Thursday, August 30, 2007

So Many Diabetes Treatments - How Do You Know Which One Is Right For You?

Do you take drugs? Are herbs for you? How much does diet play into the diabetes treatment? To each is own. Finding your remedy as a diabetes patient will relieve you of the agony of having a severe case of diabetes.

Initially when I was diagnosed with diabetes I thought that my condition would subside if I watched what I ate, exercised and found some good alternative to taking medications. Drugs were not in the game plan for me. Having spoken to some diabetics I finally got the message that it was crucial to not watch what I ate but to drastically change my eating regimen. From eating almost anything to being careful about what I put in my body. This was the biggest realization for me.

Why do you think I started to get better?

I started to eat just raw foods. An acupuncturist suggested that I do this diet of only raw fruits and vegetables. She said it was very difficult for people to stay on. But I gave it a try.

I listened with new ears and I have taken her advice. In only one week of eating raw fruits and raw vegetables the tingling feeling in my feet has subsided greatly. My blood sugar has hit a new low of 91.

Changing my diet has worked for me. Here is my list of beneficial things to do to help you with your diabetes disease. In my order of preference.

1 Start eating better - Watch your fat, carbohydrate and sugar intake.

2 Drink lots of green tea

3 Exercise on a regular basis

4 Take the stress out of your life as best you can

Tuesday, August 28, 2007

Blood Sugar - Glucose Meters

When you are diabetic, it is important for you to test your blood glucose levels regularly. Many diabetics, in particular ones with type 1 diabetes need a blood sugar meter to measure how much glucose is in their blood, this information helps them to know what is the correct amount of insulin they need.

Diabetic body does not produce insulin when you have type 1 diabetes, and if you have diabetes type 2 the body cannot process the insulin that it makes, this is mainly the difference between these two kinds of diabetes. Consequently, blood sugar levels vary much more in diabetic people than a person with a perfect health.

Patients having type 1 diabetes usually experience erratic fluctuations in their blood sugar. However, with the ability of glucose readings to warn and alarm diabetic patients of dangerously lethal low and high blood sugar levels, this can be controlled in advance.

Keeping track of the amount of glucose in your blood is very important. As we said above, it is crucial for every diabetic patient to self-monitor the glucose level in the blood. Modern glucose meters can record glucose concentration in the blood over a broad range, from as low as 0 mg /dl to 600 mg /dl. Once you get a glucose meter, remember that you should always wash and dry your hands thoroughly first and then use the lancet to prick a fingertip.

Do not forget that some companies give you a free glucose meter if you have Medicare and cannot afford to buy one. Research for these companies and try to get the best glucose monitor that you can for the most accurate readings. As usual, it is advisable to read the manual and instructions before you use it.

Finally yet importantly, try to read all the information you can about diabetes such as symptoms and treatments, There are thousands of websites about this disease on internet.

Sunday, August 26, 2007

Diabetes Cure - Natural Remedies for Diabetes

This article is dedicated to the best Home Remedies for Diabetes. First of all let me tell you what is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a disorder of metabolism the way our bodies use digested food for development and energy. It is widely accepted as one of the leading causes of death and disability in the United States. It is connected with long-term complications that affect almost every part of the body. It is a chronic and progressive ailment that has an impact upon almost every part of life. Diabetes grows when the body can't use glucose properly

Insulin is a hormone that is essential to convert sugar, starches, and other food into energy. Insulin permits glucose to move from the blood into liver, muscle, and fat cells, where it is used for fuel. In diabetes, the immune system molests and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. When type 2 diabetes is diagnosed, the pancreas is frequently producing enough insulin, but for unidentified reasons the body cannot use the insulin effectively, a condition called insulin resistance.

Type of Diabetes

Type 1 Diabetes

The body stops producing insulin or produces too little insulin to regulate blood glucose level. Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body's own immune system destroys theinsulin-producing cells of the pancreas (called beta cells).

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune illness. Type 1 diabetes grows most often in children but can occur at any age.


