What is Juvenile Diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic metabolic condition caused by the body's inability to break down glucose (sugars) and store them properly. When an individual's system is unable to efficiently process glucose, it will back up in the person's bloodstream creating multiple health problems.
Over thirty thousand individuals will be diagnosed with diabetes this year alone. It is estimated that over one hundred and twenty million individuals worldwide have diabetes. It is further estimated that approximately five million individuals have diabetes that has yet to be diagnosed. Two types of diabetes exist.
Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 Diabetes is called Juvenile Diabetes as the onset of it begins in childhood. Children diagnosed with juvenile diabetes are insulin dependent. Insulin is the hormone that enables our body to convert the food we eat into energy which is necessary to function normally. Current research indicates that juvenile diabetes is an auto-immune disorder, similar to other disorders such as; rheumatoid arthritis or multiple sclerosis. A small percentage of individuals may also develop thyroid conditions.
Type 2 Diabetes
Typically occurs in adults. However, new research indicates that youngsters may develop type 2 diabetes as well. Many adults with type 2 diabetes will not require daily insulin shots. Instead a healthy diet and exercise can control the diabetes. This form of diabetes typically occurs in individuals who are over the age of 40, overweight, sedentary, and have a family history of diabetes. Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy, but generally disappears after childbirth.
What are the symptoms?
Type 1 Diabetes symptoms include:
--Excessive thirst
--Frequent urination
--Irritability
--Nausea and vomiting
--Exaggerated hunger, although weight loss occurs
--Chronic weakness and fatigue
--Blurred vision
Type 2 Diabetes symptoms include:
--Symptoms may appear more subtle but can include type 1 symptoms
--Itchiness
--Tingling or numbness in hands or feet
--Sores that heal slowly
--Recurring bladder infections
--Fatigue
--Blurred vision
What You Need to Know
Treatment Options
In all cases of type 1 Diabetes, the pancreas does not manufacture insulin. Without natural insulin, a hormone, the body cannot metabolize glucose from the food we eat and turn it into energy. In order to live, insulin is essential. Individuals typically administer four to five insulin shots per day. Insulin does not cure diabetes.
In type 2 Diabetes, which is adult onset, the pancreas will still manufacture insulin, however oral medication and a proper diet is needed to offset the symptoms.
What is Insulin?
Insulin is a synthetic made hormone. There are several types of insulin and they are classified to work at various speeds and durations during a twenty-four hour period.
Individuals must monitor their blood sugars at regular intervals in order to regulate their insulin and food intake. This can be done at home. By keeping your blood sugars regulated, your diabetes will remain under better control, in turn minimizing the risk of further complications.
Oral Medications
For milder cases of diabetes, oral medication can be used. Drugs such as Actos are frequently prescribed. It is crucial to acknowledge the importance of including a healthy diet and exercise in your regiment. Medication alone cannot control the effects of diabetes.
Closing Notes
An actual "Diabetes diet" does not exist. Your physician will recommend meeting with a nutritionist to plan a healthy diet that is suited to meet your health needs, including your weight. Carbohydrates must be monitored in order to maintain an even balance.
It is noted that a majority of adults who develop diabetes over the age of 40 do so because they are overweight or have high cholesterol and/or fat levels in their blood. Diet and exercise can play an important role in staying healthy.
