Monday, July 30, 2007

Foot Care for Diabetes Mellitus

Having diabetes can complicate your life in many ways. It can even cause problems for your feet. How can this happen?


The pancreas produces insulin, and diabetes mellitus can be subdivided into two principle types. Persons suffering from Type 1 diabetes have defective insulin producing cells, so that the body cannot produce the hormone, or can produce only very low levels of it. On the other hand, people suffering from Type 2 diabetes have resistant body tissues, and will often have a different, more extensive treatment and maintenance regimen. People with diabetes have to eat special diets, avoid certain foods, and take medication that can allow them to maintain good blood insulin levels.

Foot Care

People suffering from diabetes mellitus will often have a hard time maintaining their feet, because diabetes can damage the nerves leading to the feet. Diabetes can also impede blood circulation, especially to the extremities, including the feet. Because of impeded circulation, the feet can be prone to more infections, especially since the immune system will have a hard time targeting infectious agents entering through the feet. People with diabetes will often complain about having stiffer joints, wounds that heal slower, and decreased speed of blood clotting.


If you are diagnosed with diabetes, then you have to have a good foot cleaning and maintenance regimen in order to avoid infections. Foot care for Diabetes Mellitus involves the following. First, take care that you wash your feet every day, using some mild soap and warm water. Lather your feet well and clean the areas between the toes and on your heel. When you are done, rinse your feet well and dry each part of your foot carefully. If you are wearing closed shoes, use talcum or foot powder to dust your foot and keep moisture out. Be sure, however, to apply only a little powder, and take care not to leave powder to cake in between your toes.

Look at each part of your foot each day, and inspect its bottom using a mirror. Look for sores, bruises, cuts, or changes in toenail color. Look for swelling that might be indicative of pus formation. Do not open sores or drain pus on your own. You need a licensed caregiver to do this so that you do not increase your risk of infection. To supplement your foot care, practice good, healthy habits: quit smoking, exercise regularly, and avoid drinking alcohol.

Care for your feet regularly and make sure that they are always well groomed. When cutting toenails, make sure that you cut across the top, and never force your nail cutter into the corners of your toes. When you encounter sharp angles on your feet, use a good emery board or nail file to smoothen your nail out. You want to avoid cutting your foot with your own toenails. Avoid walking around barefoot, and always wash your feet if you step into dirty soil or mud.

When buying shoes, shop in the afternoon when your foot is relatively larger, and buy a shoe that fits your feet exactly. You need comfortable shoes that will not hurt your feet, cut into your toes, or damage the skin of your feet or legs. You need to give your toes a good amount of room to move and wriggle. As much as possible, avoid buying high heels, pointed or narrow toes, or hard shoes that can tax on your bones.

Visit a podiatrist, or foot specialist, at least once a year; and consult with your doctor regularly. Do as much research as you can on foot care for Diabetes Mellitus. Although foot care might seem inconsequential compared with a good diet and proper medication, it should help you deal with diabetes better and still look and feel better both inside and out.

Saturday, July 28, 2007

Diabetes Nutrition - Diabetics Should Take Nutrition Advice From Primitive Man

This unique study into diabetes nutrition began with the observation that the populations of places like Papua New Guinea and the Trobriand Islands have a very low incidence of diabetes, as well as heart disease. This is thought to be because these communities have little access to modern western foods, and their diets are similar to that of primitive man.

Comparison of western and primitive diabetic meals

The second group followed a 'Palaeolithic' diet of lean meat and fish, root vegetables, fruit and nuts, and avoided the grains and low fat dairy products usually considered to be good foods for diabetics, as well as avoiding salt and fat.

Primitive diet is the best food for diabetics


Results of the trial showed that the group eating the Palaeolithic diet experienced a much lower increase in blood sugar in response to carbohydrates, than the group that were following a western diet. This is the first study into the suitability of primitive foods for diabetics, and does not at this stage replace the following general advice on diabetes nutrition.

Established advice on diabetes nutrition still stands


Long standing research into diabetes nutrition still recommends that diabetics take the following steps:

1. Build your diabetic meals around starchy foods such as rice, pasta and potatoes which have a low glycaemic index and release glucose slowly into the bloodstream.

