Magnesium is a mineral that serves a vital role in the human body. Magnesium is found in both plants and animals. It helps plants with photosynthesis and acts as a metabolic reaction in animals. The human body has over three hundred biochemical processes in the body that requires Magnesium.
How does the body use it?
Magnesium is used by the bones in the human body. Approximately, half of the Magnesium in the body is found in the bones. Magnesium helps in the production of the hormone calcitonin. This is used to produce calcium in the bones. It also helps to control the acidity in the blood, which helps the bones as high levels of acid can weaken the bone structure. Children and adults can not live without the daily doses of Magnesium. The lower levels of Magnesium in a person's body the more likely you are to develop certain illnesses and diseases.
Magnesium also helps to control neuromuscular activities of the heart and helps to keep the heart beating regularly. It can also help to keep the person's blood pressure level normal for a period of time.
How much Magnesium does a body need?
According to the National Research Council individuals need between three to four hundred milligrams of Magnesium daily to get the recommended allowances. Adult males need about three hundred and fifty milligrams per day, with adult women needing about two hundred and eighty milligrams that should increase to about four hundred and twenty for pregnant women and during breastfeeding. Children depending on their size and weight need about one hundred and thirty milligrams a day. Statistics show that many individuals do not take the recommended dosages of Magnesium.
What are the common signs of Magnesium Deficiency
They are a variety of illnesses that a person can develop if they do not take the correct amount of Magnesium on a daily basis.
1. Musculo-Skeletal Issues- You can develop such illnesses as osteoporosis, chronic fatigue, and weakness, muscle spasm, tremors, and restlessness.
2. Cardiovascular Disease- They are many types of cardiovascular diseases that can be linked to a lack of Magnesium in the body. These include atherosclerosis, cardiac arrhythmias, and vasospasm. Magnesium can be found in different types of nuts such as almonds and peanuts.
3. Premenstrual Syndrome- Magnesium deficiency has been found to increase the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome.
4. Psychiatric Issues- Individuals who suffer from irritability, depression, or bipolar disorders has been found to have lower levels of Magnesium.
5. Neurological Issues- Individuals who suffer from migraine headaches, noise and pain sensitivity also have been known to experience low levels of Magnesium.
6. Endocrine Issues- Magnesium plays a role in acting as a messenger for insulin. Magnesium is important in the secretion and function of insulin. It plays a key role in controlling the blood sugar levels in the body. It plays an important role in the prevention of diabetes. It also assists the body in turning blood sugar into energy, as key role in the formation of diabetes.
Most individuals don't get the recommended doses of many vitamins and minerals in their daily diets, and they must rely of supplements. The body's system needs these nutrients in order to function correctly, with the daily doses of Magnesium the body can experience a wide range of symptoms that can possibly turn into serious conditions. It is important to see your doctor and find out if you have a Magnesium deficiency this way it can be treated and serious problems averted. You can get your daily amount of Magnesium in such foods as nuts, whole grains and legumes all excellent sources of Magnesium and easy to take.
Friday, June 28, 2013
Diabetes: What Type Of Insulin Is Right For Me?
Rapid onset-fast acting insulin
Rapid onset-fast acting insulin always looks clear. It is fast acting and starts to work within one to 20 minutes. It peaks about one hour later and lasts from three to five hours. When you use this type of insulin, you must eat immediately after you inject.
The two rapid onset-fast acting insulin types currently available are:
1. NovoRapid (Insulin Aspart)
2. Humalog (Lispro).
Short acting insulin
Short acting insulin always look clear. They begin to lower blood glucose levels within half an hour, so you need to have your injection half an hour before eating.
Short acting insulin has a peak effect at two to four hours, and lasts for between six and eight hours. Short acting insulin types currently available include:
1. Actrapid
2. Humulin
3. Hypurin Neutral (bovine - highly purified beef insulin).
Intermediate acting insulin
Intermediate acting insulins always look cloudy. They have either protamine or zinc added to delay their action. These insulins begin to work about 90 minutes after you inject, peak at four to 12 hours, and last for 16 to 24 hours.
Intermediate acting insulins currently available include:
1. With protamine added - Protaphane, Humulin NPH and Hypurin Isophane (bovine).
Preventing Diabetes
You'll need to keep an eye on your blood sugar levels and take treatment for your diabetes for the rest of your life. If you don't have good control of your blood sugar you'll be at risk from damage to the blood vessels and nerves, with problems such as deterioration in eyesight, stroke, kidney disease and infections.
As your doctor has already explained, careful diet and pills are all that are needed in most cases. If you're overweight, simply eating less and losing weight can be enough to allow the insulin to work more effectively.
Why Use Insulin Pumps?
The number of people using insulin pump therapy to manage their diabetes is growing rapidly; roughly 250,000 people around the world use an insulin pump. Their reasons for choosing the pump are many, but generally "pumpers" all agree that it gives them tighter control and more flexibility -- both in terms of their schedule and lifestyle. This control and flexibility includes advantages such as:
1. Eating what you want, when you want
2. Worrying less about low blood sugars ("hypoglycemia")
3. Living life on your terms, not a schedule of snacks and shots
There are many scientific studies that demonstrate that insulin pump therapy results in better outcomes for teens and adults with type 1 diabetes. There are also studies that show that insulin pump therapy works well in toddlers and pre-school children.
Rapid onset-fast acting insulin always looks clear. It is fast acting and starts to work within one to 20 minutes. It peaks about one hour later and lasts from three to five hours. When you use this type of insulin, you must eat immediately after you inject.
The two rapid onset-fast acting insulin types currently available are:
1. NovoRapid (Insulin Aspart)
2. Humalog (Lispro).
Short acting insulin
Short acting insulin always look clear. They begin to lower blood glucose levels within half an hour, so you need to have your injection half an hour before eating.
Short acting insulin has a peak effect at two to four hours, and lasts for between six and eight hours. Short acting insulin types currently available include:
1. Actrapid
2. Humulin
3. Hypurin Neutral (bovine - highly purified beef insulin).
Intermediate acting insulin
Intermediate acting insulins always look cloudy. They have either protamine or zinc added to delay their action. These insulins begin to work about 90 minutes after you inject, peak at four to 12 hours, and last for 16 to 24 hours.
Intermediate acting insulins currently available include:
1. With protamine added - Protaphane, Humulin NPH and Hypurin Isophane (bovine).
Preventing Diabetes
You'll need to keep an eye on your blood sugar levels and take treatment for your diabetes for the rest of your life. If you don't have good control of your blood sugar you'll be at risk from damage to the blood vessels and nerves, with problems such as deterioration in eyesight, stroke, kidney disease and infections.
As your doctor has already explained, careful diet and pills are all that are needed in most cases. If you're overweight, simply eating less and losing weight can be enough to allow the insulin to work more effectively.
Why Use Insulin Pumps?
The number of people using insulin pump therapy to manage their diabetes is growing rapidly; roughly 250,000 people around the world use an insulin pump. Their reasons for choosing the pump are many, but generally "pumpers" all agree that it gives them tighter control and more flexibility -- both in terms of their schedule and lifestyle. This control and flexibility includes advantages such as:
1. Eating what you want, when you want
2. Worrying less about low blood sugars ("hypoglycemia")
3. Living life on your terms, not a schedule of snacks and shots
There are many scientific studies that demonstrate that insulin pump therapy results in better outcomes for teens and adults with type 1 diabetes. There are also studies that show that insulin pump therapy works well in toddlers and pre-school children.
Product Review -- The Jen Fe Fat Diet Patches From Nexagen
When I first heard about the Jen Fe Fat Loss Diet Patches from Nexagen, I was skeptical. I don't believe in miracle weight loss cures and short-cuts. I believe in healthy weight loss by lifestyle changes. And I know that there are lots of diet scams and useless diet aid out there, giving false hope and wasting people's time and hard earned money.
But people all around me who had tried unsucessfully to lose weight and change to a healthier lifestyle and diet, were suddenly losing weight. Not only were they dropping several pounds a week, but they had extra energy (without being jittery) and were even sleeping better. What was going on? I began to do some research. ( I don't recommend a product without a lot of thought and research!)
Here is what I found...
First I was skeptical that a transdermal patch would even work to get a substance through the skin and into the body. But I learned that the skin is actually a permeable organ that allows some things to enter the body, while blocking other. Some substances that the skin especially likes to pass on to the body are fat-soluble substances such as vitamins A, D, E, and K, as well as steroid hormones such as estrogen. Pharmaceutical companies use this knowledge to find ways to make patches that will deliver medication into the body through the skin. The substances enter the bloodstream through the capillary networks in the skin, and spread throughout the body.
The medical community is becoming excited about patches, since they give a constant amount of medication, instead of dumping in too much and letting it wear off, then doing it again, the way oral medication works. Patches are now being used to deliver a number of therapeutic drugs. These include estrogen, scopolamine (motion sickness), nitroglycerin (heart problems), and nicotine (for those trying to quit smoking).
I became convinced that patches, in general, can and do work. So the question is now whether the substances the patch is sending into the body are effective or not. This is the reason that most diet patches do not work. They are using inferior or useless ingredients. Some diet patch companies have even been prosecuted for running scams.
What about the ingredients in the Jen Fe Fat Loss Diet Patch and the Jen Fe Power Patch (a stronger version of the original Fat Loss Patch)?
The Jen Fe Power Patch features a natural blend of patented ingredients--ForsLeanRegistered trademark, the herb Guarana (Paullina cupana), ChromeMate (an effective, natural form of chromium poly-nicotinate), CosmoperineRegistered trademark, 5-HTP and diiodotyrosine.
