There are two known types of diabetes mellitus: Type 1- which accounts for about 5 to 10% of all diabetes cases - is result the of the pancreas not producing any or insufficient amounts of insulin. Type II diabetes accounts for approximate 90% of all diabetic cases and used to be called Adult Onset Diabetes in the past, however, more children are being diagnosed with this type of diabetes over the past 10 years. Type II diabetes affects about 1 in 10 or 34 million Americans and is increasing in prevalence at an alarming rate (CDC). With type II diabetes - referred to as diabetes for the rest of this article - the pancreas makes insulin in sufficient quantities, however, the body's cells develop what is called insulin resistance. Cells need insulin to help supply them with the energy (sugar) they need to function properly. Because of insufficient amounts of insulin sugar stays in the bloodstream because it is unable to enter cells where it is needed. Prediabetes is a diagnosis that can progress to diabetes if not treated aggressively.
Some risk factors for diabetes include 1) prediabetes 2) overweight/obesity 3) having a close relative with diabetes 4) over age 45 and 5) being African-American, Hispanic American or Indigenous American. But even if you are at high risk of getting diabetes lifestyle changes such as losing weight, increasing physical activity and other behavioral changes can prevent or delay the onset of diabetes.
A diagnosis of diabetes is generally not fatal but if not managed well it can lead to a poor quality of life. Diabetes is the number one cause of amputations in this country and is a leading cause of kidney disease, heart disease, loss of vision and gum disease. While there are numerous medications ( pills and insulin ) for treating diabetes, it's important to become educated about what YOU can do to prevent, treat and sometimes reverse the disease. We've already mentioned the importance of eating a healthy diet. This should be predominantly plant-based with an abundance of fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains and generally unprocessed foods. Some diabetics may need to closely monitor their blood sugar after consuming fruits because of their fructose ( a type of sugar ) content. In short, eat foods that contain high amounts of fiber.
It's also very important to work with your healthcare provider for maintaining a blood sugar level that is appropriate for your personal health status. Monitoring your blood sugar level in the morning and after meals is important and part of good diabetic education management. AHAD Health & Wellness can help improve your understanding of diabetes and assist you with making and sustaining the lifestyle changes that can lessen the impact of diabetes on the quality of your life. We can speak to your community organization, place of employment or place of worship at any time. Just contact us, especially if you are in the Greater Philadelphia area.
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