By Beverleigh H Piepers

High blood sugar levels, combined with poor circulation, puts the skin of diabetics on their whole body not just at risk for infections... a major issue is dry skin. Diabetics tend to have drier skin than most people do, according to Walgreens, a provider of continuing pharmacy education accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education. Correct information for skin care is really essential in the education of diabetics.

Walgreens explains that increased blood sugar levels lead to dry skin that is prone to:

* cracking
* ulcers
* wounds, and
* lesions

High blood sugar levels also encourage the development of:

* strange, yellow pimples (a sign of high fat levels in your blood)
* boils, or
* a varied range of localized infections

And because most diabetic patients have a decreased ability to heal infected lesions, more often than not these infections usually result in uncontrolled would infections leading to extremity amputations. With proper skin care, these various complications may be prevented.

So, how do you take care of your skin if you happen to have Type 2 diabetes?

1. Apply a non-water based moisturizer to your skin regularly. Walgreens advises that diabetics should use non-water based moisturizers on their skin on a regular basis to prevent it from becoming dry. If this kind of moisturizer is not available in your local store, a cream or a heavy lotion can be used in place of the moisturizer.

2. Never use hot water for bathing. According to Walgreens, hot water tends to dry skin more. To prevent this from happening, use warm water instead.

3. Apply your moisturizer immediately after bathing. Applying your moisturizer at this time tends to trap water in the skin making it less prone to drying. It also acts as a sealant and a barrier at the same time, locking out harmful materials from damaging your skin.

4. Drink plenty of water and eat a good amount of vegetables (vegetables also contain water). Increased blood sugar level causes the water to dry up within individual cells becoming dehydrated.

5. Use urea-containing products to soften and hydrate the skin. Urea helps your body retain moisture keeping the skin from drying up and cracking. Again, according to Walgreens, diabetics should select a skin product that contains ten percent or more of urea so your skin receives the full benefits.

6. Type 1 and Type 2 diabetics are also advised to never use skin products recommended for calluses, corns and warts. These skin products tend to crack the skin, damaging it's surface. The best advice is to have these skin conditions treated by qualified doctors.

7. Last, but not least, preventative measures for taking care of your skin includes frequently testing your blood sugar and taking your prescribed medications. The goal of this management is to achieve blood sugar levels that are as normal as possible and therefore avoid all complications, not just dry skin.

By Beverleigh H Piepers

The American Diabetes Association recommends medical nutrition therapy or MNT for preventing the onset of Type 2 diabetes, to manage the existing diabetes problem, and to prevent further complications associated with poor blood sugar control. In fact, the American Diabetes Association states that the MNT should be a part of every diabetic's self-management education.

However effective this diet may seem for the management of diabetes, many diabetics still see the ADA diet as a faulty eating style most people can never follow to the letter. In the forum Diabetes Daily, many concerns were expressed by real people diagnosed with diabetes:

1. The ADA appears to recommend many more carbohydrates than most diabetics can handle in one day. One diabetic who posted on the Diabetes Forum tried following the ADA diet with poor results.

2. The ADA recommends artificial sweeteners and diet drinks that seem to be a major turn-off for many Type 2 diabetics who are looking to reverse their condition.

3. Many Type 2 diabetics are confused about counting calories.

Because of these complaints, the American Diabetes Association (ADA), developed a new and easy "tool" to help make the ADA diet:

* easier to follow
* much more appealing, and
* a custom fit for diabetics.

This new diet tool is called the "Create Your Plate" method.

Create Your Plate may be one of the easiest tools ever created not just for blood sugar control but for weight loss as well. With the Create Your Plate approach it's the size of the sections that matters.

To picture how your plate should look when you use the Create Your Plate method, mentally divide it into left and right halves. Then imagine the right half split into two equal parts. The first step is to fill the left half of your plate with non-starchy vegetables, eg. spinach, green beans, lettuce, etc. Then, place only a small portion of starchy foods, such as rice, pasta or potatoes in the top right hand quarter, and a small portion of protein such as lean meat, eggs, fish or chicken in the bottom right quarter. Simple enough? With this Create Your Plate method, you don't need to worry about counting your carbs or thinking about how many calories you take it. Just eat and be satisfied with your meal.

Having Type 2 diabetes doesn't mean you need to starve yourself. Nor does it mean stuffing yourself with carbohydrates for the sake of reaching the minimum daily requirement for your carbohydrate intake.

An effective diabetic diet means choosing the right kinds of foods in the right proportions. The Create Your Plate approach is not only easy to follow, it also has three distinct advantages: it reduces caloric intake, controls carbohydrates and satisfied your hunger. So what are you waiting for?

By Beverleigh H Piepers

It has long been said that exercise is a powerful tool to clear the blood of sugar and help to control Type 2 diabetes. Walking is one of the best forms of exercise for just about anyone. It is low intensity which means that people with joint problems can participate in walking programs fairly easily. New research is showing that taking more steps per day could actually lower your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

Walking burns a lot of calories but even if it doesn't lead to weight loss, it has been shown diabetics:

* improve their HbA1c level by 0.4%
* lower their risk of heart disease
* improve their cholesterol levels

This was found during a national research study in Australia. During the study which commenced in the year 2000 and continued through to 2005, researchers gave pedometers to over 600 adults so they could measure how many steps they were taking during two consecutive days.

Diabetics who walked the most during the five-year period had a lower body mass index (BMI) and also had better insulin sensitivity. Experts recommend that people take at least 10,000 steps per day which is the equivalent to about 5 miles. The study showed also that a sedentary person could increase their daily steps to reach 10,000 and lower their BMI by almost 1 point while improving insulin sensitivity by three times.

So how do you start a walking program that you will stick to? Everyone is motivated by different things so it's hard to give a one-size-fits-all approach to commencing a walking program.

However, if you work with a group of people, why not set aside part of your lunchtime or time before or after work to walk with a group of friends or work colleagues. Often, having camaraderie and the accountability of walking with other people will help you stay on track.

If you don't like to walk outside, or it's too hot or cold where you live, there are indoor walking programs available on DVD that you can purchase and work with at home. These particular DVDs allow you to walk in a small area and still get the same benefits of walking outside.

Of course, using the treadmill is another option for people who can't or don't want to walk outside. You can also try walking inside the mall or the local track if you so desire.

