Benefits of ginger for diabetes - Controls blood sugar, improves insulin, reduces weight and more

From timesnownews.com

Ginger is a super-food which can cure just about anything - from an upset stomach, weight loss, heart problems to a common cough and cold. Ginger has benefits even for diabetic people. Read on to find out!

New Delhi: Diabetes, especially type 2 diabetes, is one of the most widespread diseases across the country. Around 70 million Indians are diabetic, which is one of the highest records in the world. While there is a lot of information available regarding what to eat and not, and what to do to control blood sugar levels, there are certain foods that are considered superfoods when it comes to diabetes.
Ginger is another superfood that comes to your rescue in almost every health situation – whether you have a cold, cough or heart issues, ginger is great for your health. Is ginger also a great food option to include in the diet of a diabetic? Let's find out!

Benefits of ginger for diabetes - Controls blood sugar, improves insulin, reduces weight and more  |                                                               Photo Credit: Getty Images

Reduced weight

According to an animal study, conducted in 2014, it was recorded that ginger helps in reduction of weight which is extremely important for diabetic people as weight gain can lead to worsening of symptoms of diabetes. Ginger water and ginger tea have been popular for a long time for weight loss diets.

Decreased blood sugar

The same study recorded that blood sugar levels were also affected, and in fact reduced with the use of ginger. Drinking ginger tea, ginger water, or just adding ginger to your diet in any way can help control blood sugar better. Another study in 2015 revealed that ginger powder is known to reduce fasting blood sugar levels.

Better insulin levels

Ginger is also believed to increase insulin levels and secretion of the same from the pancreas, leading to more breakdown of sugar in the blood and reducing symptoms of diabetes.

Protection against heart diseases

Diabetes is a disease that can also affect the heart and cause problems like hypertension. According to a 2016 study, ginger can also protect the heart against such problems that diabetes invites to the party.

Possible negative effects

Though ginger is mostly considered healthy for diabetic people, it is better to consult your doctor before including ginger supplements in your diet since it can mess with the functioning of the diabetes medication they are on and create problems like low blood sugar.

Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a professional healthcare provider if you have any specific questions about any medical matter.

https://www.timesnownews.com/health/article/benefits-of-ginger-for-diabetes-controls-blood-sugar-improves-insulin-reduces-weight-and-more/354939

Can type 2 diabetes go into remission?

From bbc.co.uk

Hackney Diabetes Centre is one of the first in the country to launch treatment aimed at putting type 2 diabetes into remission.
In London, there are an estimated 475,000 people who have been diagnosed with the disease - and the rate is increasing according to a recent City Hall report.
Najma Sufi, from Hackney, suffers from type 2 diabetes and is trialling the new approach to stop the development of her disease.
If the trial is successful, it could be rolled out by more NHS trusts.

Click on link for video...

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/uk-england-london-46986950/can-type-2-diabetes-go-into-remission

Knowledge is power in fighting diabetes

From sanduskyregister.com

SANDUSKY — This past week has been eye-opening for me to say the least. I know now why the quote, “Knowledge is power” holds true. I had my first professional diabetes education class last week and found out that some of the things I thought were good for me actually were not.

Example: I have been eating a banana every morning for breakfast when in fact bananas can be harmful to someone with diabetes because they cause blood sugar spikes more than other fruit. I can, however, combine peanut butter or low-fat cheese with my banana to cut down the fruit portion and balance my sugar intake that way. (I can’t believe I am using these terms!)

I learned that the basic goal of nutrition for people with diabetes is to avoid blood sugar spikes. I learned there are seven fruits that are great snack options and I like them all so it will not be a struggle to add these fruits to my snack life. Berries, cherries, peaches, apricots, oranges, pears, and kiwi make me smile inside so, yep, more fruits are my new next level of snacking.

I have been making great strides with eating what I like using portion control. But now I am really looking into what my healthy choices are. I see there are levels to this journey and I seem to be moving forward at a great pace.
I shared my present routine/journey with my diabetes educator. She was pleased with my weight loss and my drink of choice, water, and my exercise regimen. She suggested I add a day to my workout and encouraged me to replace an egg instead of a banana for breakfast. I can do that with no problem.

Due to our current weather situation called “winter,” I have created a one-hour workout at home that involves a lot of cardio, dancing, and light weights that I schedule my day around when I can’t get to the gym. Stay tuned for the results that come from my “new next level.”
“Managing your diabetes is not a science, its an art” -Thefreshquotes.com

http://www.sanduskyregister.com/story/201901210008

The Seven Steps to Avoid Heart Disease Are Also Critical in Diabetes Prevention

From actionnewsnow.com

The study found that healthy adults who followed at least four of the seven guidelines were 80 percent less likely to develop diabetes over 10 years.