2. Look at your cooking methods, and try to replace frying and roasting with grilling, steaming, poaching or baking.

3. Fruit and vegetables are great foods for diabetics, but do not use fruit juice to quench your thirst as this can increase your blood sugar very rapidly. If you are thirsty try drinking water instead.

4. Sugar doesn't need to be completely avoided, but you should be aware of the amount of sugar in foods and the effect on your blood sugar. Replace some sugar with artificial sweeteners, and if you have a sweet tooth look out for special diabetic chocolates and confectionery.

5. All fats and oils are high in calories, although monounsaturated fats such as olive oil and rapeseed oil are healthier than saturated fats such as butter. Your diabetic meal plan should limit fatty foods such as processed meats, pastry, crisps, chocolate, cakes and full fat dairy products.

Having diabetes should not mean you have to cut out all your favourite foods. As long as you eat healthily and only indulge in moderation, you can maintain a safe blood sugar level and lead a normal happy life. Ask your doctor for advice on your diabetic meal plan, but if your options look a little uninspiring try a diabetic cooking magazine for more interesting dishes

Friday, July 27, 2007

Gestational Diabetes Diet - Good Pregnancy Nutrition Can Prevent Your Child Developing Diabetes

What causes gestational diabetes?


Controlling your condition with a good gestational diabetes diet plan is crucial for the health of mother and baby. Nutritionist Bridget Swinney says;

"When large amounts of glucose accumulate in your blood, it means that your cells aren't getting the fuels they need. High blood sugar can be harmful for you and your developing baby, so it is important to try to control it".

Consult a dietician to put together your gestational diabetes diet plan

Your gestational diabetes diet plan will depend on a number of factors so it is important to consult a professional to ensure the wellbeing of you and your baby. Your diet plan will be based on the following issues:

a. How many calories you need each day

b. Your height and weight

c. Your level of activity


e. Your level of glucose intolerance

Another important issue in creating your gestational diabetes diet plan is to include foods that you actually like. Any mother will know that pregnancy is a time when food can provide enormous comfort, and trying to stick to a strict diabetes diet that does not include foods you enjoy will be very difficult.

Here are some general tips for creating a gestational diabetes diet plan:

1. Eat small meals and snacks throughout the day instead of big meals that will suddenly increase your blood sugar levels. Towards the end of your pregnancy small meals will be more comfortable for you to eat anyway.

2. Don't skip meals, and make sure you eat breakfast, even if you have morning sickness, as your blood sugar levels are at their most irregular first thing in the morning.

3. General pregnancy nutrition advice may recommend fruit juice and flavored teas. These should not form part of your gestational diabetes diet plan as they can increase your blood sugar very quickly.

4. You will need a good source of calcium for your developing baby, but look for alternatives to milk which contains high levels of lactose, a simple sugar which will increase your blood sugar level. Two or three small glasses of milk a day are the maximum for your gestational diabetes diet plan

Thursday, July 26, 2007

Cure or Reverse Modern Diabetes? Latest News, Prehistoric-NO "Stone Age Diet" Recommended for Type 2

Popular Origin Diet book stresses low fat, low processed foods to reverse Type 2


Chicago, Illinois. July 6, 2007. Doctors, medical associations and research groups have, for many years, proven that the root cause of type 2 diabetes and other degenerative illnesses is found in our diet. Most recently a study from Lund University, Sweden, found that Foods of the kind that were consumed during human evolution may be the best choice to control diabetes type 2.

Its processed foods, unnatural meat hormones and "laboratory-derived sweetener chemistry" that suck nutrition and good health out of our bodies.


Recently, Elizabeth Somer published the book, The Origin Diet: How Eating Like Our Stone Age Ancestors will Maximize Your Health. It is surprisingly similar to Dr. Leonard's book in its recommendations.

