Thursday, January 31, 2008

What is Glycation?

What is glycation? In short glycation is a scientific term for what happens when sugars, such as fructose or glucose, combine with proteins or lipid molecules. Additionally, glycation is the process bakers and cooks refer to as browning. You may be shocked to learn that this browning actually happens to us as we age. From an anti-aging perspective this is not a good thing.

With this information it is easy to see that we have two forms of glycation that we need to be concerned about. We have Endogenous glycations, which predominately occur in the bloodstream and Exogenous glycations that occur out side the body.


Did I mention that Glycation and AGEs have a very important partner in the damage of our tissues? That partner in the initiation and acceleration of these diseases, especially oxidative stress and inflammation, are the free radicals that we are learning so much about. To make matters worse glycated proteins are estimated to generate 50 times more free radicals than non-glycated proteins. Again, from an anti-aging standpoint this is something of great importance.


Lastly, for some good news. Scientists have discovered that alpha lipoic acid can arrest the glycation process. Additionally, it has been discovered that N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) slows the glycation process. As an added benefit scientists discovered that lipoic acid aids in the restoring of glutathione and vitamin C. As you may imagine the flavanoids found in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains have been found to reduce the glycation of hemoglobin.


References:

Tuesday, January 29, 2008

Diabetes Symptoms - Who is at the Risk of Diabetes?

Read this Article to know about Symptoms of Type 1, Type 2 and Gestational diabetes.

What is Diabetes?


The diabetes symptoms most of the time begin slowly, and difficult to recognize initially. They may include fatigue, sudden weight loss, blurred vision, slow healing of wounds, frequent urination - particularly at night, and excessive thirst.. The loss of fluids persuades extreme thirst, leading to more frequent urination.

Doctor believe a patient to have diabetes if he has health troubles linked to diabetes, such as heart disease, changes in vision, deadness in the feet and legs or sores that are slow to heal. These symptoms do not indicate that the person has diabetes, but anyone with these problems should absolutely see a doctor.

A person with diabetes may really show no symptoms. Type 2 diabetes, in particular, develops gradually, even for years before it is diagnosed. When symptoms develop, they differ from person to person.

Symptoms that develop vary for Type I and Type II diabetes. In Type I diabetes, they generally show up slowly in children or young people over a period of a few days or weeks. In Type II diabetes, symptoms develop even more slowly, over a time of years - in adults over the age of forty. Adults often do not understand they have diabetes mellitus.

Type - 1 Diabetes Symptoms:

Type 1 Diabetes Symptoms often come suddenly. They include:

1) Exceptional thirst (also called polydipsia)

2) Dry mouth

3) Frequent urination (also called polyuria)

4) Weight loss

5) Feeling weak and tired

6) Unclear vision

Type - 2 diabetes symptoms:

People with Type 2 diabetes mostly don't observe any symptoms.

They include: - blurred vision

1 )Cuts or wounds that heal slowly

2) Itchy skin

3) increased thirst

4) frequent urination

5) leg pain

Gestational diabetes symptoms:

1) increased thirst

2) increased urination

3) weight loss in spite of good appetite

4) fatigue and weakness

5) nausea and vomiting

6 ) frequent infections including those of the bladder, vagina and skin

Other warning symptoms of diabetes mellitus comprise:

1) Flu-like symptoms - like a viral illness, along with tiredness and loss of appetite.

2) Weight gain or loss – as the body is trying to recompense for lost fluids and sugar, one tends to eat extra than normal and increase weight. On the other hand, one may also eat more than usual, but still drops weight because the muscle tissues don't get sufficient glucose to generate growth and energy. In fact, most people with type 1 diabetes are at or below their standard weight.

3) Blurred vision - High levels of blood sugar draw out fluid from the tissues in the body comprising the lenses of the eyes. For many people this causes only mild vision troubles. Nevertheless, for others, the effects may be much more severe, even blindness.

4) Nerve damage (neuropathy) – excess sugar in blood can lead to loss of feeling in hands and feet. One may also bears burning pain in legs, feet, arms and hands. Many men, above the age of 50 and older with diabetes may experience some level of sexual dysfunction from damage to the nerves that help produce an erection.