COLUMBUS, Ohio – You probably heard that things like staying active, eating healthy and keeping your blood pressure in check can help your heart. That is well understood.  A new study by researchers at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Centre finds that following a set of seven lifestyle factors can also drastically reduce your risk of developing diabetes.
“‘Life’s Simple 7’ are guidelines developed by the American Heart Association that are proven to prevent heart disease and some cancers.  "Now our research shows that we can add diabetes to that list,” said Dr. Joshua J. Joseph, assistant professor of endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Centre and lead author of the study.

Here are the "Life’s Simple 7” lifestyle changes that have produced healthy results for test subjects
1. Maintaining healthy blood pressure
2. Maintaining healthy glucose levels
3. Maintaining healthy cholesterol levels
4. Eating a healthy diet
5. Exercising at least 150 minutes a week
6. Not smoking
7. Maintaining a healthy weight

The study found that healthy adults who followed at least four of the seven guidelines were 80 percent less likely to develop diabetes over 10 years. However, starting these habits early is crucial to prevention.
“For those who were already diabetic or pre-diabetic when they adopted these lifestyle changes, they had no change in their risk of diabetes,” said Joseph. “That’s why it’s important to make these changes before health issues develop.”
Joseph says community outreach is essential to educating people about prevention and helping them start healthy habits. Getting help to quit smoking or finding physical activities and healthy foods that you enjoy can be key to maintaining them long-term and preventing future health problems.

https://www.actionnewsnow.com/content/news/The-Seven-Steps-to-Avoid-Heart-Disease-Also-Critical-to-Diabetes-Prevention--504623532.html

Wish to keep diabetes at bay? Keep your heart healthy, always

From economictimes.indiatimes.com

NEW YORK: If you are suffering from diabetes, then following some lifestyle and health factors may prove to be good for your heart and can help prevent disorders, says a new study.

The study showed that individuals who were in the recommended, ideal ranges for at least four of Life's Simple seven health factors had a 70 per cent lower risk of developing diabetes over the next 10 years.

The Life's Simple seven health factors include maintaining healthy blood pressure, glucose  levels and cholesterol, eating a healthy diet, exercising at least 150 minutes per week, not smoking and maintaining a healthy weight, said the paper published in the journal Diabetologia.

"This research adds to our collective understanding about how physicians can help their patients prevent a number of serious diseases, including heart disease, cancer and now diabetes," said K. Craig Kent, at The Ohio State University College in the US.

In addition, those in normal blood glucose levels who attained four or more guideline factors had an 80 per cent lower risk of developing diabetes, whereas those who were already diabetic or pre-diabetic and met four of the factors had no change in lowering their risk for diabetes, said Joshua J. Joseph, Assistant Professor at the varsity. 

"Healthy people need to work to stay healthy. Follow the guidelines. Don't proceed to high blood sugar and then worry about stopping diabetes. By that point, people need high-intensity interventions that focus on physical activity and diet to promote weight loss and, possibly, medications to lower the risk of diabetes," said Joseph.

Community outreach is essential to educating people about prevention and helping them start healthy habits.

Furthermore, getting help to quit smoking or finding physical activities and healthy foods can be key to maintaining them long-term and preventing future health problems, the study noted.

https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/magazines/panache/wish-to-keep-diabetes-at-bay-keep-your-heart-healthy-always/articleshow/67571450.cms

New risk score far more effective for diabetes diagnosis

From exeter.ac.uk

A new way of screening babies and adults for future risk of type 1 diabetes will be much more effective at identifying the condition than current methods, new research has concluded.

Researchers at the University of Exeter and the Pacific Northwest Research Institute in Seattle have developed a new risk score which takes into account detailed genetic information known to increase the chances of type 1 diabetes. This could be used to help identity babies at highest risk of developing the condition in the future. The score may also be used at the time of diabetes diagnosis to help decide if someone has type 1 or type 2 diabetes, which need very different treatments.
In a study published today (Thursday January 17) in Diabetes Care, the team found that their new risk score, the T1DGRS2, which uses detailed analysis of key regions of the genome, was nearly twice as efficient at identifying babies at high risk of type 1 diabetes as existing methods, which use more simplistic measures.
The research, funded by Diabetes UK, found the new test was also better at predicting type 1 diabetes in adults in the general population.

Senior author Dr Richard Oram said: "Prediction of what diseases we might get in the future is an important area, and type 1 diabetes has a strong genetic element that we are now able to measure very well. Measurement of the type 1 diabetes genetic risk score could help predict who will develop the condition from early life could help with research into potential early life interventions, and with classifying diabetes correctly at diagnosis."

                                 The team's new risk score was nearly twice as efficient

                                   at identifying babies at high risk of type 1 diabetes

To develop the test, the team analysed genetic variation and gene interactions across the entire genome in 6,581 people with type 1 diabetes in the Type 1 Diabetes Genetics Consortium. They compared this to 9,247 control participants. This helped them incorporate all known and recently-discovered genetic elements that can indicate type 1 diabetes. They then conducted simulations to see how their test compared to current genetic methods of diagnosis and screening.

