We have decided to write about this condition as although our Dad did not get this whilst an inpatient in the hospital, it is a condition that he suffered from that caused him to gain significant degree burns to his feet. Our Dad lost feeling in his feet and didn’t realise hot water from the taps in the bath was burning them. This occurred due to loss of feeling caused by diabetes….
Please see Diabetes/Diabetes Awareness which covers:
- Introduction/Our Story
- Illustrative examples of Diabetes
- Youtube Videos on Diabetes
- Diabetes
- Diabetes Awareness
- Symptoms of Diabetes
- Types of Diabetes
- Effects of Diabetes on the body
- Diet and Diabetes
- Can Diabetes be cured
- Loss of balance and DIabetes
- Diabetic Feet
- Can Diabetes be hereditary
- Treatment of Diabetes
- Natural remedies and Diabetes
- Diabetes Health and Wellbeing
- Diabetic Neuropathy
- Useful links on Diabetes
- Useful links on Diabetes Awareness
- Our Final Thoughts
© Copyright 2019 Grief Probate Journey Blog *PLEASE NOTE THIS INFORMATION IS SOURCED FROM UK and AMERICAN WEBSITES* It is also based on our own experience. *We are not experts in this field, we are speaking purely on our own experience with information sought from the internet to give further examples.*
1. Introduction/Our Story
We have decided to write about this condition as although our Dad did not get this whilst an inpatient in the hospital, it is a condition that he suffered from that caused him to gain significant degree burns to his feet. Our Dad lost feeling in his feet and didn’t realise hot water from the taps in the bath was burning them. This occurred due to loss of feeling caused by diabetes.
We are very pleased we decided to cover this topic despite the fact our Dad didn’t get this whilst in the hospital. Aside from feeling the need to create awareness about this condition, the other reason being is that it’s opened up our eyes more to the many levels of this condition. Diabetes is just one condition, however, it causes multiple effects on the body, and this is dependent on which type of diabetes a person might have (type 1 or 2). Diabetes can also be hereditary.
Please see Diabetes/Diabetes Awareness:
2. Illustrative examples of Diabetes
3. Youtube videos on Diabetes
3.1 What is Type 1 Diabetes?
3.2 Diabetes and Blood Pressure | Diabetes UK
3.3 Video Diabetes UK:
What is Diabetes? |Getting to know the basics| Diabetes UK
4. Diabetes
“Diabetes is a condition that causes high levels of glucose (a type of sugar) in your blood. This is because of a problem with a hormone called insulin your pancreas produces. Insulin moves glucose from your bloodstream and into the cells of your body for energy”.
“Diabetes.co.uk is a British-based brand and digital communication channel with 600,000 members operated by Diabetes Digital Media, providing news and information on diabetes and a patient network that improves the health of people with diabetes, the Diabetes Forum”. Wikipedia”
4.2 What is the #1 cause of diabetes?
“The exact cause of type 1 diabetes is unknown. Usually, the body’s own immune system — which normally fights harmful bacteria and viruses — mistakenly destroys the insulin-producing (islet, or islets of Langerhans) cells in the pancreas. Other possible causes include: Exposure to viruses and other environmental factors. (7 Aug 2017)”.
“What causes type 1 diabetes? Type 1 diabetes occurs when your immune system, the body’s system for fighting infection, attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells of the pancreas. Scientists think type 1 diabetes is caused by genes and environmental factors, such as viruses, that might trigger the disease”.
4.4 What are the warning signs of prediabetes?
“Classic signs and symptoms that suggest you’ve moved from prediabetes to type 2 diabetes include”:
- “Increased thirst”.
- “Frequent urination”.
- “Fatigue”.
- “Blurred vision. (2 Aug 2017)”.
4.5 Is diabetes a death sentence?
“The diagnosis of diabetes is NOT a death sentence. Terrible outcomes, like blindness, amputations and kidney problems, are largely preventable. Thanks to modern medicine, people developing diabetes today have an excellent chance of living long, healthy lives, free from serious complications. (13 Apr 2018)”.
4.6 Can diabetes cause sudden death?
“Sudden death and hypoglycemia. There is considerable evidence implicating hypoglycemia as a cause of sudden death in patients with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Hypoglycemia has been recognized as a potential cause of death, particularly due to cerebral damage, ever since the introduction of insulin therapy”.
4.7 Can you test yourself for diabetes?
“A person cannot diagnose diabetes using home testing alone. People with unusual readings will need further testing by a doctor. The doctor might carry out fasting tests, oral glucose tolerance tests, HbA1c tests, or use a combination of these methods. Learn more about the ideal blood glucose levels here. (23 Apr 2019)”.