5) Swollen and tender gums - Diabetes increases the risk of infection in gums and in the bones that grasp teeth in place.

6) Recurrent yeast infections.

7) Smooth dark skin changes of the neck, armpit and groin, called acanthosis nigricans.

8) Impotency

Sunday, January 27, 2008

Depression and Diabetes - Depression Shown to Be a Risk Factor for Type 2 Diabetes

"Life is just a bowl of cherries." Whoever came up with this quote probably never was diagnosed with diabetes or depression. When you have diabetes, life can seem like a bowl of rotten bananas! But, just because you live with diabetes, doesn't mean you have to live with depression!

What's the big deal with depression?

Depression is shown to be a risk factor for type 2 diabetes because it's one of the most common and dangerous complications. Diabetics are at far greater risk for acquiring depression than non-diabetics because diabetics have more stress than non-diabetics. Controlling diabetes requires a large number of physical and mental adaptations:

- Diabetics must learn about a complex system of dietary and medical interventions.

- Diabetics may have to alter their lifestyle, school, and work schedules.

- Diabetics feel like they're outsiders from the world.

- Diabetics must adjust to a new view of how they live.


What causes depression?

Alcohol or drug abuse

Changes of environment

Side effects from medications

Stress

Thyroid problems


Why is depression a risk factor for my type 2 diabetes?

- The stress from daily diabetes management alone can make you feel set apart from your family and friends.

- Physical complications can make you feel like you're losing control.

- Tension between you and your doctor can make you feel frustrated and sad.

- Loss of appetite caused from depression will affect blood sugar levels.

- Feeling anxious and not thinking straight will cause irregular food intake causing blood sugar to dramatically and dangerously change.


What are the warning signs of depression?

- Appetite: eating more or less than normal will result in quick weight gain or weight loss.

- Early to rise: waking up earlier than usual and cannot go back to sleep.

- Guilt: you think you can "never do anything right" and think you're a burden.

- Loss of energy: you're tired all the time.

- Loss of pleasure: you no longer are interested in doing things you used to enjoy.

- Morning sadness: you feel worse in the morning than you any other time.

- Nervousness: you always feel anxious and can't sit or stand still.

- Sleep patterns: you have trouble falling asleep or you want to sleep during the day.

- Suicidal thoughts: you feel life would be better without you around.

- Trouble concentrating: you can't watch TV or read because you're pre-occupied.


I have diabetes. How do I know if I suffer from depression?

The first step is to ask your doctor for a depression screening immediately. If the screening reveals you do have depression, you can address those concerns with your health professional. Asking for help won't label you a victim, but rather it will label you a victor.

What are the advantages for treating my depression?

Recent studies show that proper treatment of depression can dramatically improve type 2 diabetes. The advantages for treating your depression will:

1. Improve your physical function.

2. Let you take on life like you own the world.

3. Make you feel happy.


Is there any product that can help me take control of my diabetes and depression?

Saturday, January 26, 2008

Housework May Prevent Diabetes - Australian Study Suggests Good Housekeepers Healthier

"Heigh ho, heigh ho, it's off to work we go…". You probably remember this fun song in the childhood movie, "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs." Little did we know that Snow White, Sneezy, Sleepy, Doc, Dopey, Happy, Bashful, and Grumpy's everyday chores may actually prevent diabetes!

What housework tasks are recommended to do to prevent diabetes?

Just about anything you can think of! Here are some examples of housework tasks that may prevent diabetes:

- Dishes

- Dust

- Laundry

- Vacuum

- Sweep

- Change bed sheets and make the beds

- Clean the bathroom

- Mop

- Re-arranging closets or the garage

- Gardening

- Watering the lawn

- Put up and maintain a bird feeder

- Re-arrange furniture

These are common, everyday chores that you probably already do daily or weekly.

Where's the proof that housework may prevent type 2 diabetes?

Australian researches have found that a little light housework everyday helps control blood glucose levels and may prevent diabetes. They concluded that even the smallest amount of housework duties may lower your blood glucose level and prevent diabetes.