Type 1 diabetes develops when the body’s own immune system attacks insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. The immune attack usually begins several years before the symptoms of Type 1 diabetes appear. Being able to identify who’s will develop Type 1 diabetes before its onset could help parents and doctors identify the condition before it becomes severe, and help the development of effective treatments to prevent type 1 diabetes.

Current methods of early diagnosis involve measuring of islet autoantibodies—proteins in the blood indicating beta cell destruction. However, monitoring autoantibodies is expensive and difficult in young children. The Exeter team recently discovered that half of all cases of Type 1 diabetes develop in adulthood and can often be misdiagnosed. But the new risk score can help distinguish between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, helping healthcare professionals to make the right diagnosis.

Co-author Dr William Hagopian, from the Pacific Northwest Research Institute in Seattle, said: "Gathering all this genetic information together allows the test to perform better. This makes prediction of type 1 diabetes among all children much more affordable in public health settings. Parents can be warned to watch for early symptoms to avoid hospitalisation for life-threatening complications. Kids with the greatest future risk can get access to research trials to develop ways to delay or prevent progression to clinical diabetes."

Anna Morris, Assistant Director of Research Strategy and Partnership at Diabetes UK, said: "It's exciting to see the power of genetics being harnessed to help predict who might develop Type 1 diabetes in the future, particularly from a young age. If successful, this approach could help to reduce someone's risk of being misdiagnosed or developing complications during diagnosis.
"In the future, this research could also open up new insights into what could be done to stop Type 1 diabetes from progressing."

The full paper is entitled ‘Development and Standardization of an Improved Type 1 Diabetes Genetic Risk Score for Use in Newborn Screening and Incident Diagnosis’, published in Diabetes Care.

The full list of authors is Seth A. Sharp, Stephen S. Rich, Andrew R. Wood, Samuel E. Jones, Robin N. Beaumont, James W. Harrison, Darius A. Schneider, Jonathan M. Locke, Jess Tyrrell, Michael N. Weedon, William A. Hagopian,and Richard A. Oram.

https://www.exeter.ac.uk/news/featurednews/title_700324_en.html

What works better than medication for diabetes patients? Regular work-out

From indiatimes.com

WASHINGTON DC: According to a new study, patients with type 2 diabetes should be prescribed physical activity to control blood sugar and improve heart health.

The recommendations were given in a position paper (1) of the European Association of Preventive Cardiology (EAPC), a branch of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC). The paper has been published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, a journal of the ESC.

Speaking about the study, lead author Hareld Kemps said that sedentary lifestyles and unhealthy diets are the most important drivers of the increasing number of patients with type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular problems such as heart attacks. The cardiologist at Máxima Medical Centre, Veldhoven, the Netherlands added, "Diabetes doubles the risk of mortality but the fitter patients become, the more that risk declines. Unfortunately, the majority of patients do not engage in exercise programmes."

The study notes that one in 11 adults worldwide have diabetes, of which 90 per cent is type 2 diabetes. Nearly all patients with type 2 diabetes develop cardiovascular complications, which are the leading causes of death in this group.

The paper further provides practical recommendations for doctors on how to motivate patients to incorporate physical activity into their daily routine. It further talks about setting achievable and measurable goals.

Patients should see their doctor for a personalised plan, and those with health insurance should ask if exercise programmes are covered, said Dr Kemps. "There are also steps patients can take without needing to see a doctor first, such as interrupting sitting time and doing moderate exercise like walking and cycling."

Long-term adherence can be improved by setting early achievable goals that are measurable, and adapting exercise plans to patients' preferences. Remote guidance also looks promising, with patients monitoring themselves with smartwatches then sending data to a health professional for feedback. 

Practical and specific goals tend to be motivational, said Dr Kemps. "For an elderly person this could be climbing the stairs in their home or walking to the supermarket - achievements that will really improve their quality of life. Being able to use less medication because of better glycaemic control is also an incentive."

As for clinical targets, cardiorespiratory fitness and glycaemic control are the top two. Both improve with exercise training, the changes can be measured, and they are directly related to wellbeing, morbidity and mortality. Exercise also helps to lower blood pressure and harmful blood lipids.

Dr Kemps further said, "I can't stress enough how effective even small increases in activity can benefit patients with type 2 diabetes and heart problems. Interrupting sitting with brief bouts of walking improves glucose control, while two hours of brisk walking per week reduces the risk of further heart problems."

https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/magazines/panache/what-works-better-than-medication-for-diabetes-patients-regular-work-out/articleshow/67541289.cms

Top 7 Exercises for People with Diabetes

From dlife.com

As you know, exercising is a key component in managing your diabetes. Not only is it integral to maintaining your blood sugars, but it’s also good for your mind and emotional well-being.
We’ll break down the best exercises for people with diabetes here. Keep reading!