Type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is gradually more being diagnosed in children and adolescents. Type 2 diabetes is more ordinary in older people, particularly in people who are overweight, and happens more often in African Americans, American Indians, some Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and other Pacific Islander Americans, and Hispanics/Latinos.
The pancreas secretes insulin, but the body is partially or completely not capable to use the insulin. Type 2 diabetes is classically recognized in adulthood, generally after age 45 years. Type 2 diabetes is usually controlled with diet, weight loss, exercise, and oral medications

Here is a list of some best Home Remedies for Diabetes:-

Home Remedies for Diabetes

1) Most effective Home Remedy for Diabetes is Bitter gourd and proved helpful in controlling diabetes. For better results, the diabetic should take the juice of about four or five Bitter gourds each morning on an empty stomach.

2) Take juice of bilva and parijataka leaves in identical parts for natural remedy of diabetes.

3) Indian gooseberry, with its high vitamin C content, is measured important in diabetes. A tablespoon of its juice, mixed with a cup of bitter gourd juice, taken daily for two months, will rouse the islets of Langerhans, that is, the remote group of cells that secrete the hormone insulin in the pancreas. This mixture diminishes the blood sugar in diabetes. This is another effective Home Remedy for Diabetes.

4) The seeds of parslane are helpful in diabetes. A teaspoon of the seeds should be taken each day with half a cup of water for four to five months. It will boost the body's own insulin and help in curing diabetes.

5) Including grapefruit in the diet is an outstanding natural home remedy for diabetes.

6) Take two teaspoons of powdered Fenugreek seeds with milk. Two teaspoons of the seeds can also be consumed whole, every day.


8) The juice of Margosa is a cooperative natural home remedy for diabetes.

9) String bean pod tea is a superb natural Home Remedy for Diabetes and can be substituted for insulin.

10) Eat 10 fresh fully full-fledged curry leaves each morning for three months. It avoids diabetes due to genetic or heredity factors.

Saturday, August 25, 2007

Got Diabetes and Wondering How Your Blood Glucose Monitor Actually Works?

Are you one of the increasing number of people with diabetes who needs to monitor their blood sugar levels at home. If so, it is important to know how the tests work and what can effect the results giving inaccurate readings.


A blood glucose monitor or glucose meter is a small portable battery-powered electronic device that now comes in several models. The glucose meter is used to determine the deviations from the normal blood glucose level. The glucose test and the glucose reading are used to diagnose diabetes. These machines provide glucose readings from 0 to 600 mg/dl. Newer models now allow people to use blood from places other than the fingertip, which is the most common place from which it is extracted. Some models have large digital display and even spoken instructions for people with visual problems. Some models require smaller drops of blood than others. One must be careful while choosing a model, as it is an expenditure that has to be thought over. It is advisable to discuss with other users before buying one as all models have their pluses and minuses.

A blood glucose meter is an instrument that can be used even at home. This Blood glucose meter is used for taking a glucose test and it is a must have for those undergoing diabetes treatment. There is usually a special coated strip on which a drop of blood is placed. The blood is usually taken from the fingertip using a lancing device, which shoots a small, lancet into the skin. However, it is not necessary for it to be taken from the fingertip and sometimes blood is taken from other places like the forearm, thigh, calf or upper arm as the fingertip often gets calloused and sore. The blood is placed on the opposite side of the strip though this depends on the blood glucose meter. Then this strip is inserted into the blood glucose meter.

The blood reacts with chemicals on the strip and the blood glucose meter receives an electronic pulse. The machine then calculates the amount of glucose in the blood and displays glucose reading on the digital screen. A record of the readings will go a long way in helping the physician decide on the kind of diabetes treatment that needs to be given to the patient.

There is also another way of detecting the abnormal or normal blood glucose level in the body. Here, the drop of blood is placed on a special strip that changes color, depending on the amount of glucose. There is a color-coded index that comes along with it that will have listed the particular color the strip changes into when it reacts with the blood and judges the amount of glucose in it. There will be different colors for different amount of glucose. However glucose reading is not very accurate, as it does not give you the exact amount of glucose present.

A blood glucose monitor gives fairly accurate readings if used properly. The glucose meter has to be maintained. It may become old and dirty and if it is kept at high temperature or humidity, the machine's glucose reading may become inaccurate. It must be cleaned with a slightly damp cloth every now and then, to keep it dirt free. The hand from which the blood is taken must be clean and dry. Otherwise, the dirt may interfere with the glucose test results.

This glucose test will help people keep track of the glucose level in their blood and control their normal blood glucose levels and continue their diabetes treatment effectively. They will be help patients to make dietary changes and adjust their consumption of fat and carbohydrates. This will help them maintain normal blood glucose level and undertake any glucose treatment if necessary.

