Diabetic Myths
Are You Diabetic?
Weight plays a major factor in Diabetes. Know the symptoms - your life may depend upon it!
Symptoms of Diabetes, Types of Diabetes, Diabetic Myths - Are you Diabetic?
Diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in the United States. This article will address the symptoms of diabetes, what you can do to improve your odds against this killer disease, and some common myths and misconceptions.
Excessive appetite? Excessive thirst? Weight loss or rapid gain? There are just some of the symptoms of diabetes.
This topic touches very close to home. My father was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes shortly after his fortieth birthday. Although his doctors outlined a nutrition program for him to follow, he was very naughty and did not do as they instructed. At 69, he is blind, has had a toe amputated, experiences kidney problems and his potassium reaches dangerous levels from time-to-time.
I often wonder if things would be different if he'd followed his doctors' advice. But he can't go back - none of us can. However, sometimes we have the power to change our future for the better. If you are diabetic, or know someone who is, please get to the doctor and follow his sage advice! You'll live longer, be healthier, and you won't be a burden to those who love you!
Types of Diabetes:
There are two types of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2. In Type 1 the body doesn't produce insulin and injections are required for survival. In Type 2, some insulin is produced, however it is insufficient. Type 2 is more likely to occur in individuals over forty, but can strike at any age.
* Symptoms may include:
· excessive thirst
· excessive appetite
· weight loss or weight gain
· fatigue
· nausea, perhaps vomiting
· blurred vision
· in women, frequent vaginal infections
· in men, impotence
· in both sexes, yeast infections
*Source: "The Medical Advisor" by Time Life
Common Myths & Misconceptions:
· Skinny people don't get diabetes.
· Diabetes is caused by obesity.
· Sugar causes diabetes.
· Diabetes skips generations.
· Kids that eat too much candy tend to 'catch' diabetes later in life.
· Diabetics cannot eat desserts or any type of sugar.
· Diabetics can eat all the fresh fruit they want because it is healthy and is a natural source.
· Diabetes is curable.
*Some Truths Relating to Diabetics:
· Caffeine boosts blood sugar
· Fish oil raise blood sugar.
· Aspirin can alter blood glucose levels.
· Diabetics require daily foot care. The perception of pain is often times deadened and before one notices something is wrong, a major infection can occur on the foot. Feet should be checked daily and at each doctor visit.
Long Term Effects:
· stroke
· heart attack
· blindness
· kidney failure
· amputations
· nerve-related problems
What you can do:
· Get tested as soon as possible! It's 'ouchless'.
· Learn first aid treatment for diabetics.
· Exercise and eat healthy. If you are diabetic, eat a snack before heading out to exercise to help prevent a hypoglycemic attack.
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