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 - e.g., retinopathy, cataracts

- Peripheral nerve damage - e.g., 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 sugar diet

- Nutrient deficiencies

- Toxin exposure - e.g., pesticides

My Treatment Approach

- If overweight, guide the client how to reach and maintain a healthier body weight.

- Shift to an anti-inflammatory diet that includes low amounts of simple sugars and refined carbohydrates, adequate protein, and good amounts of healthy fats.

- Supplement to help manage blood sugar levels and moderate inflammation, e.g.:

      - Vitamins

      - Minerals

      - Essential fatty acids

      - Herbals

      - Probiotics

      - Fiber

- Avoid future toxin exposure, and safely / properly reduce existing toxin levels in the body.

- Address existing chronic infections (bacterial, viral, fungal).

- Incorporate regular, moderate exercise.