I'll save you the $23.00 suggested retail price of this book and summarize the advice:

· Eat large quantities (6-9 servings) of colorful, raw fruit and vegetables a day

· Eat reasonable levels of carbohydrates (40-50% of total daily calories) a day

· Eliminate unhealthy saturated fats and eat more healthy dietary fats from fish, nuts and olive oil

· Cut down on dairy or substitute low fat or no fat versions

· Avoid processed foods, such as store bought cakes, cookies or other dessert items

· Drink lots of water, up to eight 8 ounce glasses a day

· Exercise in moderation, regularly, 3-5 times per week

In addition to this summarized set of dietary guidelines, The Origin Diet also provides an exercise regimen and set of recipe tips for preparing low fat, low calorie meals.

For anyone suffering from the debilitating effect of Type 2 diabetes, this book can be hugely beneficial.

But I can't help but notice that the Live Longer Now book, published over 25 years ago, was more comprehensive (he also published two subsequent books on the subject).

And even though more than a quarter century has passed since Dr. Leonard first published these stunning findings and provided documented solutions, people still search for the latest diet craze to control Type 2 diabetes.

The basic dietary advice for getting the better of your diabetes stays the same. The authors' names, faces and book titles are the things that constantly change. So even the latest news from Staffan Lindeberg of Lund University, Sweden says, "If you want to prevent or treat diabetes type 2, it may be more efficient to avoid some of our modern foods than to count calories or carbohydrate." ---Just read for your self.

Wednesday, July 25, 2007

Diabetes - Information That You Must Possess

Numerous thoughts plague a person's mind when he is diagnosed with diabetes and he may have many queries regarding the disorder.

The best source of information is your doctor. The American Diabetes Association and American Medical Association too are reliable places to go to in search of information on diabetes. They may also refer you to appropriate medical professionals.

Different types of information that you may need:

Diabetes occurs when the body does not produce insulin or cannot make use of the insulin present in the body. In order to transform sugar into energy, insulin is required. You will need information related to the dose and method of insulin intake which will depend on your individual requirement.

Though the exact cause of diabetes is unclear, the symptoms for the two types of diabetes are about the same. Type1 diabetes occurs when the body does not produce insulin while type2 diabetes results when insulin is produced but not properly utilized. Most information available is in relation to type2 diabetes as it is more common.

Information on emergency diabetic conditions is crucial. Hypoglycaemia or extremely low blood sugar levels, if left untreated could lead to unconsciousness or even coma. It is important for a diabetic as well as his family and friends to know what to do in such an emergency.

The blood sugar level needs to be closely monitored throughout the day. Knowledge regarding when the level may be slightly elevated (like after a meal) is necessary so that if the blood sugar level drops in such a case, proper measures may be taken.

It is always advisable to maintain a medical record of your condition so that proper treatment may be administered in situations of emergency. Not all medicines are compatible with each other, so knowing the history of a person helps in treatment of other diseases as well.

Tuesday, July 24, 2007

Can I Cure My Diabetes By Becoming A Vegetarian?

Some people who have moved over to a vegetarian diet are convinced that it has been responsible for curing their diabetes but can this really be the case or is there something else at work here?

Diet is a very important factor when it comes to diabetes but here we are normally talking principally about controlling the level of sugar in the bloodstream and so we are looking at changes to our dietary habits which control our intake of sugar. So can a vegetarian diet help in this respect?

Vegetarians fall into three categories - vegans, lacto-vegetarians and lacto-ovo vegetarians. Vegans eat no animal products, including products derived from animals such as eggs and milk, and their diet is confined solely to plant-based foods. Lacto-vegetarians add milk and some milk based products to an otherwise plant-based diet, but exclude eggs. Finally, lacto-ovo-vegetarians add milk, milk based products such as cheese and yogurt and eggs to a plant-based diet.


However, in many people who convert to a vegetarian diet there is something else hard at work in combating diabetes.

The substantial rise in diabetes, especially in the West, is due in no small measure to the fact that we are gaining weight at an alarming rate and that obesity has now reached epidemic proportions in many countries, with the United States leading the field. Weight gain is a major risk factor for diabetes and many people are developing the disease for no other reason than the fact that they are gaining weight.

The solution of course, in the first instance and before the problem gets out of hand, is simply to go on a diet, start taking some exercise and lose weight and what could be better for accomplishing this than a low cholesterol, low fat, low sugar, high fiber vegetarian diet.