4.8 What causes diabetics to die?
“But complications resulting from the disease are a more common cause of death. People with diabetes develop heart disease at younger ages and are nearly twice as likely to die of heart attack or stroke as people who do not have diabetes. (16 Oct 2017)”.
4.9 What age is common for diabetes?
“Age at the time of diagnosis”
“In 2015, adults aged 45 to 64 were the most diagnosed age group for diabetes. New cases of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes in people aged 18 years and older were distributed as follows: ages 18 to 44: 355,000 new cases. ages 45 to 64: 809,000 new cases. (6 Jul 2018)”.
4.10 How many years can you live with diabetes?
“On average, diabetes will shorten life expectancy 7.5 years (for diabetic men aged 50) to 8.2 years (for diabetic women of 50). But you don’t have to be “average.” Typically, less than 60% of diabetics take medications correctly. (27 Feb 2018)”.
4.11 Can a person have diabetes and not know it?
“You could have diabetes and not know it. The symptoms of diabetes can be very mild. In fact, of the 29 million people in the U.S. who have diabetes, 8 million are undiagnosed, according to the American Diabetes Association. However, you don’t know just by your symptoms if you have diabetes. (6 Apr 2017)”.
4.12 Can diabetes come on suddenly?
“Type 1 diabetes develops gradually, but the symptoms may seem to come on suddenly. When there’s no more insulin in the body, blood glucose levels rise quickly, and these symptoms can rapidly develop: Extreme weakness and/or tiredness. (6 Jul 2018)”.
4.13 What do diabetic hands look like?
“On the hands, you’ll notice tight, waxy skin on the backs of your hands. The fingers can become stiff and difficult to move. If diabetes has been poorly controlled for years, it can feel like you have pebbles in your fingertips. Hard, thick, and swollen-looking skin can spread, appearing on the forearms and upper arms”.
5. Diabetes Awareness
“Discovery of diabetes”
“Joseph von Mering and Oskar Minkowski are credited with discovering in 1899 that the removal of the pancreas from a dog allowed it to develop diabetes. Over 3,000 years ago, the ancient Egyptians mentioned a condition that appears to have been type 1 diabetes. (26 Apr 2019)”.
5.2 What month is National Diabetes Awareness Month?
“November”
“Diabetes Awareness Month. November is Diabetes Awareness Month! World Diabetes Day (WDD) is celebrated globally on November 14 to raise awareness about both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Join us in celebrating this incredible community all month long — and especially on WDD”.
5.3 What day is National Diabetes Day?
“November 14”
“On December 20, 2006, the United Nations (UN) passed a resolution to designate November 14 as World Diabetes Day. The occasion aimed to raise awareness of diabetes, its prevention and complications and the care that people with the condition need”.
5.4 Why is World Diabetes Day celebrated on 14th November?
“Why is November 14th World Diabetes Day? November 14th is a significant date in the diabetes calendar because it marks the birthday of the man who co-discovered insulin, Frederick Banting. Banting discovered insulin in 1922, alongside Charles Best”.
5.5 What does the Blue Circle for diabetes mean?
“The blue circle is the universal symbol for diabetes. Until 2006, there was no global symbol for diabetes. The purpose of the symbol is to give diabetes a common identity. Provide a means to show support for the fight against diabetes.” (14 Nov 2015).
5.6 Is there a symbol for diabetes?
“We all know November is Diabetes awareness month, and November 14th is “World Diabetes Day.” The blue circle is the universal symbol for diabetes. Until 2006, there was no global symbol for diabetes. The purpose of the symbol is to give diabetes a common identity”. (14 Nov 2015).
5.7 What is the symbol for diabetes awareness?
“The World Diabetes Day logo is the blue circle – the global symbol for diabetes. IDF welcomes the widespread use of the WDD logo to raise diabetes awareness and support people affected by the condition”.
5.8 How many types of diabetes exist?
The three main types of diabetes are:
- “Type 1 diabetes”.
- “Type 2 diabetes”.
- “Gestational diabetes”. (28 Jun 2018).
6. Symptoms of Diabetes
6.1 What happens to your body when you have diabetes?
“Diabetes can be effectively managed when caught early. However, when left untreated, it can lead to potential complications that include heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, and nerve damage. Normally after you eat or drink, your body will break down sugars from your food and use them for energy in your cells. (28 Jun 2017)”.
6.2 What are the early signs of diabetes?
“There are diabetes warning signs and symptoms that both women and men have in common, for example”:
- “Excessive thirst and hunger”.
- “Frequent urination (from urinary tract infections or kidney problems)”
- “Weight loss or gain”.
- “Fatigue”.
- “Irritability”.
- “Blurred vision”.
- “Slow-healing wounds”.