Thursday, August 23, 2007

The Real Diabetic Diet

Now that I've found out I was at stage one of Type II Diabetes, I've been doing lots and lots of research on what to do to reverse this. "Reactive Hypoglycemia" or "insulin resistance" as it's usually called has been destroying me for 3-4 years now, without me actually realizing what it was.

2-3 hours after I'd eat, I'd feel seriously anxious and like I was going to pass out dead where I stood if I didn't eat something.

I've come to the conclusion, like the NY Times's article "What if it was all a big fat lie" that America has been misinformed and mislead for the last 30 years or so. Lots and lots of people are on "low-fat, low calorie" diets and yet obesity and type II diabetes are at record levels.

The ironic thing about the ADA, and all these "health" organizations is that they all have some form of vested interest in the drug companies. I'm not siding with Kevin Trudeau necessarily. Kevin Trudeau is a fraud and has been scamming people for years now. However he does make a couple of good points about the drug comapnies. Why should the drug companies want you to cure anything? If you take something and it cures whatever you have, the drug company isn't going to profit much. Drug companies, just like Fast Food chains, are worried about QUARTERLY PROFITS, NO MATTER WHAT ANYONE TELLS YOU.

I've experimented myself with "the other hypothesis", low-carb diets, and this is the only thing that has come along in the last 4 years that has even remotely addressed my blood sugar problem. However, there is a problem with this hypothesis. Think about it. If restricting carbohydrates causes our health to improve relative to the amount we ingest, would it not make sense (if we were able to survive without them) to completely cut them out? Would that not be optimal?

So, I am now cabohydrate free. I only eat meat. I do not eat vegetables, fruit, grains, sugar, bread, pasta, cereal, or anything related. The only thing I eat is meat. I do not eat organ meats for their high starch content either. All I eat is red meat, chicken or pork.

No matter what anyone tells you, fat is NOT the enemy. Insulin and carbohydrates ARE. I've tried that "low-fat" garbage twice in my life and replaced it with carbs. Both times my body became a fragile shell, and basically fell apart. I have pictures to prove it.


Once you cut the carbs to a certain level (5 grams or less per day) your body enters a state of ketosis. Ketosis is NOT dangerous if you go through it correctly. Ketosis is a normal healthy state of the human body. Ketoacidosis is the one that is dangerous. This happens in diabetic people where their body can no longer use its insulin at all, so even though you technically have a dangerously high blood sugar, your body can't use any of that glucose for fuel because the insulin has to work in order for the sugar to be driven into the cells for energy. This is when you have to either begin taking insulin shots, or die.

Contrary to popular belief this diet does NOT induce long term ketosis. Only the few of us who are strictly carnivore can testify to this, but the body adapts to the ketones anywhere from 2-3 weeks to a few months from the day you drop carbohydrates. Your body begins using the ketones for fuel instead of converting blood sugar to fatty acids. The few parts of the brain that require straight blood glucose get a steady, very controlled supply as the liver converts protein and fat into glucose through gluconeogenesis. This is always tightly controlled, as your blood sugar will never vary on this diet. Your body will only convert what it needs to survive which is about 5 grams of glucose per day.

I've been reading studies that show that your brain and heart actually run 25 percent more effecient off the body's own ketones, rather than blood sugar. The catch is, though, that you have to eat lots of fat and make sure you get some form of saturated fat. If not, you will become very ill because Fat is now the primary source of energy for the rest of your body. And lots of water. It's optimal to get about 150-250 grams of fat per day (65-70 percent being saturated, yes that's right SATURATED).

Saturated fat is not the devil America has made it out to be. It's eating saturated fat in conjunction with a high carb diet that is dangerous.


The need for "anti-oxidants" is reduced on this diet. Insulin damage and high blood sugar combined with eating all this vegetable oil and trans fat garbage is what creates alot of oxidative stress in our bodies. Of course there's also polution and just the mere fact that we exist and have to breathe oxygen.

Tuesday, August 21, 2007

Diabetes Testing - Simple and Fast But Oh So Important!

There are, however, a number of easy-to-use self-testing products in the market in which anyone with some guidance, can use to perform their own diabetes test. With such tools, anyone could administer their own blood glucose two to four times a day (which is recommended) at the comfort of their home. Infact, diabetes testing is such a quick, simple and relatively painless process that no one should be afraid of. With the availability of self-test tools, there is no excuse not to perform your blood glucose test regularly !

