Diabetes & Pre-Diabetes

1.4 million people in the US alone are diagnosed with diabetes and this still remains the 7th leading cause of death in the country. Thankfully, diabetes can be prevented in a proper manner, as long as you take your time to find the right solutions and results. All you need is to focus on results and the best way you can do that is by joining a good diabetes program.

The American Diabetes Association defines Diabetes as:

Diabetes is a problem with your body that causes blood glucose (sugar) levels to rise higher than normal. This is also called hyperglycemia. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes.

If you have type 2 diabetes your body does not use insulin properly. This is called insulin resistance. At first, your pancreas makes extra insulin to make up for it. But, over time it isn’t able to keep up and can’t make enough insulin to keep your blood glucose at normal levels.

The Academy on Nutrition and Dietetics says:

• To successfully manage diabetes, you need to understand how foods and nutrition affect your body. Food portions and food choices are important. Carbohydrates, fat and protein need to be balanced to ensure blood sugar levels stay as stable as possible. (This is particularly important for people with Type 1 diabetes.)
• The keys to a healthy eating plan are:
• Eat meals and snacks regularly (at planned times).
• Eat about the same amount of food at each meal or snack.
• Choose healthful foods to support a healthy weight and heart.
• Put Together a Plan
• You need a registered dietitian nutritionist on your team who will work with you to put together an individualized eating plan that takes into account your food preferences, level of physical activity and lifestyle.
• Your RDN will work with you and your physician to strike the right balance between your eating plan and any diabetes medications you take.
• Plan Healthy Meals
• Good health depends on eating a variety of foods that contain the right amounts of carbohydrates, protein and healthy fats, as well as vitamins, minerals, fiber and water.