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By Charlene J. Nuble
Diabetes is a condition where the body, or to be precise the
pancreas, loses its ability to create insulin, the chemical
necessary to regulate blood sugar levels. As we take in food,
a
substance called glucose enters through the bloodstream, and
it
is insulin's role to make sure that that glucose is carried to
different parts of the body, in turn fuels us with the energy
we need. Diabetes is often considered as a silent disease,
much
like cancer and nearly five out of ten people are unaware that
they have diabetes.
So how did we get such a disease? A known fact about diabetes
is that it can be hereditary, especially if a family member
has
a history of diabetes. Obesity is also one of the most common
factors, leading to the lack of exercise and high blood
pressure levels. US studies have shown that diabetes can also
develop when a mother gives birth to a child who weighs more
than 9 pounds.
There are two types of diabetes: The Type 1 diabetes inflicts
mostly children when the pancreas completely loses its ability
to secrete insulin. Common diabetic symptoms include excessive
thirst, frequent urination and continued weight loss despite
of
excessive hunger. They begin to be insulin dependent and its
dire results may also include blindness and amputation of
certain limbs in the body.
Type Two diabetes is far more common than Type One. Its
symptoms may include those of Type One, but its leading
concern
is that nearly half of diabetics may not be able to have such
symptoms and the cause of hereditary diabetes to children.
They
are often considered as non-insulin dependents, in which an
excessive secretion of insulin passes through the bloodstream,
causing the body to develop a high resistance to the chemical.
The end result would be the high blood glucose content, which
can be treated with regular exercise and a high protein diet
of
starch and carbohydrates.
Sadly, there is no absolute cure for diabetes of any type. The
only recommendation from doctors is to prolong life, making
sure that they would still continue to live normally. In the
US
alone, nearly 200,000 deaths per year has been reported due to
diabetes.
In order to cope with diabetes, it is important to maintain
their weight and exercise regularly. Alcohol consumption can
be
regulated to its utmost maximum, better if cut out completely
and smoking is an absolute health risk to both the lungs and
diabetics. Regular visits to the doctor are an absolute must
in
order to check and make sure that their blood glucose levels
are
on tract. Family encouragement can also do wonders for those
suffering from diabetes, helping them that there is always a
way to surpass diabetes without the fear of death. It helps
increase the quality of life among family members with
diabetes.
About The Author: Charlene J. Nuble 2005. For up to date links
and information about diabetes, please go to:
diabetes.besthealthlink.net/ or for updated links and
information on all health related topics, go to:
www.besthealthlink.net/
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