ForsLeanRegistered trademark, an extract of the herb Coleus Forskohlii, which contains an active ingredient in it called forskolin. This herb has been used in ayruvedic medicine for many years. Forskolin has been shown to not only enhance fat burning, but it may also inhibit fat storage from occurring. Another way that forskolin may allow for fat loss to occur is by stimulating thyroid hormone production and release. Thyroid hormone controls metabolism and can enhance metabolic rate, which may translate into more fat loss.
Forskolin does not have dangerous side effects such as increased blood pressure, heart palpitations, nervousness and jitteriness, like ephedrine does.
Another benefit of forskolin is that it stimulates the digestive enzymes, which can allow individuals to digest and assimilate their food better. It has been shown to increase nutrient absorption in the small intestine as well.
ChromeMate is an effective, natural form of chromium poly-nicotinate, a popular and well researched diet supplement which is linked with the B-vitamin niacin. An essential trace mineral, Chromium helps the body burn calories, promotes fat and weight loss and preserves lean tissues. Chromium helps the body normalize itself metabolically, and sets the stage for safe and steady weight loss. Chromium may also help control sugar cravings.
The herb Guarana (Paullina cupana) is a great source of the energizing, fat-mobilizing substance caffeine. A small amount of caffeine from this herb helps the body move fats out of storage and into the blood where they can serve as a source of energy. Using fat for energy spares the sugar in muscles and the liver, and helps keep up muscle strength and endurance during your diet. Caffeine also helps to increase epinephrine (adrenalin) levels in the blood. Epinephrine boosts attention, alertness, blood sugar and energy, while damping appetite. The caffeine in one Jen Fe Next Diet Patch is about the same as you would find in an average-sized cup of tea.
Aside from caffeine, Guarana is a rich source of epicathechin and proanthocyanidins. Epicathechin is recognized as the potent antioxidant and health-protector in green tea, while the benefits of proanthocyanidins in red wine are widely known. In addition to protective effects, epicatechin itself boosts metabolism and calorie burning.
CosmoperineRegistered trademark, the active ingredient of black pepper and long pepper, allows the Jen Fe Next Patch to offer increased delivery and patch performance without compromising factors like gentleness or skin irritation. Homeopathically potentiated thyreodinum extract also helps maintain the careful balance Jen Fe Next Patch is known for.
Diiodotyrosine, a building block for T3 and T4, can assist the thyroid gland to maintain its function and help preserve lean muscle. Thyroid function is critical to metabolism and weight management. During dieting, the body inevitably slows down production of the thyroid gland's hormones T3 and T4 in an attempt to keep the body in equilibrium. Dieters are forced to reduce calorie intake to the point where the body starts to use muscle glycogen as a source of energy.
5- HTP is an amino acid produced by the African plant Griffonia simplicifolia that acts as a natural and powerful appetite suppressant. What makes 5-HTP most remarkable is that it suppresses the appetite cravings for carbohydrate calories, but not protein or fat calories, making 5-HTP ideal for those on low-carbohydrate diets.
All these dynamic ingredients are absorbed slowly through the skin to stimulate your body's metabolism. The result is a safe and easy way for you to increase your energy levels and, with proper diet and exercise, achieve a whole new level of wellness!
Well, after going through all this research, it didn't take me long to sign up with Nexagen (although you don't need to sign up as a distributor to get the products.) And as the pounds begin to come off, I haven't regretted a minute of it
But people all around me who had tried unsucessfully to lose weight and change to a healthier lifestyle and diet, were suddenly losing weight. Not only were they dropping several pounds a week, but they had extra energy (without being jittery) and were even sleeping better. What was going on? I began to do some research. ( I don't recommend a product without a lot of thought and research!)
Here is what I found...
First I was skeptical that a transdermal patch would even work to get a substance through the skin and into the body. But I learned that the skin is actually a permeable organ that allows some things to enter the body, while blocking other. Some substances that the skin especially likes to pass on to the body are fat-soluble substances such as vitamins A, D, E, and K, as well as steroid hormones such as estrogen. Pharmaceutical companies use this knowledge to find ways to make patches that will deliver medication into the body through the skin. The substances enter the bloodstream through the capillary networks in the skin, and spread throughout the body.
The medical community is becoming excited about patches, since they give a constant amount of medication, instead of dumping in too much and letting it wear off, then doing it again, the way oral medication works. Patches are now being used to deliver a number of therapeutic drugs. These include estrogen, scopolamine (motion sickness), nitroglycerin (heart problems), and nicotine (for those trying to quit smoking).
I became convinced that patches, in general, can and do work. So the question is now whether the substances the patch is sending into the body are effective or not. This is the reason that most diet patches do not work. They are using inferior or useless ingredients. Some diet patch companies have even been prosecuted for running scams.
What about the ingredients in the Jen Fe Fat Loss Diet Patch and the Jen Fe Power Patch (a stronger version of the original Fat Loss Patch)?
The Jen Fe Power Patch features a natural blend of patented ingredients--ForsLeanRegistered trademark, the herb Guarana (Paullina cupana), ChromeMate (an effective, natural form of chromium poly-nicotinate), CosmoperineRegistered trademark, 5-HTP and diiodotyrosine.
ForsLeanRegistered trademark, an extract of the herb Coleus Forskohlii, which contains an active ingredient in it called forskolin. This herb has been used in ayruvedic medicine for many years. Forskolin has been shown to not only enhance fat burning, but it may also inhibit fat storage from occurring. Another way that forskolin may allow for fat loss to occur is by stimulating thyroid hormone production and release. Thyroid hormone controls metabolism and can enhance metabolic rate, which may translate into more fat loss.
Forskolin does not have dangerous side effects such as increased blood pressure, heart palpitations, nervousness and jitteriness, like ephedrine does.
Another benefit of forskolin is that it stimulates the digestive enzymes, which can allow individuals to digest and assimilate their food better. It has been shown to increase nutrient absorption in the small intestine as well.
ChromeMate is an effective, natural form of chromium poly-nicotinate, a popular and well researched diet supplement which is linked with the B-vitamin niacin. An essential trace mineral, Chromium helps the body burn calories, promotes fat and weight loss and preserves lean tissues. Chromium helps the body normalize itself metabolically, and sets the stage for safe and steady weight loss. Chromium may also help control sugar cravings.
The herb Guarana (Paullina cupana) is a great source of the energizing, fat-mobilizing substance caffeine. A small amount of caffeine from this herb helps the body move fats out of storage and into the blood where they can serve as a source of energy. Using fat for energy spares the sugar in muscles and the liver, and helps keep up muscle strength and endurance during your diet. Caffeine also helps to increase epinephrine (adrenalin) levels in the blood. Epinephrine boosts attention, alertness, blood sugar and energy, while damping appetite. The caffeine in one Jen Fe Next Diet Patch is about the same as you would find in an average-sized cup of tea.
Aside from caffeine, Guarana is a rich source of epicathechin and proanthocyanidins. Epicathechin is recognized as the potent antioxidant and health-protector in green tea, while the benefits of proanthocyanidins in red wine are widely known. In addition to protective effects, epicatechin itself boosts metabolism and calorie burning.
CosmoperineRegistered trademark, the active ingredient of black pepper and long pepper, allows the Jen Fe Next Patch to offer increased delivery and patch performance without compromising factors like gentleness or skin irritation. Homeopathically potentiated thyreodinum extract also helps maintain the careful balance Jen Fe Next Patch is known for.
Diiodotyrosine, a building block for T3 and T4, can assist the thyroid gland to maintain its function and help preserve lean muscle. Thyroid function is critical to metabolism and weight management. During dieting, the body inevitably slows down production of the thyroid gland's hormones T3 and T4 in an attempt to keep the body in equilibrium. Dieters are forced to reduce calorie intake to the point where the body starts to use muscle glycogen as a source of energy.
5- HTP is an amino acid produced by the African plant Griffonia simplicifolia that acts as a natural and powerful appetite suppressant. What makes 5-HTP most remarkable is that it suppresses the appetite cravings for carbohydrate calories, but not protein or fat calories, making 5-HTP ideal for those on low-carbohydrate diets.
All these dynamic ingredients are absorbed slowly through the skin to stimulate your body's metabolism. The result is a safe and easy way for you to increase your energy levels and, with proper diet and exercise, achieve a whole new level of wellness!
Well, after going through all this research, it didn't take me long to sign up with Nexagen (although you don't need to sign up as a distributor to get the products.) And as the pounds begin to come off, I haven't regretted a minute of it
Making Smart Choices With The Glycemic Index
The Glycemic Index (GI) has been around since 1981 and is a great blueprint for eating healthy.
With a growing population of diabetics and overweight individuals, eating within GI guidelines, meaning that you take into account how much a particular food raises blood sugar and over stresses insulin production, is gaining interest among the medical community and the public.
What is the Glycemic Index (GI)?
The Glycemic Index indicates how quickly 50 grams of a food's carbohydrates turn into sugar. At the most basic level, the GI ranks carbohydrate filled foods according to their glycemic response. Foods that raise your blood glucose level very fast have a higher GI rating than foods that raise your blood glucose level at a slower pace. In general, lower GI foods are the healthier choice.
What are the benefits of low GI foods?
Trying to keep the bulk of your food in the low GI rating can offer a number of benefits, these include:
- Controlling your blood glucose level
- Controlling your cholesterol level
- Reducing your risk of type 2 diabetes
- Assists in lowering and controlling weight
- Reducing your risk of heart disease
- Prolonging your physical endurance
How do I lower my GI?
There are simple steps you can take to lower your Glycemic Index. Here are a few ideas.
- Limit your bread intake to whole grains and oats (No White Bread)
- If you are eating a high GI food, try combining it with a low GI food (see chart)
- Eat multiple servings of fresh fruits and vegetables. They fill you up and have a low GI.
