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It is estimated that more than 16 million, or about 6 percent, of
Americans have diabetes. About half of these people have this disease
and do not know it.
Diabetes is a disease in which the body fails to properly convert
sugars, starches and other
foods into energy. When detected early and treated properly, diabetes
can be controlled by
following good diet, health, exercise and medication practices.
There are two types of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes develops because the
pancreas stops making insulin or makes only a small amount of it. The
warning signs for type 1 diabetes usually crop up suddenly and include
frequent urination, excessive thirst, extreme hunger, dramatic weight
loss, irritability, weakness, fatigue, nausea and vomiting. This is
often referred to as childhood or juvenile diabetes because it usually
occurs early in life.
Type 2 diabetes occurs most often in adults and accounts for about 90
percent of all diagnosed cases. The pancreas produces some insulin, but
it is not used effectively by the body. Risk factors for type 2 diabetes
include people older than 45, a family history of diabetes, physical
inactivity and obesity. The warning signs for type 2 diabetes usually
develop less suddenly. They are often the same as the type 1 symptoms
and also include recurring wounds that do not heal, drowsiness, blurred
vision, tingling or numbness in the hands or feet, and itching.
Diabetes can be associated with serious health complications or life
threatening illnesses. People with diabetes are twice as likely to
develop high blood pressure. If untreated, high blood pressure can lead
to heart disease and stroke. To lower the risk of heart and blood vessel
disease, lose weight if appropriate, be more physically active, check
blood pressure levels regularly, keep blood pressure levels low, eat a
low-fat diet with little salt, check cholesterol levels annually, don’t
smoke and control blood-glucose levels.
Diabetes can cause vision loss or blindness. People who see spots,
floaters, or see double, with blurry vision, lose their ability to see
things to their side, have trouble reading or pain in one or both eyes
should see their doctor. An annual dilated eye exam by an eye doctor is
a good idea.
Nerve and blood vessel damage caused by diabetes may take a toll on
feet. The damage prevents people from feeling injuries, and poor blood
flow can keep an injury from healing. People with nerve and blood vessel
damaged feet can keep them healthy by washing them daily in warm water
(test the water temperature first with an elbow or forearm), and drying
the feet well between the toes. They should not walk barefoot, and
should wear shoes that fit well and socks without seams or mended areas.
They should make sure there aren’t objects in their shoes that can rub
on their feet. It’s a good idea to have a physician check their feet at
least once a year, and for them to check their feet daily for injuries.
Diabetes can also damage kidneys. Kidneys filter waste from the blood,
but diabetes can cause the kidneys to lose their ability to filter
properly. Protein that the body needs is lost in the urine, and waste
that the body doesn’t need builds up in the blood. Anyone with diabetes
should have a urine analysis annually.
Diabetics should never underestimate the importance of healthy eating.
And, the food that is good for diabetics is good for the whole family.
The recommended diet for diabetics is low-fat, high fiber including
complex carbohydrates, and moderate amounts of protein. It includes a
wide variety of foods. Diabetics should avoid added sugar, salt and fat.
For enhanced flavor, they can choose herbs, spices, citrus juices or
salsa. People with diabetes or at a risk for the disease should eat
high-fiber foods such as grains, vegetables, fruits and beans. Eating at
the right time of day is very important for diabetics; eating meals and
snacks on a regular schedule is essential. Skipping meals and snacks can
cause large swings in blood glucose levels and subsequent insulin
reactions.
Exercise can reduce stress and help people lose weight. Regular
exercise can increase the
flow of blood to nerves and help manage blood sugar levels. Check with a
physician before starting an exercise program.
A variety of voluntary, governmental and private organizations are
involved in diabetes-related activities. For additional information,
start by contacting the American Diabetes Association Hotline at
1-800-232-3472 or at www.diabetes.org. Colorado State University
Extension also has resources on diabetes. Their local office
is usually listed in the county government section of the local phone
book.
For more information, contact your local
Colorado State University Extension office.
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