Expert Tells How Simple Lifestyle Changes Can Help Manage Diabetes Effectively

From ndtv.com

 Diabetes is a chronic condition in which it is important to maintain healthy blood sugar levels to prevent complications. Read here to know different methods that can help manage diabetes

The diagnosis of diabetes brings with it, profound changes in one's lifestyle. In fact, it often leads to initial fear and sometimes even to depression when one is told that one has diabetes. Immediately one begins to think, 'Does this mean that I cannot have those sweets ever again? Will I have to start jogging every day? Will my lifestyle be completely changed because of diabetes?'

   Diabetes: Healthy diet and exercise play a significant role in controlling blood sugar levels

The diagnosis of diabetes brings with it, profound changes in one's lifestyle. In fact, it often leads to initial fear and sometimes even to depression when one is told that one has diabetes. Immediately one begins to think, 'Does this mean that I cannot have those sweets ever again? Will I have to start jogging every day? Will my lifestyle be completely changed because of diabetes?'

Diabetes is of several types particularly in children, adolescents and young adults. Type-1 diabetes is a condition where there is a total lack of insulin production from the pancreatic beta cells which means that these individuals have to take lifelong insulin injections. This would also mean that they have to eat in time, once they have had the insulin injections. If not, they can develop low sugar reactions or hypoglycaemia. They would also need to be careful about their exercise as sometimes the blood sugar levels can drop an hour or two after exercise. Hence, a careful balance of the calories consumed, the calories burnt and the insulin doses injected would be necessary for the rest of their life.

In the case of type-2 diabetes, things are a little easier. Normally, type-2 diabetes, particularly in youngsters is associated with overweight or obesity. Hence, the priority for somebody with type-2 diabetes, would be to reduce weight by diet and exercise.

Excess carbohydrates, (e.g. polished white rice and refined wheat) are one of the main reasons for getting diabetes in our country. It therefore makes perfect sense that once diabetes is diagnosed, the amount of carbohydrates, particularly rice and wheat are reduced. This can be replaced with adequate amounts of green leafy vegetables, some fruit and adequate protein and fibre intake. For non-vegetarians, increasing protein intake is relatively easy because one can take fish, chicken and egg white. For vegetarians, one has to get proteins from legumes and pulses like bengal gram, green gram, black gram, mushroom, milk, soya, tofu, paneer etc.

In addition, healthy fats can be taken. Mono-unsaturated fats are the best type of fats to consume and this comes from olive oil, corn oil, gingelly oil, groundnut oil and mustard oil. Poly-unsaturated fats like safflower oil or sunflower oil are also ok, while the saturated fats like palm oil or coconut oil are best avoided. Trans-fats, which are found in bakery products, biscuits and deep fried items are best avoided, as they can lead to elevation of LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) levels and also increase the risk of heart attacks.

The intensity of physical exercise can be decided depending on the age and fitness level of the individual. Half an hour walk of walking would be the minimum, eventually going up to 45 minutes or one hour. While doing exercise it is important to remember the FAR principle. FAR stands for Flexibility, Aerobic exercise and Resistance training. Flexibility is increased by doing stretching exercises. Aerobic exercises include walking, jogging, swimming, cycling etc. In addition, Resistance training, can help to improve the muscle function both in the upper limbs and lower limbs as well as the chest muscles is also very good and this is achieved by using light weights. Apart from this, reduction in stress and anxiety through pranayama, meditation, yoga and by participating in games, sports, music etc is also important.

   Exercise regularly to fight complications linked with diabetes

In summary, irrespective of the type of diabetes one has, lifestyle changes form the cornerstone of treatment of all forms of diabetes. It is fair to state that if intensive lifestyle modification leading to significant weight loss is done, even reversal of diabetes may be possible in early stages of the disorder. At the very least it would help to reduce the dose of anti-diabetic drugs, control diabetes better and in the long run, prevent its dreaded complications. The time to act is now!

(Dr. V. Mohan is Head of MDRF-Hinduja Foundation T1D program and also Chairman & Chief of Diabetology, Dr. Mohan's Diabetes Specialities Centre & President, Madras Diabetes Research Foundation, Chennai, India)

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed within this article are the personal opinions of the author. NDTV is not responsible for the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this article. All information is provided on an as-is basis. The information, facts or opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of NDTV and NDTV does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.

https://www.ndtv.com/health/diabetes-expert-tells-how-simple-lifestyle-changes-can-help-manage-diabetes-effectively-2318307

Deep Sleep Diabetes Remedy: Review the Tea Ingredients Book

From globenewswire.com

San Diego, CA, Oct. 29, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Deep Sleep Diabetes Remedy is a digital program that users can follow to improve their bodies from the damage sustained by type 2 diabetes. Rather than providing consumers with supplements that they have to take every day, this program educates consumers about their condition and how deep sleep can impact it.

What is Deep Sleep Diabetes Remedy?

Millions of people have type 2 diabetes; a few tips for managing the condition include a doctor’s supervision, a better diet, and longer workouts. While all of these techniques described are used to help, using a program like Deep Sleep Diabetes Remedy may be everything the user needs to know.

In the Deep Sleep Diabetes Remedy guide, users will learn a technique that doesn’t take more than a few seconds a day to create. As the creators describe it, this diagnosis is primarily due to inflammation, causing major damage throughout the body every night. The cause of this inflammation triggers other effects as well, including immense blood sugar spikes and cravings that only lead them back to the kitchen.

Deep Sleep Diabetes Remedy is a digital program that users can follow to improve their bodies from the damage sustained by type 2 diabetes

In the main guide, users will get access to sources like:

• A video series that shows how to eradicate type 2 diabetes and reduce high blood sugar.
• Recipes for 9 drinks that can reverse diabetes and balance blood sugar.
• A guide on the foods that spike blood sugar so that people with diabetes know what to avoid.

As difficult as this predicament may be, the creators of Deep Sleep Diabetes Remedy state that it is possible to reverse the onset of type 2 diabetes. The process may only take a few weeks if the user is careful to follow the directions. If this process works for the user, it is possible that they can even stop taking medication for their condition, though this transition might be best to do with a doctor.

As unconventional as this may sound, medication, supplements, and diet changes won’t necessarily do the user's work. The creators state that the powerful effect of Deep Sleep Diabetes Remedy can have a positive impact on everything from hormonal imbalances to energy levels and sex drive. Even consumers who have dealt with the disease for decades may find a solution in Deep Sleep Diabetes.

The reason for the inflammation is a cytokine that attacks while the individual is sleeping. In diabetics, insulin levels go haywire, which prevents the individual from sleeping. Plus, the cravings and poor sleep ultimately cause cortisol levels to go up and trigger the stress hormone to be released.

The program isn’t solely used as a way to help with diabetes, despite the advertisement. It also helps consumers lose weight since adjusting their diet to lower blood sugar levels. Overall, this program has many different problems to fix, which is why this guide is so readily available.

Frequently Asked Questions About Deep Sleep Diabetes Remedy

How can better sleep benefit diabetics? 

Based on different research sources, the creators say that using Deep Sleep Diabetes Remedy to improve their rest can increase energy, promote better regeneration of cells, and promote better blood supply to muscles. It also health the tissues and bones that can become damaged with mild or intense physical activity, boosting both immunity and the sex drive. The best part is – most diabetics can get these benefits with adequate sleep.

How do consumers sleep better with Deep Sleep Diabetes Remedy? 