Set small goals so that you don't get overwhelmed at first. If you haven't done a lot of physical activity in recent years, you might want to start out walking 10 to 15 minutes per day, three or four days a week, as you build up your stamina.

It has also been repeatedly demonstrated that exercising or walking after eating, when blood sugar levels are at their highest, lowers blood sugar. If walking after meals brings on angina, or chest pain, wait a few hours before exercising.

By Beverleigh H Piepers

Type 2 diabetes is a disease wrought with numerous medical complications. These complications can range in intensity from low blood sugar or hypoglycemia, to nerve damage, memory loss, dementia, heart disease and strokes. But a common complication has to do with the fat in the bloodstream. It is called hyperlipidemia.

Simply put, hyperlipidemia is high triglyceride and cholesterol levels in the blood. When broken down, hyperlipidemia is based on the multiple characteristics of a protein. This condition refers to an elevated level of lipoproteins that are present in the blood. Lipoproteins are particles that are fat-soluble and are used to transport the fat in capsules throughout the body by way of the bloodstream. The overall size of the capsule determines its level of density and, in turn, the density determines the level of fat and protein that is present. Those with more fat than protein will be larger and less dense.

So how does this relate to Type 2 diabetes? Have you ever heard of the "bad" cholesterol, or LDL? Well, LDL stands for low-density lipoproteins. These leave fat deposits in the walls of arteries and create a building block for heart disease and stroke. On the other hand, HDL, or "good" cholesterol carries cholesterol to the liver.

There is a strong connection between heart disease and Type 2 diabetes so the link concerning cholesterol is just as apparent. Triglycerides are one of the most important factors here since they represent the way your body stores fat for energy when needed. Type 2 diabetics are notorious for developing hyperlipidemia due to the issues as they relate to triglycerides.

Diabetics not only have to be concerned with sugar levels, but fat levels, also. If there is an increased risk of developing heart disease then several issues are occurring. Triglycerides are molecules of fat in the blood...insulin resistance causes the liver to make more VLDL (very-low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, which is the main carrier of triglycerides in the blood. Therefore, many Type 2 diabetics have elevated levels of both VLDL cholesterol and triglycerides. Elevated triglycerides are a decided risk factor for heart disease.

For triglyceride levels to be this high, it also stands to reason that the individual is not exercising regularly. This is important for any individual, but especially important for a diabetic where certain conditions can be more pronounced than in an individual who does not have the disease. Exercise lowers triglycerides.

The big decision to make is to start or increase exercising. Reducing your intake of fats and carbohydrates is also important. The point here is to reduce your triglyceride and LDL levels in order to keep your liver from being overloaded.

By Beverleigh H Piepers

According to the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse, as many as 23.6 million Americans are suffering from both direct and indirect complications of Type 2 diabetes. As well as that unbelievable number, around 29.5 percent of American adults have prediabetes. Most people with Type 2 go through a phase of prediabetes, where they have slightly raised blood sugar levels without having full-blown diabetes. Prediabetes is defined as having a fasting blood sugar reading of 100 to 125 mg/dL.

Over a number of years, uncontrolled blood sugar causes serious damage to blood vessels and nerves, leading to complications such as:

* heart disease
* loss of vision
* kidney failure
* amputations, and
* impotence

There is no cure for Type 2 diabetes, although it can certainly be controlled, and the following outcomes avoided:

1. Stroke and complications of the heart: As mentioned by the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse, heart disease has been the cause of death in 65 percent of cases in the older age group in the year 2004. Within this age group,16 percent had stroke complications brought about by uncontrolled blood sugar.

It is now known people having prediabetes or Type 2 diabetes are two to three times more likely to suffer complications of the heart and suffer a stroke than people without these conditions. The National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse explains uncontrolled blood sugar levels trigger the deposition of fatty deposits in the blood vessel walls causing the development of atherosclerosis, the clogging and hardening of blood vessels. Atherosclerosis, in turn, is the most important independent factor to the development of stroke and heart complications.

2. Blindness: Diabetes is the leading cause of new blindness in adults in the United States. In fact, diabetic retinopathy, the complication affecting nerve tissues of the eyes, causes around twelve thousand to fourteen thousand new cases of blindness per year. Chronic uncontrolled blood sugar levels damage the tiny blood vessels in the eyes resulting in the clogging of these tiny blood supply carriers. With this compromised blood supply, deterioration of nerve tissues in the eye guarantees the development of gradual blindness. Seventy-eight percent of people with Type 2 diabetes experience eye disease due primarily to their health condition.

3. Renal failure: Diabetes is the most common cause of renal failure in the United States according to the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse. Both small and large blood vessel complication can lead to kidney problems. High blood pressure and high blood sugar can be a dangerous combination for your kidneys. About 15 percent of people with Type 2 will develop kidney disease, known as renal disease or nephropathy. Diabetes causes 40 percent of all end-stage renal disease or kidney failure. To prevent this health issue becoming a problem, annual laboratory testing in all diabetic patients is essential.

4. Your Feet: Diabetes accounts for approximately half of all non-emergency amputations, but many experts agree doing a foot self-exam every day can prevent most foot complications from becoming severe. Your feet are the targets of both large blood vessel and small blood vessel complications. In the first place, peripheral vascular disease affects blood circulation to your feet. In the second place, the nerve cells in your feet which control sensation, can be altered through complications of the small blood vessels. Nerve damage can also affect your feet's muscles and tendons, causing weakness and changes to the foot's shape.

Preventing complications for Type 2 diabetes revolves around blood sugar control, exercise, and low-fat eating which are the same things that can prevent Type 2 diabetes in the first place.

By Beverleigh H Piepers

Although the thought of eating out when you have Type 2 diabetes can be a little daunting, it is none the less, quite possible. The main thing to remember is that you might be able to monitor your own cooking, but you have to take charge when someone else is preparing your food. Since you're paying for the meal, have it done your way.

Your quest starts with the right establishment. For example, your chances of choosing healthy options are much higher with Italian food than with Mexican. If a majority of dishes are covered with sauces, creams and cheese, you can opt to have them prepared without these extra calories, but the taste will suffer. And, lets face it; most people won't have that kind of willpower.