- Try rice vinegar in place of salad dressings.
- Limit your intake of processed and starchy foods.
- Choose healthy fats such as canola and olive oil.
For more ideas and a more in depth look at the GI, you may want to look at the following books.
"Sugar Busters"
"Eat Yourself Slim"
"The G.I. Diet"
Glycemic Index Food Chart
Low Glycemic Index food (less than 55)
Foods with GI index between 55 and 70 are intermediate
High Glycemic Index food GI (more than 70)
Low Glycemic Foods
Apple 38
Pear 38
Skim Milk 32
Carrot Juice 45
Whole Grain Bread 50
Low Fat Yogurt 14
Oranges 44
Spaghetti, whole wheat 37
Sweet potato 54
Jams and marmalades 49
Popcorn 55
Artichoke 15
Asparagus 15
Broccoli 15
Cauliflower 15
Celery 15
Cucumber 15
Eggplant 15
Green beans 15
Lettuce, all varieties 15
Low-fat yogurt, artificially sweetened 15
Peppers, all varieties 15
Snow peas 15
Spinach 15
Young summer squash 15
Tomatoes 15
Zucchini 15
Soya beans, boiled 16
Peas, dried 22
Kidney beans, boiled 29
Lentils green, boiled 29
Chickpeas 33
High Glycemic Foods
Waffles 76
Doughnut 76
White bread 71
Rice Krispies 82
Cornflakes 83
Corn chips 74
Jelly beans 80
Pretzels 81
Rice Cakes 82
Potato, instant 83
Potato, baked 85
Rice pasta, brown 92
Dates 103
The GI should help you make smart choices when choosing what to eat. Remember to make most of your choices on balanced nutrition...including a healthy dose of fruits and vegetables. Make an effort to cut back on foods with refined starch and concentrated sugar. Include some healthful fats and do not forget the protein.
Here's to your health!
With a growing population of diabetics and overweight individuals, eating within GI guidelines, meaning that you take into account how much a particular food raises blood sugar and over stresses insulin production, is gaining interest among the medical community and the public.
What is the Glycemic Index (GI)?
The Glycemic Index indicates how quickly 50 grams of a food's carbohydrates turn into sugar. At the most basic level, the GI ranks carbohydrate filled foods according to their glycemic response. Foods that raise your blood glucose level very fast have a higher GI rating than foods that raise your blood glucose level at a slower pace. In general, lower GI foods are the healthier choice.
What are the benefits of low GI foods?
Trying to keep the bulk of your food in the low GI rating can offer a number of benefits, these include:
- Controlling your blood glucose level
- Controlling your cholesterol level
- Reducing your risk of type 2 diabetes
- Assists in lowering and controlling weight
- Reducing your risk of heart disease
- Prolonging your physical endurance
How do I lower my GI?
There are simple steps you can take to lower your Glycemic Index. Here are a few ideas.
- Limit your bread intake to whole grains and oats (No White Bread)
- If you are eating a high GI food, try combining it with a low GI food (see chart)
- Eat multiple servings of fresh fruits and vegetables. They fill you up and have a low GI.
- Try rice vinegar in place of salad dressings.
- Limit your intake of processed and starchy foods.
- Choose healthy fats such as canola and olive oil.
For more ideas and a more in depth look at the GI, you may want to look at the following books.
"Sugar Busters"
"Eat Yourself Slim"
"The G.I. Diet"
Glycemic Index Food Chart
Low Glycemic Index food (less than 55)
Foods with GI index between 55 and 70 are intermediate
High Glycemic Index food GI (more than 70)
Low Glycemic Foods
Apple 38
Pear 38
Skim Milk 32
Carrot Juice 45
Whole Grain Bread 50
Low Fat Yogurt 14
Oranges 44
Spaghetti, whole wheat 37
Sweet potato 54
Jams and marmalades 49
Popcorn 55
Artichoke 15
Asparagus 15
Broccoli 15
Cauliflower 15
Celery 15
Cucumber 15
Eggplant 15
Green beans 15
Lettuce, all varieties 15
Low-fat yogurt, artificially sweetened 15
Peppers, all varieties 15
Snow peas 15
Spinach 15
Young summer squash 15
Tomatoes 15
Zucchini 15
Soya beans, boiled 16
Peas, dried 22
Kidney beans, boiled 29
Lentils green, boiled 29
Chickpeas 33
High Glycemic Foods
Waffles 76
Doughnut 76
White bread 71
Rice Krispies 82
Cornflakes 83
Corn chips 74
Jelly beans 80
Pretzels 81
Rice Cakes 82
Potato, instant 83
Potato, baked 85
Rice pasta, brown 92
Dates 103
The GI should help you make smart choices when choosing what to eat. Remember to make most of your choices on balanced nutrition...including a healthy dose of fruits and vegetables. Make an effort to cut back on foods with refined starch and concentrated sugar. Include some healthful fats and do not forget the protein.
Here's to your health!
Caring For Your Diabetic Cat
If your cat has just been diagnosed with diabetes, you might be afraid of what the future holds for your beloved pet. The good news is that cats can live long, healthy lives after being diagnosed with diabetes. The trick is that you, as a pet owner, must be dedicated to care for your cat during his or her illness. Diabetes is not a death sentence for pets. Here is some information to help you understand what you need to do to help your diabetic cat.
Regular Medical Care: After your cat has been diagnosed with diabetes, it is imperative that you visit your veterinarian on a regular basis. Your cat will need regular checkups to check the blood sugar levels and to make sure that he or she is receiving the right amount of insulin. When your cat goes in for a check up, the vet will ask that you do not feed your cat twelve hours part to the checkup. While your cat is at the check up, your veterinarian will draw blood and check blood sugar levels. People that have diabetes are able to check their blood sugar at home. However, this is not possible with cats unless you buy a glucose monitoring system. Your will probably ask that you bring your cat in every three months for this type of checkup.
Getting your Cat Insulin: When your cat has diabetes, it is your responsibility to make sure that your cat receives the proper dose of insulin twice a day. The amount of insulin that your cat will need will vary according to your cat's individual condition. Most cats will receive between three and five units of insulin to times per day. It is important that you establish a routine for your cat. Your cat needs to receive insulin 12 hours apart. Most people that have diabetic cats will give their cat and insulin shot at the same time every morning and at the same time every evening.
It is not difficult to learn to give your cat insulin injections. Your veterinarian will walk you through the process, and then you can repeat this at home. Usually your veterinarian will recommend that you give your cat injections between the shoulder blades in the scruff of the neck. With patience and practice, your cat will barely feel the injections. In fact, most diabetic cats know when it is time to get their injection and they may actually remind you by meowing.
Stocking the Right Supplies: It is important that you have the right supplies on hand to help treat your diabetic cat. You will need a vial of insulin as prescribed by your veterinarian, syringes and alcohol swabs. It is always a good idea to order your insulin when you are about halfway empty. It may take a couple days for your veterinarian to order your insulin. Your veterinarian might also recommend getting your diabetic cat vitamin supplements and seating him or a special prescription diet such as Science Diet W/D. You must be able to see your cat immediately after he or she receives their injection. It is also a good idea to have some numbers to your veterinarian into at least two 24-hour emergency vet clinics available with you at all times just in case your cat needs help.
Many people who owned diabetic cats worried about the costs that this condition incurs. It certainly does cost money to take care of a diabetic cat. A vial of insulin will cost you approximately $85 and will last you about two months. A box of 100 Syringes will cost about $30 and will last you 50 days, as you should use a new syringe for each injection. Prescription food will cost you about $40 for a 20-pound bag. However, it is important to remember that your cat is a part of your family. Most pet owners do not hesitate spending this kind of money on their pets.
Patience and Love: Above of all when you have a diabetic cat, you need a lot of patience and a lot of love. It is not always easy to care for sick and ailing cat. However, with the right care, you can expect your diabetic cat to have many more years of happy life.
Regular Medical Care: After your cat has been diagnosed with diabetes, it is imperative that you visit your veterinarian on a regular basis. Your cat will need regular checkups to check the blood sugar levels and to make sure that he or she is receiving the right amount of insulin. When your cat goes in for a check up, the vet will ask that you do not feed your cat twelve hours part to the checkup. While your cat is at the check up, your veterinarian will draw blood and check blood sugar levels. People that have diabetes are able to check their blood sugar at home. However, this is not possible with cats unless you buy a glucose monitoring system. Your will probably ask that you bring your cat in every three months for this type of checkup.
Getting your Cat Insulin: When your cat has diabetes, it is your responsibility to make sure that your cat receives the proper dose of insulin twice a day. The amount of insulin that your cat will need will vary according to your cat's individual condition. Most cats will receive between three and five units of insulin to times per day. It is important that you establish a routine for your cat. Your cat needs to receive insulin 12 hours apart. Most people that have diabetic cats will give their cat and insulin shot at the same time every morning and at the same time every evening.
It is not difficult to learn to give your cat insulin injections. Your veterinarian will walk you through the process, and then you can repeat this at home. Usually your veterinarian will recommend that you give your cat injections between the shoulder blades in the scruff of the neck. With patience and practice, your cat will barely feel the injections. In fact, most diabetic cats know when it is time to get their injection and they may actually remind you by meowing.
Stocking the Right Supplies: It is important that you have the right supplies on hand to help treat your diabetic cat. You will need a vial of insulin as prescribed by your veterinarian, syringes and alcohol swabs. It is always a good idea to order your insulin when you are about halfway empty. It may take a couple days for your veterinarian to order your insulin. Your veterinarian might also recommend getting your diabetic cat vitamin supplements and seating him or a special prescription diet such as Science Diet W/D. You must be able to see your cat immediately after he or she receives their injection. It is also a good idea to have some numbers to your veterinarian into at least two 24-hour emergency vet clinics available with you at all times just in case your cat needs help.
