Are you at Risk for Diabetes?
Diabetes is a disorder that affects how the body uses glucose for energy and impairs the body’s ability to maximize food. Insulin, a hormone made in the pancreas, helps the body to utilize food for energy. However, in those who have diabetes, the pancreas does not produce enough insulin, or the body cannot use the insulin properly.
There are two types of diabetes: type I and type II. Both forms have similar symptoms, but the patterns of the symptoms vary. For example, symptoms of type I diabetes appear suddenly, while the symptoms for type II diabetes appear gradually over time. Often, people with type II diabetes have symptoms that are so mild, they go undetected. About 16 million Americans with diabetes suffer from type II diabetes.
Symptoms for both type I and type II diabetes may include frequent urination, excessive thirst and hunger, rapid weight loss, irritability, weakness, and nausea or vomiting. Other symptoms for type II diabetes may include frequent infections; dry, itchy skin; numbness or tingling in the hands and feet; blurred vision; slow-healing wounds; and fatigue.
Two risk factors for diabetes are age and gender. The chance you will develop diabetes increases with age. About 18% of those with diabetes are over age 65. Also, women have a slightly higher prevalence of diabetes. Genetics may also contribute to the predisposition for diabetes. In addition, if a family member has type II diabetes, then you are more likely to develop diabetes, but only if your lifestyle encourages the disease.
Type II diabetes is a modern day disease generated by our sedentary lifestyle. In addition, the majority of the one million Americans who suffer from diabetes are overweight. Only 15 % of those who suffer from diabetes are not overweight. Doctors believe a strong link exists between obesity and diabetes. Those who have a poor diet and lack physical activity increase their risk for diabetes.
Treatments for diabetes include several forms of medication and monitoring glucose. Medical West physicians recommend diet and exercise as an essential treatment for those suffering from obesity and type II diabetes. They suggest 80% of solving the weight problem can be accomplished with exercise and the other 20% with proper diet. Physicians also recommend alternating 20 minutes of aerobic activity with 20 minutes of anaerobic activity, such as lifting weights six days a week. It is also beneficial to eat 3-5 small meals per day. These meals should include a variety of protein and vegetables and a fist-sized portion of carbohydrates. If you stick to this plan, you should lose weight and reduce your risk for diabetes.
For more information on diabetes or a plan for weight loss, please contact a Medical West physician at 996-WEST.