Diabetes 101

November is American Diabetes Month and time to reflect on this national problem. This chronic disease has always been near and dear to my heart. My dad died of complications of diabetes at 73 and my mother developed the condition in her late 60’s. I also have friends with children and other family members with diabetes and know of their struggle.According to the American Diabetes Association, nearly 30 million adults and children have diabetes and 86 million have “pre-diabetes”- a condition that can lead to type 2 diabetes if preventive measures aren’t taken. Even losing just 5-10% of your weight and getting regular exercise may help prevent diabetes from developing. That’s just 10 lbs. if you weigh 200!Only 5% of diabetes cases are type 1 diabetes, or insulin-dependent diabetes. This autoimmune condition is also known as childhood or juvenile onset diabetes and there is no cure. Children and young adults must rely on diet therapy such as carb counting and insulin via injections or insulin pump to control their blood sugar. There is no way to prevent type 1 diabetes, though research continues in this area. Scientists may soon have an “artificial pancreas” which would monitor blood glucose levels and relieve the need for injectable insulin. http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/296240.phpDespite type 2 diabetes being considered “adult onset”, overweight and obese children are at risk due to insulin resistance. Insulin resistance occurs when fat cells become “resistant” to circulating insulin and glucose levels remain elevated. Insulin receptors do not respond appropriately in the cell. Diet and exercise (such as walking 15 minutes after meals) is beneficial in improving insulin sensitivity in both adults and children with type 2 diabetes.The biggest health risk for individuals with diabetes is the development of heart disease. While those with diabetes often concentrate mainly on carbohydrate intake, following a prudent heart-healthy diet (low in saturated fat and trans fat, high in fiber from whole grains, beans, fruits and vegetables) is also important to consider in preventing complications. And again, exercise is also vital in managing weight, blood sugar and reducing complications of diabetes.