Walking

Walking is by far, the simplest form of exercise you can do. Put on your sneakers and head outdoors to gain some fresh air and peace of mind. Explore your neighbourhood and you might just run into some hidden gems, like a park or interesting trail that you have never encountered. Invest in a fitness tracker to see your progress and keep you motivated.

Ride a Bike

You may relate bike-riding to your childhood days, but what better way to exercise but to be free and in the outdoors. It’s a great way to get your muscles moving. You can increase or decrease resistance depending on how you feel. If the weather is not good, you can also ride a stationary bike at the local gym.

Learn to Dance

You are never too old to learn how to dance, and you don’t need a dance partner either. Try out a Zumba class at your local gym or fitness centre. You will be surprised by how many calories you will burn in such a short amount of time.

Aqua Fitness

Getting in the pool is a great way to exercise, and it’s an especially helpful form of exercise if you have joint problems. Try a class at your local gym or fitness centre, you will have a good time and also meet new friends. Be sure to let your instructor know that you have diabetes before joining the class.

Stair Master

Climbing stairs is a good way to burn calories, especially after a meal. You will feel this workout pretty quickly and you will get a better workout in your hamstrings than walking. If you don’t feel like going to the gym to get on a machine, you can climb stairs in the comfort of your own home.

Lift Weights or Dumbbells

Getting some resistance training is an important part of any exercise routine. The best thing about lifting dumbbells is you can choose the amount of weight you are comfortable lifting. If you don’t have any dumbbells at home, you can lift cans or even water bottles. There are other strength training exercises you can do such as leg lifts, squats or lunges.

Yoga

This centuries-old exercise has many beneficial effects. It’s great for your muscles and keeps you toned and flexible. The various poses and breathing techniques can also be beneficial for your stress and your emotional and mental well-being. Check out your television guide for yoga practices that you can easily tune into for free. Of course, you will also find classes at the gym. Try it out. The best part is that you can move at your own pace.
As always, be sure to consult your CDE or healthcare professional before starting a new exercise regime.

NOTE: The information is not intended to be a replacement or substitute for consultation with a qualified medical professional or for professional medical advice related to diabetes or another medical condition. Please contact your physician or medical professional with any questions and concerns about your medical condition.

https://dlife.com/top-7-exercises-for-people-with-diabetes/

One egg a day may help keep Type 2 diabetes away, according to a new study

From ajc.com

Previous studies have found eating eggs in moderation can lower risk of heart attacks and strokes, can also help control blood pressure

One day they’re bad for you. The next day they’re “incredible.” Eggs have long been a contentious food.

The benefits of eating eggs have been winning in the past few years, however. In fact, Healthline.com states, “eggs are pretty much the perfect food. They contain a little bit of almost every nutrient you need.”

A new study out of Finland suggests another reason to enjoy an egg: It might stave off Type 2 diabetes. Type 2 — or adult onset — is the more common form of diabetes.

Researchers at the University of Eastern Finland found that subjects who ate an egg every day had a blood metabolite profile related to a lower risk of Type 2 diabetes. A metabolite is a product of metabolism.

Eggs have long been a controversial food. Their high cholesterol content caused many people to avoid them. But the Cleveland Clinic says eating eggs in moderation is not only fine, but also beneficial.

Citing a 2012 study in the journal Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition and Metabolic Care, it found that people who ate moderate amounts of eggs did not show increases in cholesterol when compared to those who cut eggs out of their diets completely.

Similar studies have found the antioxidants in eggs reduced the risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer, and even helped to lower blood pressure.

“Although it is too early to draw any causal conclusions, we now have some hints about certain egg-related compounds that may have a role in type 2 diabetes development,” said Stefania Noerman, early stage researcher and lead author of the study. “Further detailed investigations with both cell models and intervention studies in humans ... are needed to understand the mechanisms behind physiological effects of egg intake.”

https://www.ajc.com/lifestyles/one-egg-day-may-help-keep-type-diabetes-away-according-new-study/hMf3qJjG7sJNve9kzTk65J/

Type 2 diabetes: The only four breads to include in your diet to prevent high blood sugar

From express.co.uk

TYPE 2 diabetes is a common condition in the UK that causes blood sugar levels to become too high. Eating a healthy, balanced diet is one of the best ways to control blood sugar. But when it comes to one of Britain’s favourites, bread, what type should you be eating?

Type 2 diabetes, if left untreated, can lead to a number of health problems, such as eye problems, foot problems heart attack and stroke. But experts recommend to control blood sugar, and to prevent the condition from developing in the first place, it’s advised people with type 2 diabetes make changes to their diet. Carbohydrates are needed in the body for energy, but you should monitor how much you eat, especially if you have diabetes.

Bread is a staple carb, but with there so many different types on the market, which one is best if you have the condition?
When it comes to choosing what carbohydrates to eat, Diabetes UK has some important advice for you to follow.
It states: “Choosing wholegrain options makes sense. They are high in fire, keep you feeling fuller for longer than refined carbohydrates and take longer for the body to break down so blood glucose levels do not ‘spike’ then drop rapidly.”
So when it comes to bread, the research charity says pumpernickel is a good choice.
Pumpernickel bread is a typically heavy, slightly sweet rye bread.
But if pumpernickel bread doesn’t whet your appetite, wholegrain, granary and rye bread are also recommended.

