Eating to Lower Blood Sugar

Was creating diabetes a sure bet for me?

I remember a few years ago when I was 206 pounds. I cannot believe I let my average sized frame hold 206 pounds. But anyway, my clothes were tight and I was tired on a regular basis. Little did I know at the time that I was inviting diabetes into my life? Even though I was working out I was not eating in a way that shaped a healthy me. I think as I look back I was inviting the diabetes disease into my life.

Here is some convoluted logic.

As long as I was taking care of one area of my life I was in good shape. At least that is how I thought. Hey I exercised. So what that I ate the worst foods at one or two in the morning as I watched Sports Center or a movie. I reasoned it out that as long as I exercised my eating could take on a life of its own. And it did. I had no problem devouring a huge bowl of ice cream in the wee small hours of the night. Cookies or potato chips were high up on my list of foods to accompany me as I relaxed.

If I did not have type 2 diabetes it is quite possible that my diet and portion sizes of food would be the same today as when I was a teenager. When I was in my mid 30's I had a job that required me to meet the owner of the company at a Spanish restaurant in Newark New Jersey every Monday night to discuss business. Don, the President of the company, called me Godzilla because of the way I devoured food at these meetings. I thought that it was cool that he called me Godzilla.

I guess food was like a tournament game for me. Could I eat all the food that was on my plate? This was the prize.

The hard part about diabetes for me.

What now?

My lifestyle has changed. Food which was once of no concern to me is now an ongoing conscious decision for me. I am much more aware of the foods I eat before and while I am consuming them. I am a big boy and dealing with diabetes is my new challenge.

So learning to eat that supports me is what I am doing now. If I was eating healthier before I got the diabetes I may not have the diabetes disease now. So instead of being reactive and waiting to get the diabetes disease, eating better now would make sense to avoid the diabetes disease and other ailments as well.

Diabetes treatments are an ongoing learning experience. I have learned form The Diabetic Warrior about foods. You can as well. Get his free MP3.

Diabetes And Lovehandles - There Is A Connection

There are other ways to lower your blood sugar levels. One is the way you eat. as a pharmacist, I have had endocrinologists and diabetics tell me the same thing time and time again. People afflicted with this condition are stubborn concerning change in their lifestyle. They tell me this is more common with diabetes than with most other medical conditions. They seem to get angry, not necessarily at someone. They get angry when someone suggests a change to better their condition.

I believe, if you are reading this article, you have overcome that obstacle. You are looking fr answers. Now, is a good time to go forward. Let's talk about diet.

Often, when someone is diagnosed with diabetes, they are instructed to cut back on calories. You think, I don not know how many calories I even consume on a daily basis. I don not keep track of my diet. This is a god place to start. Keep an account of what you eat. Then plan future consumption around that.

You need to plan what you are going to eat. Now, plan to to eat smaller portions at each eating session. Plan to eat healthier foods. Do it. You will see results. Your blood sugar readings will go down. You will see weight loss. These results will inspire you to do even better. Before you know it, it will snowball. Your diet will be considerably better. You will look and feel better. Your blood sugar will get even better. You will need less insulin or oral medications.

If you are really stumped on this diet thing, there is help out there. You can order three meals a day plus snacks over the phone or the internet. You will be set up a week or more at a time. This food will be delivered to you front door. And these meals are not really more expensive than what you are spending on food, now.

Do it! You will feel better. You will be better. Your cardiovascular system will benefit. Actually, your whole body will benefit. And remember to pump up your exercise program 10% or start an exercise program. You are doing it for you!

Metabolic Disorders and Diabetes

You may have experienced having high blood sugar levels come out of physical examination results. With this, and having observed symptoms of hyperglycemia – may put you in a panic state to quickly bring back your blood sugar levels to normal. You hurriedly find answers to your statement & action plan you entitled: "how to lower my blood sugar".

Your "How To Lower My Blood Sugar" Action Plan would point out the details on your strategy to bring back or control your blood sugar levels so that it would range around normal. You find yourself researching over the internet for case studies and recent developments on how to go about a condition such as yours. You go over medical books and magazines just so you could include in your action plan the best approaches to improving your condition. And anything you have read that worked for others will be a candidate to be included in your list of options.

Indeed, if you constantly keep yourself reminded and say that "I really need to lower my blood sugar" – you will constantly find yourself evaluating everything to this statement.

Not only do they provide necessary nutrients for a healthy body, they contain fibers that will also do the body good. Highly refined carbohydrates as breads, cakes and pasta have high glycemic index – which means they will easily be converted to sugar – that means giving your blood sugar levels a spike much faster than those with lower glycemic index.