Many people who owned diabetic cats worried about the costs that this condition incurs. It certainly does cost money to take care of a diabetic cat. A vial of insulin will cost you approximately $85 and will last you about two months. A box of 100 Syringes will cost about $30 and will last you 50 days, as you should use a new syringe for each injection. Prescription food will cost you about $40 for a 20-pound bag. However, it is important to remember that your cat is a part of your family. Most pet owners do not hesitate spending this kind of money on their pets.
Patience and Love: Above of all when you have a diabetic cat, you need a lot of patience and a lot of love. It is not always easy to care for sick and ailing cat. However, with the right care, you can expect your diabetic cat to have many more years of happy life.
Thursday, June 27, 2013
Treatment for Type 2 Diabetes
In type 2 diabetes, the body is still producing insulin but it is not being utilized properly.
This is known as insulin resistance. When a person is diagnosed with type 2 diabetes,
there are more treatment options available to them as opposed to people diagnosed with
type 1 diabetes.
Depending on the blood sugar levels in a patient, their weight and other health factors,
the doctor will decide whether the diabetes can be controlled by one of the following
methods:
* Diet and exercise - a healthy balanced diet with regular exercise can be used for
people newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes whose blood sugar levels are only
slightly elevated
* Oral medication - is for patients whose blood sugars are higher than they should
be but not to the point that necessitates an injection of insulin
* Insulin injections - a daily injection (or more) of insulin is needed when higher
blood sugars are present
A type 2 diabetic may cycle through the different treatment methods throughout their
lifetime. It is based on how well they are managing their diabetes and how their body is
reacting to the treatment plan. Some people will never have to go past the diet and
exercise portion and can gain control by maintaining a healthy body weight and eating
the right foods on a diabetic diet.
Other people may start at diet and exercise but as the disease progresses may have to
move from oral medication to injections over time. These changes will be determined by
your doctor based on physical check-ups and the results of your daily blood sugar
monitoring. If you would like to cut back on your medication or the type of treatment
you are on, speak to your doctor about your goal and a plan can be put in place to better
manage your diabetes.
This is known as insulin resistance. When a person is diagnosed with type 2 diabetes,
there are more treatment options available to them as opposed to people diagnosed with
type 1 diabetes.
Depending on the blood sugar levels in a patient, their weight and other health factors,
the doctor will decide whether the diabetes can be controlled by one of the following
methods:
* Diet and exercise - a healthy balanced diet with regular exercise can be used for
people newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes whose blood sugar levels are only
slightly elevated
* Oral medication - is for patients whose blood sugars are higher than they should
be but not to the point that necessitates an injection of insulin
* Insulin injections - a daily injection (or more) of insulin is needed when higher
blood sugars are present
A type 2 diabetic may cycle through the different treatment methods throughout their
lifetime. It is based on how well they are managing their diabetes and how their body is
reacting to the treatment plan. Some people will never have to go past the diet and
exercise portion and can gain control by maintaining a healthy body weight and eating
the right foods on a diabetic diet.
Other people may start at diet and exercise but as the disease progresses may have to
move from oral medication to injections over time. These changes will be determined by
your doctor based on physical check-ups and the results of your daily blood sugar
monitoring. If you would like to cut back on your medication or the type of treatment
you are on, speak to your doctor about your goal and a plan can be put in place to better
manage your diabetes.
Coping with Diabetes
Every day, in the United States, more than 2000 new cases of diabetes are diagnosed. Type II diabetes, the most prevalent form of diabetes worldwide, often shows few or even no symptoms!
After eating, food is broken down into what is known as glucose, a sugar carried by the blood to cells throughout the body. Using a hormone known as insulin, made in the pancreas, cells process glucose into energy.
Because cells in the muscles, liver, and fat do not use insulin properly in the body of a person with type II diabetes, they have problems converting food into energy. Eventually, the pancreas cannot make enough insulin for the body's needs. The amount of glucose in the body increases, and the cells are starved of energy.
This starvation of the cells, paired with the high blood glucose level can damage nerves and blood vessels. This leads to complications such as kidney disease, nerve problems, blindness, and heart ailments.
There are a lot of factors that can help to attribute to diabetes cases - lifestyle, environment, heredity - and those who are at risk should be screened regularly to prevent diabetes. Those that are already diagnosed with diabetes should aim to keep their glucose level under control.
But how do you know if you have type II diabetes? After all, it has few symptoms, often no symptoms in some patients. However, if you notice an increased thirst or hunger, a change in weight, or blurred vision, getting tested for type II diabetes is necessary, as only your doctor will be able to help you find the treatment steps necessary to being able to manage your life with diabetes.
Simple changes such as eating right, managing your weight, and keeping your blood sugar level under control may be enough. However, you doctor may prescribe diabetes-regulating medications to assist you in controlling your type II diabetes.
Diabetes is a serious ailment with extreme consequences if it isn't treated properly. But if you follow your doctor's advice and maintain both your lifestyle and blood sugar levels, you can help to prevent the more serious consequences from occurring.
This article is for information purposes only and is not meant to treat, diagnose or prevent any ailment or disease. See your physician for proper diagnosis and treatment.
After eating, food is broken down into what is known as glucose, a sugar carried by the blood to cells throughout the body. Using a hormone known as insulin, made in the pancreas, cells process glucose into energy.
Because cells in the muscles, liver, and fat do not use insulin properly in the body of a person with type II diabetes, they have problems converting food into energy. Eventually, the pancreas cannot make enough insulin for the body's needs. The amount of glucose in the body increases, and the cells are starved of energy.
This starvation of the cells, paired with the high blood glucose level can damage nerves and blood vessels. This leads to complications such as kidney disease, nerve problems, blindness, and heart ailments.
There are a lot of factors that can help to attribute to diabetes cases - lifestyle, environment, heredity - and those who are at risk should be screened regularly to prevent diabetes. Those that are already diagnosed with diabetes should aim to keep their glucose level under control.
But how do you know if you have type II diabetes? After all, it has few symptoms, often no symptoms in some patients. However, if you notice an increased thirst or hunger, a change in weight, or blurred vision, getting tested for type II diabetes is necessary, as only your doctor will be able to help you find the treatment steps necessary to being able to manage your life with diabetes.
Simple changes such as eating right, managing your weight, and keeping your blood sugar level under control may be enough. However, you doctor may prescribe diabetes-regulating medications to assist you in controlling your type II diabetes.
Diabetes is a serious ailment with extreme consequences if it isn't treated properly. But if you follow your doctor's advice and maintain both your lifestyle and blood sugar levels, you can help to prevent the more serious consequences from occurring.
This article is for information purposes only and is not meant to treat, diagnose or prevent any ailment or disease. See your physician for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Sopranos Star Takes Control Of Diabetes
Aida Turturro, the actress who plays Janice Soprano on the HBO series "The Sopranos," is one of the more than 20 million Americans who have diabetes.
Turturro was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes (where the body does not produce enough insulin or the cells do not use the insulin properly) in 2000. For more than a year after her initial diagnosis she was in denial and did not take the proper steps-such as diet and exercise-to manage the disease.
Finally, her doctor told her that her blood sugar levels were too high and if she did not learn how to manage the disease, she would suffer serious complications.
"As soon as I started learning more about the potential complications of the disease, I realized I should have taken action sooner," said Turturro. "It is scary what can happen to you if you do not take control of your diabetes."
Turturro was among the more than 50 percent of diabetes patients whose A1C levels are above the target goal of 7 percent as established by the American Diabetes Association. Patients with diabetes should know their A1C level. It is a simple blood test that assesses glucose levels over a two- to three-month period.
In addition to her diet and exercise routines, Turturro worked with her doctor to develop a treatment regimen that was right for her. At first she was taking oral medications but was still unable to get her blood sugar levels under control. About two years ago, Turturro and her doctor added LantusRegistered trademark (insulin glargine [rDNA origin] injection), the once-daily, true 24-hour basal insulin, to her treatment plan.
With a treatment regimen that includes Lantus and other diabetes medications, Turturro achieves good blood glucose control with an A1C level below seven percent.
"Managing diabetes is not easy. What I have learned is the best way to manage the disease is by becoming educated, motivated and an advocate for yourself," said Turturro. "It is a 24-hour disease and you have to put in a real effort to keep your blood sugar levels under control."
Note to Editors: Important Safety Information for Lantus
Lantus is indicated for once-daily subcutaneous administration, at the same time each day, for the treatment of adult and pediatric patients (6 years and older) with type 1 diabetes mellitus or adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus who require basal (long-acting) insulin for the control of hyperglycemia. Lantus must not be diluted or mixed with any other insulin or solution. If mixed or diluted, the solution may become cloudy, and the onset of action/time to peak effect may be altered in an unpredictable manner. Lantus is contraindicated in patients hypersensitive to insulin glargine or the excipients. Hypoglycemia is the most common adverse effect of insulin, including Lantus. As with all insulins, the timing of hypoglycemia may differ among various insulin formulations. Glucose monitoring is recommended for all patients with diabetes. Any change of insulin type and/or regimen should be made cautiously and only under medical supervision.Concomitant oral antidiabetes treatment may need to be adjusted. Other adverse events commonly associated with Lantus include the following: lipodystrophy, skin reactions (such as injection-site reaction, pruritus, rash) and allergic reactions.
Turturro was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes (where the body does not produce enough insulin or the cells do not use the insulin properly) in 2000. For more than a year after her initial diagnosis she was in denial and did not take the proper steps-such as diet and exercise-to manage the disease.