- “Nausea”. More items…
6.3 Is lightheadedness a sign of diabetes?
“Dizziness is a common complaint in persons with diabetes, and may be caused by low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), high blood sugar (hyperglycemia), or autonomic dysfunction (see previous section). … In this situation the person experiences dizziness or lightheadedness because the brain lacks glucose to function properly”.
“When you have type 1 diabetes, blood may not move as well through your legs and feet. If left untreated, this might lead to amputation of your feet. Untreated type 1 diabetes can cause coma. It can even kill you. (1 Nov 1999)”.
6.5 What are the 3 most common symptoms of undiagnosed diabetes?
“Common symptoms of diabetes:”
- “Urinating often”.
- “Feeling very thirsty”.
- “Feeling very hungry—even though you are eating”.
- “Extreme fatigue”.
- “Blurry vision”.
- “Cuts/bruises that are slow to heal”.
- “Weight loss—even though you are eating more (type 1)”
- “Tingling, pain, or numbness in the hands/feet (type 2)”
6.6 How do you feel when your blood sugar is too high?
“High blood sugar (hyperglycemia)”
“If your blood sugar level is too high, you may experience: Increased thirst. Frequent urination. Fatigue. (22 Aug 2018)”.
6.7 How do you feel if your blood sugar is low?
“If blood sugar levels become too low, signs and symptoms may include”:
- “An irregular heart rhythm”.
- “Fatigue”.
- “Pale skin”.
- “Shakiness”.
- “Anxiety”.
- “Sweating”.
- “Hunger”.
- “Irritability“ More items… (7 Sep 2018)”
6.8 How do you feel if you have undiagnosed diabetes?
“Experts say undiagnosed type 1 or type 2 diabetes can cause serious health problems”.
“Signs and symptoms of diabetes”
- “Severe thirst”.
- “Frequent urination”.
- “Severe fatigue”.
- “Irritability”.
- “Increased appetite”.
- “Blurry vision”.
- “Yeast infections. (26 Sep 2018)”.
6.9 What are the signs of a diabetic shock?
“Symptoms of diabetic shock, or severe hypoglycemia may include: blurry or double vision. Seizures”.
“Early signs of low blood sugar levels include”:
- “A headache”.
- “Nervousness”.
- “Anxiety”.
- “Dizziness”.
- “Sweating”.
- “Shakiness”.
- “Irritability”.
- “Moodiness”.
6.10 Is dehydration a sign of diabetes?
“In people with diabetes, dehydration may be a symptom of very high blood glucose levels. The combination of high ketone levels (ketoacidosis) and dehydration can be particularly dangerous and could lead diabetic coma if not treated immediately”.
7. Which type of Diabetes is more dangerous
7.1 Which diabetes is more dangerous
“Type 2 diabetes is often a milder form of diabetes than type 1. Nevertheless, type 2 diabetes can still cause major health complications, particularly in the smallest blood vessels in the body that nourish the kidneys, nerves, and eyes. Type 2 diabetes also increases your risk of heart disease and stroke. (16 Feb 2019)”.
7.2 Which type of diabetes is worse
“Type 2 diabetes causes”
“The primary problem in type 2 diabetes is the inability of the body’s cells to use insulin properly and efficiently, leading to hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and diabetes. This problem affects mostly the cells of muscle and fat tissues, and results in a condition known as insulin resistance”.
7.3 Which one is worse type1 or type 2 diabetes
“Type 2 diabetes is often a milder form of diabetes than type 1. Type 2 diabetes also increases your risk of heart disease and stroke. With Type 2 diabetes, the pancreas usually produces some insulin. But either the amount produced is not enough for the body’s needs, or the body’s cells are resistant to it. (16 Feb 2019)”.
8. Effects of Diabetes on the body
8.1 Does diabetes make you tired?
“Fatigue is a common symptom of diabetes and can result from high blood sugar levels and other symptoms and complications of the condition. Some lifestyle changes can help a person manage diabetes fatigue. Fatigue and tiredness are not the same. When a person is tired, they usually feel better after resting. (30 Apr 2019)”.
8.2 Does diabetes make you tired?
“Fatigue is a common symptom of diabetes and can result from high blood sugar levels and other symptoms and complications of the condition. Some lifestyle changes can help a person manage diabetes fatigue. Fatigue and tiredness are not the same. When a person is tired, they usually feel better after resting. (30 Apr 2019)”.
8.3 Why do diabetic patients feel tired?
“With diabetes, fatigue is caused by a number of factors, including: High blood sugar levels, either from a lack of the insulin hormone or from insulin resistance, can affect the body’s ability to get glucose from the blood into cells to meet our energy needs”.
9. Diet and Diabetes
9.1 What is the best breakfast for a diabetic to eat?
“Here are seven diabetes-friendly breakfast ideas to help you stay healthy and get on with your day”.
- “Breakfast Shake”.
- “Muffin Parfait”.