While this program's specifics are reserved for paying customers, there are a few hints at what is in store. First, users will learn about a tea formula often used as a sleep aid, though the herbs in it can reduce cravings and keep blood sugar levels balanced. It also reduces cholesterol by approximately 18%.

How long does it take for Deep Sleep Diabetes Remedy to be effective? 

Though users will likely notice a few changes pretty quickly, long-term results can take several weeks to achieve.

https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2020/10/29/2117469/0/en/Deep-Sleep-Diabetes-Remedy-Review-the-Tea-Ingredients-Book.html

World's first agreed guidance for people with diabetes to exercise safely

From eurekalert.org

A Swansea University academic has helped draw up a landmark agreement amongst international experts, setting out the world's first standard guidance on how people with diabetes can use modern glucose monitoring devices to help them exercise safely.

The guidance will be a crucial resource for healthcare professionals around the world, so they can help people with type 1 diabetes.

The guidance, approved by an array of diabetes experts and organisations, was drawn up by a team including Dr Richard Bracken of the School of Sports and Exercise Sciences, College of Engineering and the Diabetes Research group, located in the Medical School at Swansea University.

Physical exercise is an important part of managing type 1 diabetes for people of all age groups. However, the blood sugar response can be difficult to predict, with exercise sometimes increasing the risk of falling blood sugar levels - known as hypoglycaemia - or other times causing blood sugar to rise. Levels of glucose therefore have to be closely monitored.

Fear of having a "hypo", which can lead to dizziness, disorientation, anxiety and many other symptoms, is one of the main barriers stopping people with diabetes from incorporating exercise into daily life.

Fortunately, modern real-time glucose monitoring systems are now available on the NHS or for purchase, so people can manage their glucose levels during exercise. The problem, however, is that these can be complex, and the information can be difficult for patients and health professionals to interpret.

This is where the new guidance will be invaluable. It looks at the evidence from glucose monitoring technology and uses it as the basis for clear guidance for exercise in adults, children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes.

The guidance covers areas like carbohydrate consumption and safe glucose thresholds. The idea is that it should serve as an initial guidance tool, which can then be tailored for the individual patient in consultation with health professionals.

The guidance, contained in a position statement, was published by the European Association for the Study of Diabetes and the International Society for Paediatric and Adolescent Diabetes. It is also endorsed by the global diabetes charity Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, and by the American Diabetes Association.

Dr Richard Bracken, one of the authors, and a diabetes expert from the A-STEM research team in Swansea University School of Sports and Exercise Sciences and the Lifestyle research group lead in the Diabetes Research Group, Medical School, said:

"This guidance is a landmark agreement which could end up making a real difference to people with Type 1 diabetes.

It is built on years of research into the strengths and limits of modern glucose monitoring devices. On the basis of that evidence, we can now recommend how to safely use these devices and support people with type 1 diabetes. It will help them to obtain the health benefits of exercise, whilst minimising wide fluctuations in their blood glucose level."

The guidance was simultaneously published in leading research journals Diabetologia and Pediatric Diabetes.

https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2020-10/su-wfa102920.php

Super pea could reduce Type 2 diabetes risk

From cosmosmagazine.com

Natural mutation prevents sugar spikes

       Wrinkled peas: never mind the appearance, consider the goodness. Credit: The John Innes Centre

Don’t turn your nose up at wrinkled peas: they could be a life saver.

A new study has found that a natural mutation in smooth green peas that causes them to become rather shrivelled looking could help control blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Researchers in the UK say these “super peas” – and even flour made from them – prevent sugar spikes because they have high levels of resistant starch, which takes the body longer to digest while being lower in carbohydrates.

“The super pea contains a naturally-occurring variant gene that means they’re high in resistant starches,” says Gary Frost from Imperial College London, lead author of a paper in Nature Food. “These starches are not completely digested in the upper parts of the digestive tract and are available for fermentation by bacteria in the colon.”

The high amount of resistant starch is due to the way the starch is made in the cell, and the fact that the cells themselves are more resistant to digestion.

The wrinkled peas used in the study were larger, more mature versions of the peas typically found in the supermarket – and which do, in fact, have the high-resistant starch trait. However, they’re grown for immature pea seed harvest, so they haven’t developed maximum amounts of starch.  

Volunteers underwent a variety of tests across four controlled experiments. They were given either regular or wrinkly pea products, including food made with pea flour and pea hummus, without knowing which was which.  

The peas were also fixed with a tracer molecule so the researchers could track how they were absorbed and digested. 

“This research has emphasised the value of developing the pea lines used in this study, which could be compared meaningfully and involved many years of breeding,” says co-author Claire Domoney from the John Innes Centre. 

“It also demonstrates how plant genetics can be used effectively across many disciplines to study the impact of food on human health.” 

The researchers highlight that peas are not the only food known to have the resistant starch mutation, with other research focusing on breeding the mutation into staple crops such as rice and wheat. 

“Longer term, it could become policy to include resistant starch in food. It could potentially be policy that food should contain a certain amount of resistant starch to tackle type 2 diabetes and other metabolic illnesses,” says Domoney. 

https://cosmosmagazine.com/health/nutrition/super-pea-could-reduce-diabetes-risk/

Diabetes Diet: This Karela-Palak Juice May Help Manage Blood Sugar Levels

From food.ndtv.com

Bitter gourd contains an insulin-like compound called Polypeptide-p which has been shown to control diabetes naturally. Here's how you can make a wholesome juice from it with an addition of spinach to manage blood sugar levels

                                                    _{Karela is one vegetable that has been lauded by experts for its many health benefits.}

In recent years, diabetes has risen to be one of the most prevalent lifestyle diseases around the world. According to WHO, in the year 2014, 422 million people were diagnosed with diabetes across the world. It also pointed out the rapid increase of the condition in the past 3 decades. Characterised by excess sugar in the blood (high blood glucose), diabetes is an irreversible condition, which can only be managed, failure of which can lead to many severe complications such as obesity and stroke.

A well-balanced diet along with a healthy lifestyle is two of the most important aspects of managing diabetes. A diet full of foods with low glycaemic index, low on carbs and whole-grain foods is often suggested to those with the condition. Aerated sugary drinks are a strict no-no but certain fresh juices can be a good option. However, canned juices from the market come with a whole lot of fructose that elevates the blood sugar levels. But there is one juice that one can load up on and that may also help regulate your blood sugar levels naturally- Karela juice.

Karela (or bitter gourd) is one vegetable that has been lauded by experts for its many health benefits, one of it is regulating the blood sugar levels. Dr. Anju Sood, a Bangalore-based Nutritionist, echoes the fact and says "Karela juice makes your insulin active which in turn uses the sugar adequately and not convert into fat, which would eventually help in weight loss too". Various studies have also found a few active substances with anti-diabetic properties in Karela like 'charantin' which is famous for its blood glucose-lowering effect.

In addition to Karela in your juice, you can add another super veggie that may work wonders for diabetics. We are talking about the superfood Spinach! The green-leafy vegetable is rich in fibre, which doesn't digest easily, reducing the chances of a spike in sugar levels. It is also considered a low-carb, low-calorie and low-glycaemic index food which keeps the sugar levels in check.

How To Make Karela-Spinach Juice To Manage Diabetes:

This spinach-karela juice might be bitter for some, but you can always sprinkle some lime juice and black pepper to amp up the taste!

