Diabetes and Diabetic Diet Plans

Diabetes Mellitus is a group of conditions characterized by either a relative or complete lack of insulin secretion by the beta cells of the pancreas or by defects of cell insulin receptors, which result in disturbances of carbohydrate, protein, and lipid metabolism and elevated blood glucose. Diabetes is usually diagnosed and characterized by elevated fasting blood glucose or hyperglycemia. The main goal of treatment and a diabetic diet plan is to maintain a balance of glucose and insulin in the body.

In addition to everyday maintenance necessary to control blood glucose levels, diabetes is also associated with an array of disabilities that can lead to a premature death. The reason for this is the diseases on structural and functional alterations to many of the body's systems, particularly the damage it does to the large and small blood vessels of the cardiovascular system. Diabetes is often called the "silent killer" and is considered one of the most costly health problems in America today.

All diabetics are vulnerable to any number of long term complications and premature death because of the affects of this disease. Complications of the macrovascular system can lead to an increased risk of coronary artery disease, peripheral vascular disease, and increased chance of stroke. Microvascular complications can lead to diabetic nephropathy (kidney failure) and retinopathy which affects the blood vessels of the eye. Diabetic retinopathy will cause approximately half of all diabetics with type 1 diabetes to develop chronic renal failure and end-stage renal disease. Retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness in the United States.

Diabetes also affects the nervous system which in turn can affect peripheral circulation causing a decrease in sensations in the extremities. This loss of sensation can result in injuries that go unnoticed and untreated. Healing is impaired because of the compromised circulatory system leading to gangrene and possible amputation of lower limbs.

Other conditions that may accompany diabetes include orthostatic hypotension, persistent tachycardia, gastroparesis, neurogenic bladder (urinary bladder dysfunction due to neurologic damage), impotence, and impaired visceral pain sensation that can obscure symptoms of angina pectoris or myocardial infarction.

The development of these long-term complications is believed to be correlated to the level and frequency of hyperglycemia experiences throughout th

The key to controlling the symptoms and disorders caused by diabetes is the creation of a diabetic diet plan. For many people who are newly diagnosed with this insidious disease making the necessary lifestyle changes can be difficult. Unfortunately they have little choice if they are to successfully manage their diabetes. Those who have a sweet tooth may have the most trouble when it comes to adhering to these new changes in their life. Fortunately with the proper research and planning even the most fickle of eaters will be satisfied.

The first place to start is with a registered dietician or nutritionist who is experienced in creating diabetic diet plans. They will be able to help any diabetic find foods that will help manage their condition without losing any of the satisfaction that eating should bring. A nutritionist will have the latest research on what diabetics should and shouldn't eat as well as books and other materials that can help at home.

While your doctor or health care provider is a good starting point when it comes to the treatment of diabetes they will not have the wealth of information and knowledge that a dietician or nutritionist has.

There are many substitutes available for the foods that the newly diagnosed diabetic can no longer enjoy. Artificial sweeteners are as common today as sugar. In fact there are many foods made just for those with diabetes, allowing them to enjoy their favorite foods without the risk associated with rising blood sugar.

Any well rounded diet plan for diabetes will include plenty of healthy, nutritious foods, preferably of the fresh variety. On the American Diabetes Association website you will find a large list of foods and recipes that are diabetic friendly as well as healthy.

There are a multitude of websites on the internet that cater to the diabetic and they are a valuable source of information on not only the disease but strategies that can be used to treat and manage its affects. There are also scores of books on the subject and with a little research even the pickiest of diabetics can enjoy their cake and eat it too.

Diabetic meal planning is easier than you think. With the advent of meal planning systems the diabetic now has a set of easy to follow guidelines for food choices. There are several systems to choose from including the consistent carbohydrate diabetes meal plan, exchange lists, point systems, food groups, and calorie counting. Each of these systems is easily adaptable to the individual dietary needs of the diabetic and can be built around the individual eating habits, diet history, and any other special needs they may have.

While the ADA recommends that a registered dietician prepares each diabetic meal plan it is also important that the diabetic be an active part of the planning as well. This will give the individual more control when it comes to the management of their meal and food planning choices.

The consistent carbohydrate diabetic meal plan focuses on the carbohydrate content of foods which is an important part of any diabetic meal plan. The idea behind this plan is for the diabetic to eat a similar amount of carbs with every meal and snack. Carbohydrates affect blood glucose the most after a meal and they also determine the individual insulin requirements needed before each meal. The diabetic will need to count calories with this plan in order to measure the correct amount of insulin needed. This type of meal plan provides a good connection between medications, food, and exercise.

