The news report read: The aging of the baby boomer generation, combined with increased obesity and more sedentary lifestyles in the general population, is creating a diabetes explosion. If current trends continue, the estimated number of diabetes cases in America is expected to grow from the current 18.2 million to more than 30 million by the year 2030. The implications of our health care system are truly frightening, with a significant impact on health costs and public policy.
Health experts agree with the report - type 2 diabetes is the result of poor diet, sedentary lifestyle and inadequate intake of a variety of nutrients. The form of diabetes we're talking about is type 2 diabetes. It used to be called "adult-onset diabetes" because it usually develops later in life, particularly as people approach their 50s and 60s. Abnormally high levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood is the defining characteristic of diabetes. A person with a fasting blood glucose level of 126 or higher is considered a diabetic.
Every cell in your body depends on glucose for energy. Derived primarily from carbohydrates, like starch, in our diet, glucose is carried from the intestinal tract to your body's cells by the blood. In order for glucose to pass into the cells a hormone called insulin, produced by the pancreas, must be present. If insulin is not present, or if it is not functioning properly, glucose will not be transported into the body's cells. In type 2 diabetes, the pancreas is still able to produce insulin but the body's cells become less and less responsive to it. Therefore, unlike type 1 diabetics (who are dependent upon daily insulin shots because their pancreas cannot produce the hormone), type 2 diabetics do not usually have to take insulin injections but can regulate their blood glucose levels by making lifestyle modifications - exercising more, eating a proper diet and using medications or nutritional supplements.
If you find that you fatigue easily, are often thirsty yet need to urinate often or have an increased appetite, you may have diabetes. Other signs could include blurry vision and irritability. These signs shouldn't be ignored and you should see your healthcare provider immediately and have your blood sugar level tested. If you are diagnosed with diabetes, keep in mind: There are things you can do to control your blood sugar level. Along with exercise and a nutritious diet, natural supplements can help - and even perhaps keep you off medication. But it's important not to take just any supplement - it should be a balanced supplement with the proper amounts of various vitamins and minerals, herbs and fibers.
Dr. Reginald B. Cherry (drcherry.org) is a member of the American Medical Association, Texas Medical Association, Harris County Medical Society, and the American College of Preventive Medicine. Dr. Cherry has authored numerous articles on Preventive Medicine, emphasizing nutrition and exercise. He also speaks extensively on these topics nationwide and conducts numerous seminars for various groups and organizations. Currently, his weekly television program reaches 80 million homes.
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