Thus, when you say that, "I want to lower my blood sugar" – you should keep your carbohydrates to a minimum. And when choosing carbohydrates, go for natural and high fiber ones – these mostly have low-glycemic index. An example would be going for brownsugar, brown rice and of course, green-leafy vegetables.

And lastly, when you are really serious in saying that: "I want to lower my blood sugar" – you should take on an exercise regimen in order to live an active lifestyle. Exercise brings a lot of good to your body – not only does it improve your circulation, get that body fat out, but it will also help on maintaining healthy blood sugar levels.

You May Learn from My Diabetes Story

Metabolic disorders are mostly genetic conditions that affect the production of energy within the cells; however, some occur as a result of improper diet or nutritional deficiencies. In some cases, dietary supplements correct metabolic disorders. For example, thiamine (B-1) supplementation is used under close medical supervision in the treatment of several genetic metabolic disorders, including sub-acute necrotizing encephalopathy, Maple syrup urine disease and hyperalaninemia.

Diabetes is considered one of the metabolic disorders because either a lack of insulin or reduced sensitivity to insulin prevents glucose from entering the cells and being converted to energy. Both type I and type II diabetes are at least partially genetic.

Scientists believe that they have identified the gene that predisposes a person for type II diabetes, but even when the condition is common among family members, proper diet, weight loss and increased physical activity can prevent the condition. There is also evidence that botanical and herbal supplements, as well as the dietary minerals calcium and chromium may be helpful.

In type II, improper diet and physical inactivity leading to central obesity is a major risk factor. About 65% of all persons with type II diabetes are overweight or obese. At one time, type II was referred to as adult onset diabetes, but currently, because of an increase in childhood obesity, there has been an increase in type II diabetes among children.

In the case of diabetes, uncontrolled high levels of glucose in the blood stream cause damage to the nerves and organs of the body. While glucose is not normally toxic and is necessary for proper brain function and excessively low levels can lead to coma, chronically high levels eventually become toxic.

Diabetes is one of the most common causes of metabolic neuropathies. Other causes include thyroid disease, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and nutritional deficiencies. Even though, nutritional deficiencies are recognized as the cause of many non-genetic metabolic disorders. The relationship between type II diabetes and nutrition is controversial. Even though, dietary supplements correct metabolic disorders, there is no agreed upon supplement regimen for diabetics.

Many researchers and proponents of alternative and complementary medicine believe that a complete nutritional supplementation program should be designed for diabetes and those at risk for type II diabetes. This is a subject of personal interest, because many of my nieces and nephews are at risk. Coming from a large family I have seen the disease ravage friends and family members, as complications developed causing the loss of sight, heart disease and nerve dysfunction.

A Review of Gymnema Sylvestre Hyperglycemia Clinical Trials

Each one of the devices is about the size of an MP3 player and most run on batteries. There are even some models which come with a carry case also. These then allow you to store other essential pieces of equipment that you will need to carry with you so that you test your blood sugar levels at anytime and anywhere.

We have explained a little bit about what glucose meters do, but just how much does one cost? Certainly they are not as expensive as you may think and if you were to look for one you may find that there are some being offered to people for free. Certainly in the USA you may discover that your health insurance will cover the cost of you getting your diabetes supplies. However if they do not or you do not in fact have insurance then a lot of pharmacies and clinics will provide these meters for people to use at no charge whatsoever. Unfortunately although you may actually get the meter for free you may well discover that you will need to buy the test strips yourself for them. The problem being that the test strips available today can not be used between various different models and makes. So you will only be able to use the ones that are actually designed for the model you have. However the Ascensia Breeze helps to alleviate the situation because this uses a disc that contains strips so no longer do you need to worry about fiddling around with individual strips every time you need to carry out a test.

How To Lower Blood Sugar

Many doctors are unaware of gymnema sylvestre insulin clinical trials. Alternative and complementary medicine is still controversial, even though the effectiveness of nutritional support and botanical supplements has been proven again and again. It takes years for mainstream medicine to accept the therapeutic properties of naturally occurring substances and some practitioners never suggest or even consider alternative or adjunctive therapies for their patients.

Researchers are focusing more on alternative therapies for type II diabetes, because, according to researchers at the Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, "current pharmacological therapy for type 2 diabetes reduces the risk of complications, but is not able to achieve a long-lasting normalization of the metabolic disorder."