The exchange list works a little differently and is based on the individual's weight, activity level, age, and occupation. The total amount of calories the diabetic can consume each day is based upon these factors. Once the total amount of calories have been calculated the proportions of each food type including carbs, proteins and fats can be determined using guidelines from the American Diabetes Association and the American Dietician Association.

Foods that can be eaten throughout the day are listed on the exchange list. If a certain food is not to the diabetics liking it can be exchanged or substituted for something else on the list with little effect on their intake of carbohydrates. The exchange list outlines the number of exchanges that can be done for the different foods groups by meal or snack.

Planning meals and snacks for the diabetic is easier and more effective when following some form meal planning that helps them control their carbohydrate and sugar intake.

The diabetic food pyramid was created to help diabetics better understand the types of food they should be eating and what foods they need to avoid, particularly sugar. It was created by the United States Department of Agriculture and is fully supported by the American Diabetic Association and the American Dietetic Association.

For the diabetic refined sugar is the substance they need to avoid most. They can include it in their diet from time to time with their ability to tolerate its affects dependent on the severity of their diabetes. Once someone is diagnosed with diabetes they do need to monitor their sugar and carbohydrate intake and in the majority of cases they cannot enjoy these types of foods as they once did. This is where the diabetic food pyramid is of great help as it shows them which foods they need to avoid.

By incorporating the diabetic food pyramid with a diabetic diet plan those who suffer from this disease have a much easier route to choosing the best foods for their condition. A quick glance will show the diabetic the types of food that are most important to maintain their health and well being. It also gives an overview of how large servings should be and how to incorporate them into daily meals.

Just like the regular food pyramid that everyone is familiar with the diabetic food pyramid is divided into six categories. The bottom category is those foods that diabetics can enjoy the most and these include whole grains, starchy vegetables and beans. The next level is divided into two parts of fruits and vegetables. The third level is also divided into two parts and is comprised of dairy products and meats and protein sources AT the top of the pyramid are foods that diabetics need to pay close attention to including fats, oils, alcohol and refined sugars.

The diabetic food pyramid is a good starting point for anyone who needs to create a diabetic diet plan. The internet abounds with information about diabetic foods and cooking but the best place to start are those sites dedicated specifically to this disease such as the ADA because their information is constantly updated. By doing some research and planning all diabetics should be able to control and treat their condition with nutrition, medication, and exercise.

For the newly diagnosed diabetic and their family members learning to cook for their condition can take some time and patience. While learning diabetic cooking techniques is not necessarily hard the part that most people struggle with is selecting the proper foods. Diabetes is a disease that alters how the body processes sugar, usually with detrimental results, therefore it is important to carefully watch the food choices they make.

Most people who are diagnosed with diabetes will initially have a hard time adjusting to their new diet. The hardest part for most people is understanding that they can no longer enjoy all the foods they used to. Fortunately for all diabetics there is a wealth of information available when it comes to finding diabetic foods and recipes.

For the diabetic the key to controlling their disease is eating healthy nutritious food. By simply keeping a good supply of healthy foods in a well stocked pantry and refrigerator cooking diabetic friendly meals is much easier. For those with a sweet tooth be sure to keep a good supply of artificial sweeteners on hand. A good point of reference when it comes to choosing foods is the diabetic food pyramid.

For the diabetic any food that contains refined sugar is something to be avoided. There are many foods that contain sugar, including many fruits, but it is sweets and snack foods full of refined sugars that can create problems. A lot of what a person with diabetes can eat will depend on their individual tolerance to the sugar and carbohydrates in their foods. For many diabetics eating some sugar in moderation from time to time will not harm them.

Becoming a diabetic cooking expert will take some time and research, but with the amount of information freely available on the internet today it is easy to find information pertaining to creating a diabetic diet plan. Just because one has diabetes does not mean they have to stop enjoying food.

A regular exercise program is an important part of any diabetes treatment plan. When combined with a diabetic diet plan and diabetes medication its benefits are many. There is a noticeable improvement in physical fitness, emotional state, weight control and an increased energy level.

