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Health Care » Diseases & Disorders » Type 2 Diabetes

What Is Type 2 Diabetes

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Published: July 26, 2007

Diabetes is spreading globally, and unless preventative measures are taken soon, it will not be stopped. Changes in diet and lifestyle are crucial if this is to be arrested. Diabetes has affected the lives of many. There are two different kinds of diabetes, the most common being called type 2 diabetes.
Type 2 diabetes is a serious problem, happens when the body's cells ignore insulin or do not produce it. Without insulin, sugar cannot be transported from the blood to the cells. Thus, without treatment, a person with type 2 diabetes will be starving his or her cells for energy, and over time the eyes, kidneys, nerves and heart will be damaged.
Typically type 2 diabetes is more common among various minorities and the elderly, but it can affect anyone. But, with the right diet and change to a healthier lifestyle, plus a knowledge of type 2 diabetes' symptoms, anyone can easily be armed and ready to join in the fight and prevention of type 2 diabetes.  Type 2 diabetes is a real issue, and thus it is important to be well informed and prevent the disease before it strikes. Large numbers of people have type 2 diabetes for long periods of time before it is finally diagnosed. And, as all other illnesses, the sooner caught, the easier it can be treated and/or slowed down.
Usually the first of type 2 diabetes symptoms is increased thirst. All the extra sugars leave the body drained and dehydrated; thus it demands more liquids. Other common type 2 diabetes symptoms are exhaustion, blurred vision and tender gums. Since the body needs as many liquids as possible, it drains them from other places. Some of the worst type 2 diabetes symptoms are caused when the body becomes desperate for fluids, going as far as to take them from the eyes' surface.
Also, infections take much longer to heal, which can severely weaken the body. Teeth will loosen from gums, and sores or pockets of pus may develop. When this happens, a doctor should be consulted immediately. Also contact a dentist to learn how to prevent the damage to one's teeth and gums. Often, when damage takes place in the mouth, people stop eating and drinking as it causes pain. Type 2 diabetes symptoms are warnings, and should be taking as harsh ones. The best cure is agreed to be prevention and early detection. If this is not achieved, the next best thing is taking exceptional care on oneself. This will help to slow and/or reverse the damage.
Following a type 2 diabetes diet is a good way to develop a better lifestyle if type 2 diabetes has already started. There are a few tips to keep in mind when formulating a personal, type 2 diabetes diet. Consulting a doctor will help, and keeping an online food diary will aid in keeping a person on track.. A great website for a food diary is FitDay.com. It has options that keep track of various vitamins, as well as how many carbohydrates, fats and sugars are ingested. FitDay.com clearly does more than just keep track of calories, which is especially helpful to those living with the disease.
One must be aware when creating a diabetes diet; moderating sugars and fats is of dire importance. Sugars are not completely evil, but  have hardly any nutritional value and do not satisfy the appetite. They also greatly affect the sensitive insulin levels in someone who has diabetes. Foods that are filling and can be digested slowly should be consumed while on a type 2 diabetes diet. This way there are no spikes in blood glucose and the body is not constantly burning empty energy.
Secondly, one must monitor his or her fat intake. Fats slow down glucose's absorption, but will increase high blood pressure and heart disease. If fats are going to be consumed, choose healthy ones. There are a few easy options for doing so, such as using olive oil for cooking and many soy substitutes. Instead of butter, try Soy Garden, manufactured by Earth Balance. Completely vegan and much healthier than butter, no flavor is lost. It also does not affect cooking in the slightest.
Remember there is more to living with diabetes than a strict diet; good amounts of exercise are vital. It does not matter what the pursuit, be it kayaking or going to the gym, all are great options. If it seems impossible to get out of the house, find a small stairmaster or treadmill at the local sporting goods store and set it up in a convenient location. Exercising can then be within the comfort of one's home.
Type 2 diabetes is a serious illness, but with the proper care can be treated and slowed down. A change in daily routines and diet will help someone living with diabetes lead a normal, healthy lifestyle, just as anyone else.


Sources:
"Type 2 Diabetes." American Diabetes Association. 11 July 2007. http://www.diabetes.org/type-2-diabetes.jsp
"Type 2 Diabetes." 11 Dec. 2005. MayoClinic.com. 11 July 2007. http://www.revolutionhealth.com/conditions/diabete s/types/type-2?id=67CDF280-4583-4E6E-A1DD12C8
817E4302&section=section_01&msc=S12252"Type 2 Diabetes Diet." Chong's Health Care. 11 July 2007. http://chinese-school.netfirms.com/diabetes-type-2 -diet.html
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