Even healthy foods can come laden with extras. Skip some of these options and go for more heart-conscious choices. Remember each tablespoon of butter contains 11.5 grams fat and 102 calories (0.43 kJ). You will want to avoid foods high in animal fats which load on extra calories and saturated fats. A low-salt dish will do wonders, too. There are plenty of great tasting foods out there to choose from, the problem is that we have grown accustomed to masquerading their true taste with extras.

Ask questions: Menus are not only vague, but they are designed to focus on the presentation of the food, and not the preparation. Ask your server how a dish is cooked and what your alternative choices for extras and sides are. Often, a restaurant will substitute something simply by asking... even if it isn't advertised. If it isn't offered, ask if an exception can be made as you have diabetes and want to keep your blood sugar as near to normal as possible. If not, maybe you will need to consider a different dish instead of compromising your eating standards.

Watch the size: One of the downfalls for Type 2 diabetics eating out is the hefty portions of meat and dairy that restaurants often serve you. Portion size has gotten out of control. In fact, a main dish can easily be split between two people. If a plate the size of a football is brought to the table, immediately ask for a to-go container. Removing half of the food before you even begin eating will eliminate the temptation to polish it all off.

Go for a salad: Many establishments offer a wide array of delicious salads that are better options than main courses. But be leery of how they are made. Ask for extras on the side, including cheese. Your idea of adding cheese and the cook's idea will probably differ greatly.

If you have to include dressing, have them bring it on the side. Dipping your fork in the dressing before each bite gives you the taste without drowning your salad in needless calories and fat. Each tablespoon of mayonnaise contains 11 grams of fat and 100 calories (0.41 kJ). Creamy mayonnaise-based salad dressings are dripping with fat grams.

By Beverleigh H Piepers

The Linus Pauling Institute states that coenzyme Q10 is a fat-soluble chemical compound which may be produced within your body, or may be ingested through your diet. In most cases, the endogenous production of co-enzyme Q10 and your diet is sufficient to meet the demands and needs of your body. However, there are special cases that may result in the decreased supply and level of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10).

The mitochondria of your cells is where energy is produced and it is here the most CoQ10 is contained. Powering up your cells' generators, the mitochondria, can:

* help you burn fat
* improve your cholesterol ratios
* raise your energy, and
* improve your thyroid and pancreatic function

Coenzyme Q10:

* serves as a very important compound that facilitates the production of adenosine triphosphate, the basic unit of energy within the mitochondria, the energy factory within each cell. Basic body processes and other body functions such as muscle contraction and production of body proteins require the presence of adenosine triphosphate
* may also act as an antioxidant. Antioxidants block the effect of free radicals, the active chemical compounds that may damage cell membranes, tamper gene coding within your cells and in worst cases, may even cause premature cell death. Free radicals are natural by-products of metabolism within the body. However, these harmful substances may also come from other sources such as environmental pollution, cigarette smoking, ionizing radiations and even inflammation
* is also important in boosting your body's energy. And it also plays a role in enhancing the body's immune system activity

Do statins lower the level of CoQ10?

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, statins... a group of anti-cholesterol medications, may decrease the levels of this very important antioxidant. The most common examples of statins include:

* atorvastatin (Lipitor)
* simvastatin (Zocor), and
* rosuvastatin (Crestor)

Statins are a group of special medications that decrease the level of blood cholesterol by inhibiting its synthesis. However, statins may also inhibit the production of coenzyme Q10 during this process.

Your blood sugar may also go up because of your cholesterol medication.

Can anti-diabetic medications also lower your body's supply of co-enzyme Q10?

The University of Maryland Medical Center confirms sulfonylureas, a group of antidiabetic medications, may decrease the supply of co-enzyme Q10. The examples of sulfonylureas include glipizide (Glucotrol), gliclazide (GenRx Gliclazide), and glimeperide (Amaryl). With the long-term use of these medications, the levels of CoQ10 also becomes chronically depleted resulting in an increased risk for heart problems and hypertension. Other symptoms that may result from a coenzyme Q10 deficiency include:

* gingivitis
* decreased activity of the immune system, and
* muscle pains and weakness

To correct a CoQ10 deficiency resulting from the intake of these medications, supplementation may be necessary according to the Linus Pauling Institute. Product labels will show ubiquinone, CoQ10, or coenzyme Q10... they are all exactly the same nutrient.

Dietary sources of CoQ10 include: sardines, mackerel, beef heart and liver, lamb, pork, and eggs. Vegetables include spinach and broccoli. Nuts and whole grains are also sources.

By Beverleigh H Piepers

The use of herbal supplementation in the American diabetic population is becoming increasingly popular. According to America's top-selling drugstore, Walgreens, in a survey conducted in 1997 to 1998, a team of researchers found that herbal supplementation is being used by one-third of people with Type 2 diabetes. If you are a diabetic, maybe you are wondering if herbal supplements can help you.

Several of the following supplements have been studied for their ability to lower blood sugar and improve the diabetic condition:

Ginseng: Ginseng is a very popular herbal medication in Chinese culture. In fact, Chinese people have been using this herb for thousands of years for the treatment of various illnesses. Walgreens, a provider of continuing pharmacy education, mentions that some studies have proven that ginseng may be useful in health conditions such as:

* heart problems,
* immune system diseases, and
* Type 2 diabetes.

Ginseng appears to have an antioxidant property that lowers the oxidation of LDL, the "bad" cholesterol. Furthermore, some studies suggest ginseng may enhance the action of certain antibiotics. It may also improve the efficacy of the influenza immunization. Diabetics may also benefit from ginseng since it helps lower blood sugar levels before and after meals. However, there are certain side effects that may discourage some diabetics from using ginseng. These may include: headache, dizziness, vomiting and nervousness. In higher doses, it can even elevate your blood pressure, alter your sleeping pattern and cause edema.

Beta-Glucan: Beta-Glucan is a type of soluble fiber produced by bacteria, some fungi and algae. However, it can also be derived from plant foods such as oats and barley. According to Walgreens, beta-glucan is proven to lower the levels of LDL, the "bad" cholesterol. It can also help in controlling the blood sugar level of a Type 2 diabetic. However, more clinical trials and researches are needed to establish this fact.