Ingredients-

. Bitter gourd (peeled, sliced, deseeded)- 1

. Spinach (finely chopped, boiled)

. Lemon juice- 1/2

. Black pepper- 1/2 tsp

. Ginger (chopped)- 1/2 tsp

Method

1. Take all the ingredients in a blender.

2. Blend until smooth and serve.

Try this juice at home to manage diabetes and to keep blood sugar levels in control. But make sure you consult your diabetologist or dietitian before you include anything new in your diet.

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://food.ndtv.com/food-drinks/diabetes-diet-this-karela-palak-juice-may-help-manage-blood-sugar-levels-2315886

 

People with type 2 diabetes need not avoid eating potatoes based on glycaemic index

From scienmag.com

New study findings show that people with type 2 diabetes can better maintain overnight glycaemic control when high Glycaemic Index (GI) potatoes are included in an evening meal versus low GI basmati rice

People with type 2 Diabetes (T2D) are frequently told to avoid eating potatoes, and other high Glycaemic Index (GI) foods, because of the longstanding perception that these foods make it difficult to control blood sugar levels. This is especially problematic during the night when blood sugar tends to spike — a phenomenon that has been associated with cardiovascular disease and endothelial disfunction. However, for the first time, a rigorously controlled clinical trial, including 24 adults with T2D, demonstrates that GI is not an accurate surrogate for an individual’s glycaemic response (GR) to a food consumed as part of an evening meal. Specifically, the findings published in Clinical Nutrition show that participants had a better ‘nocturnal’ GR when they ate a mixed meal with skinless white potatoes compared to an iso-energetic and macronutrient-matched mixed meal that included a low GI carbohydrate food — basmati rice.

“Despite its frequent use among nutrition researchers, GI is not an appropriate tool for understanding how a meal impacts glycaemic control; it is a very specific measurement for foods consumed in isolation, typically conducted under controlled laboratory conditions,” says Dr. Brooke Devlin, PhD, the primary investigator, at Australian Catholic University in Melbourne. “It’s rare that people eat foods in isolation, and findings from this study demonstrate how other factors, such as the time of day or food pairings, need to be considered when investigating the GR of mixed meals in individuals with T2D.”

Participants were provided the same breakfast and lunch, but they were randomly assigned to one of four dinners, each including either skinless white potatoes (test meal) prepared in three different ways (boiled, roasted, boiled then cooled then reheated) or basmati rice (control meal). Participants repeated the experiment, with a 9-day break in between each trial, to cycle through all test meals and the control. In addition to having blood samples collected regularly (both immediately after the meal and again every 30 minutes, for 2 hours), participants also wore a continuous glucose monitor overnight to track changes in blood sugar levels while sleeping.

There were no differences between meals in glucose response following the dinner that contained any of the potato dishes or basmati rice. Moreover, participants’ overnight GR was more favourable after eating the evening meal that included any of the high GI potato side dishes compared to low GI basmati rice.

“These findings are contrary to that of observational research and traditional dietary guidance that has led some to believe potatoes are not an appropriate food choice for people with T2D,” added Devlin. “Our study shows high GI foods, like potatoes, can be consumed as part of a healthy evening meal without negatively affecting GR — and while delivering key nutrients in relatively few calories, which is essential for people with T2D.”

https://scienmag.com/people-with-type-2-diabetes-need-not-avoid-eating-potatoes-based-on-glycemic-index/

The importance of regular eye screenings for diabetes patients

From wsaw.com

WAUSAU, Wis. (WSAW) - An estimated 25% of diabetes patients have undiagnosed diabetic eye disease, according to a 2016 study Diabetes, rates of which have steadily increased in the U.S. over the past decade, affects many aspects of people’s health and can lead to serious eye diseases like diabetic macular edema (DME). However, 87% of Americans do not receive routine eye care and less than half of diabetes patients get the recommended standard of care eye screenings, even though early detection is key to minimizing vision loss.

With Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month coming up, people should keep their eye health top of mind. Eye protection is vital year-round.

DID YOU KNOW?

•        DME is caused by diabetic retinopathy, which occurs when too much sugar in the blood damages the retina.

•        Diabetic macular edema is characterized by fluid build-up in the retina, leading to blurry vision and even permanent vision loss.

•        Diabetic retinopathy is prevalent in approximately 40% of people with diabetes. Of the 7.7 million Americans with diabetic retinopathy, nearly 750,000 have DME.

•        Diabetic macular edema and diabetic retinopathy disproportionately affect Hispanics and African Americans.

•        The longer a person has diabetes, especially if it is poorly controlled, the higher the risk of developing diabetic retinopathy and vision loss.

•        Diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema often have no early symptoms but can be diagnosed early with a dilated eye exam to help prevent progression.

https://www.wsaw.com/2020/10/22/the-importance-of-regular-eye-screenings-for-diabetes-patients/

Type 2 Diabetes: Coffee and green tea might reduce death risk

From medicalnewstoday.com

A recent study investigated the effect of green tea and coffee on mortality risk among people with type 2 diabetes. The researchers found that drinking two or more cups of coffee and four or more cups of green tea each day was associated with a 63% lower all-cause mortality

                                                Image credit: FG Trade/Getty Images.

In the United States, more than 1 in 10 adults have type 2 diabetes. Globally, the disease affects an estimated 422 million people.

Diabetes increases the risk of a range of health conditions, including cancer, bone fractures, dementia, and circulatory diseases.

Although medications can significantly reduce the health risks associated with diabetes, experts also consider lifestyle changes one of the best ways to control type 2 diabetes. These include eating a healthful diet, doing more physical activity, and stopping smoking, if a smoker.

Coffee, green tea, and diabetes

Over the years, many scientists have investigated the potential health benefits of green tea. Some studies have shown a link between the consumption of green tea and a lower risk of developing diabetes.

Other scientists have shown that drinking green tea might improve glucose control and insulin sensitivity. However, until now, few researchers have examined how green tea might benefit people with type 2 diabetes, specifically.

Coffee has also enjoyed a great deal of scientific attention over the years. There is some evidence that a high coffee consumption leads to a lower risk of type 2 diabetes compared with a low consumption.

Beyond diabetes, there is some evidence that coffee consumption is linked with a reduced risk of mortality. However, as with green tea, few scientists have investigated this association in individuals who have diabetes.

Although there are inherent difficulties in studying the effects of specific foods on health conditions, evidence that green tea and coffee might benefit certain aspects of health is mounting.

Recently, researchers from Kyushu University, Fukuoka Dental College, and Hakujyuji Hospital, all in Japan, set out to investigate the effect of coffee and green tea on the death risk of people with diabetes. They recently published their results in BMJ Open Diabetes Research & Care.

The study

The scientists took data from the Fukuoka Diabetes Registry, an ongoing study designed to assess the impact of medication and lifestyle on diabetes outcomes. In all, they used data from 4,923 participants with type 2 diabetes. These individuals were aged 20 years or older with an average age of 66 years.

Each participant provided a wide range of information, including details about their existing health conditions, frequency of exercise, smoking status, alcohol consumption, sleep duration, body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, and symptoms of depression.

Importantly, the participants also provided details about their diet, including their consumption of coffee and green tea.

The primary end point in this study was mortality. The researchers followed the participants for a median of 5.3 years, and during follow-up, 309 people died.

For the purpose of their analysis, the team considered four or more cups of green tea and two or more cups of coffee each day as high consumption.