How does housework prevent me from getting type 2 diabetes?

It is proven that for every hour of light housework chores you complete, there can be a 0.2 drop in your blood glucose level. At the end of the day, this can add up and can significantly decrease your chances of being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.

Is type 2 diabetes the only thing that housework may prevent?

No! In fact, there are three areas that doing housework chores can benefit you:

MIND: housework keeps you mind active and working.

BODY: housework prevents type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, some cancers, and many other cardiovascular diseases.

SOUL: housework gives you a sense of accomplishment and productivity.

What a great culmination! You can improve your outlook on life as you prevent diabetes and live in a clean house.

So, all I have to do is just dust for five minutes and that's it?

Not exactly. Moderate exercise is still recommended to maintain a healthy body, but it's good to know that the little stuff counts too. The recommended regimen of 30 minutes of moderate to slightly vigorous exercise per day is still important for a healthy body and life.

The conclusion of the Australian study was that good housekeepers proved that anything is better than doing nothing, and even doing the dishes will lower blood glucose levels.

What if I still need help to prevent type 2 diabetes?

Thursday, January 24, 2008

Diabetes Lowers Life Expectancy - Learn the Facts and Some Tips To Prevent Diabetes

Imagine life if you couldn't…

1. Attend a symphony

2. Bungee jump in Queenstown, New Zealand

3. Create a scrapbook

4. Dine at a fine restaurant

5. Explore the ancient Mayan caves

6. Fly in a helicopter over the Grand Canyon

7. Go on an African Safari

8. Host a radio show

9. Invent something

10. Join a gym

11. Kiss the ones you love

12. Love and be loved unconditionally

13. Meet your favorite celebrity

14. Never say never

15. Own an expensive article of clothing

16. Play a Grand Piano

17. Quit a bad habit

18. Ride on a motorcycle

19. Swim with the dolphins

20. Travel to Iceland

21. Understand a new language

22. Visit all 50 states

23. Watch the Northern Lights

24. eXperience the feel of sand between your toes

25. Yodel in the Appalachian Mountains

26. Have a Zest for life


Physical activity is well-documented to prevent diabetes and deaths from diabetes. Physically active people without diabetes live longer than men and women who are not physically active with diabetes.

What constitutes as physical activity?:

- Walking

- Water aerobics

- Biking

You have plenty of options, so get creative and start living!

There is no arguing that diabetes lowers life expectancy. Despite that alarming realization, you can learn the facts and some tips to prevent diabetes. You simply don't have to live with diabetes and the anticipation of a shorter life.

Diabetes is a debilitating disease that affects your life adversely and puts you at risk for the following conditions:

- Cardiovascular disease

- Depression

- Foot ulcers

- Hypoglycemia

- Kidney and nerve damage

- Sexual and Urologic problems

- Stomach nerve damage

- Vision

The complications from diabetes all add up to a shorter life expectancy.

If you don't want to go through these medical complications or miss out on the ABCs of life, follow these simple tips to help prevent diabetes:

1. Control your blood sugar

2. Eat a healthy diet

3. Exercise regularly

Just doing these three simple steps can help prevent diabetes! Learn the facts and adopt these tips to prevent diabetes.

Tuesday, January 22, 2008

Diabetes Treatment - Can Cinnamon Lower Blood Sugar?

What would you say if I told you that I have the secret ingredient to lower your blood sugar? What, then, would you say if I told you that you probably already have this ingredient in your kitchen pantry? It's cinnamon. That's right! The fragrant and delicious spice you cook and bake with only during the holiday season can actually lower blood sugar in diabetics. Cinnamon is a diabetes treatment that can lower blood sugar.

Who should take advantage of cinnamon?

Type 2 diabetics who want to live a healthier and fuller life.

Type 2 diabetics who want to live longer to enjoy their friends and family.

Type 2 diabetics who want to live. Period.

What do I have to do?

Incorporate just ½ teaspoon of cinnamon in your diet each day. That's it!

When should I eat cinnamon?