In gymnema sylvestre insulin clinical trials conducted later in the same year, 22 patients with non-insulin dependent or type II diabetes were treated with 400mg of the extract daily for a period of 18-20 months. During that time, patients showed lower blood glucose levels and the need for conventional drug therapy was decreased.

In 2004, two studies were completed concerning the effectiveness of supplements containing a combination of gymnema sylvestre, calcium citrate and chromium for weight loss. One of the risk factors for type II diabetes is overweight or obesity. Diabetics who are able to maintain a healthy weight also see improvements in blood glucose levels and a reduction in the need for prescription drugs.

Over 150 obese people participated in these two studies and the results showed a 5-6% decrease in body weight and body mass index. Total cholesterol levels were also reduced, as were triglycerides and LDL cholesterol. There seemed to be an appetite suppressant effect of the combination mineral and gymnema sylvestre therapy and HDL (good) cholesterol levels were improved.

Diabetic Kidney Disease - Precautions To Help You Avoid Kidney Failure

Ah, the family tree. It's a wonderful thing to know where you've come from. Questions seem to automatically arise when the family tree is brought up. Will I inherit grandma's beautiful hair? Will I inherit grandpa's big chin? Will I inherit Uncle Joe's musical ability? Will I inherit money when Aunt May passes? Okay, that's a different kind of inheritance. Then there are questions that involve your health and expected lifespan.

Knowing your genetic predisposition can be interesting, but it can also be a life-saving experience. If you think you might have the possibility to inherit type 2 diabetes, the information in this article just might save your life! Knowing your family's medical history can only answer half of the question if type 2 diabetes is inherited.

In fact, knowing these health answers will benefit you when you need to visit a health professional because she will ask questions about your family history. Being aware is the best defense you can have at this point. Being ignorant of these needed answers is not going to help you. Knowledge is power when it comes to your health.

So, read up on your family ancestry and get to know them, and yourself, better.

I'm sure you have many questions, so I will answer them in a question and answer format just for you!

How can I find out if I will inherit type 2 diabetes mellitus? There are basically four categories of people who are susceptible to getting type 2 diabetes:

1. People who are over the age of 45.

2. People who are overweight.

3. People who are of African American, Latino/Hispanic American, Native American, Asian American or Pacific Islander descent.

4. People who have a family history of diabetes.

Are there any other ways I can develop type 2 diabetes mellitus? Yes. There are five main reasons why people are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.

1. Being insulin resistant.

2. Being obese.

3. Living a sedentary lifestyle.

4. Having low HDL cholesterol levels (the good cholesterol) and high triglyceride levels.

5. Having increased occurrences of high blood pressure.

What are some warning signs of diabetes mellitus that I should look out for? There are six common warning signs for you to check if you are pre-diabetic:

1. Blurred vision.

2. Fatigue.

3. Frequent and slow-healing infections.

4. Increased appetite.

5. Increased thirst.

6. Increased urination.

What can I do to prevent myself from getting type 2 diabetes mellitus? There are five simple ways to make sure you don't become a victim of diabetes:

1. Be active every day.

2. Change your diet.

3. Limit soft drinks.

4. Make wise food choices.

5. Take prescribed medications.

Can you sum up the necessary checklist for me to check if I'm susceptible to type 2 diabetes mellitus? Sure. The main causes for type 2 diabetes are:

- Genetics

- Neglected lifestyle

- Sedentary lifestyle

- Unhealthy diet

So, learn about your family tree! It's a fun activity that can save you life. It's your life. No one else can live it.

Blood Glucose Meters

Everyone is familiar with the comedians who share their "The Top 10". There's nothing sacred in comedy and everything is made fun of. This enjoyable moment of laughter is fleeting, but in real life, some things aren't so funny. Do you want to know "The Top 10" to a healthier you?

The Top 10 Diabetic Kidney Disease Warning Signs.

10. Protein in your urine

9. High blood pressure

8. Leg and/or ankle swelling

7. Frequent bathroom visits at night

6. High levels of creatinine in blood

5. Less or no need for insulin or anti-diabetic medications

4. Sicknesses involving nausea and vomiting

3. Weakness, paleness, or anemia

2. Itching

1. You are not yourself

Even though this devastating disease takes many years to cause health problems, it's still important to know your life can be altered or threatened. Here are a few reasons why diabetic kidney disease can turn your life upside down:

-Your kidneys are no longer able to support you in a reasonably healthy state

-Dialysis or transplantation is needed.

-Your kidneys only function at 10 to 15 percent.

-The usual duration of time between the diagnosis and complete kidney failure is from five to seven years.

It's important you don't self-diagnose yourself. Please see a medical profession for a proper and accurate diagnosis.

