What is Type 2 Diabetes



Posted: Wednesday, December 23, 2009

by
Feng Shui Absolutely

Adult onset diabetes, also known as Type 2 diabetes, is normally diagnosed in adults over the age of 45. However, it can begin at any age, and the increase of Type 2 diabetes in children has alarmed many health care officials. Unlike juvenile onset diabetes, Type 2 diabetes seldom requires insulin injections. Instead, it is normally managed through a program of diet, exercise, and, if needed, oral medications.

There is no cure for diabetes, only treatment. The condition is a result of the pancreas' inability to manufacture sufficient insulin or the body's inability to utilize it properly. Insulin removes sugar from the blood and sends it to cells, where it is stored for energy usage. Too much sugar in the blood can lead to severe organ damage; fatigue can also result since the sugar cannot be burned for energy.

Some diabetics may have no symptoms whatsoever, while many fail to recognize their symptoms as warning signs of diabetes. These warning signs include weight loss and numbness or burning of the extremities. Excessive thirst or hunger, blurred vision, and waking up to urinate (and going more often during the day) may also signal the onset of diabetes.

Uncontrolled diabetes can result in neuropathy, particularly in the feet, as well as renal damage. It also increases the chance of osteoporosis, heart disease and stroke. Recent studies suggest it may also be a risk factor in Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia.

Being overweight is one risk factor for developing Type 2 diabetes. Patients with the condition, or those who are borderline, should try to reduce their body weight. Exercise is not only beneficial to weight loss, but increased cardiovascular activity also helps to control blood sugar levels.

Diet is crucial to controlling diabetes. Patients should schedule meals at approximately the same time each day. Meals should not vary substantially in terms of quantity and foods. A healthy diet, with a good balance of carbohydrates and proteins, should be followed daily.

Diabetic diets are relatively inexpensive. The best foods are actually such things as barley and beans. Oatmeal, tomatoes, and spinach are also good, as are citrus fruits. Non-fat milk is also an excellent choice and is normally more economical that whole milk. Sweets can be included as a special treat, but adjustments to the carbohydrates consumed during the rest of the meal are recommended.

Managing diabetes requires communication between doctor and patient. Alterations to the diabetic's diet and exercise habits are usually required. But through a co-operative effort, the condition can be kept in check, and the risk of potentially life-threatening complications can be reduced.

Kenn Fong, writer. To find out more on What is Diabetes, visit his web site The Diabetes Scoop.
Henry Fong is a Feng Shui Consultant based in Malaysia. He provide Feng Shui consultation for both residential as well as commercial properties via his on-site as well as off-site services over the Net. www.henryfong.com
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