Gymnema: Gymnema plant is also known as ram's horn, miracle plant and probeta. Some studies show that this herbal may aid in the management of both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes by lowering the blood sugar level and HbA1c values according to Walgreens. Gymnema contains gurmarin, a special substance that is able to block the sensation of sweetness. Gurmarin may help curb a diabetic's craving for sweet tasting treats.

Other studies suggest this herb slows absorption of sugars in the gastrointestinal tract, while others point to its revitalizing effects on the pancreas.

Cinnamon: There is an increasing spotlight on cinnamon. Cinnamon can be helpful in regulating blood sugar, cinnamon stimulates the production of glucose-burning enzymes and increases the effectiveness of insulin, according to the USDA Beltsville Human Nutrition Research Center in Maryland. This center found that taking between one quarter and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon every day... the same type you buy at your supermarket... helps control blood sugar levels.

Cinnamon is a common spice usually added to baked goods and treats. Old folks usually use it to treat hyperacidity and loss of appetite. According to Walgreens, some small-scale studies were able to prove the hypoglycemic effect of cinnamon in diabetics with uncontrolled blood sugar. However, larger studies need to be done to establish this fact.

By Beverleigh H Piepers

It's been said that the meteoric rise of Type 2 diabetes and obesity in the US is largely due to a collision of ancient genes and our modern-day world. While nearly everyone notes "genetics" as a contributor to diabetes development, few know exactly what genes do to promote this disease.

According to a swell of recent science, our genes have been largely unchanged over the last 10 thousand years. By and large, your genetic makeup is identical to your ancient ancestor's whose hippest accessory was a new loincloth.

However, what has changed is our world? Food is plentiful and abundant in calories, the opposite of caveman times. Modern conveniences have allowed us to live fairly rich lives without leaving our chairs. And stressors of today... traffic, email, cell phones... weren't part of a caveman's daily life.

Our bodies were designed for a feast or famine environment. When food was plentiful, we'd store as much of it as possible in our guts, butts and thighs for a rainy day when no food was to be had. While this may have helped humans survive in the wild, it's now making us obese and sick. Research by Lund University's LC Group confirmed today's lifestyles are incongruous with our genes... leading to Type 2 diabetes.

Fortunately, you don't have to sell your house and start camping in the woods to prevent or reduce the impact of diabetes on your life. A few simple steps can allow you to enjoy modern conveniences without suffering from the potential downsides.

Eat Like a Caveman: If there's one thing that has changed the most since the Paleolithic era of humanity (besides fashion), it's food. Cavemen largely subsisted on a diet rich in meat, fruits, vegetables, and the occasional nut. Grains, sugar and Burger King drive-thru were most definitely not in the picture.

A study published in found that a caveman diet outperformed an American Diabetic Association carb counting diet for blood sugar management.

Get Moving: Even the simplest task for a caveman took gargantuan amounts of effort. Lacking electricity and modern technology, cavemen had to burn serious calories whilst building shelter, foraging for food and preparing meals.

While exercise... like jogging or going to the gym... is healthy, it's not the only way to burn off fat. Researchers are looking into the effect of small amounts of physical activity, like taking short walks or fidgeting, on weight loss. People who are physically active and get some intense exercise tend to weigh less than people who only exercise.

Chill Out: Yes, having to constantly worry about your next meal must have been stressful for the common caveman. However, studies on native tribe cultures in South America have found that they tend to work for only 4 or 5 hours per day. The rest of the time they are chatting, relaxing or having fun.

Stress contributes to high blood pressure and binge eating. Make some time for yourself to relax and chill and you'll be in better control of your blood sugar levels.

By Beverleigh H Piepers

Nocturnal hypoglycemia defines the condition of low blood sugar levels during sleeping hours. A blood sugar value of less than 70 mg/dL or 3.8 mmol/L confirms the diagnosis. According to the John Hopkins POC-IT Center, forty-three percent of hypoglycemic episodes and fifty-five percent of severe hypoglycemia happen during sleep. Furthermore, more cases of severe hypoglycemia occurs in diabetics on regular insulin injection therapy compared to Type 2 diabetics on oral hypoglycemic medications.

More often than not, mild forms of nocturnal hypoglycemia or low blood sugar, occur without being recognized and mostly occur without apparent symptoms. However, severe forms of low blood sugar may have dangerous and even potentially lethal consequences.

What are the causes of nocturnal hypoglycemia?

* liver and kidney diseases. Diabetics with concomitant liver or kidney disease may have an increased risk for nocturnal hypoglycemia due to the slower elimination or clearance of their anti-diabetic drugs from their body. If you happen to have liver or kidney disease, the best idea is to talk to your doctor. Your doctor may need to adjust your medications to prevent nocturnal hypoglycemia from taking place
* the use of intermediate-acting insulin injection during supper-time
* excessive exercise in the evening hours just prior to going to bed
* unplanned alcohol drinking sessions during the evening prior to sleeping
* infectious disease
* skipping your evening meal
* long-acting anti-diabetic medications
* insulin injections combined with anti-diabetic medications
* a history of hypoglycemia
* advancing age

What are the usual signs and symptoms of nocturnal hypoglycemia?

* bad dreams
* excessive sweating during the night
* pallor
* an increased heart rate
* cold, clammy skin
* increased systolic blood pressure
* drowsiness
* seizures
* an altered breathing pattern
* irritable sleep
* excessive hunger upon waking

So, how do you manage nocturnal hypoglycemia?

According to the John Hopkins POC-IT Center the key to good management of nocturnal hypoglycemia is early recognition through blood sugar monitoring. If the diabetic is fully awake, the blood sugar level can quickly be brought back up with a high-carbohydrate snack, such as a couple of glucose tablets, 4 to 6 jelly beans or a glass of regular soft drink or juice.

What are a few tips to prevent nocturnal hypoglycemia?

* regular self-monitoring of your blood sugar
* never skip a meal
* if you plan to drink alcoholic beverages before bedtime, be sure to check your blood sugar level before drinking, and again before going to bed
* have a bedside fast-acting sugar preparation in case of low blood sugar during the night
* avoid a high intake of fatty foods. Fatty foods can delay sugar absorption making a diabetic prone to the development of low blood sugar
* ask your doctor to instruct you about self-administered glucagon injection. This can help you in cases of severe forms of nocturnal hypoglycemia

By Beverleigh H Piepers

Do you find yourself regularly surrounded by empty containers of cookies, crackers and chips as the wake of your latest binge eating session? Do you feel the enormous weight of guilt on your shoulders on a weekly basis as "just one bite" turned to 100?