Most often, diabetes in the early stages can be treated with just oral medication or dietary measures. You can now see why it is so important to check your blood glucose level regularly. We can't stress the point enough ! — Early diagnosis is critical ! Its the key to controlling your blood glucose level before complication sets in !!

We suggest that anyone who has a family history of diabetes, over-weight or anyone who has already experience symtoms of diabetes to get themselves check early.

There are many home self-test kit that you can use to administer your own measurement of blood sugar leve. One of them that provides an all-in-one solution that eliminates the hassle to handle individual test strips, is the Accucheck Glucometer Such devices usually produces results very fast. In the Accuchek , 5 minutes is all it takes and is virtually painless.

Immediate results means immediate intervention.

This will allow you to take early actions resulting in greater diabetes control for both health-care providers and YOU.

Sunday, August 19, 2007

Get Out Of That Chair to Lower Blood Sugar Levels

You had another hard day at work. You are excited about getting home. Now, you are home. There it is, your favorite chair. It looks so inviting, so comfortable. You have been best buddies for years. You sit down in your chair. Ah, it feels so good, so familiar. It is time to turn on the tube, watch your favorite sitcoms or catch up on the day's current events. It is time to waste the night away, with a snack and a beverage, watching what you please.

Well, do not get too comfortable! You may have diabetes or may be on your way to getting Type II diabetes. Your lack of exercise, puts on extra pounds, and does not do anything to help control your blood sugar. Get up and get moving. Get those lower limbs in motion. Not watching one of those television shows, could be beneficial to your health.

You think, running, " that must be the answer. " For a small percentage, it may be the answer. You certainly, burn more calories in a shorter amount of time. Most of us are not prepared to run, initially. Running the first day is a bad idea. While you are running , you may not feel it. But, the next day, you will be sore and aching. You will not get the full benefit of your program. You may decide that running is too hard on you. You probably thought you were going to run farther and longer. This could discourage further exercise endeavors.

Start smarter and slower. It will be good for you in a little time. Jogging, may be the answer for some. Sore knees, shinsplints, breathing difficulties are common when jogging. So, if this is all new for you, do not push yourself too hard. Too hard, could be discouraging for you. You want to be enthusiastic, not discouraged.

It is a good idea to start with walking. Start walking. Start at an above average pace, just a little faster than your normal walking speed. Walk with a goal in mind. Pick a place you want to walk to, or a certain number of laps around the track. Pick the amount of time in which you want to finish. Keep note of these, you will refer to them as you progress to new goals. Again, start slowly. Remember, when you walk to the spot you choose to walk to, you are only one-half done. You still have to walk back.

As you progress, this should become a daily exercise. You should walk for one-half hour. You will increase the distance you walk. You will increase your walking speed. As you increase these, You will lose weight, burn fat, and get lower, steadier blood sugar levels. Increasingly, lower levels will be the normal for you. This is exciting. This will inspire you to do more.

Comfort is important in any type of exercise. Wear shoes that are designed to take the impact of walking. There are many out there. Walking shoes, cross-training shoes, running shoes all work good. Loose, comfortable clothes, make the walks easier.

Wait to get in the evening chair, until after you walk. Get a program together for yourself. this is important, for yourself. You do not want to compare your progress to others. Everyone is different. All have different tolerances and recovery speeds. None of us are the same. Go at your own pace. But consistently, increase the distance or speed at which you walk. As always, check your blood sugar levels. These will be beneficial, in seeing results, positive results. You will enjoy seeing changes when you look into the mirror, also.

Saturday, August 18, 2007

Diabetes Diets - Breaking Down Barriers And Focusing On Benefits

It is easy enough to follow any diet for a short time but when you are faced with following a life-long diabetes diet you will find that there are a number of barriers which will frustrate you in your efforts. The secret therefore to starting a diabetic diet is to understand just what those barriers are and to focus your attention on the benefits of your diabetes diet.

The sort of barriers that you are likely to encounter might include:

Cost. Buying fresh fruit and vegetables is not cheap, particularly when you are buying 'out of season' imported products. But don't forget that, as you increase your intake of fresh fruit and vegetables, you are also cutting back on expensive convenience foods and snack items like potato chips, so the two will tend to balance out.