- “Whole-Grain Cereal”.
- “Scrambled Eggs and Toast”.
- “Breakfast Burrito”.
- “Bagel Thins With Nut Butter”.
- “Almonds and Fruit. (5 May 2017)”.
9.2 What food causes diabetes?
“Red and Processed Meats”
“Red meat and processed red meat are both linked to type 2 diabetes. Processed meats like bacon, hot dogs, and deli meats are particularly bad because of their high levels of sodium and nitrites. (13 Nov 2013)”.
9.3 What vegetables are bad for diabetics?
“People with diabetes should eat vegetables with a low GI score to avoid blood sugar spikes. Not all vegetables are safe for people with diabetes, and some have a high GI”.
“Low-GI vegetables are also safe for people with diabetes, such as”:
- “Artichoke”.
- “Asparagus”.
- “Broccoli”.
- “Cauliflower”.
- “Green beans”.
- “Lettuce”.
- “Eggplant”.
- “Peppers”. More items… (18 Apr 2019).
9.4 What foods can diabetics eat freely?
“This article discusses 21 excellent snacks to eat if you have diabetes”.
- “Hard-Boiled Eggs. Hard-boiled eggs are a super healthy snack for people with diabetes”.
- “Yogurt with Berries”.
- “Handful of Almonds”.
- “Veggies and Hummus”.
- “Avocado”.
- “Sliced Apples with Peanut Butter”.
- “Beef Sticks”.
- “Roasted Chickpeas”. More items… (14 Jan 2018)”.
9.5 What are diabetics not supposed to eat?
“Therefore, it’s important to avoid the foods listed below”.
- “Sugar-Sweetened Beverages. Sugary beverages are the worst drink choice for someone with diabetes”.
- “Trans Fats”.
- “White Bread, Pasta and Rice”.
- “Fruit-Flavored Yogurt”.
- “Sweetened Breakfast Cereals”.
- “Flavored Coffee Drinks”.
- “Honey, Agave Nectar and Maple Syrup”.
- “Dried Fruit. More items… (6 Feb 2017)”.
9.6 What happens if a diabetic doesn’t eat?
“Hypoglycemia happens when a person’s blood sugar levels are abnormally low, and it’s a potentially serious condition. People with diabetes may experience hypoglycemia if they don’t eat enough or if they take too much insulin — the medicine most commonly used to treat diabetes”.
“If you have type 1 diabetes, other health problems due to diabetes, or have had hypoglycemia, your doctor may recommend you not fast. If your doctor says it’s OK to try, ask if you need to check your blood sugar more often or adjust your diabetes medication during and after fasting. (27 Dec 2018)”.
9.8 Which foods cure diabetes?
“The 16 Best Foods to Control Diabetes”
- “Fatty Fish. Share on Pinterest”.
- “Leafy Greens. Leafy green vegetables are extremely nutritious and low in calories”.
- “Cinnamon. Cinnamon is a delicious spice with potent antioxidant activity”.
- “Eggs. Eggs provide amazing health benefits”.
- “Chia Seeds”.
- “Turmeric”.
- “Greek Yogurt”.
- “Nuts”. More items… (3 Jun 2017).
9.9 Can diabetics eat bananas?
“If you have diabetes, it’s perfectly possible to enjoy fruit such as bananas as part of a healthy diet. If you like bananas, the following tips could help minimize their effects on your blood sugar levels: Watch your portion size: Eat a smaller banana to reduce the amount of sugar you eat in one sitting”. (21 Jul 2016).
9.10 What fruit is bad for diabetes?
“This is not true; people with diabetes can eat fruit as part of their healthy eating plan. But, because fruit is a carbohydrate, it will affect your blood sugar and you cannot eat unlimited amounts. Certain fruits may cause your blood sugars to spike at a quicker pace than others”. (8 Apr 2019).
9.11 Which fruit is best for diabetics?
“8 Best Fruits for a Diabetes-Friendly Diet”
- “Tart Cherries to Help Fight Inflammation. Jovo Jovanovic/Stocksy”.
- “Apricots for a Scrumptious, Fiber-Rich Bite. Gabriel Bucataru/Stocksy”.
- “Oranges for a Juicy, Refreshing Source of Vitamin C. Liv Friis-Larsen/Alamy”.
- “Zesty Green Kiwi for Potassium, Fiber, and Vitamin C”. Getty Images (6 Sep 2017)
9.12 What is the best thing to eat when your blood sugar is low?
“A person experiencing a minor case of low blood sugar can consume 15–20 grams (g) of fast-acting carbohydrates, such as a small glass of fruit juice or a few crackers. (6 Jan 2018)”.
9.13 What foods lower blood sugar immediately?
“Below are some of the best foods for people looking to maintain healthy blood sugar levels”.