One of the primary benefits of exercise for the diabetic is an increased uptake of glucose by the muscle cells which can reduce the need for insulin. It can also help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disorders by reducing cholesterol and triglycerides. The most important part of any diabetic exercise program is consulting with a doctor before undertaking it.

For the diabetic maintaining an exercise program will be affected by different factors which include fatigue and glucose levels. Before any exercise program is undertaken it is important to assess the person with diabetes lifestyle habits. The diabetics usual exercise habits, community programs, and living environment are all factors that need to be considered. The exercise that most people will do throughout their life is the one they enjoy doing best.

There are also recommended guidelines that the American Diabetes Association has put forth that diabetics should follow. Included in these guidelines is wearing proper foot wear for the activity being performed, daily foot inspections, particularly after exercise, not exercising in extreme heat or cold, and not exercising when glucose control is poor. The ADA also recommends that diabetics more than 35 years of age get an exercise-stress electrocardiogram before they start any exercise regimen.

The type, intensity, and length of exercise will all affect the glycemic responses seen in people with type 1 diabetes. There are other factors that will affect this as well and they include when the exercise period occurs in relation to meals and insulin administration as well as the time of the day the exercise takes place. Integrating these factors into the exercise program must be done or the type 1 diabetic will be at an increased risk for hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia. Here are some general guidelines for a type 1 diabetic exercise program.

1. If the diabetic has frequent hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia they should avoid prolonged exercise until such a time as their glucose control is improved.

2. Free insulin levels tend to be lower before breakfast thus decreasing the risk of exercise induced hypoglycemia. Free insulin levels increase throughout the day as meals are consumed, peaking at or around bedtime.

3. The types of exercise recommended are low impact aerobic exercises.

4. Periods of exercise should be regular and moderate. Brief periods of intense exercise can cause hyperglycemia while prolonged exercise can lead to hypoglycemia.

5. Hypoglycemia can occur when exercising at peak insulin levels.

6. It is essential to self monitor blood glucose levels before and after exercising.

7. There may be a need to increase food intake to help compensate for the exercise.

8. It is essential to maintain proper fluid, particularly water, intake.

For young adults who participate in sports modifications in their diet and insulin dosages may be needed. Any training regimen should be entered into slowly and extend their activity over a prolonged period. A source of carbohydrate such as an energy drink should be consumed about an hour of exercise with monitoring of blood glucose for necessary adjustments. A snack should also be ready after the conclusion of exercise.

For the diabetic involved in high intensity athletics it may be necessary to skip the usual insulin injection before an athletic event begins. This is possible because blood glucose levels will fall within the first 60 to 90 minutes of an event, even if the athlete is hyperglycemic before the event.

By following these general guidelines the type 1 diabetic can participate in a variety of exercise programs and sporting events.

The type 2 diabetic will normally follow an exercise program that is different from a type 1 diabetic. A regular exercise program will have a variety of benefits including weight loss for those who are overweight, better glycemic control, increased well being, more social opportunities, and a reduced risk of cardiovascular problems.

The need for oral hypoglycemic medications is usually decreased when a diabetic diet plan, exercise and weight loss are combined to control the symptoms of diabetes. This decrease is due to an increased sensitivity to insulin, increased caloric expenditure, and increased self esteem. For those who are at a high risk for getting type 2 diabetes regular exercise will often prevent it from happening.

The general guidelines for a type 2 diabetic exercise program are as follows.

1. Have a medical screening for previously undiagnosed hypertension, neuropathy, retinopathy, nephropathy, and cardiac ischemia before beginning an exercise program.

2. Begin the program with mild exercises and gradually increase intensity and duration.

3. Blood glucose levels should be self monitored before and after exercise.

4. Exercise should be done at least three times a week or every other day with each routine lasting 20 to 30 minutes.

5. Muscle strengthening and low impact aerobics should be included in the program.

There is a strong correlation between obesity and the onset of type 2 diabetes with its associated insulin resistance. It should be pointed out that in the United States the proportion of the population under 40 that can be clinically defined as obese now exceeds 25%. Many children are obese and are developing type 2 diabetes at an alarming epidemic rate.

The dramatic rise in obesity in the US has lead to an equally alarming increase in the percentage of the population who suffer from the metabolic syndrome. The metabolic syndrome is a clustering of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk factors, one of which involves insulin resistance characteristic in type 2 diabetes. It should be pointed out that obesity alone does not always lead to insulin resistance as some individuals who are obese do not experience insulin resistance and conversely, some individuals who manifest insulin resistance are not obese.