The findings

Individuals who drank more than one cup of green tea or coffee per day had lower odds of dying from any cause in comparison with those who drank neither. The lowest odds were associated with drinking higher quantities of both green tea and coffee.

Even after accounting for variables that might have influenced their analysis, the authors conclude:

“Higher green tea and coffee consumption was significantly associated with decreased all-cause mortality in [people] with type 2 diabetes.”

The authors explain that “the combination of higher green tea and coffee consumption significantly reduced all-cause mortality risk by 63%” over a median follow-up period of 5.3 years.

Looking at coffee alone, the researchers found that drinking two or more cups per day was associated with 41% lower odds of dying during follow-up.

When calculating the odds of dying among green tea-drinkers, they found that drinking four or more cups each day was associated with 40% lower odds.

However, drinking both beverages each day produced the largest effects:

• two to three cups of green tea plus two or more cups of coffee — 51% lower
• four or more cups of green tea plus one cup of coffee — 58% lower
• four or more cups of green tea and two or more cups of coffee — 63% lower

Study limitations

As with most studies that investigate the effect of a single type of food or drink on a population, this research does have certain limitations.

For instance, information about each participant’s coffee and green tea consumption came from a questionnaire. No one’s memory is perfect, and this brings unavoidable errors into the data. Similarly, dietary information came only from the participants’ reports at the beginning of the study, but over the course of 5 years, beverage habits might change.

Additionally, the scientists did not collect information about certain factors that might have influenced the results, such as level of education and household income. The authors explain the potential importance of this:

“Higher educational or income levels may be associated with greater coffee consumption; they may also be related to lower mortality risk.”

Also, importantly, the study was observational, so it is not possible to prove that green tea and coffee reduce the odds of dying — only that consuming these beverages is associated with lower odds.

Although it is important to be mindful of such important limitations, these results do add to a body of evidence that green tea and coffee might benefit certain individuals in some way. Medical News Today have published a wider discussion on the potential benefits of coffee here.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/diabetes-coffee-and-green-tea-might-reduce-death-risk#Study-limitations

To Your Good Health: Diabetes not limited to only 2 main types

From agrinews-pubs.com

By Dr. Keith Roach

Last year, at 57, I was diagnosed with Type 1 LADA diabetes. Initially I was put on insulin to get my blood sugar within the normal range. Then I was just on metformin until the “honeymoon period” was over. My endocrinologist is great. I now am back on insulin, six units at night. I walk anywhere between three and eight miles about three times a day. My blood pressure is excellent. I initially lost about 18 pounds after diagnosis, so my weight is good. When looking at Google, it says my life expectancy has been cut by 20 years. Yikes, I just retired and if I go by their gauge, I’ll be passing around age 68. Is this based on someone who has had diabetes for many years, since Type 1 is usually diagnosed much earlier? The doctor said even though my initial sugars were over 500 when diagnosed, I was very healthy and that’s why nothing was “destroyed.” My vision was off for about a month, but no permanent damage was done. Any reassurance would be appreciated.

Most people are familiar with Type 1 diabetes, with a typical onset in childhood and at a normal weight. It is caused by an autoimmune destruction of the insulin-making cells in the pancreas.

People also know about Type 2 diabetes, usually adult-onset and usually diagnosed in someone who’s overweight; it’s caused by resistance to insulin. But there are other subtypes of diabetes, including latent autoimmune diabetes in adults, or LADA.

In the United States and Canada, it accounts for a small fraction of diabetes cases, but is more common in Scandinavian countries. It has some characteristics of both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, but the autoimmune nature and the usual progression to insulin need makes most experts feel it is closer to Type 1 than to Type 2. A recent paper has outlined a potential new classification of diabetes types.

The change in life expectancy from diabetes relates to how long you have had diabetes and how well-controlled it has been. With outstanding diabetes control — normal or near-normal blood sugar levels — the effect on overall mortality is modest, at best.

In one model, the reduction in life expectancy is less than a year. However, it certainly is possible to have life expectancy drop by 20 years with very poorly controlled, longstanding diabetes. For people with diabetes, to a very large extent, their potential to live longer — and healthier — can be improved by better blood sugar control.

For new-onset autoimmune diabetes, both Type 1 and LADA, early and aggressive blood sugar control with insulin may reduce the amount of autoimmune damage and improve long-term prognosis. Studies are in progress to evaluate this.

I am a female, 16 years old. My white blood cell count is 16.6. I am suffering from so much weakness and pain in my legs, arms and shoulder area. I also have a cough and cold. Is it dangerous? What should I do for it?

I don’t have enough information to help much. A white blood cell count that high suggests an infection. At your age, those symptoms are most likely a viral infection, but acute mononucleosis and even pneumonia are possible, so you need to see your doctor.

https://www.agrinews-pubs.com/2020/10/19/to-your-good-health-diabetes-not-limited-to-only-2-main-types/a6ea289/

Diabetes Diet: 5 Carrot Snacks For Diabetes Management

From food.ndtv.com

Carrots, both orange and red, are an excellent low-carb option for diabetics. They also have low glycaemic index that ensures gradual release of blood sugar in the blood stream

Diabetes is perhaps one of the most common metabolic diseases, which has been a cause of concern for many health experts. The steeping numbers are only adding to the worries. According to a Lancet report, about 98 million Indians are at a risk of developing diabetes by the year 2030. Diabetes is a condition where your blood sugar levels are either too high or too low. This could be due to low production of insulin or your body's inability to respond to it. Diabetics are often advised to eat a low-carb diet that is enriched with fibre. They are also asked to keep their calorie intake in check and load up on seasonal vegetables. As the nip in the air intensifies, we cannot contain our excitement for red and juicy, desi gajar or carrots, which are diabetic-friendly too.

Carrots, both orange and red, are an excellent low-carb option for diabetics. They also have low glycaemic index that ensures gradual release of blood sugar in the blood stream. According to a study published in the journal Human Genetics, people with particular common genetic variations and high blood levels of beta carotene, may lower the risk of type-2 diabetes.

Here are 5 carrot-based snack ideas you can try at home:

1. Carrot ginger soup: This heartwarming broth made with healing superfoods like carrot and ginger is an excellent low-cal treat you can add to your supper. Click here for recipe. 

                                                        Carrots are rich in fibre. 

2. French beans gajar: This easy-peasy salad is a blessing for days you are determined to eat healthy and clean. Boiled French beans and carrots combined with mild spices - this one is a stunner. Click here for recipe. 

3. Baked Carrot Fries: Baked, crunchy long strips of carrots served with a drizzle of olive oil. We bet you won't be able to stop at one. Click here for recipe. 

4. Low calorie oat-carrots idlis: Puffy and spongy, these idlis made with the goodness of oats, dal and carrots is just too healthy and yummy to ignore! Click here for recipe. 

                                                              Carrots have low GI

5. Carrot and orange salad: All things vibrant and flavourful, this salad filled with the goodness of sliced carrots, fresh orange juice and a zingy seasoning is even a hit among kids! Click here for recipe. 

Try these recipes for your diabetes diet and let us know how you liked them!

(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://food.ndtv.com/health/diabetes-diet-5-carrot-snacks-for-diabetes-management-2312495

Can COVID-19 cause diabetes? Here’s what we know

From fortune.com

It's been well-established that people who have diabetes are more susceptible to serious cases of COVID-19. This is one of the higher-risk groups for severe illnesses and complications related to the novel coronavirus, though they aren't any more or less susceptible to actually contracting the pathogen than others.

