Diabetes is a metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar and other symptoms. With this disorder, the beta cells of the pancreas are unable to produce enough insulin to control blood sugar levels. There are two main types of diabetes, type 1 and type 2. Type 1 diabetes is caused by an autoimmune reaction in the pancreas. Type 2 is characterized by insulin resistance and can progress to the loss of beta cell function. Both types are incurable chronic conditions, but are treatable with insulin injections and dietary changes.

Type 1 diabetes is caused by a loss of beta cells in the pancreas, which leads to an insulin deficiency. What causes the beta cell loss is a T-cell mediated autoimmune attack. The principal treatment is replacing insulin in the body. Without insulin, serious symptoms, coma, and even death can result. To date, there is no preventative methods known for type 1. Ten percent of all diabetics in North American and Europe have this type of diabetes. This type was originally called “juvenile diabetes”, due to a majority of cases being children. Type 1 diabetes can be treated with insulin and monitored by using glucose meters. Diet and exercise can aid in the management of this disorder. Treatment should not interfere with normal activities, as long as there is sufficient awareness, appropriate care and discipline taken in testing and taking prescribed medications.

Guidelines for healthy eating, includes the following: to use in alimentation monounsaturated fats(virgin olive oil, canola oil) and polyunsaturated oils (sunflower, rapeseed) and to avoid the use of saturated fats(animal products)and avoid cholesterol consume. To eat plenty of fiber-rich foods (whole grains, fresh foods, vegetables), nuts, seeds or legumes. Pay attention to the sugar in foods.(especially in fruits).

Protein intake should be reduced: fish and soy-protein are recommended.

Salt intake should also be limited. American Diabetes and Dietetic Association recommend a balanced meal plan: More calories should be taken from carbohydrates, second comes fat and third protein.

As a general line everyone should serve: two portions of fatty fish., five of fruits and vegetables and six of whole grains. Diet plans are planned with dietitians in order to meet the needs of every person with diabetes type I and type II.

For example during a study the scientists have come to the conclusion that if people stay focused on it any healthy diet (a high-carbohydrate/high-fiber diet, a low-fat diet, and a weight management diet)is good for those with diabetes type II, after one year and a half the results were for the people in the study improved glycolated hemoglobin and cholesterol levels. Other effective methods are on diabetes exchange list: counting carbohydrate grams, using the glycemic index.

Monitoring blood glucose carefully is suggested by doctors, to prevent hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia. Glycemia should have the following values: 80-140mg/dL pre-meal, 100-160 bedtime levels determined four or more times a day. Of course for very young, very old individuals, pregnant women and those with a precare health condition there are different values.

A very easy to use at home test is: glycosylated hemoglobin test which evaluates the severity of the diabetes, normal values are below 7%, high levels are a marker for kidney complications and poor control of carbohydrates. Hypoglycemia occurs when blood sugar is very low and is very dangerous for drivers when it occurs suddenly, it may also occur at night.

Patients with diabetes should always carry sweets or glucose substitutes specially for diabetic individuals to prevent collapse in case of hypoglycemia.

Other recommended tests are: for high blood pressure, unhealthy cholesterol levels, urine tests which are significant when traces of albumin are found that indicate severe kidney disease.

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