Type 2 diabetes: Pumpernickel bread is recommended to avoid blood sugar spikes (Image: GETTY)

Other carbohydrates you should opt for include wholewheat or brown pasta and noodles, basmati or wild rice, porridge oats or muesli, and quinoa, burger wheat, couscous or yam.

https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/health/1071520/type-2-diabetes-diet-foods-bread-rye-granary-wholegrain-pumpernickel

Study links green tea with increased risk of type 2 diabetes

From straitstimes.com

BEIJING (XINHUA) - A recent international study found that drinking green tea was associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes in Chinese adults.
A total of 119,373 participants from the Shanghai Women's Health Study (SWHS) and Shanghai Men's Health Study (SMHS) were included in the study.
The SWHS and SMHS are two large population-based studies initiated in 1996.

                                                                        PHOTO: ST FILE

Data from the studies have been used to investigate genetic and other biomarkers as well as lifestyle risk factors for cancers and other chronic diseases.
In the new study, none of the participants had diabetes when they were enrolled. Details of tea drinking, including types and amounts, were collected in the survey.
Researchers from China's Fudan University, Vanderbilt University in the United States and other research institutions reported that both female and male participants in the study had an increased risk of type 2 diabetes if they drank more green tea.

They noted that this positive and dose-response association between green tea intake and risk of type 2 diabetes did not vary by obesity or smoking. The findings have been reported on the International Journal of Epidemiology.
The researchers called for further studies on the mechanisms underlying the association, suggesting that pesticide residue in tea leaves could play a possible role.

Green tea is a popular beverage consumed worldwide.
In recent years, it gained popularity as a healthy drink. But researchers have had inconsistent findings on the association between green tea drinking and risk of type 2 diabetes.

A Japanese study published on the Annals of Internal Medicine in 2006 said habitual green tea drinkers who drank at least six cups per day had a 33 per cent lower risk for type 2 diabetes than those who drank one cup or less per week.
A study in the Republic of Korea published in the journal of BioFactors in 2007 said people with diabetes should drink less green tea, as animal studies showed that high green tea intake may increase blood sugar levels in diabetic rats.

https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/study-links-green-tea-with-increased-risk-of-type-2-diabetes

What are the best nuts for diabetes?

From medicalnewstoday.com

Lifestyle has a significant impact on type 2 diabetes, with diet playing a major role. Nuts are a good source of nutrition, and they provide a range of health benefits. However, some nuts are better than others for people with diabetes.

Around 30.3 million adults in the United States have a form of diabetes. A healthful diet can help manage blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of complications.
Nuts are one of several foods that the American Diabetes Association lists as beneficial for people with the condition.
In this article, we describe why nuts can be of use to people with diabetes and look into five of the best nuts to incorporate into a healthful diet.

Why are nuts useful for diabetes?

Nuts contain high levels of beneficial fats.

The unsaturated fats in nuts perform a range of important functions, such as supporting cell growth and protecting organs, including the heart.
Also, nuts are rich in protein, an essential nutrient, and they contain a range of other nutrients that are important for physical health, including:

• fibre
• vitamins, such as vitamin E
• folate
• thiamine
• minerals, such as magnesium and potassium
• carotenoids
• antioxidants
• phytosterols

However, not all nuts benefit people with diabetes. For example, it is important to avoid salted nuts because the salt may increase the risk of complications.

The following are the best nuts for people with diabetes:

Almonds

Almonds have a range of benefits for individuals with this condition.
A study from 2011 found that incorporating almonds into the diets of participants with type 2 diabetes for 12 weeks positively affected blood sugar and reduced the risk of heart disease.
A more recent study, from 2017, looked into the effect of daily almond consumption over 24 weeks in people with type 2 diabetes. The authors found that incorporating almonds into the diet helped control blood sugar levels and decrease the risk of heart disease.
Almonds reduce the body's levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, which can block arteries. They increase the amount of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, which helps remove LDL cholesterol from the arteries. This is part of the reason why almonds reduce the risk of heart disease.

Walnuts

Walnuts are high in calories. However, a study in BMJ Open Diabetes Research & Care found that they do not have a major impact on body weight or composition.

The researchers assigned 112 participants at risk of diabetes either a low-calorie diet or a diet rich in walnuts for 6 months.
They found that the walnut-enriched diet was able to improve the ratio of HDL to LDL cholesterol without negatively affecting body composition.
In a study from 2018, researchers investigated the association between walnut consumption and diabetes risk in 34,121 people.
They found that people who had eaten walnuts in the past 24 hours were half as likely to have diabetes, compared with people who had eaten no nuts in this period.