Monday, July 23, 2007

Diabetes and Medicare

In this article I will tell you about diabetes and exercises use to reduce diabetes from the body. Diabetes is a disease in which blood glucose, or sugar, levels are too high. Diabetes is a set of related diseases in which the body cannot regulate the amount of sugar in the blood. Without enough insulin, the glucose stays in your blood. Over time, having too much glucose in your blood can damage your eyes, kidneys, and nerves. Diabetes can also cause heart disease. Diabetes can damage heart, liver, and kidney and can cause blindness, and much more.

Approximately 75% of diabetes dies of heart disease, strokes, or other type of blood circulation problem.

Types of diabetes

Type 1 diabetes usually develops in children or young adults.
Type 2 diabetes results when the body does not produce enough insulin and.

To manage your diabetes well, it is very important that you:


Don't smoke
Keep your blood glucose levels in your target range
Keep your weight in a healthy range
Take your medication as prescribed

Diabetes Treatment

Before the discover of insulin everyone with type 1 diabetes died with in a few year.The most effective treatment of diabetes consists of exercise and proper nutrition. Treatment should also include quitting smoking, maintaining good blood pressure readings. The most common of the early symptoms of diabetes is excessive thirst. And the most effective way to reduce diabetes is to adequate rest during exercise sessions to prevent high blood pressure, use low impact exercises and avoid heavy weight lifting, and always have a supply of carbohydrates nearby. Proper exercise and nutrition are the best forms of preventing diabetes. Treatment of type 1 diabetes: Type 1 Diabetes must be treated with insulin shots. This involves injecting insulin under the skin in the fat.

Sunday, July 22, 2007

Male Health Problems Caused By Type 2 Diabetes

Unlike diabetes type 1, a person with type 2 diabetes continues to produce insulin. Although it is not entirely clear why, this insulin doesn't work properly. The early stages of type 2 diabetes are termed insulin resistance. The body resists the action of the insulin on the blood. Many people believe that this is due to the person being overweight and there is not enough insulin to go around to function adequately. Although this has not been clinically proved, most people that suffer from type 2 diabetes have a weight problem and a recommended treatment for type 2 diabetes is exercise to reduce the excess weight.

Men are more susceptible to developing diabetes than women. It is also believed that the common beer belly that some men have is another tell tale sign of the potential onset of diabetes type 2. The most common symptoms of type two diabetes in males are :

thirst or polydipsia,

frequent urination or polyuria,

excessive tiredness,

blurry vision,

slow healing wounds,

and erectile dysfunction.


Some of the major health problems that may occur from type 2 diabetes are as follows :

The circulatory system can deteriorate. This could mean that the extremities of the body will not get an adequate supply of blood. Thus the feet and hands may become numb from time to time. There may be erectile problems as not enough blood can get to the penis. This also means that cuts and bruises on these parts of the body will take longer to heal.

The eyes may become damaged over time. This is known as diabetic retinopathy and is also due to poor circulation. Blood vessels or capillaries around the retina seal due to lack of blood flow. This causes new capillaries to grow that are weak and susceptible to bursting. These capillaries leak blood into the eye, causing poor vision and blindness if untreated.

The is no cure for type 2 diabetes. The only way to treat the condition is to take regular exercise and watch what you eat. Implementing a diabetic diet and exercise program can minimize the impact that diabetes has on your life.

Saturday, July 21, 2007

Diabetes and Nerve Damage- What You Should Know About Diabetic Neuropathy

Just imagine …

Imagine a world where you can't feel the lush grass between your toes.

Imagine a world where you can't hear the harmonious chirps of the birds.

Imagine a world where you can't see the beautiful sunrises or sunsets.

Imagine a world where you can't smell the fragrance of the seasons.

Imagine a world where you can't taste the delectable foods you love.


Is this the kind of world you want to live in? Of course not, but the truth is if you don't take care of your diabetes, this could be the world that you live in.

Diabetes and nerve damage go together like Bonnie and Clyde or Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. You can't go with just one, the same goes with diabetes and nerve damage.

