce the activity of enzymes in your gut that break down sugars,” Ansel said. “So those sugars are being broken down much more slowly [and] released into your blood stream at a much more gradual pace.”

http://www.foxnews.com/lifestyle/2017/05/12/10-foods-that-can-help-prevent-diabetes.html

Simple steps to healthy feet if you have diabetes

From diabetes.org.uk

If you’ve got diabetes good footcare is really important. Did you know that there are more than 20 amputations a day because of diabetes? Having diabetes puts you at greater risk of foot problems and if left untreated these can lead to amputation.

The great news is there’s lots of really easy steps you can take to prevent foot problems. For foot health awareness month, Diabetes UK is spreading the message of the importance of footcare and simple steps, such as: 

https://www.diabetes.org.uk/Get_involved/Campaigning/Putting-feet-first/Foot-health-awareness-month/?utm_source=bronto&utm_medium=email&utm_term=May+is+Foot+Health+Awareness+Month+and+we're+promoting+the+importance+of+good+foot+care+for+people+with+diabetes.&utm_content=May+is+Foot+Health+Awareness+Month+and+we're+promoting+the+importance+of+good+foot+care+for+people+with+diabetes.&utm_campaign=Enewsletter+May+2017

Ask your next MP to take diabetes seriously

From diabetes.org.uk

On  8 June, people in your area will choose their next Member of Parliament in the UK General Election. That's why we need you to ask your local candidates to get behind the Diabetes Manifesto.
The Diabetes Manifesto sets out what needs to happen so everyone living with all types of diabetes across the UK can enjoy better care and support. It also tells politicians what they can do to help more people avoid Type 2 diabetes.
But to make these changes happen, we need the backing of MPs from all parties and all parts of the country. Please ask all candidates in your area to take diabetes seriously and get behind the Diabetes Manifesto. Follow this link......

https://campaigns.diabetes.org.uk/page/8792/action/1?ea.tracking.id=web&_ga=2.66884525.221088374.1494654670-957199961.1480180118

Researchers Find Vegans Are Less Likely to Suffer from Diabetes

From peta.org

Here’s yet another reason to eat veggie burgers instead of hamburgers: A new study from the University of Eastern Finland has confirmed that people who eat plant protein rather than animal protein have a lower risk of type 2 diabetes, a condition that can lead to blindness, heart and kidney problems, nerve damage, and more.
The researchers analysed the diets of 2,332 men who were between 42 and 60 years old and did not have diabetes when the study began. During the 19-year follow-up, 432 of them were diagnosed with the disease. Those who ate the most meat were the most likely to develop diabetes.
That’s not a big surprise. Typically, diabetes afflicts overweight people and those who eat foods high in saturated fat, cholesterol, and “heme” iron (i.e., meat, eggs, and dairy foods).
Many other studies, including a recent one published in Nutrition & Diabetes, have shown that eating plant-based whole foods helps shrink your waistline and reverse type 2 diabetes as well as other life-threatening conditions. That’s largely because vegan foods are naturally cholesterol-free and generally low in saturated fat and calories.

Studies show that, in general, vegans have lower body mass indexes than vegetarians and meat-eaters alike, and vegans are known to be less likely to suffer from diabetes and other diseases.
Leading health agencies, including the National Institutes of Health and the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, agree that people should eat more vegan foods to prevent or treat diabetes.

http://prime.peta.org/2017/05/researchers-find-vegans-less-likely-suffer-diabetes

This pair of smart contact lens may diagnose diabetes, glaucoma

From indiatimes.com

SEOUL: Scientists have developed a new smart contact lens with built-in wireless sensors that may help diagnose diabetes, glaucoma and other health conditions.

Since blood sugar can be measured with tears, many attempts have been made to monitor diabetes with contact lenses. However, their biggest drawback has been poor wearability.

Now, researchers at Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST) in South Korea have solved these issues by developing a sensor based on transparent and flexible materials.

"This study can be used to diagnose diseases (diabetes and glaucoma) by implementing two types of transparent electronic sensors in the production of smart contact lens sensors," said Jang-Ung Park, Professor at UNIST. 