Every day! Baking or cooking with cinnamon will make those foods you love already even more delicious, and it will lower your blood sugar level. What could be easier? There's no fuss, no muss, no preparation. Just results.

Where can I use cinnamon?

Here's a list of foods from you can eat that will be healthy and delicious with cinnamon in or on it:

- Cinnamon Bun Breakfast Focaccia

- Apple Coffee Cake

- Raisin-Cinnamon Rolls

- Cappuccino Muffins

- Grilled Peaches with Peach Walnut Chutney

- Saffron Rice with Cashews and Raisins Recipe

- Pork Tenderloin with Cinnamon

- Lamb in Saffron and Cardamom Cream

- Chicken with Peanut Mole Sauce

- Cinnamon Iced Tea

You don't have to limit your cinnamon usage to just the above list. Experiment! Create your own recipes! Be original! Enjoy!

Why should I use cinnamon?

For type 2 diabetics, their body has lost its sensitivity to insulin. This will cause higher levels of glucose to remain in the blood. This is especially dangerous because it is linked to many other health problems such as eye, kidney, and many other organ health problems.

The natural compounds in cinnamon mimic insulin, which helps glucose get into cells, where it can be used for either energy and significantly lowering blood sugar in the process, or it is stored as fat. Cinnamon is a verifiable diabetes treatment.

How will it affect me if I don't take care of my diabetes?

Watching your diabetes is a 24/7 job. Exercise and a healthy diet are part of keeping your diabetes under control. If you don't take care of your diabetes, there are serious and life-threatening consequences such as:

Disabling ailments

Insecure mindset

Absences from activities

Behavioral changes

Extreme fatigue

Tingling hands and feet

Eye damage

Slow healing cuts and bruises

So, the secret ingredient isn't a secret any more! The best kept secret isn't a secret any more! You know who, what, when, where, why, and how to give yourself your life back. Start living your life. If you don't, who will?

I don't want diabetes to make me a victim! I need a little more help.

Sunday, January 20, 2008

Obesity In Young Adults Leads to Higher Incidence of Developing Diabetes

Do you remember the amusing childhood game, "Follow the Leader?" One person is elected the leader and everyone else for a period of time must follow that leader. Your children play "Follow the Leader" when it comes to health whether you realize it or not. Well, obesity in young adults leads to higher incidence of developing diabetes. Diabetes isn't a game, it isn't amusing, and it's very dangerous.

Diabetes is a growing epidemic that is taking young adults into its captivity, and it all starts in the home. Children and young adults are like sponges that soak up everything their parents do, think, and say, and even eat. The eating habits of the parents are permanently seared into the children's brain that go with them throughout their lives. This is very dangerous because obesity leads to a greater chance of developing diabetes.


Below are dormant activities are very dangerous for young adults today.

- Video games

- Movie theaters

- Channel surfing

- Arcades

- Laptop notebooks

- Snacking on unhealthy foods

Below are wonderful and fun activities that can actually reverse the chances of developing diabetes.

- Bicycling

- Swimming

- Walking

- Running

- Playing tennis or basketball

- Eating healthy and delicious foods

A few simple changes in a young adult's lifestyle can lower their chances of developing diabetes and will lead to a happier and healthier life. Changes such as:

1. Exercising regularly

2. Eating healthier and with moderation

That's it! Just these two very simple and easy things will help prevent you from developing type 2 diabetes. Wouldn't you rather just do these two simple things than have a list of things to do to manage your diabetes?

Both scenarios below either have a consequence or a reward. You will either become a diabetic or become a healthier and happier person. Which one will you choose for your life? Picture this:

Scenario One: You eat all the fast food you want without moderation. You don't exercise. You sit on the couch everyday channel surfing.

Scenario Two: You cook delicious and taste bud-tantalizing foods that are healthy for you. You enjoy the sun and the fresh air while walking off extra weight and preventing diabetes. You make everyday household chores a way of exercising.

For young people, diabetes has become a higher incidence and is a very complicated hassle to deal with everyday. Diabetics are required to follow a good nutrition diet, mild physical activity, and develop a common knowledge of the disease and the complications that follow.