- “Whole wheat or pumpernickel bread. Share on Pinterest Pumpernickel has a low GI score and fewer carbs than other breads”.
- “Most fruits”.
- “Sweet potatoes and yams”.
- “Oatmeal and oat bran”.
- “Most nuts”.
- “Legumes”.
- “Garlic”.
- “Cold-water fish”. More items. (23 Aug 2018)”.
10. Can Diabetes be cured
10.1 Can diabetes be cured permanently?
“There is no cure for diabetes, but it can go into remission. People can manage it with medication and lifestyle changes. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that develops when the body destroys the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. This means that people with type 1 diabetes do not make insulin. (27 Mar 2019)”.
10.2 Can a diabetic go into remission?
“Diabetes remission in people with Type 2 diabetes means that your blood sugar levels are healthy without needing to take any diabetes medication. Type 2 diabetes is still a serious condition. But some people are able to stop taking medication and put their diabetes into remission. This can be life-changing”.
10.3 How do you keep a diabetic in remission?
“Remission has been shown to be due to normalization of the high fat levels inside liver and pancreas, and the only way to achieve this is by major weight loss. There are three main ways that people have put their diabetes into remission: a low-carbohydrate diet, a low-calorie diet, and bariatric surgery. (22 Mar 2019)”.
11. Loss of Balance and Diabetes
11.1 Loss of balance
“Walking with a wobbly motion or even losing your balance can result from diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Wearing orthopedic shoes often helps with this. Loss of coordination is a common sign of diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Numbness in the feet can also contribute to loss of balance”.
Our Dad suffered from numbness in the feet and loss of balance due to his diabetes.
11.2 Can diabetes cause balance problems?
“This is because among insulin users, a lower HbA1c is associated with a higher risk of hypoglycemia, which can cause blurred vision, dizziness, and weakness. But some oral diabetes drugs, notably metformin, can cause vitamin B12 deficiency, which can lead to postural instability (balance problems). (28 Jun 2013)”.
11.3 Does diabetes cause balance problems?
“In this Article”
“Peripheral neuropathy is nerve damage caused by chronically high blood sugar and diabetes. It leads to numbness, loss of sensation, and sometimes pain in your feet, legs, or hands. It is the most common complication of diabetes. (11 Aug 2019)”.
11.4 Can diabetes affect your walking?
“With diabetic nerve damage, walking can pose fall risk. So-called peripheral neuropathy, or diabetic nerve damage, can lead to numbness and pain in the feet, legs and hands. (26 Mar 2015)”.
11.5 Does diabetes affect the legs?
“Diabetes can lead to a variety of complications. Leg pain and cramps often occur as a result of nerve damage called diabetic neuropathy. If diabetes damages nerves in your arms or legs, it’s called diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Pain, burning, tingling, and numbness are common symptoms. (10 Oct 2016).
11.6 Can diabetes cause weakness in legs?
“Focal neuropathy can attack any nerve in the body and often causes sudden weakness. Peripheral neuropathy, the most common diabetic complication, can cause numbness or pain in the legs, feet, toes, arms, and hands. Proximal neuropathy may cause weakness in your legs and pain in your hips, buttocks, and thighs. (9 Dec 2011)”.
11.7 Can diabetes cause unsteadiness?
“Because diabetes is such a diverse disease with many complications, it can cause dizziness in many ways by affecting different parts of the body. Dizziness is an episode of unsteadiness and unbalance as a result of something affecting the brain or ears”.
12. Diabetic Feet
12.1 What are signs of diabetic feet?
“Warning Signs of Diabetic Foot Problems”
- “Increase swelling of legs or feet”.
- “Change of skin color”.
- “Burning or tingling sensation”.
- “Lack of feeling in the feet”.
- “Numbness in the toes”.
- “Ingrown toenails”.
- “Slow to heal sores”.
- “Cracks between toes”. More items… (16 Apr 2015)”.
12.2 Why do they cut off diabetics feet?
“Why would amputation be necessary? In some cases, diabetes can lead to peripheral artery disease (PAD). PAD causes your blood vessels to narrow and reduces blood flow to your legs and feet. It may also cause nerve damage, known as peripheral neuropathy. (11 Aug 2016)”.
12.3 Can diabetes cause swollen feet?
“Diabetes can also cause oedema or swelling in the feet and ankles. Swelling in people with diabetes is usually due to factors associated with diabetes, such as: obesity. poor circulation. (18 Mar 2019)”.
12.4 What foot problems are caused by diabetes?
“Diabetic foot problems also include bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, fungal infections, dryness of the skin, and ingrown toenails. These problems are not specific to diabetes, but may occur more commonly due to the nerve and vascular damage caused by diabetes. Treatment depends on the exact type of foot problem”.
