Diabetes affects nearly 10% of the US population. This disease, where the body is unable to produce insulin, can be devastating if it is not treated right away. The good news, however, is that it can be prevented. And the prevention is really quite simple.
How Diabetes Affects the Body
When a person has diabetes, they are unable to produce insulin. This chemical, which is naturally produced in the pancreas, helps to transport sugars from the blood into the cells. Cells then use the sugars as energy to sustain them.
Since a diabetic is unable to produce insulin on their own, they turn to medications that either let them produce insulin, or they must take insulin shots in order to artificially boost their insulin levels.
There are two types of diabetes out there. Type 1 diabetes is hereditary and cannot be prevented. Type 2 diabetes is brought on through lifestyle and diet issues. Both cause similar issues, but only type 2 diabetes can be prevented.
How to Prevent Type 2 Diabetes
Prevention is the best way to deter adult onset diabetes. And the method is actually fairly simple.
Eat Right A diet that includes lots of fiber and little fat is essential. This means limiting red meats, although there are times when red meat is acceptable; especially wild game. Fish are an excellent source of low fat meats. Whole grains and vegetables will bring in all the fiber that is needed for a good diet.
Exercise Without exercise our bodies store up fat and lose muscle mass. Gyms can be intimidating, but exercise doesnt have to take place in the gym. Getting your heart rate up for 30 minutes per day, 5 days per week is the best way to prevent many major illnesses. This can be as simple as walking around the block a couple of times after every meal.
Those Who Already have Type 2 Diabetes
There are certain times when our health gets away from us. Or there are just times when we cant prevent diabetes. In this case many people take medication to help keep their diabetes under control. This method should only ever be temporary, in fact some drugs like Actos have very serious side effects. Take the drugs while you are getting your health back under control and remember: exercise is better than any medication you could ever take.
Medication and Health Issues
Health issues creep up on us. It is bound to happen. When they do, we turn to doctors and medication to solve the problem. Unfortunately these drugs come with side effects. Some of them are very serious, like the fact that Actos can lead to bladder cancer. If you have used a prescription drug and suffered from a serious side effect, contact a personal injury lawyer right away.