What you should know about diabetes and nerve damage


People who have had diabetes for a long period of time are at greater risk of developing nerve damage. At first, the nerve damage may be mild, but as time goes on, the symptoms and treatment worsen. So, here's a checklist of factors that cause nerve damage:

1. Autoimmune factors.

2. High blood sugar.

3. Inherited traits.

4. Lifestyle factors (smoking or alcohol use, no exercising).

5. Mechanical injuries to nerves (like carpal tunnel syndrome).

6. Metabolic factors (like high blood glucose, diabetes, and low levels of insulin).

7. Neurovascular factors (damage to the blood vessels).


As you can see from the above list, there are some risks you simply cannot control. However, you will also note that there are several risks you, and only you, can control.


What you should know about the early symptoms of nerve damage


If you think you're at risk, here is a list of some early symptoms you can check to see if you have:

1. Diarrhea or constipation.

2. Dizziness or faintness due to a drop in blood pressure.

3. Indigestion, nausea, or vomiting.

4. Numbness, tingling, or pain in the toes, legs, feet, hands, arms, and fingers.

5. Problems with urination.

6. Weakness in the muscles of the feet or hands.

7. Weight loss.


What you should know to prevent nerve damage


If you're ready to take some steps to prevent yourself from getting nerve damage, here are a few tips to help ensure your health:


Keep your blood sugar as close to normal as it is safe for you.

Maintain normal blood pressure.

Properly care and inspect your feet on a daily basis.

Quit smoking.

Quit drinking.


What you should know about treatment options for diabetes and nerve damage


Here's a list of treatment options to benefit your health:

- Medications and other treatments.

- Keeping your blood sugar close to normal may help to decrease the pain.


It's not just your imagination…

Imagine a world where you can feel the lush grass between your toes.

Imagine a world where you can hear the harmonious chirps of the birds.

Imagine a world where you can see the beautiful sunrises or sunsets.

Imagine a world where you can smell the fragrance of the seasons.

Imagine a world where you can taste the delectable foods you love.

Imagine a world where you can live the life you've always wanted to live.

Friday, July 20, 2007

Diabetic Diet - Half A Million American Diabetics Risk Critical Illness In A Bid To Be Thin

A frightening eating disorder is sweeping the diabetic population according to recent medical reports. Coined Diabulimia, this is a psychological condition affecting an estimated one third of diabetic women, including nearly half a million women in the US. These women, who need to take insulin regularly to survive, are skipping insulin injections in an attempt to lose weight.

Determining the exact number of women affected is tricky as most diabulimics are unlikely to admit to skipping insulin injections whilst they are actually in the habit of doing so, but it is clear that this is a growing phenomenon.


- So how does missing insulin shots result in weight loss?


Skipping insulin injections can cause diabetics to lose weight rapidly in a number of ways:


a. They are not getting any calories from the food they are consuming as there is no insulin to break down sugars and transport them to the body's cells.

b. Very high blood sugar levels can cause muscle breakdown resulting in weight loss.


- The risks for diabulimics are extremely high


For a diabetic who is dependant on insulin shots, missing their medication can be extremely dangerous. The risks range from kidney and heart disease, to nerve damage resulting in blindness or amputations. Missing vital insulin injections can ultimately increase the risk of a coma and even death.

Matt Hunt, Science Information Manager from the research charity Diabetes UK made the following statement:

"This eating disorder is extremely dangerous. Blood glucose that is too high for too long can cause serious complications, with diabetes being the leading cause of blindness amongst the working population in this country. Cardiovascular disease can also result from long periods of insulin abuse as well as kidney disease and nerve damage."

- Do you think someone you know may be diabulimic?


If someone you know is skipping insulin injections in order to lose weight you may notice the following symptoms.

1. They have low energy levels and excess fatigue

2. They are going to the toilet more frequently than usual

3. They are eating more than usual but still losing weight


Always encourage someone that you know is skipping insulin injections to get professional help. This is a psychological disorder, and although it may seem illogical to you to risk serious health issues just to be slim, it may not seem that way to the diabulimic.

- Balancing the fear of being fat against the fear of critical illness

Many people suffering from this disorder start small, perhaps missing just a couple of injections to fit into a particular dress for a big night out. Before they know it they may be missing most of their shots, taking just enough stay alive. They reason that they will begin to take their medication again once they are thin enough, but somehow, no matter how much weight they lose, they never believe they are thin enough.