Culture. Food is a lot more than just sustenance and for many of us it is also very much an expression of our culture. Fortunately, there are many different ways to prepare food and you will find many excellent diabetic cookbooks focusing of food from particular cultures.

Family, Family members might find it difficult to adjust to a different diet and they may be less than happy with your 'alternative' macaroni cheese. Here it is best to simply sit down with the family and talk about your diabetes and just what it means in terms of your diet. In the vast majority of cases your family will be more than supportive once they understand your position.

Social Pressure. Bringing your family on board should be quite easy but it may not be quite so easy, or practical, to bring others on board. Of course it should be simple enough to tell your wider family and close friends about your dietary needs and help to avoid embarrassment at dinner parties and other events where food is served, but there are always going to be times when you find yourself in a social situation and are tempted to try a slice of home-made gateaux.

Here it is a case of planning ahead and deciding what you are going to do before the event. For example, you could decide to have a small piece of gateaux and simply adjust your diet for the remainder of that day to compensate. Another option might be to decide that it is better to eat before you go out or to take along your own favorite snack, plus a little bit extra for others to try.

However you decide to tackle these barriers, they will need to be faced and overcome. This should not prove too difficult with a little bit of thought and effort, but it will also help if you focus your attention on some of the benefits of following your diabetes diet:

Feeling better. Without your diet there is a good chance that you will overeat, or eat the wrong foods, raising your blood sugar level and making you feel tired and generally unwell. With your diabetic diet however you will feel a whole lot better.

Better weight control. With your diabetic diet you will avoid overeating and eating foods which are likely to lead to weight gain, allowing you to keep your figure and also reducing the risk of other health problems like heart disease and stroke.

Reduce your risk from low blood sugar levels. We tend think of diabetes in terms of high blood sugar levels but many diabetics also experience the difficulties associated with low blood sugar levels, such as dizziness, weakness, sweating and irritability, and can even fall into a diabetic coma. You diabetic diet will keep you on a regular eating pattern which will reduce this risk dramatically.

With the right diabetic diet, as well as a little bit of exercise, you will find that you can keep your diabetes under control and live a full and normal life.

Thursday, August 16, 2007

How is Inflammation Related to Insulin Resistance?

Chronic inflammation is on the forefront of medical investigation, with researchers trying to understand not only what causes the condition but also how it can be prevented.

Inflammation is the response of vascular tissues to harmful stimuli. In the case of Insulin Resistance, Metabolic Syndrome (Syndrome X) , Pre-Diabetes and PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome), this harmful stimuli is insulin.


CRP is a blood test that helps determine the level of inflammation in blood vessels. The higher the CRP reading, the higher the inflammation is and the greater risk for cardiovascular disease. Additionally, women with PCOS have higher levels of CRP than women without PCOS, whether they are lean or overweight.

Elevated levels of CRP are also linked strongly with Metabolic Syndrome, a cluster of increased risk factors for cardiovascular disease which can lead to a heart attack or stroke.

The way to reduce inflammation and lower the risk of cardiovascular disease is to restrict one's exposure to insulin through a diet high in lean proteins, good fats and good carbs from vegetables, plus some fruits. Additionally, there are numerous nutraceutical ingredients that moderate inflammation, such as omega 3 fatty acids, antioxidants and minerals. Don't forget that exercise produces a positive and long-lasting impact on the body's inflammatory processes.

Tuesday, August 14, 2007

Foot Care for Diabetes Mellitus

Having diabetes can complicate your life in many ways. It can even cause problems for your feet. How can this happen?


The pancreas produces insulin, and diabetes mellitus can be subdivided into two principle types. Persons suffering from Type 1 diabetes have defective insulin producing cells, so that the body cannot produce the hormone, or can produce only very low levels of it. On the other hand, people suffering from Type 2 diabetes have resistant body tissues, and will often have a different, more extensive treatment and maintenance regimen. People with diabetes have to eat special diets, avoid certain foods, and take medication that can allow them to maintain good blood insulin levels.

Foot Care

People suffering from diabetes mellitus will often have a hard time maintaining their feet, because diabetes can damage the nerves leading to the feet. Diabetes can also impede blood circulation, especially to the extremities, including the feet. Because of impeded circulation, the feet can be prone to more infections, especially since the immune system will have a hard time targeting infectious agents entering through the feet. People with diabetes will often complain about having stiffer joints, wounds that heal slower, and decreased speed of blood clotting.