There are precautions you can take to avoid diabetic kidney disease. They are nothing different or out of the ordinary for diabetics, and they're as easy as 1 2 3!

1. Monitor of your blood glucose levels.

2. Maintain an awareness of monitoring and controlling your blood pressure at home.

3. Follow your special diet.

Did you know?

-You won't necessarily be diagnosed with diabetic kidney disease if you have a couple of these top ten items. In fact, The American Diabetes Association informs that not all diabetics develop this specific kidney disease. Some factors for kidney failure include genetics, blood pressure, and blood sugar control.

-Diabetic kidney damage rarely occurs in the first 10 years of diabetes, so it may be a mistake to ignore the possibility of getting this kidney disease. Usually 15-25 years will pass before kidney failure occurs for some diabetics.

-Diabetics are more susceptible to acquiring this dreaded disease. But here's the thing, you don't have to get the disease! That's because the better a person keeps their diabetes and blood pressure under control, the lower the chance of getting them getting kidney disease.

Okay, why should you take care of your diabetes? Here are the varying factors:

-As diabetic kidney disease progresses, more albumin seeps into the urine.

-When the albumin in the urine increases, the filtering function begins to drop.

-As kidney damage develops, blood pressure often rises as well.

Start living your life to its fullest with these Top 10 Reasons To Live Life:

10. Your job

9. Your favorite hobby

8. Your favorite sport or activity

7. Your "what I've always wanted to do" list

6. Your pets

5. Your friends

4. Your family

3. Your spouse

2. Your children

1. Yourself

Excess Thirst and Diabetes Warning Signs- Know What to Look For

Diabetes is a chronic disease affecting as many as 16 million Americans, half of whom do not know they have it. It is the 5th leading cause of death in the United States. Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness, renal failure, and amputation in the U. S., and is associated with a range of complications, including heart attacks, strokes, amputations and loss of vision. It is also the leading cause of new cases of blindness among adults 20-74 years old. Diabetics have up to a 400% greater chance of heart attack or stroke. Could a natural health remedy for diabetes turn the tide?

Natural Remedies

Millions have discovered the healing power of natural remedies and supplements and are turning to vitamins, minerals and herbs as a natural health remedy for diabetes. When considering using any of these natural diabetes remedies, it would be wise for you to consult with your primary care provider.

Contrary to some early concerns, both fish oil and niacin (treatments used for improving triglyceride and cholesterol levels) appear to be safe for people with diabetes. Scientific study has shown the effectiveness of many natural diabetes treatments. Also found in Diabetes Care was a study that confirmed significant progress in insulin sensitivity with chromium present in the body and, in addition, studies have revealed that people with diabetes had low levels of chromium. Also, low magnesium levels may reduce blood glucose control in type 2 diabetes. North American Ginseng, has been shown to be another effective natural health remedy for diabetes.

Research collaboration between Australian, Chinese and Korean scientists at Sydney's Garvan Institute demonstrated that the natural plant product berberine could be a valuable new treatment against type 2 diabetes. Their study, published in the journal Diabetes, found that rats and mice given berberine over three weeks had a 50 per cent drop in blood sugar. It's exciting to see evidence that berberine may be a helpful new natural health remedy for type 2 diabetes. However, despite its widespread use in traditional medicine, it will still have to go through the defined clinical trials process.

Conclusion

This article is intended to provide assistance and information to people who are interested in learning more about natural remedies. It should not be used as a basis for any form of diagnosis or treatment for any medical condition. Always seek professional medical advice.

Is Diabetes Mellitus Type 2 Inherited?

Picture a desert. It's hot, the sun is beating down with excessive heat. You're unsure if it's an oasis or a mirage in the distance. You're panting so heavy. Your tongue feels like it's too big for your mouth. You feel as if you haven't had a drink of water in months. You're craving just a sip of water. Do you equate a desert to the inside of your mouth-an unquenchable desire to drink anything and everything in sight?

Well, excess thirst is just one symptom of diabetes mellitus. Before you jump to conclusions and misdiagnose your symptoms, you need to know what to look for. Here's a checklist of the causes of excess thirst. See if any of them describe your insatiable thirst.

-Hormone imbalances. These include high levels of the thyroid hormone.

-Certain drugs or medications. These include antihistamines, caffeine, or alcohol.

-Psychogenic Polydipsia. This is a psychiatric condition causing a person to feel thirsty for no reason at all.

-Increased exercise. This increases the body's water requirements.

-Damage to the hypothalamus, an area of the brain.

-Diabetes insipidus. It is a disease that causes excessive urination that results in dehydration.