If so, you're like many Type 2 diabetics that have issues controlling their appetite. Keeping your appetite in check is crucial for blood sugar level management as it gives you the level head to make smart choices in line with your health goals.

Here are some simple ways to tame the appetite monster lurking inside of you:

Ditch Guilt: Overeating, feeling guilty, and overeating again is a vicious cycle that's hard to break. Try to forgive yourself for the mistakes you've made in the past. Just because you've had issues with overeating or your weight doesn't make you a bad person... it just makes you human.

If guilt or emotional eating is a serious problem for you, consider seeking out a psychologist that can help you overcome this obstacle.

Eat Protein: A protein rich meal stimulates your body's production of an appetite-killing hormone known as CCK. In addition to eating protein sources like tofu, beef, chicken and eggs at meal time, consider snacking on protein as well. Low-fat beef jerky, hard boiled eggs, yogurt and cottage cheese are convenient protein sources that shut down your appetite between meals.

Flaunt Fiber: Protein helps between meals and fiber helps during meals. Eating a food abundant in fiber, like beans or vegetables, distends and stretches your stomach. A stretched stomach sends a signal to your brain saying "OK, we've had enough, you're full."

Slow It Down: With an overflowing inbox and a million errands to run, mealtime can seem like just another task to check off the list. Unfortunately, rushing through your meals is a surefire way to eat too much. It takes a solid 20 minutes for your stomach and intestine to relay the message "you've had enough" to your brain.

That's why a study published in Public Health Nutrition found that men who tended to eat their meals quickly had higher rates of Type 2 diabetes and heart disease compared to those that sat and savored their food.

Toss It: If there's junk food in the house, it's going to be eaten. Simply adding barriers to junk food consumption... like having to drive to the store... can be enough to prevent a junk food fix.

Stock your pantry with healthy snacks like:

* fruit
* baby carrots, and
* low-fat dairy

So that you're reaching for healthy options next time your stomach growls at home.

Drink Up: Studies show that drinking a glass of water before meals makes you eat less. Not surprisingly, the water literally fills up your stomach, making you feel full before the first bite.

By Beverleigh H Piepers

Diabetes can seem like a cancer in your life. Like cancerous cells, it hijacks your food, your free time and your life. According to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, diabetics are at heightened risk of developing cancer. After adjusting for variables, diabetics can have an alarming 25 percent increase in cancer risk when compared to non-diabetics.

Scientists aren't sure why Type 2 diabetics are sitting ducks for cancer, but they hypothesize that the inflammation that leads to Type 2 diabetes can also cause cancerous cells to grow and prosper.

Here are some simple ways to go on a seek and destroy mission against two of these deadly diseases:

Weigh Less: Nearly everyone knows that being obese increases your Type 2 diabetes risk and makes the disease much more difficult to manage. But what most people don't realize is that obese people get cancer more often than lean people.

Just another reason to make the effort to shed those extra pounds.

Eat Colorfully: Diabetics hear time and time again to eat more fresh fruits and vegetables. Produce tends to affect blood sugar much less than refined grains or sugar snacks. But when it comes to cancer prevention, not all produce is created equal. Produce that has a rich, dark color like mangoes and broccoli are richer in cancer-fighting antioxidants than bland colored food like celery and lettuce.

The skin of the fruit or vegetables tends to be the area where the most antioxidants reside. If possible, always eat the skin to reap the antioxidant benefits.

Drink Tea: Tea, especially green tea, is overflowing with a beneficial compound known as EGCG. EGCG's job in the body is to stop a process known as oxidation that causes cancerous cells to form and makes your cell's insulin receptors go haywire. Researchers at the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center found Type 2 diabetics who drank green tea regularly modestly improved their long-term blood sugar control.

Get Moving: Physically active people have lower blood sugar and cancer rates than sedentary folks. You may get out of the house and exercise to help manage your blood sugar and drop your weight. You may get an extra burst of motivation knowing that physical activity protects you from cancer as well.

Ban Beer: Alcohol throws your body's carbohydrate metabolism for a loop... making your blood sugar go into "roller coaster mode." This is why most diabetes experts recommend that you limit your alcohol intake to one drink or less per day.

The fact that heavy drinkers have higher lung, liver and esophageal cancer rates is another reason to put down the pint or bottle and order a glass of water instead.

Butt Out: Smoking doesn't just increase your lung cancer risk... studies show that smokers have higher risk of many types of organ cancers. For diabetics worried about heart disease... the leading cause of death in diabetics... tossing tobacco is an important step towards keeping your vulnerable ticker in tip-top shape.

By Nilutpal Gogoi

Health researchers of diabetes mellitus in Harvard have found that one could keep this deadly life-long life-debilitating ailment at bay with just a simple blood test, reports the journal Nature Medicine.

In fact, they have concluded that the test could pinpoint the preincidence symptoms of the disease. They have further claimed their finding could effectively spot diabetes almost a decade before those symptoms blow up into a full-blown diabetes case. Such detections at an early stage can avoid complications like blindness too.

Though researches are on to make the blood test a full-proof one, the Harvard team of scientists is optimistic that their analyzes will bear fruit in the near future. Dr Robert Gerszten and his colleagues are carrying on this field-clinical examination.

The scientists have followed the hitherto believed theory that early diagnosis of the symptoms is the best means to controlling the ailment. The American health detectives have been able to identify the diabetes-prone patients who subsequently developed type-2 diabetes by analyzing the levels of five amino acids in their blood. The researchers looked for the levels in the patients' blood. The study mentions that 201 health volunteers of the total 2,422 subsequently developed the ailment. The blood tests acutely identified those 201 patients much earlier than they their bodies showed any of the symptoms of diabetes.

The volunteers with the highest levels of amino acids in their blood stream had the risk of developing diabetes five times more than the others within the 12 years of the research.

More researches are required before the test could be recommended for all, commented Dr Gerszten.

Speaking to Nature Medicine the head of research at Diabetes UK, Dr Victoria King, observed, ""Early diagnosis and effective management of type 2 diabetes are crucial in reducing the risk of developing diabetes complications, such as heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, blindness and amputation. Therefore finding ways to identify those who are at risk of developing the condition are important."