Our Dad suffered with swollen feet from time to time.
12.5 How do diabetics get rid of swollen feet?
“Here are some ideas that can help”:
- “Compression socks. Available at your local drug or grocery store, compression socks provide pain relief and prevent fluid collection in your legs, ankles and feet”.
- “Exercise. Sitting or standing in one place for too long can increase swelling”.
- “Epsom salt”.
- “RELATED: Diabetes and Your Feet. (17 Jun 2016)”.
13. Can Diabetes be hereditary?
13.1 Which type of diabetes is hereditary?
“Type 2 diabetes is associated with insulin resistance rather than the lack of insulin, as seen in type 1 diabetes. This often is obtained as a hereditary tendency from one’s parents. Insulin levels in these patients are usually normal or higher than average but the body’s cells are rather sluggish to respond to it. (22 Jan 2013)”.
Which type of diabetes is hereditary?
“Hereditary Aspects of Type 2 Diabetes”
“Type 2 diabetes tends to be fairly hereditary in contrast to type 1 diabetes. Approximately 38% of siblings and one-third of children of people with type 2 diabetes will develop diabetes or abnormal glucose metabolism at some point. (22 Jan 2013)”.
13.2 Can diabetes run in the family?
“Obesity tends to run in families, and families tend to have similar eating and exercise habits. If you have a family history of type 2 diabetes, it may be difficult to figure out whether your diabetes is due to lifestyle factors or genetic susceptibility. Most likely it is due to both. However, don’t lose heart”.
14. Treatment of Diabetes
14.1 What is the first line treatment for diabetes?
“Metformin should be the first–line drug for managing type 2 diabetes. Insulin and sulfonylureas should be second line, and glitazones should be reserved for third line. Metformin is the only drug for type 2 diabetes that does not cause weight gain, which is an important advantage.1 Jan 2008”.
14.2 How is type 2 diabetes treated?
“Medications for type 2 diabetes
metformin, which can lower your blood glucose levels and improve how your body responds to insulin — it’s the preferred treatment for most people with type 2 diabetes. sulfonylureas, which are oral medications that help your body make more insulin. 28 May 2019”.
14.3 Diabetes & Treatment: Type 1 & 2 Medications (and diet)
“Controlling blood sugar (glucose) levels is the major goal of diabetes treatment, in order to prevent complications of the disease. Type 1 diabetes is managed with insulin as well as dietary changes and exercise. Type 2 diabetes may be managed with non-insulin medications, insulin, weight reduction, or dietary changes.15 Aug 2018”.
14.4 What is the best treatment for diabetes?
“Metformin (Glucophage, Glumetza, others).
Generally, metformin is the first medication prescribed for type 2 diabetes. It works by lowering glucose production in the liver and improving your body’s sensitivity to insulin so that your body uses insulin more effectively. 9 Jan 2019”.
14.5 How can I treat diabetes at home?
Here are 15 easy ways to lower blood sugar levels naturally:
- “Exercise Regularly”.
- “Control Your Carb Intake”.
- “Increase Your Fiber Intake”.
- “Drink Water and Stay Hydrated”.
- “Implement Portion Control”.
- “Choose Foods With a Low Glycemic Index”.
- “Control Stress Levels”.
- “Monitor Your Blood Sugar Levels”.
More items… (3 May 2016)
14.5 How can I raise my blood sugar quickly?
“How can I raise my blood sugar? Eat some quick-sugar foods. If your blood sugar level is less than 70 mg/dL, eat about 15 grams of carbs (1/2 cup of fruit juice or a tablespoon of sugar or honey). Recheck your blood glucose after 15 minute”.
15. Natural Remedies and Diabetes
15.1 What vitamins should a diabetic take?
“Using Supplements for Diabetes Treatment”
- “Cinnamon”.
- “Chromium. Chromium is an essential trace element”.
- “Vitamin B-1. Vitamin B-1 is also known as thiamine”.
- “Alpha-Lipoic Acid. Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is a potent antioxidant”.
- “Bitter Melon”.
- “Green Tea”.
- “Resveratrol”.
- “Magnesium”.
15.2 Is Turmeric Good for Diabetes?
“Researchers also found that curcumin may have a role in diabetes prevention. Other research suggests that turmeric extract could help stabilize blood sugar levels and make diabetes more manageable. This extract can be found in over-the-counter supplements.” (22 Sep 2016).
15.3 Is lemon good for diabetes?
“Lemon water may not directly impact your blood sugar levels and cause it to come down, but it can surely help prevent untimely spikes. Lemons are full of fibre, vitamin C, folate and potassium, which would help benefit a healthy diabetic diet”. (21 Nov 2018).