All right, you've looked the checklist over and none of the sources described your thirst. Now, you're almost convinced your excess thirst might be a symptom of diabetes. Remember: You need to know what to look for before you misdiagnose yourself with diabetes. There are two sure-fire ways you can find out if you're diabetic or not:

-A blood glucose test is a great way to detect diabetes.

-Schedule a doctor appointment for a proper diagnosis.

So, you've made that dreaded, but important, doctor appointment. Now what? Well, your doctor needs to know several things in order to diagnose you properly. Be prepared to know the answers to the following questions your doctor will ask. It would be helpful if you would jot down some of these answers or some of your concerns before the appointment. It seems it's so easy to forget important things when we go to the doctor's office. Write down a list of the medications you currently take. This is very important information. Don't be afraid to ask your doctor about other symptoms you might be experiencing, too.

-When the problem began.

-What types of liquids you drink.

-What other medical conditions you might have.

-What medications or drugs you may be taking.

-How much you drink each day.

-How often you exercise.

-Whether you feel dehydrated or have a dry mouth.

-Whether your thirst is constant or occurs only at specific times.

-Whether you have increased or decreased the amount of fluids you drink each day.

-Whether your weight has changed drastically.

-Whether you are having any other questionable symptoms.

Are Woman Receiving The Same Level Of Diabetes Care As Men?

"This cut just won't heal."

"I can't wear shorts because of that ugly bruise on my calf."

"I have no idea how I got this bruise."

"I can't wear short sleeve shirts because of that ugly cut on my arm."

"I've had this bruise for the longest time."

"I had to finally admit to myself that I can no longer wear shorts in public."

If you've ever said or thought any of these statements, you're not alone. But, yet you're wondering why you keep getting bruises and cuts. Most of the time you're not even aware when you got the bruise or when you cut yourself. All you're aware of the slow healing time of your unwanted cuts or bruises.

I'm not going to lie to you, friend, but slow healing cuts or bruises may be symptoms of diabetes. If you suspect you are diabetic, it's important you learn about all the symptoms of diabetes. You have a lot to lose if you don't address your health concerns. Ignorance is not bliss when it comes to diabetes. Let me say it again, slow healing cuts or bruises may be symptom of diabetes.

Every diabetic has the risk of obtaining a bruise or a slow healing cut. I'm here to inform you that you can prevent bruises and cuts. You can help speed up the recovery process for those slow healing cuts and unwanted bruises. And most importantly, you can prevent these diabetes symptoms from invading your life.

"I don't have any bruises or cuts, but I want to prevent them from happening."

"I've seen the bruises on my grandma, but didn't know it may be diabetes."

"I have family members and friends who've had bruises and cuts for the longest time and I want to help them."

If you've ever said or thought these statements, you've come to the right place because I have the answer. Become aware of the warning signs listed in this diabetes acronym!

Diabetes is easier to prevent than to manage or reverse.

Infections are common for diabetics.

Abrasions or wounds need special attention at the first sign.

Beating the infection before it starts will shorten the healing time.

Exercising will speed up the healing process.

Time is the enemy; it will take a long time for bruises and cuts to heal.

Elevated blood sugar levels are life threatening and must be controlled.

Signs of infections are numerous and should be carefully monitored.

"I think I am diabetic. Is there a product out there that can help me?"

"I'm willing to become pro-active in my health, but I still need help."

"I feel alive!"

"My energy level has changed 180 degrees!"

"I can start living again!"

These statements are what you can say now that you know about the warning signs and the perfect supplement. Start living again and enjoy your life without slow healing cuts or embarrassing bruises.

Diabetes Insipidus, Water Diabetes

It has been accepted wisdom for many years now that women live longer than men, but a recent study may well turn this on its head for at least one section of the population - women with diabetes.

However, although the death rate from diabetes in the case of men is dropping, it is rising in the case of women.

Researchers from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, Georgia, recently published the results of a survey in which the 30 year health records from 1971 to 2000 of some 27,000 diabetes sufferers were examined. This research study showed that although the death rate amongst men fell during this time period from 4.3% to 2.4%, the death rate amongst women rose from 1.8% to 2.6%. Interestingly, the research study also noted that death rates from cardiovascular disease in particular dropped in the case of men, but remained steady in the case of women.

So what exactly is causing this difference?

The simple answer would appear to be that we don't know, although there are several theories being put forward. Some people believe that the risk factors for heart disease in women have declined less in recent years than they have for men. Others suggest that women have not been receiving as comprehensive a program of treatment as men, or that treatment provided to women has not been as aggressive. At this point this is of course pure speculation but, whatever the cause, there is certainly no doubt that there is a difference in the figures for men and women.