Dwelling on risk prediction, Dr King stated: "This research, in future, could lead to ways to help us identify those at risk as well as giving us new insights into how and why type 2 diabetes develops."

On the preventive measures, the researcher added: "In many cases the condition can be prevented or delayed by maintaining a healthy weight and lifestyle."

Actually obesity, sedentary lifestyle, consumption of high calorie food and lack of physical exercise increases the risk of contracting the type 2 diabetes.

Hence, it is must that a person must keep an eye on his blood sugar level, weight, and must have a robust (physically active) lifestyle.

"This research, in future, could lead to ways to help us identify those at risk as well as giving us new insights into how and why type 2 diabetes develops," Dr Gerszten

Diabetes: what is it actually?

* It is that condition when the body fails to utilize the glucose in the blood as it is higher than required.
* Type 1 diabetes:The insulin-producing cells are destroyed. Then the body simply cannot to manufacture insulin.
* Type 2 diabetes:The human body cannot produce the required amount of insulin; it can also develop if the produced insulin fails to work as required.
* Approximately 85-95% of the diabetics suffer from the Type-2 diabetes.
* The prescription for type-2 diabetes is physical activity and a wholesome diet and.
* Of course insulin and/or medication may be required for some.

By Robin Hale

There is Hope

The first bit of information you should take to heart is the fact that there is hope. Contrary to many medical professionals beliefs, type 2 diabetes is treatable, and in many instances, completely reversible. It's going to take some dedication and effort on your part, but reversing type 2 diabetes is a realistic goal. Let's look at the steps you'll need to take.

Regroup and Get Support

The first thing you need to do is clear your mind and reduce all outside stress. Stress prevents you from thinking clearly, promotes feelings of depression, and reduces energy levels. These are all things you will need as you take the next steps.

Make the Decision to Change Your Eating Habits

Since many individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes are overweight and living sedentary lifestyles, this is one of the things you'll need to change. It all begins with a decision on your part. A lack of exercise combined with other lifestyle factors and poor, unhealthy, eating habits helped to get you to where you are today. This can be changed, and it's not as difficult as you may think.

The first rule to changing any habit is to realize it won't happen overnight. You aren't going to wake up tomorrow, shed that extra weight, and suddenly have the knowledge or ability to change all of your eating habits. Instead, you need to make the decision to change the things you are currently aware of and then get the help and support you need to learn the facts about food and exercise you may not be aware of. Starting slow and setting realistic goals will help you to stay encouraged and on the right track. What are some changes you can make right now to your diet and exercise? Here are some ideas.

· Purge your pantry of junk food, salty over-processed snacks, packaged sweets, and other diet offenders that you normally reach for when you are bored, tired, stressed, or upset. Many individuals put on pounds just because they get into the habit of reaching for food as a source of comfort.

· Next comes "replacement therapy." Instead of reaching for unhealthy snacks when you aren't even hungry, try drinking a couple of tall glasses of water with a couple of teaspoons of lemon juice. Lemon water is great for promoting healthy flora in your intestine, which, in turn, helps to strengthen your immune system. Another replacement for food is getting out of the house for a while. Take the dog for a walk or play catch with your children. Doing so will give you enough time to push past the temptation for snacks, while giving you some fresh air, Vitamin D from the sun, and exercise all at the same time.

· Only eat at the dinner table and always put your food (even snacks) on dinnerware. Eating at the table will get you out of the habit of mindlessly snacking while watching television and eating on dinnerware will keep you aware of how much food you are actually consuming.

· Promote fat burning by switching from two or three large meals per day to five or six mini-meals. That way your body won't go into "starvation" mode. Starvation mode is when your body senses a food intake reduction and sends signals to start storing fat.

· Find fun and interesting ways to exercise. If you like fishing, take out the canoe or play basketball or tennis outdoors with your family. Find an activity you enjoy and it won't feel like work.

These are just a few ideas to help you get a good start after you've been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Reversing type 2 diabetes is possible. You'll just have to make the decision to adopt a new, healthy lifestyle one step at a time.

By Beverleigh H Piepers

The term "sleep apnea" describes a potentially dangerous sleeping disorder where breathing abnormally stops and starts repeatedly during sleep. There are two main types:

* obstructive sleep apnea: this is the more common form. In fact, as mentioned by the International Diabetes Federation, this type is seen in 80% of cases
* central sleep apnea: this is a type of sleep apnea where the brain and muscles that control sleep become uncoordinated and temporarily stop sending the correct breathing signals

There is a strong link between the development of obstructive sleep apnea and Type 2 diabetes. According to the International Diabetes Federation, forty percent of people diagnosed with the obstructive type sleep apnea have Type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, among the number of people with Type 2 diabetes, twenty-three percent may have this sleep-associated disorder.

What other conditions may help bring about sleep apnea in Type 2 diabetics?

1. Overweight and obesity: It is likely both these conditions play a role in the development of the obstructive type of sleep apnea. However, some recent clinical investigations reveal being heavier than normal may be an independent risk factor for this condition. This means being Type 2 diabetic and obese at the same time doubles your risk for this problem.

2. Poor blood sugar control: According to the International Diabetes Federation, having poor blood sugar control may also have a negative effect and encourage development of this condition.

3. Cardiovascular complications: Diabetics with cardiovascular complications such as heart failure, stroke and hypertension, are also at greater risk for developing this sleeping condition.

What are other risk factors not associated with Type 2 diabetes that can potentially worsen the symptoms of the obstructive sleep disorder?

* neck circumference: according to Mayoclinic.com, a neck circumference that is greater than 17 inches (43 cms) may serve as an independent risk factor. Why? A large neck circumference means that the neck is thicker and this can obstruct the airway giving rise to sleep apnea

* males: males are more prone to sleep apnea compared to their female counterparts, says Mayoclinic.com. In fact, men are two times more likely to have this problem compared to women

* age: anyone in the age group of 65 years and above are two to three times more likely to have sleep apnea compared to people in the younger-aged group

* muscle relaxants of the throat: alcohol, tranquilizers and even sedatives may cause your muscles to relax so much bringing about a continuous stopping and starting irregular breathing pattern

* smoking: are you a smoker? This is one warning for you. Smoking may lead to an irregular stop/start breathing pattern while you sleep. In fact, if you are a smoker, your risk for developing sleep apnea is three times more than those of non-smokers

By Beverleigh H Piepers

Short-term complications may happen in a child suffering from early onset Type 2 diabetes. This may be due your child's recent physical activity, food intake or medications he/she is currently taking. Short-term complications associated with childhood Type 2 diabetes requires immediate attention.