The new smart contact lens sensors use electrodes made of highly stretchable and transparent graphene sheets and metal nanowires.

The new smart contact lens sensors use electrodes made of highly stretchable and transparent graphene sheets and metal nanowires.

Using this sensor, patients with diabetes and glaucoma may one day be able to self-monitor blood glucose levels and intraocular pressure (IOP), researchers said.

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases which result in damage to the optic nerve and vision loss. 

Through the embedded wireless antenna in the contact lens sensor, patients can also transmit their health information, which allows real-time monitoring of their health conditions.

Since the system uses wireless antenna to read sensor information, no separate power source, like battery is required for the smart contact lens sensors.

Intraocular pressure measurement can be achieved using the dielectric layers. 

The dielectric layer is an electrically non-conductive layer, characterised by polarity that divides both positive and negative charges.

The thickness of this layer changes from thinning as the IOP increases, to thickening as the IOP decreases.

The IOP sensor, embedded in the contact lenses senses this and transmits the information to the wireless antenna. 

The smart lenses with built-in pressure-sensing and glucose-monitoring sensors could detect blood glucose and IOP despite the deformation of the contact lenses.

The sensor characteristics were also maintained even when exposed to various substances in human tears.

"It was observed that the live rabbit did not show any abnormal behaviour when wearing the contact lens sensor," said Joohee Kim, the first author of the study published in the journal Nature Communications.

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/magazines/panache/this-pair-of-smart-contact-lens-may-diagnose-diabetes-glaucoma/articleshow/58544777.cms

Diabetes can't stop you from climbing Everest

From cnn.com

Oren Liebermann is CNN's Jerusalem correspondent and author of "The Insulin Express: One Backpack, Five Continents, and the Diabetes Diagnosis That Changed Everything."

I made the most important decision of my life because of diabetes.

While volunteering in Nepal, I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age 31. It was Valentine's Day 2014, and my wife and I were in the middle of a backpacking trip around the globe. We had just finished a hiking trip in the Himalayas that almost killed me.

Oren Liebermann and his wife, Cassandra Kramer, at Annapurna Base Camp in Nepal.

I had been losing weight and had to run to the bathroom constantly. And I had never in my life been so thirsty. I dismissed the symptoms as consequences of the dry weather, until I stepped on a scale and saw how much weight I'd lost: about 40 pounds.

A trip to a local doctor gave me the diagnosis that would change my life and land me in two hospitals in Nepal before I was cleared to fly home. I spent a month learning about diabetes and understanding the ins and outs of a chronic autoimmune disease. Then it was time to make my decision.

My wife, Cassandra Kramer, and I resolved to get back on the road and finish what we had started. I knew that if I accepted limitations so early in my life with diabetes, I would always accept limitations, and that was a dangerous state of mind.

We caught a flight to Bangkok and made our way through Southeast Asia, South America and Iceland before coming home.

Diabetes is a disease with which the body no longer produces enough insulin to regulate blood sugar. In type 1 diabetes, the pancreas stops producing insulin altogether, requiring daily injections of artificial insulin and constant blood sugar monitoring. In type 2 diabetes, the body's insulin isn't used effectively, which is sometimes the consequence of being overweight. Type 2 diabetes can require some combination of lifestyle change, medication and insulin injections.

Diabetes is one of the fastest-growing diseases in the United States, with 1.4 million Americans diagnosed every year. Nationwide, 29 million Americans have diabetes -- nearly 10% of the population. Worldwide, 415 million people have it. That number is expected to reach 642 million by 2040.

Yet the cause of diabetes is unknown. Although some cases of type 2 may be a result of obesity, that answer does not apply to everyone, and there are no such clues for type 1.

A stigma

Diabetes still has a stigma attached to it, largely because of a lack of education and awareness. But people are constantly defying it by showing that there is no reason to accept limitations or boundaries when living with diabetes.

It may require more planning, but it's not a reason to say "no" to any experience.