Finally, her doctor told her that her blood sugar levels were too high and if she did not learn how to manage the disease, she would suffer serious complications.
"As soon as I started learning more about the potential complications of the disease, I realized I should have taken action sooner," said Turturro. "It is scary what can happen to you if you do not take control of your diabetes."
Turturro was among the more than 50 percent of diabetes patients whose A1C levels are above the target goal of 7 percent as established by the American Diabetes Association. Patients with diabetes should know their A1C level. It is a simple blood test that assesses glucose levels over a two- to three-month period.
In addition to her diet and exercise routines, Turturro worked with her doctor to develop a treatment regimen that was right for her. At first she was taking oral medications but was still unable to get her blood sugar levels under control. About two years ago, Turturro and her doctor added LantusRegistered trademark (insulin glargine [rDNA origin] injection), the once-daily, true 24-hour basal insulin, to her treatment plan.
With a treatment regimen that includes Lantus and other diabetes medications, Turturro achieves good blood glucose control with an A1C level below seven percent.
"Managing diabetes is not easy. What I have learned is the best way to manage the disease is by becoming educated, motivated and an advocate for yourself," said Turturro. "It is a 24-hour disease and you have to put in a real effort to keep your blood sugar levels under control."
Note to Editors: Important Safety Information for Lantus
Lantus is indicated for once-daily subcutaneous administration, at the same time each day, for the treatment of adult and pediatric patients (6 years and older) with type 1 diabetes mellitus or adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus who require basal (long-acting) insulin for the control of hyperglycemia. Lantus must not be diluted or mixed with any other insulin or solution. If mixed or diluted, the solution may become cloudy, and the onset of action/time to peak effect may be altered in an unpredictable manner. Lantus is contraindicated in patients hypersensitive to insulin glargine or the excipients. Hypoglycemia is the most common adverse effect of insulin, including Lantus. As with all insulins, the timing of hypoglycemia may differ among various insulin formulations. Glucose monitoring is recommended for all patients with diabetes. Any change of insulin type and/or regimen should be made cautiously and only under medical supervision.Concomitant oral antidiabetes treatment may need to be adjusted. Other adverse events commonly associated with Lantus include the following: lipodystrophy, skin reactions (such as injection-site reaction, pruritus, rash) and allergic reactions.
Diabetes: Cause And Prevention
An individual may get diabetes when the pancreas can no longer secrete the needed hormones that produce insulin. The insulin maintains the glucose in the blood to be normal. Low insulin means that the level of glucose, which is sugar in the blood, may get high and may lead to diabetes.
The autoimmune reaction is a type 1 diabetes where the cells in the pancreas organ that produces the needed insulin are destroyed. This results to the total loss of insulin in the hormones. This happens because the body has its own hormones that protects and destroys its own pancreas cells.
Although there is no scientific proof why this occurrence in the pancreas happens, some studies have some theories that may possibly be related in this kind of reaction. Some say that this happens when there is exposure of a newly born to a cow's milk, the infection from viruses and bacteria, and the exposure from food-borne chemical toxins. There is not enough evidence yet to prove some theories that may trigger the cause of diabetes.
The type 2 diabetes is said to progress when there is lack of insulin that is needed to maintain the blood sugar in the body. Another reason is believed to be that the needed insulin not be effective effective to control the blood sugar because of abnormalities in composition. The last reason is said to be that the receptors in cells no longer respond and fail to stimulate the organ that produces the needed insulin.
An individual is likely developing the type 2 diabetes when a person is overweight or obese. The increase of age of an individual is also considered a factor in acquiring this type of diabetes. Some few cases that may lead in this type of diabetes may include when a woman is having her pregnancy, or when a person have some intakes of medicines and drugs. In addition, any sickness or infectious decease that can alter the pancreas production of insulin.
There are some basic treatments for diabetes. These ways can serve an individual its important role in treating diabetes. Here are some ways on how a person can treat diabetes problems.
1. An individual must work thoroughly in obtaining his ideal body weight. Every individual must have a regular exercise and physical endurance tests. People who suffer from diabetes are recommended to be physically fit if possible. Exercises for the lungs and heart may help the person lessen the sugar that causes diabetes.
2. An individual must follow a diabetic diet program. Not being on the proper diet can be a great factor in acquiring type 2 diabetes. It is recommended that a person must lose weight if he is an overweight person. It is advisable that a person must be conscious of the food that he takes. Eat foods that do not have sugar content.
3. The option of the individual to have medication and seek the help of a doctor. Every diabetes patients that have type1 and type 2 diabetes can take insulin daily to sustain the insulin production of the pancreas. There is also the new insulin pump that continuously provides the much-needed insulin. There are also new medications that treat diabetes like the synthetic human insulin, Sulfonylurea drugs, Biguanides, Thiazolidinediones, Meglitinides, Alpha-glucosidase, and other drug combinations.
Diabetes can be prevented with the proper awareness and information regarding this illness. What is important is that a person must have a healthy diet and regular exercise to have a healthy body. Responsibility and discipline is needed to help oneself in overcoming this disease.
The autoimmune reaction is a type 1 diabetes where the cells in the pancreas organ that produces the needed insulin are destroyed. This results to the total loss of insulin in the hormones. This happens because the body has its own hormones that protects and destroys its own pancreas cells.
Although there is no scientific proof why this occurrence in the pancreas happens, some studies have some theories that may possibly be related in this kind of reaction. Some say that this happens when there is exposure of a newly born to a cow's milk, the infection from viruses and bacteria, and the exposure from food-borne chemical toxins. There is not enough evidence yet to prove some theories that may trigger the cause of diabetes.
The type 2 diabetes is said to progress when there is lack of insulin that is needed to maintain the blood sugar in the body. Another reason is believed to be that the needed insulin not be effective effective to control the blood sugar because of abnormalities in composition. The last reason is said to be that the receptors in cells no longer respond and fail to stimulate the organ that produces the needed insulin.
An individual is likely developing the type 2 diabetes when a person is overweight or obese. The increase of age of an individual is also considered a factor in acquiring this type of diabetes. Some few cases that may lead in this type of diabetes may include when a woman is having her pregnancy, or when a person have some intakes of medicines and drugs. In addition, any sickness or infectious decease that can alter the pancreas production of insulin.
There are some basic treatments for diabetes. These ways can serve an individual its important role in treating diabetes. Here are some ways on how a person can treat diabetes problems.
1. An individual must work thoroughly in obtaining his ideal body weight. Every individual must have a regular exercise and physical endurance tests. People who suffer from diabetes are recommended to be physically fit if possible. Exercises for the lungs and heart may help the person lessen the sugar that causes diabetes.
2. An individual must follow a diabetic diet program. Not being on the proper diet can be a great factor in acquiring type 2 diabetes. It is recommended that a person must lose weight if he is an overweight person. It is advisable that a person must be conscious of the food that he takes. Eat foods that do not have sugar content.
3. The option of the individual to have medication and seek the help of a doctor. Every diabetes patients that have type1 and type 2 diabetes can take insulin daily to sustain the insulin production of the pancreas. There is also the new insulin pump that continuously provides the much-needed insulin. There are also new medications that treat diabetes like the synthetic human insulin, Sulfonylurea drugs, Biguanides, Thiazolidinediones, Meglitinides, Alpha-glucosidase, and other drug combinations.
Diabetes can be prevented with the proper awareness and information regarding this illness. What is important is that a person must have a healthy diet and regular exercise to have a healthy body. Responsibility and discipline is needed to help oneself in overcoming this disease.
Sunday, May 12, 2013
What Is Diabetes?
With diabetes such an epidemic today, it is essential that you know exactly what it is. Why? Well, to prevent getting diabetes yourself that is!
In layman terms, "diabetes" is the inability of the body to process sugars properly. When we eat or drink, our "pancreas" produces a hormone called "insulin". Insulin is released into the blood and helps to regulate the amount of glucose (sugar) in the bloodstream. Diabetes is a condition where this process does not function correctly.
The reason why diabetes occurs is because no insulin is being produced (often called Type 1 Diabetes) and requires the sufferer to use insulin injections, or insulin is produced but the body becomes resistant to it. This renders the insulin ineffective. This is normally called Type 2 Diabetes and is rapidly becoming more common.
The danger is that while diabetes is not immediately life threatening the long term effects of high blood sugar can be damaging to one's health. Uncontrolled diabetes and prolonged high blood sugar levels can, in later life, cause problems to many organs including the kidneys, eyes, nerves and the heart.
This may sound grim, however controlling blood sugar by a combination of medicine, diet and exercise will vastly reduce the long term complications. Recent research shows that 2 in every 100 people have diabetes. Alarmingly half of these people do not even know they have it. Many people have diabetes without being aware of it because someone with diabetes looks no different from anyone else.
How do you find out if you have diabetes? The simplest way to check if you have diabetes is to arrange a blood sugar check with your doctor. A tiny sample of blood, obtained by pricking a finger is checked using a small electronic tester.
A normal blood sugar level is generally between 72 - 126 mg/dl or 4 - 7 mmol/l (where 1 mmol/l = 18mg/dl). If the body is unable to keep the blood sugar level within these limits, then diabetes is diagnosed. Diagnosis of diabetes can occur out of the blue during a routine check-up but more often it follows from the sufferer experiencing the "symptoms" of diabetes. These symptoms can be many or few, mild or severe depending on the individual.
Common Diabetes Symptoms:
Loss Of Weight - Glucose is the form of sugar which is the body's main fuel. Diabetics cannot process this properly so it passes into the urine and out of the body. Less fuel means the body's reserve tissues are broken down to produce energy with a resultant loss in weight.