Further studies will need to be carried out to discover why this disparity exists but, until we have further information on the subject, if you are a woman then you should get yourself checked for diabetes, if you have not already done so, and should ensure that your doctor is giving you a comprehensive and aggressive course of treatment.

Regular Exercise Improves Overall Health and Wellness in Diabetes

Indeed, there are several well-known and highly respected glucose support herbs that may help control blood sugar levels for diabetes sufferers. In fact, in the past two decades there has been an explosion of interest in natural medicine as millions of people around the world have an ever-increasing appetite for information on diet, nutrition, nutritional supplements, medicinal herbs, and natural remedies.

We would be remiss if we did not mention to you that the most important aspect of managing diabetes is ensuring that you eat a healthy, balanced diet, maintain a healthy weight, and get regular exercise. Moreover, supplements work best, including glucose support herbs, when you also make these health enhancing lifestyle changes.

Now, before we delve into herbs that may be helpful for diabetes sufferers, it's important to understand that herbs and/or dietary supplements are not meant to replace the advice of your physician and you should never stop using your medications or insulin, or alter your dosage, without your physician's approval. In fact, you should always consult with your physician before taking any glucose support herbs and/or any dietary supplements.

That said, let's take a look at some of the most highly respected glucose support herbs that may possibly help you or a loved one.

Gymnema Sylvestre, also known as the "sugar destroyer," is highly touted as one that has the ability to block the taste of sweetness, and, as such, it helps to stave off the "cravings of sweets." Gymnema Sylvestre has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for many centuries to regulate blood sugar levels. Indeed, gymnema is a well-known and highly respected Ayurvedic remedy used to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

"Since, unlike insulin, polypeptide-p does not stimulate the movement of fat into fat cells, it has been considered as a replacement for at least some of the injected insulin that people with type 1 diabetes must take each day, although the herb cannot completely replace insulin. When used to treat this type of diabetes, polypeptide-p is effective only in injection form." (Page 32).

Fenugreek seeds are among the list of glucose support herbs. It has been shown to reduce cholesterol and blood sugar levels in clinical and experimental studies. Clinical studies in India have found that large doses of fenugreek seeds lowers blood-glucose levels in type 1 and type 2 diabetes. However, there is a negative side to this glucose support herb. You have to take a lot (15 to 100 grams daily) of fenugreek seeds to obtain an effect, and it is also associated with mild gastrointestinal upset.

Banaba Leaf Extract - Banaba is a medicinal plant that grows in India, Southeast Asia and the Philippines that is climbing the charts as a one of the glucose support herbs. In fact, banaba has been used in the Philippines to promote blood sugar control. Banaba contains a compound known as corosolic acid, which is believed to have actions in stimulating glucose transport into cells and, as such, plays a role in maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. In Japan, there has been some research done with banaba. However, we have not come across published human studies on this glucose support herb. On the other hand, our research indicates that there has been at least one human study with corosolic acid, which is an extract found in banaba and it showed to be effective in reducing blood sugar levels in type II diabetics.

But wait, there are more glucose support herbs...

Garlic and Onions are best known for reducing cholesterol. However, according to two Indian studies, this duo has also shown to lower blood sugar levels.

Ginseng was found effective in lowering blood sugar levels. In a small Finnish study, people newly diagnosed with non-insulin-dependent (Type II) diabetes received either 100 or 200 milligrams of a ginseng extract or placebos every day. Compared with individuals in the placebo group, the people in both ginseng groups not only reported lower blood sugar levels, but also greater improvement in mood as well as enhanced performance on physical and psychological tests. However, those taking 200 milligrams of ginseng experienced more benefit than those who took 100 milligrams.

Bilberry is an herb that is traditionally recommended to promote healthy blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. In addition, it is used to promote healthy insulin production as well. However, there's more to this herb. Bilberry is a powerful antioxidant, which makes it an excellent source to help fight against the continuous onslaught of free radicals. Bilberry is also hailed for its ability to promote vision health. It appears to strengthen the tiny blood capillaries that carry oxygen to the eyes, which may account for its wide use in Europe to treat diabetic retinopathy.

Other glucose support herbs that may possibly help lower or improve blood-sugar levels include: Garlic, Psyllium, Burdock, and Nopal (prickly pear cactus).

Nutritional-Supplement-Educational-Centre's Opinion on Glucose Support Herbs

Slow Healing Cuts or Bruises May Be A Symptom of Diabetes

What do the following items have in common?