But a growing body of evidence suggests that COVID and diabetes might be a two-way pathological street. That is, patients who contract COVID-19 may also form type 1 or type 2 diabetes, even if they don't have traditional risk factors for the conditions such as being overweight or older.

Scientists are still trying to figure out the answers to this peculiar medical mystery. Diabetes is a metabolic disorder, so it's possible that the virus somehow affects the insulin-producing pancreas (which regulates blood sugar levels) or raises the level of glucose in the blood itself.

A team of doctors being led by King's College London's Dr. Francesco Rubino, who chairs the school's department of metabolic and bariatric surgery, is trying to get to the bottom of the issue in collaboration with physicians from around the world who are sharing stories of patients who developed diabetes post-COVID, Reuters reports.

It's not a new phenomenon. In August, Rubino and a host of other medical experts spelled out their initial observations in the medical journal NEJM, describing COVID-19 and diabetes as a "bidirectional relationship."

"On the one hand, diabetes is associated with an increased risk of severe COVID-19. On the other hand, new-onset diabetes and severe metabolic complications of pre-existing diabetes, including diabetic ketoacidosis and hyper-osmolarity for which exceptionally high doses of insulin are warranted, have been observed in patients with COVID-19," wrote the study authors.

The latter observation about diabetic ketoacidosis is particularly important. Inflammation caused by the virus may exacerbate the chances of someone with underlying diabetes, or newly formed diabetes due to COVID, experiencing that potentially deadly condition, wherein the body produces excess levels of blood acid called ketones. That can lead to fatigue, muscle pain, extreme thirst, frequent urination, trouble breathing, nausea, and confusion and could require emergency care.

While it may take years to fully unravel this relationship, one working theory is the answer may lie in the types of enzymes that coronavirus tends to bind to. These so-called ACE2 receptors are found in many parts of the body, particularly the lungs (which COVID may affect severely), but is also found in organs like the pancreas.

Rubino and company's global registry of COVID-diabetes cases could provide greater insights in due time.

https://fortune.com/2020/10/19/covid-diabetes-can-coronavirus-cause-it-what-we-know-covid-19/

Type 2 diabetes: Experimental therapy could remove need for insulin

From medicalnewstoday.com

Scientists have proposed a new therapy for type 2 diabetes. If proven effective, the therapy could help some people discontinue insulin treatment

Scientists have proposed a new therapy for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, with a proof-of-concept study showing positive initial results. If effective, the therapy may mean that some people can stop taking insulin treatment.

The authors of the research presented their findings at UEG Week Virtual 2020, a conference organized by United European Gastroenterology, a professional nonprofit organization for specialists in digestive health.

Type 2 diabetes

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, a person may have type 2 diabetes when their blood sugar is too high.

People gain blood sugar, or blood glucose, mainly from the food they eat. Insulin helps cells access this glucose to use as energy. However, for a person with type 2 diabetes, either their body does not make enough insulin or their cells do not respond to insulin correctly.

This then means that the glucose in their blood increases, which can lead to complications of diabetes, such as heart and kidney disease, visual impairment, and loss of sensation in the limbs. The higher the blood glucose over time, the higher the risk of complications.  

According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 1 in 10 adults in the United States have diabetes, and 90–95% of these individuals have type 2 diabetes.

Doctors typically recommend lifestyle changes, such as being more physically active and eating a more healthful diet, to treat type 2 diabetes, as well as medications to manage a person’s blood pressure and blood glucose levels.

Insulin treatment may be necessary if a person is unable to maintain their blood sugar at normal levels. This treatment can take the form of injections, pens, pumps, or inhalers. It encourages the cells in a person’s body to absorb more blood sugar.

However, people's perception of the side effects of insulin treatment can be quite pronounced. As a result, doctors may be less likely to prescribe insulin, and, when they do, people may not take it regularly.

Consequently, therapies that can avoid these perceived side effects may be valuable in ensuring that people keep up with their prescribed treatment and avoid risking serious health issues.

Image credit: fotostorm/Getty Images.

Proof of concept

In this context, the researchers behind the present study used a novel technique that scientists first reported using in humans in 2016. Based on those preliminary results, it seemed promising.

The technique is called duodenal mucosal resurfacing (DMR). The duodenum is the first part of a person’s small intestine. DMR involves lifting the mucosal layer of the duodenal to allow the ablation of the revealed area using heated water — a process that removes the cells in the targeted area.

The researchers who developed the DMR technique were trying to replicate the positive impact that bariatric surgery gastric bypass) has on blood sugar levels with a less invasive technique.

Studies of how bariatric surgery improves blood sugar control have concluded that there is a direct effect from the duodenum in addition to the weight loss that results from bariatric surgery.

DMR can take place in an outpatient setting and is minimally invasive. It involves an endoscope catheter to gain access to the duodenal.

The direct effect of the small intestine on glucose control appears to come from the presence of intraepithelial lymphocyte T cells. These are nestled between the gut cells involved in the absorption of nutrients from food.

Mice without these cells are protected from obesity and heart disease, even when eating a high fat diet.

These intraepithelial lymphocytes reduce the amount of a gut hormone called GLP-1. Therefore, in the current study, the researchers added regular doses of a GLP-1 agonist called liraglutide on day 14.

They did so to counteract the reduced amount of this essential lean, antidiabetic hormone. The study participants also received lifestyle counseling to help reduce their blood sugar levels.

The study involved 16 participants with type 2 diabetes receiving insulin treatment. Of the participants who received the DMR therapy with liraglutide, 12 (75%) were able to stop using insulin and maintain their blood sugar control after 6 months.

Promising initial results

The study participants also saw a variety of benefits to their metabolism.

The participants’ HbA1c readings, which determine a person’s glucose control, had all reduced to below 7.5%. After 12 months, this fell further to 6.7%.

Those who responded to the treatment saw a reduction in their body mass index from an average of 29.8 kilograms per square meter (kg/m²) before the study started to 25.5 kg/m² 12 months after the study. Fat in the participants’ livers reduced from 8.1% to 4.6% after 6 months.

Even for the participants who still needed insulin, the required amount reduced from an average of 35 units per day to 17 units per day after 12 months.

According to Dr. Suzanne Meiring, a researcher at the Amsterdam University Medical Centre, the Netherlands, and co-lead of the study,

“A single endoscopic DMR ablation with GLP-1 drugs and lifestyle counselling can lead to discontinuation of insulin therapy in a subset of patients with type 2 diabetes while improving their blood glucose control and overall metabolic health.”

“Many patients with type 2 diabetes are very happy to be able to discontinue insulin therapy, since insulin therapy comes with weight gain and hypoglycaemic events.”

Further research needed

It is important to note that this is a very small proof-of-concept study. The researchers presented it as a conference paper, and, therefore, few details are available in the public domain for scrutiny.

The intervention combined two innovative treatments. No details of any side effects of the two treatments (DMR and GLP-1 agonist) are available. While promising, there is a need for larger trials to confirm the results.

Importantly, precisely how and why the therapy appears to work is not yet clear.

The scientists believe that it may work because the mucosal cells that the DMR therapy affects undergo changes in response to unhealthful diets that can promote insulin resistance.