Although gradual weight loss can be very positive for overweight diabetics, enabling them to control their blood sugar more effectively, missing insulin shots is never a good way to lose weight. Although 'diabulimia' is not currently an officially recognized medical condition, it is as serious an eating disorder as anorexia or bulimia and it affects a frighteningly large number of diabetic women.

Thursday, July 19, 2007

Diabetes Type 2 - Eating Cinnamon Can Control Your Type 2 Diabetes

Studies show that including cinnamon in your type 2 diabetes diet could significantly lower your blood sugar level, helping you to control your condition. In a world where this disease is an ever increasing problem, many people are seeking natural remedies to help them control their type 2 diabetes. Diet changes and supplements play a major role in this process.

- Cinnamon Reduces Blood Sugar in a Number of Ways

Cinnamon reduces blood sugar in three ways. Firstly it stimulates insulin production, secondly it increases the effectiveness of insulin receptors, and finally, as recent studies show, it slows the emptying of the stomach after eating. When the stomach empties quickly after a meal, this causes a rapid rise in blood sugar level, so slowing this process can help type 2 diabetics to control their condition.

- Should Cinnamon Buns Feature In My Type 2 Diabetes Diet?

Cinnamon can easily be added to wholemeal toast, low fat bagels and cereals. Some people even find soaking a cinnamon stick in their tea can have an impact on their blood sugar.

- Studies Show a 20% Decrease in Blood Sugar Levels

The original studies into the impact of including cinnamon in diabetes diets took place in Pakistan. Two groups of type 2 diabetics were monitored, with one group taking 6g capsules of cinnamon after eating, and the other group taking a placebo. The group taking cinnamon experienced a 20% reduction in blood sugar level compared with the control group. Their blood sugar levels began to creep up again as soon as the study was over and they stopped taking the cinnamon.

More recent research published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, compares two groups of healthy volunteers. Both groups ate 300g of rice pudding a day, but one group added 6g of cinnamon to theirs. Their blood sugars were measured two hours after eating, and the rate at which their stomachs emptied was measured using ultrasonography.

The group that ate plain rice pudding had significantly higher blood sugar than the group that ate cinnamon, and their stomachs emptied much quicker which contributed to the high blood sugar levels. The group that ate cinnamon experienced significantly slower stomach emptying as well as lower blood sugar.

- Limits to the Effectiveness of Cinnamon

For cinnamon to be really effective as part of a type 2 diabetes diet, you need to eat large quantities which may have an impact on your liver over time. It is not recommended for pregnant women and should not be used to treat gestational diabetes. Because cinnamon works to increase the effectiveness of insulin, it cannot be used to treat type 1 diabetes, where no insulin is produced in the first place.

Cinnamon can be an effective addition to type 2 diabetes diets, and when used long term it can help to control blood sugar levels. It can also be used to lower cholesterol, to treat nausea and vomiting, and to prevent colds and gastrointestinal spasms. Although it is effective at lowering blood sugar, it should not replace a healthy and varied diet, regular exercise, and professional medical advice

Wednesday, July 18, 2007

It is Possible to Have Blood Sugar Levels Within Normal Ranges, Even as a Diabetic

What blood sugar levels can be considered normal? Your blood sugar level should be between 70 milligrams per deciliter to 100 mg/dl after 8 hours of not eating. A blood sugar level above 100 mg/dL at any time may indicate that a pre-diabetes condition is present.

If your level falls between 100 and 199, this indicates prediabetes. Diabetes (either type 1 or type 2) is likely present if your blood sugar level exceeds 200.

You can lower your blood sugar in several steps. If you want to have more normal blood sugar levels, the following suggestions can help.


B. Your blood sugar needs more frequent testing. You should test your blood sugar levels roughly 5-10 times per day. Regular readings of one's blood sugar are required to determine if one has the proper insulin dosage, even though it's tough on the fingers. The A1C test is a vital indication of your blood sugar level. Blood sugar levels, which should be less than 6%, can be revealed easily with this test


D. Making sure you eat 3 nutritious meals a day, and avoiding between-meal snacking, can make regulating your insulin levels less difficult a chore. You need to break your habit of snacking--it's not as hard as you may think.