Panda bears

Old movies

Killer whales

Piano keys

Soccer balls

Newspapers

Exercise

That's right! They're all black and white. But, wait a minute. Exercise? How can exercise be black and white? When it comes to your health and well-being, there are no gray areas.

Even the simplest amount of exercise done on regular basis can improve your overall health and wellness in your diabetes. Did you know exercises done regularly help control your diabetes? Look at your choices! Diabetics can and should do these three types of exercises on a regular basis. They are aerobic, strength training, and flexibility exercises.

Aerobic exercise increases the heart rate, raises the breathing rate, and works the muscles. This is for people who can withstand vigorous workouts for 5-10 minutes a day, 5 days a week. You might be surprised at how many of your diabetic friends enjoy these activities. Some examples of aerobic exercises are:

-A brisk walk

-Dancing

-Swimming or water aerobic exercises

-Ice-skating or roller-skating

-Tennis

-Stationary biking

Strength training should be done regularly because it builds strong bones and muscles that help you burn more calories than fat. Several days a week is the recommended time. Some examples of strength training are:

-Joining a strength training class to work with weights or elastic bands

-Lifting light weights in the comfort of your own home

Flexibility exercises, or stretching, keeps your joints flexible and reduces your chance of injury during any other activities. Easy stretching for 5-10 minutes helps to warm your body up to prepare for aerobic activities. Be sure to stretch after your workout because your warm muscles will stretch easier and that's when you gain the flexibility you need.

These three exercises can and will improve your health and the way you feel about life. You will receive energy, better health, and most importantly, you will get your life back!

You don't have the time or money to do some of these suggested exercises? Here are some helpful tips to get active during the day while you do your normal errands and activities:

1. Walk whenever possible.

2. Take the stairs whenever possible. Remember: safety first!

3. Work in the garden, rake leaves, or water your lawn the old-fashioned way and forget the automatic sprinklers.

4. Park at the other end of the parking lot to walk some extra steps.

5. Don't pay someone to walk your dog - you walk your dog.

6. Take the garbage out.

7. Do some housecleaning.

8. Hide your television remotes and get up to turn the channels.

Diabetes Feet - Keep Those Puppies Clean

They say, tis is the best time in history to be alive. Technological advances multiply daily. Medical advances are snowballing. We have cures for diseases, we did not know, existed one hundred years ago. People are living longer than ever before ( women have a longer life expectancy than men ). Perhaps, it is the greatest time to be alive.

With all the advances in technology and medicine, comes responsibility. And, with responsibility, comes stress. Computers were supposed to make us a paperless society. As a pharmacist, over the last 33 years, I find this not to be true. Back in the 1970's, I filled a prescription, stamped the actual prescription blank with the date, initialed it, and dispensed it. Today, we enter all the information in a computer, initial it, and there about five more steps, before we can give it to the patient. And, there are many more papers to store away for up to 7 years. I am not saying today's system is not a better one. It is not a paperless one.

Stress causes a rise in blood sugar levels. This is part of our survival system, called the fight or flight syndrome. As it occurs, the body senses stress. To deal with stress, the body releases adrenaline, as well as many other chemicals. This is to help you fight or flee from the situation. But, in todays world, we do not fight or flee, we deal with it. But, dealing with it, does not change the way the body handles the situation.

One thing that does change, is your blood sugar. The body increase the amount of glucose into the blood for energy to fight or flee. Normally, the excess sugar would be taken back in tho the cells. If you have diabetes, this does not happen. Your body does not get the sugar out of the blood. So now, you have a higher blood sugar level. This can continue all day long, raising your blood sugar level higher and higher. Then, you need more medicine to control it.

This can be an endless cycle. Relaxation is an important part off the key to counter this cycle. But, how can you relax? Your blood sugar is high and you feel wired. Practice.

Meditation can reduce the medication. This involves focusing on something else or nothing at all. It should be practiced in a peaceful place and time. Make sure you are void of distractions.

Walking can be a peaceful, relaxing, experience. Walk in the fresh air. Breathe in new life to your body, exhale that which is negatively affecting you. Your blood sugar level goes down with walking.

Yoga, a slow, deliberate, stretching type of exercise, can be helpful. It is relaxing, and you focus on the exercise and breathing. Stretching the body, allows for a better blood flow and a better functioning nervous system. The body will be able to control the blood sugar better. This does take practice.

Massage is another thing we can do to relieve stress and lower our blood sugar. A massage can be very relaxing. A Duke University research study shows, that massage as stress management, lowers blood sugar levels. A New Mexico University study shows that a short term stress relief program involving touch, lowered the blood sugar level more than one without touch.