Cashews

Cashews can help improve the ratio of HDL to LDL cholesterol and lower the risk of heart disease.
In a 2018 study, researchers gave 300 participants with type 2 diabetes either a cashew-enriched diet or a typical diabetes diet.
Those on the cashew-enriched diet had lower blood pressure and higher levels of HDL cholesterol after 12 weeks. The cashews also had no negative impact on blood glucose levels or weight.

Pistachios

Pistachios are relatively energy-dense, but they contain healthful amounts of fibre and beneficial fats.
As part of a 2015 study, researchers gave either a pistachio-enriched or a regular diet to participants with type 2 diabetes over 4 weeks.
They found that the ratio of HDL to LDL cholesterol was significantly better in the pistachio group, in comparison with the regular diet group. Those on the pistachio diet also had lower triglyceride levels, which indicate better heart health.

Peanuts

Peanuts are a good source of protein and fibre. They can help with weight loss and may reduce the risk of heart disease.

One study from 2013 looked at the effect of peanuts on the diets of females with obesity who were at risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
The researchers found that adding peanuts to cereal helped control blood sugar levels and appetite in participants. This can help with weight loss, which has a significant impact on diabetes risk.

Takeaway

As a diverse type of food, nuts can be easy to incorporate into a healthful diet. They can provide a good source of protein and beneficial fats for people with diabetes.
To avoid excess calorie intake, consider a serving size to be a small handful or one-fourth of a cup.
Nuts can make a simple snack. Most are safe to eat raw, and they are available in many grocery stores. People with diabetes should avoid salted varieties.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324141.php

What is the truth about type 2 diabetes?

From medicalnewstoday.com

Type 2 diabetes is a serious and prevalent disease, but numerous myths surround this condition. Diabetes causes blood sugar levels to become too high, and it damages the body. In some cases, it can be fatal.

Diabetes is a chronic health condition that affects 30.3 million adults in the United States, according to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The World Health Organization (WHO) state that the number of people living with diabetes has been steadily rising worldwide.
There are two main types of diabetes:

• Type 1: The body's immune system attacks the cells that produce insulin.
• Type 2: The body is resistant to the action of insulin and fails to produce sufficient amounts of this hormone to compensate.

There is another type of diabetes called gestational diabetes, which only affects pregnant women and usually resolves after they give birth.
In this article, we discuss five common myths about type 2 diabetes.

Eating too much sugar is the cause

Sugar consumption alone may not always lead to type 2 diabetes.

A study in Nature Reviews Endocrinology reports that a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors causes type 2 diabetes.
In particular, physical inactivity, weight gain, and obesity have strong links to type 2 diabetes. Weight gain usually occurs because a person consumes more calories than they burn off.
A high-calorie diet does not necessarily have to include significant quantities of sugar, although sugar does contain many calories.

Diabetes is not a serious condition

All forms of diabetes can have a severe effect on the body. Many different complications have links to diabetes, including:

• eye problems, which can be very grave
• kidney disease
• high blood pressure
• stroke
• heart disease
• neuropathy
• bone and joint disorders
• digestive problems
• sexual dysfunction
• tooth and gum problems
• skin problems

Getting treatment and making effective lifestyle changes to achieve good blood sugar control can reduce the risk of complications. However, they are still possible, particularly in the long term.
In some cases, diabetes can be fatal. The WHO estimate that diabetes was the direct cause of around 1.6 million deaths worldwide in 2016.

It only affects people who are overweight

Research has shown that there is a relationship between type 2 diabetes and weight gain and obesity.
However, it is possible to have type 2 diabetes without being overweight or obese. Around 12.5 percent of adults with type 2 diabetes are not overweight. It is possible that a lean adult who presents with new-onset diabetes may have latent autoimmune diabetes, which people sometimes refer to as "type 1.5" diabetes.
A 2012 study found that adults with new-onset diabetes who are a healthy weight have a higher risk of mortality than those who are overweight.

People with type 2 diabetes cannot eat sugar

Fresh fruit is part of a healthful diet, and it contains fructose.

It is true that people with type 2 diabetes should eat a healthful diet, and these diets are generally low in sugar. However, it may not be necessary to avoid sugar entirely.
For instance, fruits contain fructose, which is a type of sugar, but they also provide fibre and a range of vitamins and minerals.

The American Diabetes Association encourage people with diabetes to include fresh, frozen, or canned fruits with no added sugar in their diet.
People with diabetes should avoid sugary drinks though. An analysis of data from 310,819 people found that the risk of type 2 diabetes was more significant in those who consumed sugary drinks more regularly.

People always know when they have type 2 diabetes

In the early stages of type 2 diabetes, the symptoms are generally less noticeable than they are in type 1 diabetes.
It is possible for someone to have type 2 diabetes without knowing it. A CDC report estimated that around 7.2 million people did not have a diagnosis for their diabetes in 2015.