Complications from both types of diabetes are strongly correlated with poor management of blood sugar levels. Therefore, keeping one's blood sugar level in the normal range eliminates most of the risk of complications from diabetes.

Normal blood sugar ranges from 70 to 100 for a non-diabetic. This level of blood sugar should be achievable for anyone, whether diabetes is present or not.

Tuesday, July 17, 2007

Huckleberry Promotes Vasodilation for Better Peripheral Circulation

What is huckleberry?

Huckleberry is also known as bilberry. This delicious fruit is of the plant called huckleberry, found in the North American and European continents. It's a shrub that grows to only 16 inches tall and the berries are usually less than 5 mm in diameter and contain ten large seeds. These berries differ in color from bright red, to dark purple, then to blues. When harvested in the summertime, its taste ranges from tart to sweet, similar to blueberries.

Cultures have known for centuries that food grown in the wild provide enormous medicinal benefits. Particularly beneficial are the berries high in flavanoids. Flavanoids are high in antioxidant properties. Also found are metabolic properties. Wild foods also provide high amounts of phytonutrients.

These valuable benefits are not found in our foods. To achieve maximum health from these types of food, you must purposely seek and include them in your supplementation.

Huckleberry promotes vasodilation for better peripheral circulation.

Huckleberry amazingly improves vasodilation. Vasodilation is a process when the blood vessels become wider following the relaxation of the smooth muscle in the vessel wall. This will reduce blood pressure - since there is more room for the blood.

What causes peripheral circulation?


In what ways can huckleberry help?

Huckleberry drastically improves blood sugar.

Huckleberry remarkably improves circulation.

Huckleberry promotes vasodilation for better peripheral circulation.


Huckleberry prevents and treats chronic venous insufficiency.

Huckleberry has recently been noted to positively affect blood vessels.

Huckleberry acts as a laxative to treat diarrhea naturally.

Huckleberry promotes insulin production.

Huckleberry improves the digestive system functions.

Huckleberry treats urinary tract infections.

Huckleberry fights infections.

Huckleberry controls cholesterol levels.

Huckleberry can be used as a non-harmful stimulant.

Huckleberry can be used as a mouth wash to treat infections.

Huckleberry tea, when used regularly, eases symptoms of glycosuria (glucose is excreted through the urine) and hyperglycemia (excessive amounts of urine circulates in the blood plasma).

Huckleberry is used to fight the onset of diabetes mellitus.

Huckleberry is an excellent source of vitamins A, B3, C, D, and E.

Huckleberry provides more antioxidants than 20 glasses of apple juice.

Huckleberry is low in calories and sodium, and is fat- and cholesterol-free.

Who can take huckleberry?

Because it's a natural ingredient, anyone who wants to have a healthier body can take huckleberry.

Monday, July 16, 2007

A Look At Natural Cures For Type 1 Diabetes

Opponents of natural cures for type 1 diabetes and other diseases believe that manufacturers and authors target people suffering from chronic diseases, offering hope where there is none and sometimes causing the delay of conventional or proven treatments. Some proponents claim that the federal government, pharmaceutical companies and even the American Medical Association suppress information about natural remedies. Then, there are people like me.


That being said, it is possible and wise to take responsibility for you own health and well being. The problems that plague the medical community have much to do with the search for quick fixes and instant cures. It takes time to heal your body, sometimes, depending on the condition, a lot of time. It also takes effort.

Doctors typically suggest weight loss, healthy diet and physical activity, but when a person is plagued with fatigue and feels depressed, they may not be able to follow those suggestions. The factor that is most commonly overlooked is nutrition.


There are specific nutrients that should be present in products advertised as natural cures for type 1 diabetes, but they are not always included. Read the label carefully. There are also specific herbal extracts and other supplements that, according to scientific studies, help control blood sugar levels and prevent complications that can accompany diabetes. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and if you are taking prescription medications, check with your pharmacist or the supplement manufacturer concerning possible interactions.

Ingredients to look for include:

Chromium Nicotinate

Biotin
Also known as vitamin B-7, scientists believe that biotin may be involved in the production and release of insulin. Most studies have involved people with type 2 diabetes, who often have low levels of biotin. Studies suggest that this vitamin may improve blood sugar control.