“Based on the results of this study, a large international randomized controlled trial, called Revita T2Di Pivotal, will soon start to further investigate its effectiveness in greater numbers,” says Dr. Meiring.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/type-2-diabetes-experimental-therapy-could-remove-need-for-insulin#Proof-of-concept

Flu Shots Are More Important Than Ever for People with Diabetes, ASCVD

From managedhealthcareexecutive.com

Flu increases the risk of heart attack, especially among people with diabetes and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). COVID-19 and the possibility of co-infection makes getting vaccinated against the flu particularly important this year.

Eat healthier foods, get more exercise, lose weight, take a statin if your LDL cholesterol level is elevated, and take an antihypertensive medication if you have high blood pressure blood — these are some of things that many Americans think about doing to lower their risk of having a heart attack.

The annual flu shot doesn’t make that list but it should. There’s little doubt that getting sick with the flu markedly increases the risk of having a heart attack. Researchers have been collecting evidence on the association between flu and cardiovascular mortality since the 1930s. And the heart attack risk from flu is especially high among people with diabetes and those with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD).

In an “expert analysis” piece for that was posted yesterday on the American College of Cardiology’s website, Gowtham Grandhi, M.D., M.P.H., Priyanka Bhugra, M.D., and Khurram Nasir, MBBS, FACC, make a convincing case for flu shots being especially important this year for people with diabetes or ASCVD because of the COVID-19 pandemic and the possibility of infection by both viruses. They point to research showing that, in the past, about 1 in 3 individuals with diabetes do not get annual flu shot. They cite other studies showing that the ratio is roughly the same for people with ASCVD.

“Given the suboptimal rates of annual influenza vaccination among DM (diabetes mellitus) and increased risk of co-infection with COVID-19 this influenza, vaccination against influenza among these high-risk individuals is critical until an effective vaccine against COVID-19 is made available and accessible to everyone,” say the trio. It is imperative, they say, to provide flu shots at alternative and non-traditional sites such as grocery stores and parks “to enhance equitable vaccination coverage while maintaining appropriate social distancing and infection control measures.”

Grandhi, Bhugra and Nasir cite a study published in Diabetes Care last month that used data from the Danish disease registry to show that flu shots reduced all-cause mortality, cardiovascular disease mortality, and heart attack and stroke mortality by about 15% among people with diabetes. That translates into number needed to treat of 1,333 to prevent one death. They also reference a 2015 meta-analysis of case-control studies that showed that flu vaccination was associated with a 29% decreased risk of heart attack.

Researchers have come up with various explanations for flu increasing heart attack risk. According to Grandhi, Bhugra and Nasir’s brief account, infection with a flu virus stirs up inflammation that has the effect of destabilizing atherosclerotic plaque so it is more likely to rupture, resulting in an occluded coronary artery.

https://www.managedhealthcareexecutive.com/view/flu-shots-are-more-important-than-ever-for-people-with-diabetes-ascvd

What's in season: Pumpkin

From diabetes.org.uk

The most memorable of the winter squashes - particularly throughout October - pumpkin is a great source of fibre, vitamins and minerals.

Instantly recognisable thanks to its vivid orange colour and tough skin, pumpkins are not only associated with Halloween carved lanterns, but make an excellent ingredients for all types of dishes.

Pumpkin season stretches from October to December in the UK, so make the most of this deliciously sweet, honeyed flesh while it's readily available.

Picking the perfect pumpkin

• Pumpkins should be firm all over. Soft spots are indicative of decay which significantly affects both taste and carving.
• Any pumpkins with blemishes or brown spots should be avoided. 
• Healthy pumpkins should have a hard, sturdy stalk.
• More rounded pumpkins produce tastier seeds which are ideal for roasting.
• Note which pumpkins are good for cooking and which are better for carving, depending on your requirements.

Storing your pumpkin

• Pumpkins (and other winter squashes) can be stored at room temperature for up to a month, or refrigerated for up to three months.

• If you have cut pumpkin, wrap in cling film and refrigerate for up to five days.

https://www.diabetes.org.uk/guide-to-diabetes/enjoy-food/cooking-for-people-with-diabetes/seasonal-cooking/pumpkin?utm_source=bronto&utm_medium=email&utm_term=Image+-+Pumpkin&utm_content=Image+-+Pumpkin&utm_campaign=Enewsletter+October+2020

How can diabetes affect the feet?

From medicalnewstoday.com

People with diabetes are prone to foot problems that develop due to prolonged periods of high blood sugar levels. Diabetic neuropathy and peripheral vascular disease are the two main foot problems that occur, and both can have serious complications

Diabetes is a disease that causes faulty or insufficient insulin production or low sensitivity to insulin. Insulin is an essential hormone that is responsible for helping cells absorb sugar from the blood to use for energy.

When this process does not work correctly, sugar remains circulating in the blood, causing health problems.

Prolonged periods of high sugar levels in the blood can damage many areas of the body, including the feet.

Diabetes is responsible for over 50 percent of all foot amputations in the United States.

In this article, we look at the foot problems that can occur in people with unmanaged or poorly managed diabetes and how to manage these effects.

Foot problems in diabetes

The two main foot problems that occur in people with diabetes are:

Diabetic neuropathy

Diabetic neuropathy can numb the feet, reducing awareness of wounds, infections, and tight shoes.

Over time, diabetes can cause nerve damage that leads to numbness in the feet. This can make it hard for people with diabetes to feel sensation in their extremities.

The condition also makes it difficult for a person with diabetes to feel irritation, soreness, or infection on the feet. They may not notice when their shoes are rubbing. This lack of sensation can lead to an increased risk of cuts, sores, and blisters.

If a person does not receive treatment for an infection, ulcers and even gangrene can develop. If a person develops gangrene, they may require an amputation. TO If a person develops gangrene, a doctor might suggest amputation.

Peripheral vascular disease

Diabetes leads to changes in the blood vessels, including arteries. In peripheral vascular disease, fatty deposits block vessels beyond the brain and heart.

It tends to affect blood vessels leading to and from the extremities, such as the hands and feet, reducing blood flow to both.

Reduced blood flow can lead to pain, infection, and wounds that heal slowly. If a person develops a severe infection, a doctor may recommend amputation.

Symptoms

Foot symptoms of diabetes vary from person to person and may depend on the specific issues a person is experiencing at the time.

However, symptoms might include:

• a loss of feeling
• numbness or tingling sensation
• blisters or other wounds without pain
• skin discoloration and temperature changes
• red streaks
• wounds with or without drainage
• painful tingling
• staining on socks

If an infection develops, a person may also experience some of the following:

• fever
• chills
• uncontrollable blood sugar
• shaking
• shock
• redness

Any person with diabetes who experiences symptoms of an infection, especially on the feet, should seek emergency treatment.

Complications

                    If gangrene develops due to an unnoticed wound, a doctor may                                                            suggest amputation

Diabetic neuropathy and peripheral vascular disease are serious conditions that a doctor must monitor closely.

Both cause complications that can have serious, on-going effects. These complications may include:

• foot ulcers or wounds that do not heal
• infections, including skin infections, bone infections, and abscesses
• gangrene, when an infection causes tissue death
• foot deformity
• Charcot’s foot, which alters the shape of the feet as bones in the foot and toe shift or break

Sometimes, doctors can reverse complications, such as infections. However, others, including gangrene, may lead to permanent physical changes.

A doctor may recommend amputation if a person develops gangrene

When to see a doctor

People who have diabetes should see a doctor regularly as part of their care.