Is diabetes serious?

Yes. Diabetes is a life-long condition. High blood glucose levels over a long period of time can cause blindness, heart disease, kidney problems, amputations, nerve damage, and erectile dysfunction. Good diabetes care and management can delay or prevent the onset of these complications.

The good news

You can live a long and healthy life by keeping your blood glucose levels in your target range. You can do this by:

1. Eating healthy meals
2. Being physically active regularly
3. Taking diabetes medication, including insulin

Things you should know about insulin
When insulin was first discovered and made available for people with diabetes, there was only one kind of short-acting insulin. This required several injections a day. As time went on, new insulin's were developed that lasted longer, requiring fewer injections, but requiring strict attention to timing of meals.

This gives more flexibility in the number and timing of injections, making it easier to maintain target blood glucose levels, based on your lifestyle. One to four injections a day may be suggested to you for optimal control of your blood glucose.

Are there any precautions before changing over to insulin?

Before considering a move to insulin it is worth examining all the option with regard to combination therapy. Diet should be optimized and the benefit of exercise discussed. It is important to be aware of the possibility of weight gain and of the need to maintain weight 'neutral' especially if already obese.

In March of 2005 the American Diabetes Association announced the findings of the comprehensive Diabetes Prevention Program. The DPP was conducted at over 25 medical centers nationwide and involved thousands of participants who volunteered to have their habits monitored and to follow dietary and exercise recommendations. All participants had been diagnosed with 'pre-diabetes', a condition where the blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not yet in diabetic ranges. Untreated, more than half of those people diagnosed with pre-diabetes will develop full-blown type 2 diabetes within a decade.

For the study, the participants were divided into two groups. One half were given dietary recommendations. The other half got the same dietary recommendations, plus the recommendation to exercise at least 30 minutes daily, five times a week.

The results? Those who included daily exercise in their routines and followed the diet recommendations cut their risk of developing diabetes by 58%. The reason? Those who made the recommended changes in their lifestyle lost 'a moderate amount' of weight. Even more important, researchers found something that they didn't expect. Those in the treatment group had a substantial chance of reducing their blood sugar level to normal, something that had been assumed was impossible.

Apparently, losing weight not only prevents a worsening of diabetes, it reverses the damage that obesity causes to the cells that produce insulin.

How much weight loss does it take to have an effect on the progression of diabetes? The key is in the definition of 'a moderate weight loss' - 5-7% of your body weight. In other words, depending on your boy weight, a loss of as little as 7-10 pounds can make a difference!

The recommendations suggested by the American Diabetes Society for a healthy diet to prevent diabetes is an ideal diet for steady, gradual weight loss - the kind of weight loss that stays lost. The diet includes the following suggested daily diet allowances:

* Grain - 6-11 servings per day (Bread, Cereal, Rice, Pasta)
* Vegetables - 3-5 servings per day
* Fruits - 2-4 servings per day
* Milk - 2-3 servings per day
* Meat - 4-6 ounces per day (Meat, eggs, fish, dried beans, nuts and peanut butter)
* Fats, Sweets, Alcohol - Occasional treats

(Recommendations for portions are based on gender and activity level. For instance, a sedentary 40 year old woman needs fewer portions than an active 25-year-old woman.)

Look familiar? It's also the dietary recommendation for the Heart Healthy diet from the American Heart Association, and the recommendations from the USDA's new MyPyramid. The results just keep coming in, but the message is clear: losing weight, maintaining a healthy weight and eating a balanced diet can help prevent most major health problems. Why wait till you're diagnosed? Start today - and it may never happen.

Diabetes Mellitus is one of the most costly burdensome chronic diseases of our time and is condition that is increasing in epidemic population in the whole world. The complications resulting from the diseases are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality and are associated with failure of various organs such as the eyes, kidneys and nerves. Diabetics are also at a significantly higher risk for coronary artery disease, peripheral vascular disease and stroke and they have a greater likelihood of having hypertension dyslipidemia and obesity.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a serious disorder of the glands, of pancreas to be exact, called Madhumeha in Ayurveda. It is one of the most insidious disorders of the metabolism and, if left undiagnosed, may lead to rapid emaciation and ultimately death.

What are the types of Diabetes?