15.4 Are tomatoes good for diabetics?
“Tomatoes”
“Like other non-starchy fruits, tomatoes have a low GI ranking. One study in 2011 found that 200 grams of raw tomato (or about 1.5 medium tomatoes) each day reduced blood pressure in people with type 2 diabetes”. (27 Sep 2018).
15.5 Is cucumber good for diabetes?
“Cucumbers. Cucumbers are a cool, crisp, low-carb choice for people with diabetes. A generous one-cup portion has less than 5 grams of carbohydrates. Translation: You can get your fill without worrying about raising your blood sugar too much”. (16 Feb 2016).
15.6 Is milk bad for diabetics?
“Milk is a staple of many diets, but its carbohydrate count can impact blood sugar, which might be a concern for people with diabetes. Carbohydrates take the form of lactose in milk. While cow’s milk adds calcium to the diet, its impact on blood sugar should cause a person with diabetes to consider alternatives”. (28 Aug 2018).
15.7 Is Honey safe for diabetics?
“Generally, there’s no advantage to substituting honey for sugar in a diabetes eating plan. Both honey and sugar will affect your blood sugar level. Honey is sweeter than granulated sugar, so you might use a smaller amount of honey for sugar in some recipes”.
16. Diabetes Health and Wellbeing
16.1 Which exercise is best for diabetes?
Below are some examples of aerobic activities:
- “Brisk walking (outside or inside on a treadmill)”
- “Bicycling/Stationary cycling indoors”.
- “Dancing”.
- “Low-impact aerobics”.
- “Swimming or water aerobics”.
- “Playing tennis”.
- “Stair climbing”.
- “Jogging/Running”. More items…(19 May 2015).
16.1 Is Ginger good for diabetes?
“Over the years, ginger has been shown to help reduce blood sugar levels and help regulate insulin response in people with diabetes. In one 2014 animal study, obese rats with diabetes were given a mix of cinnamon and ginger. These rats experienced a wealth of benefits, including: reduced body weight. 12 Aug 2016”.
16.2 What plant can cure diabetes?
“Plant-based therapies that have been shown in some studies to have anti-diabetic properties include: Aloe vera. Bilberry extract. Bitter melon”.
16.3 Which fruit is good for diabetes?
“Top 10 Fruits for Diabetes Patient”
- “Apple – Apple a day keeps doctor away”.
- “Orange – Citrus fruits are rich in vitamin c and good to have daily”.
- “Guava – Guavas are high in vitamin A and vitamin C and contain high amounts of dietary fibre”.
- “Pears – they are rich in vitamins and fibre”.
- “Peaches – have Low Glycemic Index and good for diabetes patient”. More items…(11 Apr 2016).
16.4 Which drink is best for diabetes?
What You Can Drink, Besides Water, When You Have Diabetes
- “Chocolate Milk. This treat may remind you of the school lunchroom, but it’s a good calcium-rich choice for grown-ups as well”.
- “Sweet Tea. A 16-ounce fast-food version might have up to 36 grams of carbs”.
- “Orange Juice”.
- “Chai Latte”.
- “Lemonade”.
- “Hot Chocolate”.
- “Apple Cider”.
- “Energy Drinks”. More items…
16.5 Is apple cider vinegar good for diabetes?
“2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar before bedtime can reduce fasting blood sugar in the morning by 4% (8). Numerous other studies in humans show that vinegar can improve insulin function and lower blood sugar levels after meals (9, 10)”. (15 Mar 2018).
16.6 Apple Cider Vinegar and Diabetes: Research and Tips
“People with type 2 diabetes may want to consider consuming diluted apple vinegar cider, as scientists believe it safe to drink. It may also provide some benefit in terms of helping to control blood sugar levels”. (25 Mar 2019).
16.7 Can diabetics eat cheese?
“Summary. Cheese is often high in fat and salt but eating it in moderation is safe for someone who has diabetes. Some cheeses, especially those that are fresh, can even help reduce the risk of diabetes in people who do not already have the condition”. (26 Mar 2019).
16.8 What vegetables are bad for diabetics?
“People with diabetes should eat vegetables with a low GI score to avoid blood sugar spikes. Not all vegetables are safe for people with diabetes, and some have a high GI”.
“Low-GI vegetables are also safe for people with diabetes, such as”:
- “Artichoke”.
- “Asparagus”.
- “Broccoli”.
- “Cauliflower”.
- “Green beans”.
- “Lettuce”.
- “Eggplant”.
- “Peppers”. More items… (18 Apr 2019).
16.9 What’s a good lunch for a diabetic?
“The following are some flavorful and healthful recipes that show the variety people can enjoy in a diabetes-friendly lunch”:
- “Three-cheese vegetable sandwich”.
- “Beans and greens soup”.
- “Chicken breast, fajita vegetables, pumpkin seeds, and beans in lettuce cups with salsa”.
