Diabetes can be Prevented!

Diabetes in the United States and around the world is at an all-time high. According to the World Health Organization, nn• At least 171 million people worldwide have diabetes, and that number is expected to double in the next 20 years. n• Diabetes is one of the world's leading causes of premature death; every year 3.2 million people die from diabetes or its complications. That's approximately 6 deaths per minute! nnIn the United States, about 21 million people have diabetes, including 6 million who don't know they have it. Another 54 million people have pre-diabetes (blood glucose levels that are higher than normal). nnA Dangerous Destination nnDiabetes occurs when a person's body cannot produce enough insulin or utilize the insulin it produces, causing a buildup of potentially damaging blood sugar in the bloodstream. People with diabetes have a very high risk of developing: nn• cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension and stroke n• blindness n• nerve damage n• kidney damage n• ulceration and subsequent limb amputation n• other harmful complications nnDifferent Types of Diabetes nnWhile there are different types of diabetes, type 2 diabetes (formerly called "adult onset" diabetes) is by far the most prevalent, accounting for 90%-95% of all cases. Type 2 diabetes is the result of diets high in refined, processed foods loaded with simple carbohydrates, or sugars, and sedentary lifestyles. Fortunately, it is considered highly preventable. nOther kinds of diabetes include type 1 (which occurs in people whose bodies do not produce sufficient insulin and who require daily injections to survive) and gestational diabetes, which may occur during pregnancy. Women with gestational diabetes have a high probability of going on to develop type 2 diabetes. nRarely, diabetes may also be caused by surgery, drugs, malnutrition, infections, and other illnesses. nContrary to what some people believe, there is no "mild" form of diabetes; all types are potentially life threatening and require care and attention. nnWarning Signs That You May Be At Risk nMany people are unaware that they are diabetic. That's because in its early stages, type 2 diabetes is a silent disease with no outward symptoms. nnIf you have the following, you may already have, or be on a road to developing, type 2 diabetes: nn• hyperglycemia (elevated blood sugar) n• central obesity ("apple shape") n• hypertension (high blood pressure) nnThe Importance of Early Detection nThe good news is you can reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes naturally with a therapeutic lifestyle that includes a healthier diet and exercise. Additionally, there are medical foods and supplements that specifically support the nutritional needs of people with this condition. nnLearn more about natural approaches to preventing or managing type 2 diabetes, get back on the road to good health!