Massage relaxes you. It helps you let go of some of the daily stresses that affect your blood sugar level.

Actively, relax. Take a break from daily stresses, to reduce your blood sugar. Make a habit of it. It will beneficial to your health.

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Feet don't fail me now

The game has changed now that you have diabetes. The old days of taking a shower and drying yourself off without the proper attention to your feet can be costly. Having diabetes does not give you that luxury any more. You must be more sensitive to your feet now more so than ever. Make sure they are clean and dried thoroughly. Having diabetes considerably boosts your likelihood of having nerve damage to your feet. The number one reason people have their feet amputated is because of diabetes.

Your diabetes foot care

Keep those puppies clean (Did I mention that already?) Wash them at least once per day. Dry between your toes methodically. Hey I feel like the foot doctor. That means taking your time with your towel. Use a powder to help dry your feet. Quality foot powders will make a difference.

Good foot care requires you to be a foot examiner. Assess your feet at least twice a day for better foot care. Check for problems like blisters, swelling, infections, and redness or even open cuts. Take care of any issues instantly. Keep your toenails cut straight across and short for safety. You do not want to sang your toenail and find out later that you have a problem because you do not have the feeling in your toes. If you cannot examine your feet because you a problem like bad eyesight then have someone else do the job for you.

Diabetics foot apparel

Shoes and socks for diabetics are key components to good foot care. A more conscious effort needs to be in place to take care of those puppies. Making sure you are wearing clean socks and comfortable supportive shoes is imperative. Running and walking shoes have been tested quite extensively and have been proven overall to be the best answer for your foot support. Wearing clean socks may require changing your socks twice or three times a day. Depending on what the weather is like where you live or work. If your feet sweat a lot you may need to change socks more frequently as well.

Podiatrist Marc A. Brenner, D.P.M., past president of the American Society of Podiatric Dermatology stresses the importance of good, clean care for diabetics. He suggests buying Thor-Lo socks and a good pare of walking or running shoes to help with your diabetes foot care. Make sure your shoes fit well.

Seventy five percent of the time when someone loses a leg they lose the other leg within five years. Developing foot consciousness is essential to better health. As a diabetic you must watch those feet. Look for bruises or infections and take care of them now.

In closing

Foot care is essential for diabetic care. It is one part of a well rounded care plan. Controlling your diet is one major task as well. I think it is the most important aspect of diabetes care. If you are interested in what "The Diabetic Warrior" did to handle his diabetes issue and also lose over 100 pounds, grab your free MP3.

What Are Normal Blood Sugar Levels For Me?

"What are normal blood sugar levels for me?", you asked. Either in your own or in the company of your personal physician, you constantly put in effort to understand the details of your blood sugar testing. Having a well-based understanding of these results and the associated causes will be a good tool for one to better approach one's medical condition.

If one desires to really find out how well his body digest sugar, blood sugar tests are available for one to undergo and see for himself how he fairs out. These tests are also used for the purpose of diagnosing for pre-diabetes or diabetes – while these are also done to determine how one is managing diabetes.

When asking, "What are normal blood sugar levels that I should aim for?", should be taken in the context of the type of testing that will be employed – and current health condition you have.

Fasting Blood Glucose Test

This involves fasting – no food or liquids other than water – for at least eight hours and then having your blood tested for the amount of sugar. The normal blood sugar level for this test is lower than 100 milligrams per deciliter. If your result is 200 mg/dL and it goes along with symptoms of diabetes – there may be no need for a confirmatory second test to be diagnosed as having diabetes.

Random Blood Sugar Test

As the name of the test implies, it is taken at no specific time. This is taken regardless of when you last ate. The normal blood sugar level for this test is lower than 100 milligrams per deciliter. If your result is 200 mg/dL or higher, it would suggest that you either have Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes.

Oral Glucose Tolerance Test

In this test, asking, "What are normal blood sugar levels for me?" – will have different answers depending on the stage of this test. First, your fasting blood sugar level will be measured. After which, you will be asked to drink a sugar-water solution, and blood sugar levels will be taken after 60 minutes & after 120 minutes. A blood sugar level that is lower than 140 mg/dL is considered normal after the test. Two hours after, with a 200 mg/dL level, may indicate diabetes.

It is but normal to be constantly asking, "What are normal blood sugar levels for me now?" – precisely because there is a good reason to be very much concerned. If high levels of blood sugar are present for a good number of years already, there will be health risks associated with it.