According to Ayurveda Diabetes is of two types: Diabetes Mellitus- Insulin dependent Juvenile Diabetes (IDDM-Type I) in which the body is unable to produce insulin and Non Insulin Dependent Adult Onset Diabetes (NIDDM-Type II) in which the pancreas produces insulin, but it is insufficient for reducing the blood glucose to normal levels.

What are the common symptoms of Type- 1 Diabetes? Some of the common symptoms of Type- 1 Diabetes are:

Excessive Thirst Frequent urination Unexplained weight loss Irritability Weakness Fatigue

What are the common symptoms of Type- 2 Diabetes? Some of the common symptoms of Type- 2 Diabetes are:

Loss off weight Numbness in hands or feet. Uncontrolled infections Pain in the limbs Inflammatory chest infections Dimness of vision, contrast Excessive thirst Body weakness

What are the different tests for Diabetes?

Urine Test: Some chemicals are added to a few drops of urine. Colour change indicates presence of glucose in urine.

Blood Test: In this, blood is taken to test the glucose level. This is more accurate test to confirm diabetes

Which parts of my body are affected by Diabetes?

Blood Vessels: Higher level of glucose damage the blood vessels. As a result of this most of the diabetic complications occur in blood vessels.

Heart: Diabetes affects the heart by: Increasing the amount of fat in blood and increasing the amount of homocysteine in blood.

Kidney: In diabetes because of increased levels of glucose, kidneys have to do extra work to retain essential substances and separate waste products to produce urine. This affects the small blood vessels and their capacity to filter. After many years of work, it leads to kidney failure.

Eyes: Diabetes affects blood vessels of the eyes. Damage to these blood vessels leads to eye problems like: Damage to retina, Cataract or total loss of vision

Foot: Damage to blood vessels reduces blood flow to the feet and increases risk of developing foot ulcers and infections.

Nerves: High glucose level for a long time damages nerves. Nerve damage reduces sensation in some parts of body which may lead to: Numbness and tingling, Fainting and dizziness

If you have been diagnosed with adult onset type II Diabetes, you may be able to control your condition through diet and exercise. Many people have genetic predispositions for adult onset diabetes, but the disease is usually brought on by poor diet and a sedentary lifestyle. It can be hard to reverse the damage caused by years of unhealthy living, but by changing the way you eat and exercise, you can help control your disease and can lead a fairly normal life without the need for insulin-regulating medicine.

Before embarking on a workout plan or adhering to a new diet, you should first consult your doctor. He or she will probably make dietary suggestions and will usually refer you to a dietician who can help you plan your meals. The dietician will tell you what you can and cannot eat, and what you can eat in moderation. You will have to cut out all of the sugar from your diet. This means drinking diet sodas, if you must drink sodas at all, and eating sugar free candy on those special occasions.

It is important to eat a variety of fruits and vegetables to take the place of all of those empty calories and to keep you feeling full and energetic. You should make sure to take in enough protein to help your muscles get your through your new workout schedule, and be sure to drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated. You will want to eat several small meals throughout the day rather than just eating two or three times with a lot of time in between. By eating more small meals, you will keep your blood sugar at a more steady level, rather than having the ups and downs associated with large meals followed by gaps in eating.

Once your diet is under control. The next step is to begin an exercise program. You don't have to aim for running a marathon or even a mile. Walking is the most prescribed form of exercise for diabetes patients. Whether you walk in the mall, around the neighborhood or on a treadmill, the most important thing is to get moving and to keep moving for an extended period of time every single day. Though you may not feel motivated at first, you will soon start to look and feel better and better. Seeing these changes will hopefully provide you with enough motivation to stick to your workout plan.

If find walking boring, try to find a partner who will keep you motivated. There are also many diabetes support groups that have walking clubs that meet daily. You can join a club and meet other diabetes sufferers who will help keep you on the right track. They can provide inspiration and encouragement by sharing success stories and by keeping you aware of the complications that can arise if the disease is left untreated. Once you get into fairly good shape, you might try playing a sport that you enjoy, like golf or tennis. You could also join a gym and participate in some yoga or aerobics classes to add some variety to your workout plan.

Keep in mind that the best way to avoid diabetes complications is to change your lifestyle. Many of the common problems of people diabetes can be avoided by staying away from sugar and other harmful foods. By exercising and staying healthy, you can avoid vision loss and circulation problems associated with the disease without having to use expensive and debilitating drugs to keep your blood sugar at a healthy level. Remember that your body is your most important asset, and keeping it working properly should be your highest priority.