Description
There are two primary forms of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 diabetes (or
insulin-dependent diabetes) is an autoimmune disease in which the
cells in the pancreas responsible for producing insulin are
destroyed. Insulin from
an outside source must be given to help the body to manage blood
glucose levels. The
disease typically appears before the age of
twenty.
Type 2 diabetes (also known as adult-onset diabetes or
non-insulin-dependent diabetes) occurs when the body's cells become
resistant to insulin and thus cannot effectively take in glucose
from the blood. The
disease historically appeared in people over the age of forty. However, over the last
twenty years, Type 2 diabetes has become widespread in
industrialized nations as the rate of obesity has skyrocketed.
With elevated levels of both blood
glucose and insulin, not only are the body's cells starved for
energy, but the body is also at greater risk for many
serious conditions,
including:
- Heart disease
- Kidney disease
- Vision loss - retinopathy,
cataracts
- Peripheral nerve damage - loss of function and
amputation of limbs
- Stroke
- Poor wound healing
- Infections
- Cognitive decline - e.g., Alzheimer's
disease
Diabetes is clearly one of the greatest health risks
facing the world. Its
implications will be felt not only by those affected by the
condition, but also by society at
large.
Causes
The cause/s of Type
1 diabetes are unknown, but may
include:
- Genetics - hereditary
predisposition
- Viral infection
- Autoimmunity triggered by allergens - e.g., cow's milk
protein
- Toxin exposure - e.g., pesticides
Potential causes of Type
2 diabetes
include:
- Obesity
- High fat diet
- Nutrient
deficiencies
- Toxin exposure - e.g., pesticides
Treatment
Approach
- Shift to an anti-inflammatory diet that emphasizes
healthy fats, lean protein, whole grains, lots of vegetables, some
fruit, and filtered water.
Avoid simple sugars, refined carbohydrates, and trans
fats.
- Ensure adequate fiber and water intake to help maintain
a healthy gut flora and regular elimination of waste from the
body.
- Maintain a healthy
weight.
- Identify food sensitivities / allergies with testing
(e.g., RAST, ELISA) and/or an elimination
diet.
- Avoid foods and additives identified as potential
sensitivities or allergens.
- Supplement to help manage blood sugar levels and
moderate inflammation, e.g.:
-
Antioxidants
- B
vitamins
-
Minerals - e.g., chromium,
magnesium
-
Essential fatty acids
- Avoid future environmental toxin exposure, and reduce
existing toxin levels in the
body.
- Address existing chronic infections (bacterial, viral,
fungal).
- Incorporate regular, moderate exercise.