Takeaway

Type 2 diabetes is a serious, lifelong condition that can lead to significant complications. It is possible to treat diabetes with a combination of medication and lifestyle changes. People with a healthy body weight may still develop the condition.
Eating a healthful diet, which may still include some forms of sugar, and remaining physically active are effective ways to minimize the risk of diabetes.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324115.php

Five Reasons to Try the Mediterranean Diet

From diabetesselfmanagement.com

You’ve likely heard of the “Mediterranean diet” at some point and that it’s a healthy way of eating. In fact, this diet was recently named the U.S. News & World Report best diet for 2019. But is it really something you should consider following? And is the Mediterranean diet OK if you have diabetes? The answer to both of these questions is “yes.”
You don’t need to live in Greece, Italy, Spain or Portugal to “go Mediterranean.” Many of the foods on this plan are likely foods you already enjoy eating — and you probably have some in your kitchen right now. There’s no one “Mediterranean diet” because the foods eaten can vary, depending on the region. However, here are the key foods that are part of this eating plan.

• Vegetables — and lots of them. Spinach, tomatoes, broccoli, kale, eggplant, asparagus and peppers are just a few.
• Fruits — berries, melons, grapes, dates, bananas, figs, oranges and pears.
• Whole grains — spelt, barley, whole wheat, oats, brown rice and corn.
• Legumes — beans, peas, lentils, chickpeas and peanuts.
• Nuts and seeds — almonds, pistachios, walnuts, sesame seeds and sunflower seeds.
• Fish — salmon, sardines, trout, mackerel, oysters, shrimp and crab.
• Poultry — chicken, turkey and duck.
• Eggs — chicken, duck and quail eggs.
• Fats — olives, olive oil, avocado, avocado oil and grapeseed oil.
• Dairy — yogurt and cheese.
Red meats and sweets are limited. Beverages include water and a glass of red wine each day.

Benefits of the Mediterranean diet

Research points to a host of health benefits from Mediterranean-style eating. Here are the top five.

1. Lower risk of heart attack and stroke

Limited red meat and sugar and a focus on heart-healthy unsaturated fat help lower bad (LDL) cholesterol and boost good (HDL) cholesterol. In addition, olive oil, an abundance of vegetables and fruit and a daily glass of red wine are thought to protect against hardening of the arteries, thanks to their high antioxidant content.

2. Prevention of Type 2 diabetes

A Mediterranean eating plan is full of fibre from fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains. Dietary fibre can slow the absorption of carbohydrate and improve blood glucose levels. Plus, higher-fibre eating plans can make it easier to lose weight and maintain a healthy weight. In addition, nuts and olive oil may also improve glycaemic control.

3. Improved diabetes control

The same components of the Mediterranean diet (especially vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, seeds and olive oil) that may help reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes can also make it easier for people who have diabetes to better manage their condition.

4. Lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease

Almost six million people in the United States have Alzheimer’s disease, a degenerative brain disease and the most common form of dementia. People who have diabetes have a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s compared to people without diabetes: it’s thought that having diabetes causes changes in the brain that may raise the risk of Alzheimer’s. In addition, having diabetes may put you at risk for cognitive impairment, a precursor of Alzheimer’s. While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s or proven ways to prevent it at this time, a Mediterranean eating plan may lower the risk by helping you better manage your blood sugar, lower your cholesterol and blood pressure, and improve the health of your heart and blood vessels.

5. Living a longer life

Eating healthfully isn’t the only way to live a longer life, but it sure can help. Studies show that a diet based on vegetables, fruits, whole grains and healthful fats can increase longevity. By staving off heart disease, cancer, high blood pressure, diabetes and other chronic disease, it’s possible to live to a ripe, old age. By the way, healthy eating is key, but don’t forget about the role of physical activity, sleep and stress reduction, too.

Getting started

Convinced that the Mediterranean diet is the way to go? Great. But how do you get started? It’s never easy to completely overhaul your diet overnight. Habits can die hard, and making any kind of dietary changes takes time and adjustments. Ease into your new eating plan with the following tips.
• Choose olive oil over butter or margarine for sautéing your foods.
• Mix up your own salad dressing using olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
• Aim to eat fish twice a week. Add some tuna to your lunchtime salad, and broil salmon for one of your dinner meals.
• Include a few pieces of fresh fruit at your meals or as snacks. Worried about the carbs? Berries, cherries, apples and pears have lower glycaemic index ratings than other types of fruit.
• Make a point to include at least two different vegetables at dinner.
• Try a meatless meal at least once a week. How about black beans and brown rice? Or a tomato, cucumber and white bean salad served with a side of couscous?
• Enjoy a healthy snack of plain Greek-style yogurt with a small handful of nuts.

While drinking red wine is encouraged on the Mediterranean eating plan, it’s always best to talk with your doctor or dietitian to make sure that drinking alcohol is safe for you.

https://www.diabetesselfmanagement.com/nutrition-exercise/meal-planning/five-reasons-try-mediterranean-diet/

Our bodies may cure themselves of diabetes in the future

From eurekalert.org

Researchers have found that neighbour-cells can take over functions of damaged or missing insulin-producing cells; the discovery may lead to new treatments for diabetes.