What are the signs of trouble in childhood Type 2 diabetes?

1. Hypoglycemia or low blood sugar concentration: Your child may experience low blood sugar concentration or hypoglycemia when he/she:

* tries to skip a meal or not eat enough
* has more intense physical activity than normal
* is sick, and
* takes too much medication or insulin

Early signs of hypoglycemia include:

* feeling shaky, sweaty or clammy
* hunger
* nausea
* headache
* dizziness, and
* drowsiness

On the other hand, severe hypoglycemia may result in passing out or coma, seizures, or behavioral changes.

How do you manage your child's hypoglycemia? Give your child something to eat or drink that contains sugar. This may be in the form of 2-3 glucose tablets (4g carb each), candy (hard candy such as lifesavers), regular soda or fruit juice. (4 to 6 oz or 120 to 180 mls). Recheck his/her blood sugar fifteen minutes later, and if it is not coming up, give more juice or glucose tablets. If for some reason, blood sugar does not rise, or symptoms become worse, call your doctor. Report low blood sugar episodes to your child's doctor so adjustments can be made in his/her plan of care.

2. Hyperglycemia or high blood sugar concentration: Your child's blood sugar level may spike due to certain situations. This may include:

* eating too much
* illnesses, and
* not taking his/her medications

The symptoms of hyperglycemia may include:

* increased frequency of urination
* excessive thirst
* blurring of vision
* tingling in fingers or tongue
* nausea, and
* tiredness and weakness

Severe cases of hyperglycemia may lead to nausea and vomiting and sometimes even coma. If you think your child has increased blood sugar, check his blood sugar level. If the blood sugar is really quite high, the best thing to do is call your child's doctor.

3. Diabetic ketoacidosis or increased ketone concentration in your child's urine: Ketones are formed if glucose is not available; the body burns fat for energy and this is when ketones are formed. It usually happens when your child's cells crave more energy causing his or her body to breakdown fat stores from the fatty tissues. This condition is quite common in children with Type 1 diabetes but it can sometimes happen in Type 2 diabetes also.

Signs of diabetic ketoacidosis include:

* loss of appetite
* gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and stomach pains
* fever and sweet fruity smell of your child's breath

may signal ongoing development of ketoacidosis. If you suspect ketoacidosis, check your child's urine for ketones. If your child's ketone is above normal, contact your child's doctor immediately as this is considered an emergency.

By Beverleigh H Piepers

The most serious complication of diabetes involving the urinary tract is nephropathy, which involves the kidneys. Nephropathy usually occurs in people who have had diabetes for a long time.

Your kidneys are major filters in your body. Your kidneys contain glomeruli; tiny filters that help to keep the important blood proteins from being disposed of through your urine.

However, a high sugar load in your blood for a long period of time may result in kidney problems. Once your kidneys malfunction, which is medically known as diabetic nephropathy, small quantities of protein leak out of your kidneys into the blood. Furthermore, more severe problems result when your body retains toxins and waste that are normally excreted.

Kidney damage often starts without really being noticed. The earliest sign that can point to this problem is the presence of albumin in your urine. Albumin is the type of protein usually seen with kidney problems. However, as the kidney problem progresses, more and more protein leaks from your kidneys and more and more waste products accumulate in your bloodstream leading to kidney failure which is the most severe type of kidney problem. This can be treated with dialysis, a process that periodically filters impurities from your blood.

What are the ways to keep your kidneys healthy despite have Type 2 diabetes?

1. Keep your blood sugar level within the normal range: The best way to prevent the onset of diabetic nephropathy is to keep your blood sugar level as normal as possible. This means that you need to follow-up with your doctor regularly. This also means you have to monitor your blood sugar constantly.

2. Keep your blood pressure within normal limits: Another key to prevent the onset of diabetic nephropathy is to always make sure that your blood pressure is lower than 130/80. If you happen to have hypertension, it is best to ask your doctor to prescribe you anti-hypertensive medications which you will need to take every day.

3. Follow the eating plan given to you by your doctor or dietitian: Your dietitian may advise you to reduce your intake of protein such as:

* eggs
* cheese, and
* milk

if you already have kidney problems.

4. Have your blood tested yearly for creatinine: Creatinine is an important laboratory finding used in measuring the function of your kidneys.

5. Have your urine tested annually for the presence of albumin: Albumin in your urine reflects the malfunction of your kidneys brought about by your diabetic problem. The more albumin you have in your urine, the more damaged your kidneys may be.

6. Avoid taking painkillers such as aspirin and acetaminophen too often: It's true aspirin can protect your heart, acetaminophen can relieve pain... but taking these medications too often can further damage your kidneys. Ask your doctor about the best medication to take for chronic pain to help prevent further kidney problems.

7. See your doctor right away if you suspect kidney infection. Symptoms of infection to your kidneys and bladder include:

* painful urination,
* increased frequency of urination
* cloudy or reddish urine
* fever, and
* flank pains

Kidney damage and other kidney problems associated with Type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed. The best way to do this is to educate yourself fully about Type 2 diabetes.

By Beverleigh H Piepers

Most people believe having tighter control of their calorie or kilojoule intake is the one-way-take-all method for their Type 2 diabetic outcome. However, some studies reveal that it's not only your calorie intake that matters when you want to take control of your Type 2 diabetes and weight loss. You should also take into consideration the type of foods you plan on ingesting in order to improve your current health situation.