Thirst - Often it seems no matter how much you drink your mouth still feels dry. The problem is compounded before diabetes is diagnosed by sufferers drinking huge amounts of sugary drinks! Of course this only increases the blood sugar level and leads to increased thirst.
Urinating More Often - Sufferers need to urinate often and pass large volumes each time. In addition this symptom takes no account of time so sleep is constantly disturbed by having to visit the bathroom during the night. It is a mistake to think this is caused by the increased thirst and drinking more. On the other hand, high sugar levels in the blood spill over into the urine making it syrupy. To counter-act this water is drawn from the body causing dehydration and therefore thirst.
If you have experienced any of these symptoms it does not necessarily follow that you are diabetic however it might be advisable to visit your doctor to be sure. If it does turn out that you have diabetes please do not panic! It can come as a shock and it will mean some changes in your life. While it is incurable it can be treated so the long term complications are reduced or even eliminated.
By knowing exactly what diabetes is - and recognizing the symptoms early on - you can prevent it from ever building up within you. Start today by monitoring your health and daily eating habits. Or as they say, preventing is better than finding a cure later on!
In layman terms, "diabetes" is the inability of the body to process sugars properly. When we eat or drink, our "pancreas" produces a hormone called "insulin". Insulin is released into the blood and helps to regulate the amount of glucose (sugar) in the bloodstream. Diabetes is a condition where this process does not function correctly.
The reason why diabetes occurs is because no insulin is being produced (often called Type 1 Diabetes) and requires the sufferer to use insulin injections, or insulin is produced but the body becomes resistant to it. This renders the insulin ineffective. This is normally called Type 2 Diabetes and is rapidly becoming more common.
The danger is that while diabetes is not immediately life threatening the long term effects of high blood sugar can be damaging to one's health. Uncontrolled diabetes and prolonged high blood sugar levels can, in later life, cause problems to many organs including the kidneys, eyes, nerves and the heart.
This may sound grim, however controlling blood sugar by a combination of medicine, diet and exercise will vastly reduce the long term complications. Recent research shows that 2 in every 100 people have diabetes. Alarmingly half of these people do not even know they have it. Many people have diabetes without being aware of it because someone with diabetes looks no different from anyone else.
How do you find out if you have diabetes? The simplest way to check if you have diabetes is to arrange a blood sugar check with your doctor. A tiny sample of blood, obtained by pricking a finger is checked using a small electronic tester.
A normal blood sugar level is generally between 72 - 126 mg/dl or 4 - 7 mmol/l (where 1 mmol/l = 18mg/dl). If the body is unable to keep the blood sugar level within these limits, then diabetes is diagnosed. Diagnosis of diabetes can occur out of the blue during a routine check-up but more often it follows from the sufferer experiencing the "symptoms" of diabetes. These symptoms can be many or few, mild or severe depending on the individual.
Common Diabetes Symptoms:
Loss Of Weight - Glucose is the form of sugar which is the body's main fuel. Diabetics cannot process this properly so it passes into the urine and out of the body. Less fuel means the body's reserve tissues are broken down to produce energy with a resultant loss in weight.
Thirst - Often it seems no matter how much you drink your mouth still feels dry. The problem is compounded before diabetes is diagnosed by sufferers drinking huge amounts of sugary drinks! Of course this only increases the blood sugar level and leads to increased thirst.
Urinating More Often - Sufferers need to urinate often and pass large volumes each time. In addition this symptom takes no account of time so sleep is constantly disturbed by having to visit the bathroom during the night. It is a mistake to think this is caused by the increased thirst and drinking more. On the other hand, high sugar levels in the blood spill over into the urine making it syrupy. To counter-act this water is drawn from the body causing dehydration and therefore thirst.
If you have experienced any of these symptoms it does not necessarily follow that you are diabetic however it might be advisable to visit your doctor to be sure. If it does turn out that you have diabetes please do not panic! It can come as a shock and it will mean some changes in your life. While it is incurable it can be treated so the long term complications are reduced or even eliminated.
By knowing exactly what diabetes is - and recognizing the symptoms early on - you can prevent it from ever building up within you. Start today by monitoring your health and daily eating habits. Or as they say, preventing is better than finding a cure later on!
How is Gestational Diabetes Diagnosed
Each month of your pregnancy you should have a prenatal exam by your health care
provider. During your visit to the office or clinic you will provide a urine sample to the
nurse. Amongst other things, the doctor or midwife wants to determine if there is in
glucose in your urine.
If your body is spilling glucose into your urine, it is a warning sign that you may have
gestational diabetes. The next step that your doctor may take is to test your blood sugar
level in the office with a glucose monitor. This is a small, transportable device that
comes with an electronic reader, lancets, and testing strips. A small pin prick is made on
your finger with the lancet and the drop of blood is placed on one of the strips and placed
into the reader. Depending on the reading the monitor provides your doctor may or may
not order a blood test at the lab.
To be on the cautious side, most doctors will send you for a glucose tolerance test at the
lab regardless of the blood sugar level in the office. This is a fasting test and you will not
be able to eat for 10 hours before having your blood tested. For this reason, the tests are
performed first thing in the morning and you don't eat anything before going to bed.
When you arrive you will have your blood drawn and then be given a drink high in sugar.
After drinking this, you will be asked to wait one hour and have your blood tested again.
The results of this test will tell how your body is processing the sugar in your body.
If the tests come back positive, most likely you will be referred to a specialist for further
care and treatment.
provider. During your visit to the office or clinic you will provide a urine sample to the
nurse. Amongst other things, the doctor or midwife wants to determine if there is in
glucose in your urine.
If your body is spilling glucose into your urine, it is a warning sign that you may have
gestational diabetes. The next step that your doctor may take is to test your blood sugar
level in the office with a glucose monitor. This is a small, transportable device that
comes with an electronic reader, lancets, and testing strips. A small pin prick is made on
your finger with the lancet and the drop of blood is placed on one of the strips and placed
into the reader. Depending on the reading the monitor provides your doctor may or may
not order a blood test at the lab.
To be on the cautious side, most doctors will send you for a glucose tolerance test at the
lab regardless of the blood sugar level in the office. This is a fasting test and you will not
be able to eat for 10 hours before having your blood tested. For this reason, the tests are
performed first thing in the morning and you don't eat anything before going to bed.
When you arrive you will have your blood drawn and then be given a drink high in sugar.
After drinking this, you will be asked to wait one hour and have your blood tested again.
The results of this test will tell how your body is processing the sugar in your body.
If the tests come back positive, most likely you will be referred to a specialist for further
care and treatment.
Diabetes: Cause And Prevention
An individual may get diabetes when the pancreas can no longer secrete the needed hormones that produce insulin. The insulin maintains the glucose in the blood to be normal. Low insulin means that the level of glucose, which is sugar in the blood, may get high and may lead to diabetes.
The autoimmune reaction is a type 1 diabetes where the cells in the pancreas organ that produces the needed insulin are destroyed. This results to the total loss of insulin in the hormones. This happens because the body has its own hormones that protects and destroys its own pancreas cells.
Although there is no scientific proof why this occurrence in the pancreas happens, some studies have some theories that may possibly be related in this kind of reaction. Some say that this happens when there is exposure of a newly born to a cow's milk, the infection from viruses and bacteria, and the exposure from food-borne chemical toxins. There is not enough evidence yet to prove some theories that may trigger the cause of diabetes.
The type 2 diabetes is said to progress when there is lack of insulin that is needed to maintain the blood sugar in the body. Another reason is believed to be that the needed insulin not be effective effective to control the blood sugar because of abnormalities in composition. The last reason is said to be that the receptors in cells no longer respond and fail to stimulate the organ that produces the needed insulin.
An individual is likely developing the type 2 diabetes when a person is overweight or obese. The increase of age of an individual is also considered a factor in acquiring this type of diabetes. Some few cases that may lead in this type of diabetes may include when a woman is having her pregnancy, or when a person have some intakes of medicines and drugs. In addition, any sickness or infectious decease that can alter the pancreas production of insulin.
There are some basic treatments for diabetes. These ways can serve an individual its important role in treating diabetes. Here are some ways on how a person can treat diabetes problems.
1. An individual must work thoroughly in obtaining his ideal body weight. Every individual must have a regular exercise and physical endurance tests. People who suffer from diabetes are recommended to be physically fit if possible. Exercises for the lungs and heart may help the person lessen the sugar that causes diabetes.
2. An individual must follow a diabetic diet program. Not being on the proper diet can be a great factor in acquiring type 2 diabetes. It is recommended that a person must lose weight if he is an overweight person. It is advisable that a person must be conscious of the food that he takes. Eat foods that do not have sugar content.
3. The option of the individual to have medication and seek the help of a doctor. Every diabetes patients that have type1 and type 2 diabetes can take insulin daily to sustain the insulin production of the pancreas. There is also the new insulin pump that continuously provides the much-needed insulin. There are also new medications that treat diabetes like the synthetic human insulin, Sulfonylurea drugs, Biguanides, Thiazolidinediones, Meglitinides, Alpha-glucosidase, and other drug combinations.
Diabetes can be prevented with the proper awareness and information regarding this illness. What is important is that a person must have a healthy diet and regular exercise to have a healthy body. Responsibility and discipline is needed to help oneself in overcoming this disease.
The autoimmune reaction is a type 1 diabetes where the cells in the pancreas organ that produces the needed insulin are destroyed. This results to the total loss of insulin in the hormones. This happens because the body has its own hormones that protects and destroys its own pancreas cells.