Inositol
A component of rice bran, the human body uses inositol to create molecules that transmit signals among the cells. Of most importance in diabetes is the role of inositol in helping the cells to identify insulin and use blood glucose for energy.

Alpha Lipoic Acid
This supplement plays many roles in the human body. Alpha Lipoic Acid is suggested in diabetes because laboratory studies have shown that it increases cellular uptake of blood sugar.

Many plants and herbs have been used throughout history in countries where they grow wild for the treatment of diabetes. Modern day research supports the use of all of the following: banaba extract, bitter melon extract, black cumin extract, green tea extract, gymnema sylvestre extract and milk thistle extract.

Sunday, July 15, 2007

Know Your Blood Sugar Level - 5 Best Reasons Why This Is So Important For A Diabetic

Are you a diabetic and do you check your blood sugar level regularly ? - Some people whom I have spoken to find it a hassle to do so, but is it really so difficult if it could SAVE YOUR LIFE ?

With the availability of the many forms of home blood glucose monitoring (HBGM) devices ( such as the Accucheck Glucometer )in the market today, it is very easy for a diabetic to perform their own test to make sure that their blood glucose level does not fall out of the "safe zone". This is essential so that you could take preventive measures before complications of various form sets in (such as those that affects the heart and kidney.) In additional to Blood Sugar Self Test, we recommend that all diabetics should monitor the food they eat and to check for any wounds, cuts or injuries that they might have no their feet and hands everyday to make sure that they are clean and free from infection.

There are over 21 million Americans suffering from diabetes and 54 million people in the United States having pre-diabetes (a condition in which blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not enough to be diagnosed as diabetes.) with some totally unaware that they have the disease. This really says enough of the stance that we should take to combat diabetes and the first step is to KNOW YOUR BLOOD SUGAR LEVEL so that you could Control it and not letting diabetes take control of you !

Below are 5 Top Reasons why Self-testing is important and how you could control the disease :

Know Your Levels :

Check your blood sugar level frequently. This will let you know how much insulin you will need in order to keep your blood sugar level as close to normal as possible.
But How frequently should we test ? If your blood sugar levels are within a target range, you just need to test once before breakfast each day and occasionally at other times of the day. However for those who take insulin, you may need to check your blood sugar levels several times a day. The usual time to test your blood sugar level are : before bedtime, one to two hours after meals or a big snack, before you go through any Strenuous physical activity or exercise because this will lower your blood sugar and you may want to make sure that your blood sugar do not drop too low either.
Managing diabetes is all about balance. This include keeping a balance on the food we eat, medication we take and the right amount of exercises to keep your blood sugar levels within the targeted range. This is important because our bodies can no longer do it for us. Regular self-monitoring of blood glucose levels gives us a gauge on where our blood sugar levels are right at the moment and provide us sufficient time to act before complication sets in.

Good Control Keeps Complications at Bay:


Assess The Effectiveness Of Your Medications:

Keeping your Blood Sugar Level in checks will also allow you to see how effective your medication or insulin is in controlling your glucose levels. If your medication is not effective in maintaining your blood sugar within the right range, it needs to be adjusted. Frequent self-testing will help you and your doctor to make the right choice in prescribing the right amount of doses and medications more accurately.

Minimizes The possibilities of Life-threatening Emergencies:

High blood sugar (Hyperglycemia) can occur during stress or when taking medications that affect the blood sugar. Testing can help you keep better watch on blood sugar so you can take the appropriate steps before it gets too high. Low blood sugar (Hypoglycemia) can happen if your blood sugar level drops too low. Our advise is, if you exercise, test your blood sugar level before, during or after exercise to avoid a dangerous dip in blood sugar. Do take note too that drinking alcohol can also lower your blood sugar and thus, monitor your level closely if you drink. It is better to do more then to be sorry after that.

Help Your Heart, Save Your Kidney !

People diagnosed with diabetes has an increased risk of heart and kidney diseases. This occurs slowly over time while your blood sugar remains consistently high.

Saturday, July 14, 2007

About Diabetes Cure

This site is all about diabetes