Diabetes is caused by damaged or non-existing insulin cells inability to produce insulin, a hormone that is necessary in regulating blood sugar levels. Many diabetes patients take insulin supplements to regulate these levels.
In collaboration with other international researchers, researchers at the University of Bergen have, discovered that glucagon.producing cells in the pancreas, can change identity and adapt so that they do the job for their neighbouring damaged or missing insulin cells.
"We are possibly facing the start of a totally new form of treatment for diabetes, where the body can produce its own insulin, with some start-up help," says Researcher Luiza Ghila at the Raeder Research Lab, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen (UiB).

Cells can change identity
The researchers discovered that only about 2 per cent the neighbouring cells in the pancreas could change identity. However, event that amount makes the researchers are optimistic about potential new treatment approaches.
For the first time in history, researchers were able to describe the mechanisms behind the process of cell identity. It turns out that this is not at passive process, but is a result of signals from the surrounding cells. In the study, researchers were able to increase the number of insulin producing cells to 5 per cent, by using a drug that influenced the inter-cell signalling process. Thus far, the results have only been shown in animal models.
"If we gain more knowledge about the mechanisms behind this cell flexibility, then we could possibly be able to control the process and change more cells' identities so that more insulin can be produced, " Ghila explains.

Possible new treatment against cell death
According to the researchers, the new discoveries is not only good news for diabetes treatment.
"The cells´ ability to change identity and function, may be a decisive discovery in treating other diseases caused by cell death, such as Alzheimer´s disease and cellular damage due to heart attacks", says Luiza Ghila.

Facts: Pancreas

• There are three different types of cells in the pancreas: alpha-cells, beta-cells and delta-cells. These produce different kinds of hormones for blood sugar regulation.
  
• The cells make clusters. Alpha-cells produce glucagon, which increases the blood sugar levels. Beta-cells produce insulin, which decreases glucagon levels. Delta-cells produce somatostatin, which controls the regulation of the Alpha and Beta Cells.
  
• Persons with diabetes have a damaged beta-cell function, and therefore have constant high blood sugar levels.

Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.

https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2019-01/tuob-obm010419.php

Diabetes Management: 3 Low-Calorie Beverages To Manage Diabetes

From ndtv.com

Not just food, diabetics need to be very mindful of the liquid calories they consume through the day as well.

Diabetes is one of the most prevalent health conditions of today's times. By the year 2030, 98 million Indians are estimated to be suffering from diabetes. But, how is diabetes caused? Diabetes is marked by elevated blood sugar levels. It is caused when body's ability to produce or respond to the hormone insulin is impaired severely. Diabetics are often recommended to take extra precautions when it comes to their diet. Not just food, they need to be very mindful of the liquid calories they consume through the day as well. Aerated beverages, cola, soda and alcohol may spike blood sugar levels in a big way, which is why experts advise of hydrating oneself with low-calorie healthy beverages that could also check surge in blood sugar levels.

Here Are 3 Low-Calorie Beverages That You Can Include In Your Diabetes Diet:

1. Fenugreek Water
These bitter seeds are known to be packed with anti-diabetic properties. According to a study, published in the International Journal For Vitamin and Nutrition Research, taking 10 grams of fenugreek seeds soaked in hot water may help regulate type-2 diabetes. Also known as methi dana in Hindi, fenugreek seeds are a good source of fibre, which enables slow release of sugars in the bloodstream. Fenugreek is also known to improve the way your body uses sugar.

2. Cinnamon Water
 The flavourful spice is an age-old remedy to manage diabetes. According to a study, published in the American Diabetes Association, cinnamon may help improve glucose and lipid profile of people with type-2 diabetes. You can mix a teaspoon of cinnamon in a glass of water and drink the healing potion once in a day. Macrobiotic Nutritionist and Health Practitioner, Shilpa Arora tells us that cinnamon is packed with anti-diabetic compounds that may play a crucial role in reducing the rate at which glucose is released in our system. Consuming cinnamon water regularly also helps reduce fasting blood sugar as well as elevated levels of cholesterol in the body. Make sure you do not have more than 3-6 grams cinnamon powder in a day. Cinnamon is warming in nature; too much of spice may cause gastric problems.

3. Karela Juice

This bitter juice may not leave the best aftertaste in your mouth, but it can do wonders for your blood sugar levels and prevent untimely spikes. Bitter gourd, or karela, has few active substances that are packed with anti-diabetic properties. Charantin is one such active substance that is known for its blood glucose-lowering effect. Karela also has an insulin-like compound called p-insulin, which is effective in regulating insulin activity.

Sip on these healthful beverages and manage diabetes naturally.

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.

https://www.ndtv.com/food/diabetes-management-3-low-calorie-beverages-to-manage-diabetes-1972209