Monday, November 23, 2009

Avoiding Diabetes

By Crystal Wells

Diabetes is a disease that almost 24 million people in the U.S. have. Although about a quarter of these people do not know they have Diabetes. This disease is one where a person's body does not produce or properly use insulin, a hormone that helps to covert starches and sugar into energy that is then used by the body. There are a few varieties to this disease which we will take a look at.

Type 1 Diabetes

About 5-10% of people have Type 1 Diabetes, which is when the body does not produce insulin. To address this type of Diabetes the individual must take shots of insulin to help their bodies be able to convert starches, sugars and other foods into energy in the form the body needs it to be.

Type 2 Diabetes

The majority of those who have Diabetes have Type 2 Diabetes. Interestingly, many of the people who have Type 2 Diabetes do not know it. With this type of Diabetes an individual's body does not create enough insulin or use the insulin created appropriately. These people must be cognizant of their sugar levels and focus on keeping them level through exercise and diet. There are also some medications that can assist.

Gestational Diabetes

This occurs during pregnancy in some woman. The results of this can be a baby that gains weight quickly. 5-10% of women who have gestational diabetes will have diabetes after their pregnancy, usually Type 2 Diabetes.

Pre-Diabetes

There are about 57 million people in the US who have high blood sugar levels but not quite high enough to be considered Type 2 Diabetes. This condition would be considered pre-diabetes.

It is possible to prevent Type 2 Diabetes. This is good since most people who have Diabetes fall into this type. To reduce risks of Type 2 Diabetes you should focus on becoming more physically active as well as eating a balanced diet.

You should try to reduce sugars and simple carbohydrates while increasing intake of whole grains, vegetables and fruits. Eating a high protein breakfast and 5-6 smaller meals during the day will help to keep blood sugar level. Having a healthy diet and losing weight will dramatically improve your chances to prevent Type 2 Diabetes.

Begin exercising 30 minutes per day can help with losing weight as well as controlling blood sugar levels. By using your muscles more you will help them use insulin more effectively to absorb glucose in your bloodstream to keep blood sugar moderate and not too high.

Although Diabetes is a serious disease it is one that you have the ability to prevent by focusing on habits that will help your overall health. Some of these habits are eating a healthy balanced diet and participating in 30 minutes or more of exercise per day. By taking better care of yourself in these ways it will immensely increase your success in preventing Diabetes.

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