Although there is no scientific proof why this occurrence in the pancreas happens, some studies have some theories that may possibly be related in this kind of reaction. Some say that this happens when there is exposure of a newly born to a cow's milk, the infection from viruses and bacteria, and the exposure from food-borne chemical toxins. There is not enough evidence yet to prove some theories that may trigger the cause of diabetes.
The type 2 diabetes is said to progress when there is lack of insulin that is needed to maintain the blood sugar in the body. Another reason is believed to be that the needed insulin not be effective effective to control the blood sugar because of abnormalities in composition. The last reason is said to be that the receptors in cells no longer respond and fail to stimulate the organ that produces the needed insulin.
An individual is likely developing the type 2 diabetes when a person is overweight or obese. The increase of age of an individual is also considered a factor in acquiring this type of diabetes. Some few cases that may lead in this type of diabetes may include when a woman is having her pregnancy, or when a person have some intakes of medicines and drugs. In addition, any sickness or infectious decease that can alter the pancreas production of insulin.
There are some basic treatments for diabetes. These ways can serve an individual its important role in treating diabetes. Here are some ways on how a person can treat diabetes problems.
1. An individual must work thoroughly in obtaining his ideal body weight. Every individual must have a regular exercise and physical endurance tests. People who suffer from diabetes are recommended to be physically fit if possible. Exercises for the lungs and heart may help the person lessen the sugar that causes diabetes.
2. An individual must follow a diabetic diet program. Not being on the proper diet can be a great factor in acquiring type 2 diabetes. It is recommended that a person must lose weight if he is an overweight person. It is advisable that a person must be conscious of the food that he takes. Eat foods that do not have sugar content.
3. The option of the individual to have medication and seek the help of a doctor. Every diabetes patients that have type1 and type 2 diabetes can take insulin daily to sustain the insulin production of the pancreas. There is also the new insulin pump that continuously provides the much-needed insulin. There are also new medications that treat diabetes like the synthetic human insulin, Sulfonylurea drugs, Biguanides, Thiazolidinediones, Meglitinides, Alpha-glucosidase, and other drug combinations.
Diabetes can be prevented with the proper awareness and information regarding this illness. What is important is that a person must have a healthy diet and regular exercise to have a healthy body. Responsibility and discipline is needed to help oneself in overcoming this disease.
Diabetes: Breast-feeding May Help Babies and Women Against Diabetes
Babies and women may be protected against developing diabetes disease through breast feeding, according to new research. This current study states that the longer women nursed, the lower their risks of developing diabetes.
Diabetes as a medical disorder characterized by varying or persistent elevated blood sugar levels, especially due to eating, is a serious disease which symptoms are very similar for all types of diabetes.
Breast feeding is when a woman feeds a baby or a young child with milk produced from her breasts. The best thing for feeding a baby is breast milk, as experts say, if the mother does not have transmissible infections.
Although study findings are not conclusive, researchers explain that breast-feeding may change metabolism of mothers which may help keep blood sugar levels stable and make the body more sensitive to the blood sugar-regulating hormone insulin.
This theory is based on some evidence that show that in rats and humans that are breast-feeding, mothers have lower blood-sugar levels than those who did not breast-feed.
According to the study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, women who breast-fed for at least one year were about 15 per cent less likely to develop diabetes type 2 than those who never breast-fed. For each additional year of breast-feeding, there was an additional 15 per cent decreased risk.
A total of 157,000 nurses participated in the new study. They answered periodic health questionnaires and were followed for at least 12 years. During the study, 6,277 participants developed type 2 diabetes.
Diabetes as a medical disorder characterized by varying or persistent elevated blood sugar levels, especially due to eating, is a serious disease which symptoms are very similar for all types of diabetes.
Breast feeding is when a woman feeds a baby or a young child with milk produced from her breasts. The best thing for feeding a baby is breast milk, as experts say, if the mother does not have transmissible infections.
Although study findings are not conclusive, researchers explain that breast-feeding may change metabolism of mothers which may help keep blood sugar levels stable and make the body more sensitive to the blood sugar-regulating hormone insulin.
This theory is based on some evidence that show that in rats and humans that are breast-feeding, mothers have lower blood-sugar levels than those who did not breast-feed.
According to the study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, women who breast-fed for at least one year were about 15 per cent less likely to develop diabetes type 2 than those who never breast-fed. For each additional year of breast-feeding, there was an additional 15 per cent decreased risk.
A total of 157,000 nurses participated in the new study. They answered periodic health questionnaires and were followed for at least 12 years. During the study, 6,277 participants developed type 2 diabetes.
Bone Hormone: A Startling Discovery For Diabetes Treatment
A startling new discovery about a hormone released from the bone is significantly changing scientists' understanding of diabetes and giving new clues about how to deal with the "Big D." Considered to be the fifth leading killer of Americans, diabetes is a disease in which the body's failure to regulate blood sugar (glucose) can lead to serious and even fatal complications. The regulation of glucose entails the body's monitoring of how much sugar is present in a person's blood; how much is taken up by cells for fuel; and how much is released from energy stores. These processes are performed by the pancreas, the liver, muscles, and fat. Other specific types of diabetes, which may account for 1% to 2% of all diagnosed cases, result from specific genetic syndromes, surgery, drugs, malnutrition, infections, and other illnesses.
However, new research suggests that the issue is even more complex than what it seems to be. A hormone from the skeleton may influence how the body handles sugar. There is also an increasing evidence that demonstrates that the signals from the immune system, the brain and the gut play very important roles in controlling glucose and lipid metabolism. These findings are mainly relevant to Type 2 diabetes, the more common kind, which comes during adulthood.
While it is true that having elevated blood sugar is the defining feature of diabetes, the reasons for abnormal sugar tend to be different from one individual to another. It is in understanding exactly what signals are involved that raises the hope of providing the right care for each person each day, rather than giving everyone the same drug.
When researchers from Columbia University Medical Center published the results last summer, scientists were astounded that a hormone released from the bone may help regulate blood glucose. Lead researcher, Dr. Gerard Karsenty, first described the findings at a conference where the assembled scientists appeared to be overwhelmed by the potential implications of the study. It was the first time that the skeleton was actually seen as an endocrine organ, producing hormones that act outside of bone.
In his previous work, he had shown that a hormone produced by fat, called leptin, is an important regulator of bone metabolism. In this work, he tested the idea that if fat regulates bone, bone in essence must regulate fat. His experiment with mice revealed that a previously known substance called osteocalcin, which is produced by bone, acted by sending signals to the fat cells as well as the pancreas. The net effect is to improve how mice secrete and handle insulin, the hormone that helps the body move glucose from the bloodstream into cells of the muscle and liver, where it can be used for energy or stored for future use. Insulin is also important in regulating lipids.
Patients with Type 2 diabetes no longer heed the hormone's directives due to the cells' resistance to insulin. Their blood glucose levels surge and production of insulin in the pancreas declines as well. The experiment revealed an increase in osteocalcin which addressed the twin problems of insulin resistance and low insulin production. The mice became more sensitive to insulin and it increased their insulin production, thus bringing their blood sugar down. As a bonus, it also made obese mice less fat.
Should osteocalcin works in humans as well, it can be considered as a "unique new treatment" for Type 2 diabetes. Most current diabetes drugs either raise insulin production or improve insulin sensitivity, but not both. Drugs that increase production tend to make insulin resistance worse. A deficiency in osteocalcin could also turn out to be a cause of Type 2 diabetes.
The immune system is considered to be another cause of glucose regulation. In 2003, researchers from two laboratories found that fat tissue from obese mice contained an abnormally large number of macrophages, immune cells that contribute to inflammation.
Scientists have long suspected that inflammation was somehow related to insulin resistance, which precedes nearly all cases of Type 2 diabetes. In the early 1900s, diabetics were sometimes given high doses of aspirin, which is an anti-inflammatory. Only in the past few years has research into the relationship of obesity, inflammation and insulin resistance become a serious concern.
A number of researchers agree that obesity is accompanied by a state of chronic, low-grade inflammation in which some immune cells are activated, which may be a primary cause of insulin resistance. They also agree that the main type of cell responsible for the inflammation is the macrophage.
Should more research prove the initial findings to be true, there would be certainly greater hope of relief and treatment for diabetics everywhere.
However, new research suggests that the issue is even more complex than what it seems to be. A hormone from the skeleton may influence how the body handles sugar. There is also an increasing evidence that demonstrates that the signals from the immune system, the brain and the gut play very important roles in controlling glucose and lipid metabolism. These findings are mainly relevant to Type 2 diabetes, the more common kind, which comes during adulthood.
While it is true that having elevated blood sugar is the defining feature of diabetes, the reasons for abnormal sugar tend to be different from one individual to another. It is in understanding exactly what signals are involved that raises the hope of providing the right care for each person each day, rather than giving everyone the same drug.
When researchers from Columbia University Medical Center published the results last summer, scientists were astounded that a hormone released from the bone may help regulate blood glucose. Lead researcher, Dr. Gerard Karsenty, first described the findings at a conference where the assembled scientists appeared to be overwhelmed by the potential implications of the study. It was the first time that the skeleton was actually seen as an endocrine organ, producing hormones that act outside of bone.
In his previous work, he had shown that a hormone produced by fat, called leptin, is an important regulator of bone metabolism. In this work, he tested the idea that if fat regulates bone, bone in essence must regulate fat. His experiment with mice revealed that a previously known substance called osteocalcin, which is produced by bone, acted by sending signals to the fat cells as well as the pancreas. The net effect is to improve how mice secrete and handle insulin, the hormone that helps the body move glucose from the bloodstream into cells of the muscle and liver, where it can be used for energy or stored for future use. Insulin is also important in regulating lipids.