Will Cross was diagnosed at the age of 9 in 1976, when diabetes care was nowhere near what it is today. He became the first person with type 1 diabetes to summit Everest when he scaled the highest peak in the world in 2006. He has also climbed the Seven Summits -- the highest peak on each continent -- and traveled to the North and South Poles.

"I never aspired to be a baseball or football player," Cross told Beyond Type 1, an organization dedicated to living with type 1 diabetes. "I just wanted to climb; diabetes didn't hinder that desire."

One person who did want to play football was Jay Cutler. The former quarterback for the Chicago Bears was 24 when he was diagnosed, making him one of a small but growing number of people with type 1 diabetes diagnosed after puberty. (Type 1 diabetes was traditionally called juvenile diabetes, but that term is becoming outmoded as the number of adults diagnosed with type 1 diabetes increases, though researchers don't fully understand why.) Cutler went on to play nine more seasons in the NFL, and he has become one of the best-known athletes with diabetes but certainly not the only one.

Perhaps the most famous celebrity with diabetes was Mary Tyler Moore, who used her fame to advocate for people with diabetes. Moore served as the international chairman of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Her death in January sent shockwaves through diabetes community, which had lost one of its biggest influencers.

And if you're looking for a celebrity to pick up where Moore left off, singer Nick Jonas has carried the mantle so far, founding Beyond Type 1 and being candid about dealing with diabetes.

"It is very easy to want to hide what diabetes means for us in the workplace, but that just does a disservice to us, to other people with diabetes and to our co-workers," adventure athlete Erin Spineto said.

Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in college, Spineto has completed a 100-mile standup paddling trip and sailed the Florida Keys solo, all the while proving that anything is possible, despite the disease. "The more real information and firsthand experience people get with this disease, the less stigma will be attached to it."

Making diabetes work for you

I was able to use my diabetes diagnosis, in a way, to improve my health. Though I have a chronic disease that requires constant blood sugar checks and insulin injections each day, I also have the most powerful of reasons to eat healthy, exercise and take better care of myself: a functional life.

Failure to stay healthy and keep my blood sugars in check can lead to the severe complications of diabetes: nerve damage, eye damage, cardiovascular disease and much more. Regular exercise and healthy eating help regulate blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.

Diabetes was the catalyst for that change, even if it means I am now walking around with a medical time bomb waiting for me to make a mistake.

Perhaps the most frustrating part about diabetes is the lack of definitive answers. Questions such as "how did I get it?" or "will there ever be a cure?" must remain open-ended for now. Although there are procedures that show promise for reducing or eliminating the need for insulin and an artificial pancreas (a device that manages blood sugar automatically) is on the horizon, a true cure for diabetes remains elusive. The same is true for understanding the cause.

Yet it is a manageable disease. With experience, discipline and a support network, diabetes should never be a reason to say "no." It's just a matter of figuring out what preparations you need to make to be able to say "yes."

Since finishing our backpacking trip, my wife and I have continued to travel when we can. Hiking Kilimanjaro is high on our priority list, and I want to return to the Himalayas to hike once again, this time knowing how to treat my diabetes.

For me, it is an extension of the most important decision I have ever made: the decision to live life without limits.

Maybe I'll even climb Everest.

http://edition.cnn.com/2017/05/05/health/diabetes-liebermann/

Simple Tricks for Living Well with Diabetes—from People Who Have It

From rd.com

Accepting a diabetes diagnosis can be difficult, especially when you must change previous habits and adapt your lifestyle. But there's good news: millions of people live full, happy, active and healthy lives, even with diabetes, and they've shared their best advice for doing the same.

Stay active and track your reactions
When David Weingard was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 36, he faced with some tough adjustments. From taking his new medication to monitoring his blood sugar, he fought to stay active and fit, eventually founding his diabetes coaching company, Fit4D. For Weingard, exercising had to remain a part of his life and he encourages other diabetics to do the same.

"Exercise is critical to long-term physical and mental health. Mentally, we need positive energy (and endorphins) to combat the 24/7 strain of the condition. Physically, we need to help our bodies stay strong and avoid the long-term effects and complications of diabetes," he says.

