Type 2 DiabetesDuring the digestion process, enzymes break carbohydrates down into glucose molecules. The glucose is absorbed through the small intestine into the blood for circulation around the body where it is utilized by cells for energy and repair. Glucose can also be stored by the liver and released at times when inadequate glucose has been taken in for the body’s immediate requirements e.g. during periods of exercise. Insulin is a hormone that is produced by the pancreas and released every time food is taken into the body. Insulin is mandatory to control the level of sugar in the blood and it is also required by the cells so that they can convert the glucose into energy.It is important that glucose levels in the blood stream remain within a balanced range. When there is an inadequate supply of insulin or if the body cannot use the insulin that is available, blood glucose levels are no longer sustained at the most advantageous level and problems result. The cells of the body rely on a uniform supply of glucose to enable them to function - if the supply is interrupted for any reason the cells effectively starve. When glucose levels build up in the blood the smaller blood vessels become damaged and this in turn can cause permanent damage to the eyes and the kidneys; nerves can also be damaged which decrease sensitivity to touch and pain and interferes with the functioning of internal organs. If the high glucose levels are left uncontrolled, heart attacks and strokes become a possibility.Type 2 diabetes is referred to as ‘late onset diabetes’ as it usually takes place in men and women over the age of 40 years. The condition is now also being seen in obese children. Obesity seems to predispose people to developing type 2 diabetes, particularly when the surplus of weight is carried around the middle of the torso. There appears to be a hereditary link with those who have a family history of type 2 diabetes being more likely to develop it themselves. Those who have high blood pressure or elevated cholesterol levels also seem to have an increased likelihood of suffering from this condition.Receiving a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes can be shocking and distressing but the first thing for patients to realize is that the disease can be controlled – often simply by diet and lifestyle alterations. There is no reason why type 2 diabetes sufferers should not live long and happy lives – provided they take the required steps to support their pancreas and stabilize glucose levels. |
Soon to be Released! If you are surfing all over the internet trying to find a single, comprehensive source of information about diabetes, your search is over! First Priority Healthcare has done all the work for you with:  Soon to be Released! All your questions about diabetes are answered in a concise, easy to understand format without a lot of clinical jargon. This ebook is meant to be your single diabetes resource so you don't have to look for hours in search of bits and pieces of information. It's all right here in one handy guide! Today's Diabetes Tips If you have diabetes, the best advice I can give is to always carry an apple or some grapes with you. It is one of the quickest ways to get a natural sugar fix if you begin to feel as if your blood sugar levels are dropping too low. Candy bars or soft drinks will restore you rapidly as well but if you are diet managing your diabetes then those foods could send you over the edge in the other direction. Avoiding too high of a carbohydrate and sugar intake is critical with a history of diabetes in your family. Carbohydrates aren't all bad for you. You should try to cut out the refined carbohydrates like sugars and fats. Eating balanced meals regularly will help in maintaining a healthy level of weight. You'll see that when you eat three regular meals a day, with small but nutritional snacks between meals, you will have far less of an urge to gorge on sweets because you will feel full. Important Info Always consult your doctor or health care specialist if you are in any way concerned about your physical wellbeing. |