If you are diagnosed with diabetes, then you have to have a good foot cleaning and maintenance regimen in order to avoid infections. Foot care for Diabetes Mellitus involves the following. First, take care that you wash your feet every day, using some mild soap and warm water. Lather your feet well and clean the areas between the toes and on your heel. When you are done, rinse your feet well and dry each part of your foot carefully. If you are wearing closed shoes, use talcum or foot powder to dust your foot and keep moisture out. Be sure, however, to apply only a little powder, and take care not to leave powder to cake in between your toes.

Look at each part of your foot each day, and inspect its bottom using a mirror. Look for sores, bruises, cuts, or changes in toenail color. Look for swelling that might be indicative of pus formation. Do not open sores or drain pus on your own. You need a licensed caregiver to do this so that you do not increase your risk of infection. To supplement your foot care, practice good, healthy habits: quit smoking, exercise regularly, and avoid drinking alcohol.

Care for your feet regularly and make sure that they are always well groomed. When cutting toenails, make sure that you cut across the top, and never force your nail cutter into the corners of your toes. When you encounter sharp angles on your feet, use a good emery board or nail file to smoothen your nail out. You want to avoid cutting your foot with your own toenails. Avoid walking around barefoot, and always wash your feet if you step into dirty soil or mud.

When buying shoes, shop in the afternoon when your foot is relatively larger, and buy a shoe that fits your feet exactly. You need comfortable shoes that will not hurt your feet, cut into your toes, or damage the skin of your feet or legs. You need to give your toes a good amount of room to move and wriggle. As much as possible, avoid buying high heels, pointed or narrow toes, or hard shoes that can tax on your bones.

Visit a podiatrist, or foot specialist, at least once a year; and consult with your doctor regularly. Do as much research as you can on foot care for Diabetes Mellitus. Although foot care might seem inconsequential compared with a good diet and proper medication, it should help you deal with diabetes better and still look and feel better both inside and out.

Sunday, August 12, 2007

Diabetes Nutrition - Diabetics Should Take Nutrition Advice From Primitive Man

This unique study into diabetes nutrition began with the observation that the populations of places like Papua New Guinea and the Trobriand Islands have a very low incidence of diabetes, as well as heart disease. This is thought to be because these communities have little access to modern western foods, and their diets are similar to that of primitive man.

Comparison of western and primitive diabetic meals

The second group followed a 'Palaeolithic' diet of lean meat and fish, root vegetables, fruit and nuts, and avoided the grains and low fat dairy products usually considered to be good foods for diabetics, as well as avoiding salt and fat.

Primitive diet is the best food for diabetics


Results of the trial showed that the group eating the Palaeolithic diet experienced a much lower increase in blood sugar in response to carbohydrates, than the group that were following a western diet. This is the first study into the suitability of primitive foods for diabetics, and does not at this stage replace the following general advice on diabetes nutrition.

Established advice on diabetes nutrition still stands


Long standing research into diabetes nutrition still recommends that diabetics take the following steps:

1. Build your diabetic meals around starchy foods such as rice, pasta and potatoes which have a low glycaemic index and release glucose slowly into the bloodstream.

2. Look at your cooking methods, and try to replace frying and roasting with grilling, steaming, poaching or baking.

3. Fruit and vegetables are great foods for diabetics, but do not use fruit juice to quench your thirst as this can increase your blood sugar very rapidly. If you are thirsty try drinking water instead.

4. Sugar doesn't need to be completely avoided, but you should be aware of the amount of sugar in foods and the effect on your blood sugar. Replace some sugar with artificial sweeteners, and if you have a sweet tooth look out for special diabetic chocolates and confectionery.

5. All fats and oils are high in calories, although monounsaturated fats such as olive oil and rapeseed oil are healthier than saturated fats such as butter. Your diabetic meal plan should limit fatty foods such as processed meats, pastry, crisps, chocolate, cakes and full fat dairy products.

Having diabetes should not mean you have to cut out all your favourite foods. As long as you eat healthily and only indulge in moderation, you can maintain a safe blood sugar level and lead a normal happy life. Ask your doctor for advice on your diabetic meal plan, but if your options look a little uninspiring try a diabetic cooking magazine for more interesting dishes

Saturday, August 11, 2007

Gestational Diabetes Diet - Good Pregnancy Nutrition Can Prevent Your Child Developing Diabetes

What causes gestational diabetes?