However, anyone who notices any of the following changes should seek immediate medical attention:

• changes in skin colour on the foot
• swelling in the foot or ankle
• temperature changes in the feet
• persistent sores on the feet
• pain or tingling in the feet or ankles
• ingrowing toenails
• athlete’s foot or other fungal infections of the feet
• dry, cracked skin on the heels
• signs of infection

Treatment

Treatment for diabetic foot problems varies according to the severity of the condition. A range of surgical and nonsurgical options is available.

Nonsurgical treatment

A doctor will first attempt to treat diabetic foot problems without using surgery. Some methods include:

• keeping wounds clean and dressed
• wearing immobilization devices, such as a cast boot or total contact cast
• closely observing any gangrene on the toes until self-amputation occurs, which is when the toes fall off due to lack of blood flow

Surgical treatment

When nonsurgical treatment does not successfully heal diabetic foot problems, the doctor might consider surgery. Surgical options include:

• the removal of decaying or dead tissue
• amputation, ranging from single toes or sections of foot to amputation of the leg below or even above the knee
• surgical stabilization of Charcot’s Foot
• an arterial bypass for peripheral vascular disease, which assists blood flow to the area
• endovascular surgery with placement of stents, which uses small devices to keep blood vessels open

Diabetic foot care

                                 A person should try to wash the feet every day

Preventing foot problems is essential for people who have diabetes. Keeping feet healthy is critical, and a person should be vigilant about foot hygiene. They can take the following steps:

• Check the feet each day: Examine the feet daily, or ask someone to check for any changes or injuries.
• Wash the feet daily: Keep the feet clean to prevent infections.
• Wear supportive shoes and socks: Protect the feet in socks and shoes at all times. A podiatrist may recommend special shoes to help prevent deformities. Do not apply socks so tightly that they restrict blood flow.
• Promote blood flow to the feet: Put the feet up when sitting, wiggle the toes periodically, and get enough exercise. These actions help promote healthy blood flow to the feet.
• Trim nails carefully: Trim toenails straight across and keep them short. Rounded nails can grow inward, leading to infection.
• Care for corns and bunions: Treat corns and bunions carefully. Never shave corns, as this increases the risk of infection.
• Protect feet from extreme temperatures: Exposure to extreme hot and cold can damage the feet of people with diabetes.
• Receive regular examinations on the feet: Regular examinations by a doctor are key to preventing infections, amputations, and severe deformities.
• Control blood sugar: Uncontrolled blood sugars increase the risk of podiatric complications from diabetes.
• Avoid smoking: Smoking adversely affects blood flow to the tissues, which can make foot problems worse in people with diabetes.

Prevention

Diabetes can cause serious foot problems that can result in feet or limb loss, deformity, and infections. However, it is possible for a person to prevent or minimize many of these problems.

While controlling blood sugar by following the recommended diabetes treatment plans is the best way to prevent these serious problems, self-care and regular check-ups with a doctor can also help prevent problems from developing.

Summary

Foot problems in diabetes can occur due to restricted blood flow and unnoticed cuts and infections that develop due to numbness in the area.

A person with diabetes needs regular podiatric checks to ensure that any foot problems do not develop into complications.

A doctor will try to treat the feet using sterilization, observation, and, possibly, immobilization devices, such as a cast boot. If these are not effective, they might recommend surgery to remove infected tissue that has the potential to spread.

This might require amputation above or below the knee.

People with diabetes need to keep their feet clean, undergo regular monitoring, and put on supportive footwear to minimize complications and foot issues.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/317504

Study reveals the role of our ‘second brain’ in type 2 diabetes

From medicalnewstoday.com

Researchers have uncovered new clues to the mystery of how the gut’s nervous system affects glucose metabolism in the rest of the body. Their findings could lead to new treatments for type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes causes the body’s cells to become less sensitive to signals from insulin, the hormone responsible for regulating levels of glucose in the blood.

This low sensitivity is called insulin resistance, and it keeps the cells from absorbing the extra glucose that enters the bloodstream after a meal.

Over time, high concentrations of glucose in the blood damage tissues all over the body, causing complications such as heart disease, vision loss, and kidney disease.

The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that more than 30 million people in the United States have type 2 diabetes.

Changes to the diet, exercise, and other aspects of life can improve symptoms and even reverse the condition in some people. Drugs are also available to treat type 2 diabetes, but they can cause side effects such as nausea and diarrhoea.

Another drawback to some antidiabetic drugs is that they have to be injected.

Discovering oral treatments that are not only effective but also free of side effects is therefore a priority for diabetes researchers.

Now, a group of scientists, many affiliated with the French National Institute of Health and Medical Research, or INSERM, in Toulouse, believe that they are a step closer to developing such a treatment. They have published their findings in the journal Gut.

Friendly bacteria

This latest research builds on previous work suggesting that fat, or lipid, molecules produced by “friendly” gut bacteria can improve blood glucose metabolism.

These lipids are thought to influence the gut-brain axis — the vital two-way communication between the brain and the gut’s highly developed nervous system, also known as the enteric nervous system or “second brain.”

In type 2 diabetes, communication between the gut and brain appears to break down. As a result, after a meal, the brain fails to send signals to the liver, muscles, and fat tissue telling them to absorb more glucose from the bloodstream. This, in turn, leads to insulin resistance.

Normally the duodenum, the first part of the small intestine, signals to the brain, which involves a relaxation of the smooth muscles in its lining. In individuals with type 2 diabetes, however, these muscles are permanently contracted, or hypercontractile, so the signal is never sent.

The researchers believe that friendly gut bacteria are the key to reversing hypercontractility and restoring healthy glucose metabolism.

Nutrients that feed friendly bacteria are called prebiotics. In particular, carbohydrates called fructooligosaccharides (FOS) are known to promote the growth of bacteria that improve glucose metabolism through the production of various lipids.

However, the identity of these lipids has remained unknown until now.

Key lipids

To find out more, the researchers fed mice a special diet supplemented with FOS. Then, they compared the contents of their colons with those of mice that did not receive supplementary FOS.

The team discovered that the only lipid with significantly increased levels in the colons of the FOS mice was a lipid called 12-HETE.

When they fed 12-HETE to diabetic mice, the lipid not only reduced duodenal hypercontraction but also improved the mice’s blood glucose levels.

To explore whether these results applied to humans, the scientists analysed biopsies from the duodenums of people with type 2 diabetes who had received antidiabetic treatments and those of healthy volunteers who had not.

They found that there was 38% less 12-HETE in the duodenums of the people with diabetes, compared with the healthy volunteers. The researchers acknowledge that this finding was not statistically significant, but also point to the small numbers of volunteers in their study.

Finally, they showed that 12-HETE reduces muscle contraction in the duodenum by boosting the signal from a nerve receptor called the mu-opioid receptor. This restored communication between the gut and the brain.

Intimate relationships

This study is one of the latest to reveal intimate relationships between the bacteria in the human gut, known collectively as the microbiota, and our health.

The scientists are optimistic that their work will inspire new treatments, which could either boost production of 12-HETE in the gut or involve taking the lipid orally, as a supplement.

In their paper, the researchers conclude:

“Using a combination of nutritional and pharmacological approaches, we have identified a new mode of communication between gut microbes and the host. In addition, we have identified novel targets and their mechanisms of action in rodents, and possibly in humans. The identification of specific targets […] to treat [type 2 diabetes] and its comorbidities represent a ground-breaking solution to develop medications without side effects.”