- “Grilled vegetable sandwich on high-fibre bread”. More items… (23 Apr 2019).
16.10 Diabetes care in hospitals still needs improvement
“Figures from the National Diabetes Inpatient Audit 2017 reveal that, despite important improvements, almost a third of inpatients (31%) with diabetes experienced a medication error, and around one in five (18%) had a hypo during their hospital stay. (14 Mar 2018)”.
17. Diabetic Neuropathy
17.1 Diabetic Neuropathy
“Diabetic neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that can occur if you have diabetes. … Depending on the affected nerves, symptoms of diabetic neuropathy can range from pain and numbness in your legs and feet to problems with your digestive system, urinary tract, blood vessels and heart. Some people have mild symptoms”. (7 Sep 2018).
17.2 “What are the first signs of neuropathy?”
Signs and symptoms of peripheral neuropathy might include:
- “Gradual onset of numbness, prickling or tingling in your feet or hands, which can spread upward into your legs and arms”.
- “Sharp, jabbing, throbbing or burning pain”.
- “Extreme sensitivity to touch”. More items… (22 May 2019)”.
17.3 What are the first signs of diabetic neuropathy?
“It affects the feet and legs first, followed by the hands and arms. Signs and symptoms of peripheral neuropathy are often worse at night, and may include: Numbness or reduced ability to feel pain or temperature changes. Tingling or burning sensation. (7 Sep 2018)”.
This is what happened to our Dad, he lost feeling in his feet and didn’t realise hot water was burning them. He suffered severe burns to his feet because of this.
17.4 What triggers neuropathy?
“Diabetes is the most common cause of chronic peripheral neuropathy. It happens when high blood sugar levels damage the nerves. Infections: Shingles, HIV infection, Lyme disease, and others can lead to nerve damage. Guillain-Barré syndrome: This is a specific type of peripheral neuropathy, triggered by infection”.
17.5 What foods trigger neuropathy?
“Nutritional deficiencies can lead to neuropathy symptoms. Choose nutritious foods like fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Saturated fat, prevalent in fatty meats and dairy products, can cause inflammation and an increased risk for type 2 diabetes”.
17.6 What is the best treatment for neuropathy?
“Some common treatments involve physical therapy, surgery, and injections for increased nerve pressure. Other treatments focus on reducing pain and discomfort with over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen or aspirin. There are also a number of natural treatments to help reduce symptoms and peripheral neuropathy. (16 Nov 2017)”.
17.7 Why is neuropathy in feet worse at night?
“Though it is treatable, diabetes-related nerve damage, or neuropathy, can cause pain and add complications to your life. … One less obvious impact is that many people find that their neuropathy is worse when lying down. Some even find that they have peripheral neuropathy symptoms in their feet only at night. (13 Dec 2018)”.
17.8 Is walking good for neuropathy?
“Regular exercise, such as walking three times a week, can reduce neuropathy pain, improve muscle strength and help control blood sugar levels. Gentle routines such as yoga and tai chi might also help. (22 May 2019)”.
17.9 Is massage good for neuropathy?
“Massage for hand and foot neuropathy
This is because the more your muscles are moving, the better they can keep up blood circulation to nourish the nerve endings. Even if you don’t have neuropathy, massage, exercise and knitting are beneficial for good circulation and may have a preventative effect”.
18. Useful links on Diabetes
- Diabetes – NHS
- What is Diabetes? Overview – Types, Symptoms, Control
- Diabetes UK – Know Diabetes. Fight Diabetes. |Diabetes UK
- Diabetes, Causes, Symptoms & Treatments -British Heart Foundation
- Diabetes Community, Support, Education, Recipes & Resources
- Making Hospitals safe for People with Diabetes – Diabetes UK
- Dizziness and Loss of Balance in Individuals with Diabetes
- Early Signs and Symptoms of Diabetes
- Insulin, Medicines, & other Diabetes Treatments|NIDDK
18.1 Diabetic Neuropathy
19. Useful links on Diabetes Awareness
- Diabetes Week 2020 | Get Involved | Diabetes UK
- Diabetes Awareness Month| Get an Interactive eBook
- Diabetes Awareness – Diabetes UK
- Awareness| Diabetes UK
- “Type 1 diabetes”.
- “Type 2 diabetes”.
- “Gestational diabetes”. (28 Jun 2018).
20. Our Final Thoughts
The common saying goes “you only live once”. I recently saw one that said, “We only die once but we live every day” I liked the sound of that. It has so much truth in it, we live every day. Whilst we are here living and breathing we should try our very best to maintain our health, as another saying goes “your body is a temple” we need to try our very best to look after ourselves as without good health life can be very difficult.
Grief Probate Journey 
3 thoughts on “Diabetes/Diabetes Awareness”