Controlling your condition with a good gestational diabetes diet plan is crucial for the health of mother and baby. Nutritionist Bridget Swinney says;

"When large amounts of glucose accumulate in your blood, it means that your cells aren't getting the fuels they need. High blood sugar can be harmful for you and your developing baby, so it is important to try to control it".

Consult a dietician to put together your gestational diabetes diet plan

Your gestational diabetes diet plan will depend on a number of factors so it is important to consult a professional to ensure the wellbeing of you and your baby. Your diet plan will be based on the following issues:

a. How many calories you need each day

b. Your height and weight

c. Your level of activity


e. Your level of glucose intolerance

Another important issue in creating your gestational diabetes diet plan is to include foods that you actually like. Any mother will know that pregnancy is a time when food can provide enormous comfort, and trying to stick to a strict diabetes diet that does not include foods you enjoy will be very difficult.

Here are some general tips for creating a gestational diabetes diet plan:

1. Eat small meals and snacks throughout the day instead of big meals that will suddenly increase your blood sugar levels. Towards the end of your pregnancy small meals will be more comfortable for you to eat anyway.

2. Don't skip meals, and make sure you eat breakfast, even if you have morning sickness, as your blood sugar levels are at their most irregular first thing in the morning.

3. General pregnancy nutrition advice may recommend fruit juice and flavored teas. These should not form part of your gestational diabetes diet plan as they can increase your blood sugar very quickly.

4. You will need a good source of calcium for your developing baby, but look for alternatives to milk which contains high levels of lactose, a simple sugar which will increase your blood sugar level. Two or three small glasses of milk a day are the maximum for your gestational diabetes diet plan

Thursday, August 9, 2007

Cure or Reverse Modern Diabetes? Latest News, Prehistoric-NO "Stone Age Diet" Recommended for Type 2

Popular Origin Diet book stresses low fat, low processed foods to reverse Type 2


Chicago, Illinois. July 6, 2007. Doctors, medical associations and research groups have, for many years, proven that the root cause of type 2 diabetes and other degenerative illnesses is found in our diet. Most recently a study from Lund University, Sweden, found that Foods of the kind that were consumed during human evolution may be the best choice to control diabetes type 2.

Its processed foods, unnatural meat hormones and "laboratory-derived sweetener chemistry" that suck nutrition and good health out of our bodies.


Recently, Elizabeth Somer published the book, The Origin Diet: How Eating Like Our Stone Age Ancestors will Maximize Your Health. It is surprisingly similar to Dr. Leonard's book in its recommendations.

I'll save you the $23.00 suggested retail price of this book and summarize the advice:

· Eat large quantities (6-9 servings) of colorful, raw fruit and vegetables a day

· Eat reasonable levels of carbohydrates (40-50% of total daily calories) a day

· Eliminate unhealthy saturated fats and eat more healthy dietary fats from fish, nuts and olive oil

· Cut down on dairy or substitute low fat or no fat versions

· Avoid processed foods, such as store bought cakes, cookies or other dessert items

· Drink lots of water, up to eight 8 ounce glasses a day

· Exercise in moderation, regularly, 3-5 times per week

In addition to this summarized set of dietary guidelines, The Origin Diet also provides an exercise regimen and set of recipe tips for preparing low fat, low calorie meals.

For anyone suffering from the debilitating effect of Type 2 diabetes, this book can be hugely beneficial.

But I can't help but notice that the Live Longer Now book, published over 25 years ago, was more comprehensive (he also published two subsequent books on the subject).

And even though more than a quarter century has passed since Dr. Leonard first published these stunning findings and provided documented solutions, people still search for the latest diet craze to control Type 2 diabetes.

The basic dietary advice for getting the better of your diabetes stays the same. The authors' names, faces and book titles are the things that constantly change. So even the latest news from Staffan Lindeberg of Lund University, Sweden says, "If you want to prevent or treat diabetes type 2, it may be more efficient to avoid some of our modern foods than to count calories or carbohydrate." ---Just read for your self.

Monday, August 6, 2007

Diabetes - Information That You Must Possess

Numerous thoughts plague a person's mind when he is diagnosed with diabetes and he may have many queries regarding the disorder.