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/study-reveals-the-role-of-our-second-brain-in-diabetes#Intimate-relationships

Here Are The Early Signs of Diabetes

From yahoo.com/lifestyle

So many people have diabetes—about 1.5 million are diagnosed in the United States each year, and nearly 1 in 10 Americans have it—you'd think it'd be easy to spot. But although the condition is relatively common, many people go undiagnosed because the early symptoms can be vague, easily overlooked at first, or confused with other conditions.

Here from Eat This, Not That! Health are the first signals your body might send when you develop diabetes.

Increased Thirst

A very common early sign of diabetes, increased thirst happens because diabetes causes sugar (glucose) to build up in the bloodstream. Normally, the kidneys process glucose, but when they become overwhelmed, the excess glucose is flushed out with your urine. Water from other body tissues is pulled along with it, leaving you dehydrated and craving fluids to replace what you've lost.

The Rx: Experts such as Harvard Medical School advise drinking four to six cups of water per day. If you're hydrating adequately but you've noticed an uptick in thirst, talk with your doctor.

Frequent Urination

In early diabetes, the body will increase urine production, attempting to flush out that excess blood sugar, and you might find yourself having to go more often. "It's important to know what is normal for your body," says Leigh Tracy, RD, LDN, CDE, a registered dietitian and diabetes program coordinator at Mercy Medical Centre in Baltimore. "The average individual urinates between seven and eight times per day, but for some, up to 10 times per day is normal."

The Rx: "If you are urinating more than your norm, and especially if you are waking up multiple times in the middle of the night to urinate, speak with your primary care physician right away," says Tracy.

Excessive Hunger

Diabetes causes blood glucose to rise uncontrollably. At the same time, it prevents cells from using glucose for energy. That lack of energy can make you hungry.

The Rx: "If you notice you're constantly hungry even though you have just eaten regular meals and snacks during the day, you should speak with your doctor," says Tracy.

Fatigue

Because diabetes elevates blood sugar at the same time it prevents the body from using it for energy, that can make you fatigued. Frequent urination can also disrupt your sleep.

The Rx: There's a difference between tiredness and fatigue. Normal tiredness gets better after rest. But if you still feel worn out despite getting an adequate amount of sleep, it's worth discussing with your doctor.

Blurred Vision

According to the Mayo Clinic, high levels of blood glucose pull fluid from your tissues, including the lenses of your eyes. This can affect your ability to focus and cause blurry vision. Diabetes can also cause new blood vessels to form in the retinas, damaging established vessels. If those changes progress untreated, they can lead to vision loss.

The Rx: If you're experiencing any signs of diabetes such as blurred vision, it's important to see your doctor ASAP, and regularly if you're diagnosed. "Diabetes is a progressive disease, even in patients with excellent lifestyles," says Sarah Rettinger, MD, an endocrinologist at Providence Saint John's Health Centre in Santa Monica, California. 

Cuts or Bruises That Won't Heal

Diabetes can make skin injuries, such as cuts and bruises, slower to heal. High blood sugar can stiffen blood vessels, slowing blood flow and preventing oxygen and nutrients from getting to cuts and bruises to heal them. Diabetes can also impair the immune system, slowing the body's natural repair processes.

The Rx: If you notice that cuts or bruises aren't healing as quickly as they have in the past, see your healthcare provider.

 

Unintentional Weight Loss

Losing weight without any changes in diet or exercise may sound great, but it's the definition of too good to be true: It can signify a serious health condition such as hyperthyroidism, cancer or diabetes. When diabetics lose glucose through frequent urination, they also lose calories. Diabetes may also keep cells from absorbing glucose from food for energy, and the body may begin to burn its fat stores as fuel instead. Both can result in weight loss.

The Rx: If you're shedding pounds without trying, see your doctor and ask if you should be tested for diabetes.

Tingling, Pain or Numbness In Hands or Feet

Diabetes can lead to a kind of nerve damage called neuropathy, which can cause tingling or numbness in your extremities like hands or feet. This is dangerous because numbness can make cuts or injuries easier to overlook, and because diabetes can cause wounds to heal more slowly, complications can result.

The Rx: Be aware of what's going on with your body, and if you're experiencing any unusual pain, numbness or tingling in your hands or feet, see a healthcare provider without delay.

No Symptoms

"People often have no symptoms of diabetes," says Kristine Arthur, MD, an internist at MemorialCare Medical Group in Irvine, California. "Sometimes they may notice weight gain, persistent hunger and increased fatigue associated with high insulin levels, but these symptoms can be present in other conditions, so it is important to have blood tests done to find out what is the cause."

The Rx: Have your HgbA1c (sometimes called "A1c") levels checked with a blood test every year during your routine checkup.

https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/early-signs-diabetes-135103084.html

Managing type 2 diabetes with Giloy: Know how the immunity-boosting herb can control blood sugar

From timesnownews.com/health

By Anushree Gupta

Giloy has recently been in the news for COVID-19 immunity, and pose-COVID care. However, very few people are aware that the herb can also help in the management of COVID-19

                                                                Photo Credit: iStock Images 

Key Highlights

• Type 2 diabetes affects millions of people around the world

• There exist herbs, remedies, and food items that can help in better management of the condition

• One such herb is Giloy - Know how it helps in blood sugar management and how you can use it.

New Delhi: Type 2 diabetes has reached epidemic levels all around the world, with the lifestyle disease affecting even younger people now. Type 2 diabetes cannot be reversed, however, effective treatment and management of blood sugar can ensure that the complications that arise from the disease are taken care of, and the rest of the body is not affected due to the disease. Apart from following a diet low in sugar content, diabetics should include certain foods in their diet as they help in reducing insulin resistance, boost production of insulin, and help to control blood sugar. One such food or herb is Giloy.

Giloy has recently been in the news for COVID-19 immunity, and pose-COVID care. Giloy is known for its immunity-boosting properties, and people, therefore, are consuming the herb in one form or another, to keep the risk of severe disease due to coronavirus at bay. However, very few people are aware that the herb is also a great remedy for diabetes, and can help in its management.

How Giloy helps in the management of Type 2 diabetes

According to a study undertaken by the National Centre for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), giloy has significant anti-diabetic activity and has an efficacy of 40 per cent to 80 per cent compared to insulin. 

Giloy is also known to have properties that help in burning extra glucose in the body, which helps to moderate sugar levels. The herb is a hypoglycaemic agent, which helps lower the levels of glucose in the system. 

Another way that giloy can help in diabetes management is that it aids in the natural production of insulin. Insulin is the enzyme responsible for the breakdown of sugar into the blood, and an imbalance in the same leads to high blood sugar levels, known as diabetes. 

Moreover, giloy also aids the digestive system and gut health. Both of these affect how well the food consumed in our body is absorbed by it, and therefore, affect type 2 diabetes. 

How can you use giloy to manage type 2 diabetes?

The best thing about giloy as a home remedy or treatment for type 2 diabetes is the ease of access and convenience of the herb. The herb is easily available in various forms, and you may consume it in whatever way possible. 

• Giloy leaves can be made into juice and consumed.
• You can consume giloy powder, available at all ayurvedic stores, with warm water.
• If you are on the go, you can consume giloy capsules.

If you consume giloy to manage diabetes, remember to consult your doctor and take your medicines accordingly, since it can lead to your blood sugar levels dropping too low, which can also be dangerous.

https://www.timesnownews.com/health/article/managing-type-2-diabetes-with-giloy-know-how-the-immunity-boosting-herb-can-control-blood-sugar/665440