It’s a fact that sugary foods and poor lifestyle choices could catapult you into diabetes.
The staggering statistics say that an estimated 9 percent of Americans live with diabetes; that’s about 30 million people. It’s essential to learn the facts about diabetes to stay healthy.
But also know that’s only part of the equation. Here’s what you need to know. The three most common types of diabetes:
Type 1 diabetes (not preventable)
The pancreas doesn’t produce insulin, so sugar can’t enter cells to provide energy. People born with Type 2 diabetes need regular insulin injections.
Type 2 diabetes (my focus today and is preventable)
The most prevalent type of diabetes, the pancreas, does produce insulin, but cells aren’t as responsive to it.
Gestational Diabetes
It occurs during pregnancy and typically resolves after pregnancy. Like other forms of diabetes, it affects how much sugar your body uses, resulting in high blood glucose levels.
In past posts, I focused on the importance of knowing your numbers. Those figures include lipid panels, AKA cholesterol numbers, blood pressure readings, and Hemoglobin A1C. Your AIC determines your risk of Type 2 Diabetes.
It’s unfortunate as we age, we’re more likely to develop Type 2 diabetes if:
◊ Are >45 years old
♠ Are Black, Hispanic, Asian, Pacific Islander, or Native American
◊ Are overweight and/or physically inactive
♣ Have a history of diabetes in your family
◊ Have a baby weighing more than 9 pounds at birth
♥ Have a history of gestational diabetes
◊ Have high blood pressure, high triglycerides, and/or low HDL cholesterol
♦ Have a history of polycystic ovarian syndrome, stroke, or heart disease
Diabetes is one of those silent killer conditions that don’t always have signs and symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they can include:
♠ Blurry vision
◊ Cuts or sores that don’t heal well
♣ Extreme fatigue
◊ Frequent urination
♥ Increased hunger
◊ Increased thirst
♦ Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
◊ Weight loss
Now to talk about the sugary foods! From marinara sauce to peanut butter, added sugar is in many products. Experts believe that sugar consumption is a significant cause of obesity and many chronic illnesses, such as type 2 diabetes.
Most diabetics are familiar with the glycemic index. Glycemic management refers to the selection of foods to manage blood sugar levels.
Some of the foods that spike your blood sugar:
Bread, bagels, donuts, some cereals, and energy bars
Dried fruit/Trail mix
Beverages: Alcohol, Fruit juice, soda, sports drinks, sweetened iced teas, and store-bought smoothies
White rice, boiled potatoes, and yams
Chinese foods, especially orange chicken and sweet and sour dishes
Fruits: Watermelon, Bananas, pineapple, mangos,
Even if you don’t have Type 2 diabetes, you are at risk if you are obese and don’t exercise. It’s a must to watch all the dietary demons. Please note that significant complications of diabetes include a laundry list of blindness and amputations.
You know I could talk fashion, but as a pharmaceutical rep, I prefer to enlighten you about diseases affecting midlifers.
As always, thank you for reading.