The best source of information is your doctor. The American Diabetes Association and American Medical Association too are reliable places to go to in search of information on diabetes. They may also refer you to appropriate medical professionals.

Different types of information that you may need:

Diabetes occurs when the body does not produce insulin or cannot make use of the insulin present in the body. In order to transform sugar into energy, insulin is required. You will need information related to the dose and method of insulin intake which will depend on your individual requirement.

Though the exact cause of diabetes is unclear, the symptoms for the two types of diabetes are about the same. Type1 diabetes occurs when the body does not produce insulin while type2 diabetes results when insulin is produced but not properly utilized. Most information available is in relation to type2 diabetes as it is more common.

Information on emergency diabetic conditions is crucial. Hypoglycaemia or extremely low blood sugar levels, if left untreated could lead to unconsciousness or even coma. It is important for a diabetic as well as his family and friends to know what to do in such an emergency.

The blood sugar level needs to be closely monitored throughout the day. Knowledge regarding when the level may be slightly elevated (like after a meal) is necessary so that if the blood sugar level drops in such a case, proper measures may be taken.

It is always advisable to maintain a medical record of your condition so that proper treatment may be administered in situations of emergency. Not all medicines are compatible with each other, so knowing the history of a person helps in treatment of other diseases as well.

Friday, August 3, 2007

Can I Cure My Diabetes By Becoming A Vegetarian?

Some people who have moved over to a vegetarian diet are convinced that it has been responsible for curing their diabetes but can this really be the case or is there something else at work here?

Diet is a very important factor when it comes to diabetes but here we are normally talking principally about controlling the level of sugar in the bloodstream and so we are looking at changes to our dietary habits which control our intake of sugar. So can a vegetarian diet help in this respect?

Vegetarians fall into three categories - vegans, lacto-vegetarians and lacto-ovo vegetarians. Vegans eat no animal products, including products derived from animals such as eggs and milk, and their diet is confined solely to plant-based foods. Lacto-vegetarians add milk and some milk based products to an otherwise plant-based diet, but exclude eggs. Finally, lacto-ovo-vegetarians add milk, milk based products such as cheese and yogurt and eggs to a plant-based diet.


However, in many people who convert to a vegetarian diet there is something else hard at work in combating diabetes.

The substantial rise in diabetes, especially in the West, is due in no small measure to the fact that we are gaining weight at an alarming rate and that obesity has now reached epidemic proportions in many countries, with the United States leading the field. Weight gain is a major risk factor for diabetes and many people are developing the disease for no other reason than the fact that they are gaining weight.

The solution of course, in the first instance and before the problem gets out of hand, is simply to go on a diet, start taking some exercise and lose weight and what could be better for accomplishing this than a low cholesterol, low fat, low sugar, high fiber vegetarian diet.

Wednesday, August 1, 2007

Diabetes and Medicare

In this article I will tell you about diabetes and exercises use to reduce diabetes from the body. Diabetes is a disease in which blood glucose, or sugar, levels are too high. Diabetes is a set of related diseases in which the body cannot regulate the amount of sugar in the blood. Without enough insulin, the glucose stays in your blood. Over time, having too much glucose in your blood can damage your eyes, kidneys, and nerves. Diabetes can also cause heart disease. Diabetes can damage heart, liver, and kidney and can cause blindness, and much more.

Approximately 75% of diabetes dies of heart disease, strokes, or other type of blood circulation problem.

Types of diabetes

Type 1 diabetes usually develops in children or young adults.
Type 2 diabetes results when the body does not produce enough insulin and.

To manage your diabetes well, it is very important that you:


Don't smoke
Keep your blood glucose levels in your target range
Keep your weight in a healthy range
Take your medication as prescribed

Diabetes Treatment

Before the discover of insulin everyone with type 1 diabetes died with in a few year.The most effective treatment of diabetes consists of exercise and proper nutrition. Treatment should also include quitting smoking, maintaining good blood pressure readings. The most common of the early symptoms of diabetes is excessive thirst. And the most effective way to reduce diabetes is to adequate rest during exercise sessions to prevent high blood pressure, use low impact exercises and avoid heavy weight lifting, and always have a supply of carbohydrates nearby. Proper exercise and nutrition are the best forms of preventing diabetes. Treatment of type 1 diabetes: Type 1 Diabetes must be treated with insulin shots. This involves injecting insulin under the skin in the fat.