But to figure out how much you can withstand and what works for your body, he also notes that keeping track your reactions will help create a plan that works uniquely for you. "Detailed record keeping is a key factor in realizing the benefits of exercise and minimizing blood sugar swings—especially highs and lows. You can reference these records to repeat workouts and your body should yield similar results most of the time," he says.

Build a support system

Though Rachel Zucker is only 24 years old, she's been managing her type 1 diabetes diagnosis since she was four years old, making her quite the expert. She described diabetes as a full-time job: She had to accept that there are no days off, no breaks or vacations. That's why she recommends having supportive friends and family around you who will move with your highs and lows—they're essential to keeping a good attitude and mindset. Instead of hiding your diagnosis, Zucker says wear it with pride. "I tell anybody and everybody close to me that I'm diabetic. Making sure people around you know you're diabetic can be life-saving in an emergency situation. In college, I made sure everybody around me knew I had type 1 diabetes, so when I went out to a party or to a sorority fundraising event, there was always someone looking out for me. Some people are afraid or embarrassed to tell others about their medical condition; I would highly encourage them not to be. Nobody has to do this alone," she says.

Don't be overwhelmed

Now 67, Carol Gee wasn't diagnosed with type 2 diabetes until her late 50s. Although her new life was scary at first, she says that leaning into the unknown helped her manage her new lifestyle and adjust her habits, ensuring that she lived vibrantly throughout middle age. "Diabetes is scary, but with knowledge comes power. Take the medications the way you are supposed to and it will get easier. I was afraid of needles, so I considered it a great victory when I injected myself without passing out. Know that you 'can' survive and thrive with diabetes. You just have to say it—and more importantly—believe it."

Don't let it define you

Author and diabetes advocate, Quinn Nystrom first watched her younger brother get diagnosed with type 1 diagnosis. Then, two years later, she got the news herself at the age of 13. While that day was one of the worst of her life, she says, it's taught her many life lessons and led her to help others. Even though living with diabetes is a 24/7 job, she encourages those who are newly diagnosed to not let it define them. Instead, she says, allow it to refine you. "We are not just a broken down pancreas. We're more than a label that a doctor gives us, society tells us, and even sometimes what we tell ourselves. Seek to understand how the diagnosis of diabetes has brought light into your life. Find the positives," she says.

Set attainable goals

Right before he started college, Joshua D. Miller, MD, couldn't stop losing weight and was thirsty all the time. These symptoms led to a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes and would serve as the turning point in his life, leading him to become an endocrinologist and diabetologist and the medical director of Diabetes Care at Stony Brook Medicine. One way that he manages his condition (and helps his patients) is by focusing on small, achievable goals. "When it comes to diabetes, it is very difficult to reach all of your goals at once. From blood sugar monitoring, attention to a healthy lifestyle, medication management and physician visits, overcoming the disease's challenges can seem daunting. Pick one or two small goals with your physician to help you move in the right direction. You will be surprised at how much success you can truly achieve," he shares.

Manage your entire health

Though it can be difficult to focus on anything but your blood sugar, Mella Barnes has found that keeping all parts of her health top of mind helps keep her more satisfied and balanced. She discovered her type 1 diabetes at the age of eight, and has been managing the illness ever since. She says that focusing on each day has been helpful. She also discovered that staying in touch with her emotions is crucial. "Take care of your mental and emotional health. This impacts your diabetes more than you think! Stress causes a lot of issues as well as a lack of sleep. If you're depressed or anxious about your diabetes, find a therapist or free support group. Do something that makes you happy every day," she says.

Find support among other people with diabetes

Fred Winchar discovered he was a type 2 diabetic six years ago and has worked hard to manage his diagnosis. A successful businessman who knows the importance of good advice, he quickly realized that he needed to talk to someone who had been through the struggle. "When I first was diagnosed, I told a friend who was a type 1 diabetic, and he helped me learn how to test and monitor my sugars. He was one of the most energetic and happy people I have ever met. He was delighted to help another person on the same journey. Not only did I learn but I was able to bond in a special way with someone who knew what I was going through," he says.

http://www.rd.com/health/conditions/living-well-with-diabetes/