Patients with Type 2 diabetes no longer heed the hormone's directives due to the cells' resistance to insulin. Their blood glucose levels surge and production of insulin in the pancreas declines as well. The experiment revealed an increase in osteocalcin which addressed the twin problems of insulin resistance and low insulin production. The mice became more sensitive to insulin and it increased their insulin production, thus bringing their blood sugar down. As a bonus, it also made obese mice less fat.
Should osteocalcin works in humans as well, it can be considered as a "unique new treatment" for Type 2 diabetes. Most current diabetes drugs either raise insulin production or improve insulin sensitivity, but not both. Drugs that increase production tend to make insulin resistance worse. A deficiency in osteocalcin could also turn out to be a cause of Type 2 diabetes.
The immune system is considered to be another cause of glucose regulation. In 2003, researchers from two laboratories found that fat tissue from obese mice contained an abnormally large number of macrophages, immune cells that contribute to inflammation.
Scientists have long suspected that inflammation was somehow related to insulin resistance, which precedes nearly all cases of Type 2 diabetes. In the early 1900s, diabetics were sometimes given high doses of aspirin, which is an anti-inflammatory. Only in the past few years has research into the relationship of obesity, inflammation and insulin resistance become a serious concern.
A number of researchers agree that obesity is accompanied by a state of chronic, low-grade inflammation in which some immune cells are activated, which may be a primary cause of insulin resistance. They also agree that the main type of cell responsible for the inflammation is the macrophage.
Should more research prove the initial findings to be true, there would be certainly greater hope of relief and treatment for diabetics everywhere.
Dietary Fiber - For Diabetes, Heart and General Health
Most people understand the importance of dietary fiber in their diet. Much has been said about its importance in heart health, diabetes, cancer prevention, and even weight control.
What is less well understood is how different types of fiber effect the body. Some provide fecal bulk, some are absorbed more quickly into the blood stream than others, and thus raise blood sugar levels more quickly, and yet others provide benefits to the heart.
Thus, despite the apparent simplicity, fiber is a complex topic. And whilst all types of fiber are important, if you are looking at preventing or managing specific conditions, its not enough to just look at the total dietary fiber as written on food packaging.
Dietary fiber is broadly classified into soluble and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber is fermented in the colon, and plays a role in slowing the absorption of glucose into the bloodstream. It also encourages the growth of the 'friendly' bacteria that help break down bile, and are involved in the creation of B vitamins like folic acid, niacin, and pyridoxine.
Insoluble fiber, on the other hand, acts a bit like an intestinal broom. It provides bulk to the stools, and makes sure they pass through easily and quickly. This is the type of fiber that keeps you 'regular', not insoluble fiber.
Insoluble fiber does provide a feeling of fullness, however. This makes it great for weight loss and controlling hunger. It also keeps blood sugar levels more stable, although research into the rate at which carbohydrates enter the bloodstream have found there to be some significant differences within the foods that make up the fiber group. Dietary fiber can thus be rated by its Glycemic Index, which effectively ranks fiber foods with each other on a relative scale.
The idea is to try and include more low gylcemic index foods. Foods with a high glycemic index cause blood sugar levels to spike, providing too much energy to the blood in the form of carbohydrates, which in turn sets off the body's sugar controlling hormone - insulin. You thus get a 'high' followed by a sudden drop. This in turn leads the body to want more carbohydrates to balance itself again, leading to cravings and overeating, as well as tiredness and moodiness.
Low glycemic index foods include lentils, chickpeas, baked beans, fruit loaf, salmon sushi, barley, milk, low fat custard, soy milk, yoghurt (not diet yoghurt), apples, strawberries, grapes, spaghetti, peas, carrots, fructose, strawberry jam, and chocolate milk.
Moderate glycemic index foods include pea soup, rye bread, porridge, muesli, ice cream, bananas, pineapple, kiwi fruit, new potatoes, beetroot, white sugar, honey, and mars bars.
High glycemic index foods include broad beans, bagels, white bread, brown rice, watermelon, udon noodles, desiree, pontiac and sebago potatoes, and glucose.
We need both soluble and insoluble fiber, however. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that in a group of 6000 French men and women, those with the highest levels of soluble and insoluble fiber in their diet had a lower risk of being overweight, a lower risk of having blood pressure problems, cholesterol problems, and they had better levels of triacylglycerols and homocysteine. The last two are measure3 of heart health.
Fiber from cereals was linked to lower body fat, lower blood pressure, and lower levels of homocysteine. Those with a higher intake of vegetables, also a source of fiber, had lower blood pressure and lower homocysteine levels. Fiber from fresh fruit was associated with a lower waist to hip ratio (good news for dieters!), and lower blood pressure. And fiber from dried fruit, nuts, and seeds (like sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds) was also linked to a lower waist to hip ratio, lower body fat, and a better fasting glucose concentration. Fasting glucose relates to having a steady level of glucose between meals. If it dips too low, we crave things, often sweets.
Fiber has another interesting benefit. In people with type 2 diabetes, it has been found to lower the levels of 'bad' cholesterol, and increase the levels of 'good' cholesterol. It has already been established that fiber supplements will lower the levels of bad cholesterol in people, whether they have diabetes or not. But this new study found that fiber supplements also decreased the reabsorption of cholesterol from meals.
To get this benefit, it is important to time taking the fiber supplement in synch with meals. The study participants took a fiber supplement drink before mealtimes, and this ensured that the fiber was in the intestines when the meal was being eaten. The people in the study participated for 90 days and their average age was 59 years old.
References:
1. Australian Healthy Food, November 2005
2. nutraingredients.com/news/ng.asp?id=64759
3. nutraingredients.com/news/ng.asp?id=57887
4. nutraingredients.com/news/ng.asp?id=64462
5. nutraingredients.com/news/ng.asp?id=59737
What is less well understood is how different types of fiber effect the body. Some provide fecal bulk, some are absorbed more quickly into the blood stream than others, and thus raise blood sugar levels more quickly, and yet others provide benefits to the heart.
Thus, despite the apparent simplicity, fiber is a complex topic. And whilst all types of fiber are important, if you are looking at preventing or managing specific conditions, its not enough to just look at the total dietary fiber as written on food packaging.
Dietary fiber is broadly classified into soluble and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber is fermented in the colon, and plays a role in slowing the absorption of glucose into the bloodstream. It also encourages the growth of the 'friendly' bacteria that help break down bile, and are involved in the creation of B vitamins like folic acid, niacin, and pyridoxine.
Insoluble fiber, on the other hand, acts a bit like an intestinal broom. It provides bulk to the stools, and makes sure they pass through easily and quickly. This is the type of fiber that keeps you 'regular', not insoluble fiber.
Insoluble fiber does provide a feeling of fullness, however. This makes it great for weight loss and controlling hunger. It also keeps blood sugar levels more stable, although research into the rate at which carbohydrates enter the bloodstream have found there to be some significant differences within the foods that make up the fiber group. Dietary fiber can thus be rated by its Glycemic Index, which effectively ranks fiber foods with each other on a relative scale.
The idea is to try and include more low gylcemic index foods. Foods with a high glycemic index cause blood sugar levels to spike, providing too much energy to the blood in the form of carbohydrates, which in turn sets off the body's sugar controlling hormone - insulin. You thus get a 'high' followed by a sudden drop. This in turn leads the body to want more carbohydrates to balance itself again, leading to cravings and overeating, as well as tiredness and moodiness.
Low glycemic index foods include lentils, chickpeas, baked beans, fruit loaf, salmon sushi, barley, milk, low fat custard, soy milk, yoghurt (not diet yoghurt), apples, strawberries, grapes, spaghetti, peas, carrots, fructose, strawberry jam, and chocolate milk.
Moderate glycemic index foods include pea soup, rye bread, porridge, muesli, ice cream, bananas, pineapple, kiwi fruit, new potatoes, beetroot, white sugar, honey, and mars bars.
High glycemic index foods include broad beans, bagels, white bread, brown rice, watermelon, udon noodles, desiree, pontiac and sebago potatoes, and glucose.
We need both soluble and insoluble fiber, however. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that in a group of 6000 French men and women, those with the highest levels of soluble and insoluble fiber in their diet had a lower risk of being overweight, a lower risk of having blood pressure problems, cholesterol problems, and they had better levels of triacylglycerols and homocysteine. The last two are measure3 of heart health.
Fiber from cereals was linked to lower body fat, lower blood pressure, and lower levels of homocysteine. Those with a higher intake of vegetables, also a source of fiber, had lower blood pressure and lower homocysteine levels. Fiber from fresh fruit was associated with a lower waist to hip ratio (good news for dieters!), and lower blood pressure. And fiber from dried fruit, nuts, and seeds (like sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds) was also linked to a lower waist to hip ratio, lower body fat, and a better fasting glucose concentration. Fasting glucose relates to having a steady level of glucose between meals. If it dips too low, we crave things, often sweets.
Fiber has another interesting benefit. In people with type 2 diabetes, it has been found to lower the levels of 'bad' cholesterol, and increase the levels of 'good' cholesterol. It has already been established that fiber supplements will lower the levels of bad cholesterol in people, whether they have diabetes or not. But this new study found that fiber supplements also decreased the reabsorption of cholesterol from meals.
To get this benefit, it is important to time taking the fiber supplement in synch with meals. The study participants took a fiber supplement drink before mealtimes, and this ensured that the fiber was in the intestines when the meal was being eaten. The people in the study participated for 90 days and their average age was 59 years old.
References:
1. Australian Healthy Food, November 2005
2. nutraingredients.com/news/ng.asp?id=64759
3. nutraingredients.com/news/ng.asp?id=57887
4. nutraingredients.com/news/ng.asp?id=64462
5. nutraingredients.com/news/ng.asp?id=59737
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