Adapting healthy vegetable oils into your diabetic diet can be beneficial for your health. Do you want to know why? Here are the reasons. Vegetable oil can help you:

* lose weight... having doubts with this idea? As mentioned in a study conducted in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Institute of Biological Sciences, São Paulo State University, Brazil and published by the Nutrition Journal in October 2010, ingestion of healthy types of vegetable oils, such as extra-virgin olive oil, may increase your body's metabolism, thereby, improving your fat-burning rate and resulting in weight loss. Most (90 to 95%), Type 2 diabetics are obese and the more obese they become, the greater their risk for chronic diabetes complications. Losing weight can be a great help in improving your prognosis for Type 2 diabetes.
* improve your blood sugar level. Vegetable oils can help you manage your blood sugar level according to a study published in February 1990 in The Journal of the American Medical Association. You see, with the improvement in your blood sugar level, the risk for the development of complications associated with Type 2 decreases.
* prevent diabetes associated complications. Again, according to the study published by The Journal of the American Medical Association in February 1990, incorporating healthy vegetable oils into your diet can lower your risk of developing chronic health complications associated with Type 2 diabetes. Chronic complications associated with Type 2 diabetes include: high blood cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, kidney diseases, joint problems, cardiac diseases, and stroke.
* decrease your risk for breast cancer.Diabetes is now known as one of the most important risk factors for the development of breast cancer according to a study published by Diabetes Care in June 2003. As mentioned by a study published in the November 1995 issue of the Cancer Causes and Control, breast cancer risk can be minimized with the regular use of olive oil and other types of vegetable oils.

It make take some getting used to, but you have to think of cooking oils as a health supplement. Not the cheap plastic bottles of vegetable oils you find in the supermarket but the healthy high-end, pure, unrefined nutritious oils you find in your local health food store. Cheap vegetable oils are dangerous to your health... and when any oil is heated, even the good oils, when it begins to smoke, all of the precious nutrients are lost and dangerous chemicals are released. Many of those chemicals have been tied to cancer. So, why not drizzle some high-quality healthy oil across your vegetables just before you add your finishing salt or seasonings?

By Beverleigh H Piepers

If you're a diabetes veteran you probably think you've heard everything there is to know about Type 2 diabetes at least once. The tired mantra of "lose weight, count carbs and exercise" has been drummed into you so many times you're ready to assault the next health care provider that says it.

Believe it or not, there are a few gems out there that most diabetics... even long-standing ones... don't know about.

1. Choose Your Doctor Wisely: Many doctors tend to have an unholy alliance towards medical treatments for Type 2 diabetes. Instead of helping patients improve their health and quality of life through diet and exercise, they tend to scribble a prescription on a piece of paper and move onto the next patient.

Besides screening your physician candidates based on experience, consider adding empathy to your list of important factors. A study out of Thomas Jefferson University Hospital found that doctors that listened to and emphasized, helped their diabetic patients significantly more than those that rushed them out the door.

2. Limit Grains: It's no secret that whole grains are a much better choice for Type 2 diabetics than refined grains like white rice and refined pasta. However, that doesn't mean that "gorging" on whole grains is a good idea either. The glycemic index, a measure of how rapidly carbs get absorbed by your body, is surprisingly high in many grains... even whole grains!

For example, the glycemic index of whole grain cereals, like Special K and Grapenuts, are uncomfortably close to that of Wonder Bread!

Try to get the majority of your carbs in the form of fresh vegetables and fruits, fat-free dairy and beans.

3. Watch Your Fat: Many diabetics zero in on carbs and forget the importance of fat in their blood sugar management. If diabetics do care to note fat, it's usually to avoid it as much as possible. However, being fat-phobic doesn't help your blood sugar levels or your waistline. Fat provides your body with a source of energy that doesn't shoot up blood sugar levels like grains or sugary foods. Also, including healthy fats from sources like nuts, fatty fish and tofu combats inflammation... the underlying cause of insulin resistance.

4. Scary Motivation: If you can't seem to get your healthy lifestyle off the ground, consider this sobering statistic from the New England Journal of Medicine: diabetics are 80% more likely to die prematurely than those without diabetes.

This news isn't meant to scare you into action, it's just to give you accurate information on what the disease does to your health. Whether you choose to ignore this advice or use it as a tool to a new life, actively fighting Type 2 diabetes is one of the most important decisions you can ever make.

By Beverleigh H Piepers

Vegan diets are known to be the best kind of diet for Type 2 diabetics. Researchers in the Department of Nutrition, Harvard School of Public Health and the Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, studied the relationship between animal fat and protein and how carbohydrates are processed. Their work was published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, February 2011. Forty thousand four hundred and seventy-five participants were included in the study and followed up on for twenty years in many cases. Three low carbohydrate diets were followed.

* one group was identified as consuming high total protein and fat,
* the second group ate high animal protein and fat, and
* people in the third group ate a diet high in vegetable protein and fat.

These diets were examined every four years with food frequency questionnaires put to the volunteers. Two thousand six hundred and eighty-nine new cases of Type 2 diabetes were documented. Those who ate the diet highest in animal protein and fat had the highest risk of acquiring Type 2 diabetes. It was therefore concluded that people following low-carbohydrate diets should get their protein and fats from other sources besides red and processed meats.

Where can you obtain healthy protein and fat? Good sources of vegetable protein include beans and nuts, although all fruits and vegetables have at least some protein. One cup of chopped celery or iceberg lettuce has one gram of protein, or about 2 per cent of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of 50 grams per day for an adult.

If you have one cup of oatmeal for breakfast you get 11 grams of protein. Have a salad for lunch with:

* a cup of lettuce
* a cup of celery
* half a cup of garbanzo beans
* a cup of chopped carrots, and
* an ounce of sunflower seeds

and you will get 14 grams of protein.

Have an afternoon snack of fifty blueberries and you will get another gram of protein. For dinner if you have: ·

* two green peppers filled with a cup of brown rice
* 15 ounces of black beans
* chili powder, and
* tomato sauce

you will get another 21 grams of protein, bringing the total to 46.

The RDA for fat for an adult is 65 grams per day. Add a tablespoon of olive oil mixed with a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar to your salad and you have 14 grams. A half-a-cup of garbanzo beans supplies about a gram of fat. An ounce of sunflower seeds supplies another 14 grams. If you make your tomato sauce with pure, extra virgin olive oil, a little over two tablespoons will supply the rest of the fat you need, and it's all unsaturated oil, the most healthful.

Why not discuss with your doctor or dietitian the possibility of getting all your necessary protein and fat from plants, along with your low-carbohydrate count. Good sources of vegan (entirely plant-based) recipes include the magazine Vegetarian Times and Vegweb.com.