DIABETES MELLITUS

(Diabetes; sugar)
(Type 1 and Type 2)
Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disease in which the body either doesn't produce or doesn't fully utilize insulin. As a result, it cannot properly metabolize carbohydrates and, to a lesser extent, protein and fat. Glucose (sugar) builds up in the blood; to rid the body of the excess, the kidneys begin to excrete it in the urine.
The body begins to breakdown fat and protein in an attempt to provide an alternate source of fuel, resulting in serious biochemical imbalances.

There are two major forms:
-Type 1
-Type 2

Type 1: in which the body stops making insulin completely. It is also called as, insulin-dependent or Juvenile diabetes, usually develops during the first 20 years of life when islet cells (cells of pancreas which produce insulin) in the pancreas are destroyed and can no longer make insulin.

Type 2: in which the body produces inadequate insulin or is unable to use it fully. It is also called as, non-insulin dependent or Adult-onset diabetes.

TREATMENTS:
There is no cure for either type of diabetes, but the disease can be controlled with a combination of therapies, regular intake of insulin (for Type1), special diet and exercise.
Diabetes can be controlled by taking oral hypoglycemics to increase insulin production and its effectiveness. These drugs include,

Chlopropamide, Glipizide, Glyburide, Tolbutamide and Tolazamide.

A new Type 2 diabetes drug, Acarbose, works by delaying the digestion of carbohydrates, resulting in a slower rise in blood glucose.

ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES:
Alternative therapies are helpful as adjuncts to medical treatment.

Exercise Conditioning:
This improves the body's ability to use insulin. Type1 pateints who exercise regularly can usually lower their insulin dosage, and type2 patients can often eliminate the need for oral hypoglycemics. Exercise also improves circulation, and may help prevent leg and foot problems

Homeopathy:
Practitioners may prescribe phosphorous to help stabilize blood sugar levels.
*one new herb named "Paneer Booti" is found to be very effective in diabetic therapy.

Meditation, Self-Hypnosis and Yoga:
These and other relaxation techniques can help lower the levels of stress that may elevate blood glucose.

Nutrition Therapy:
The basic diabetic diet is described under self-treatment. In addition, many dietitians urge eating beans regularly, as they can help blunt the post meal rise in glucose levels.

Self Treatment:
All patients must learn to rest their blood sugar levels at home and adjust their food exercise medication regimens on a daily basis.
Patients should assume this responsibility for young children; by age 9 or 10, most youngsters can use a self monitoring device.
People with diabetes, need emotional support and continual education to accept responsibility for their own care.

Diet:
a diabetic diet is similar to the healthful diets now recommended . Obtain most of your calories from complex carbohydrates, such as vegetables, legumes, fruits and whole grains, and rely less on animal foods for protein. Avoid refined sugars and restrict fat and cholestrol intake to help reduce the risk of heart disease.

When diabetes is first diagnosed, you should consult with a registered dietian to develop meal plans compatible with your tastes and lifestyles, and learn to follow the exchange lists developed by Diabetes association or chart provided by your doctor.
These lists provide simple formulas to assure that you get an appropriate number of calories and other nutrients eachday. Eventually, you'll not need to rely as heavily on them. Infact with careful self-testing, you can learn to increase or decrease your insulin dosage to accomodate an occasional departure from your usual diet.

People with diabetes often have poor circulation and are susceptible to skin ulcers, especially on the legs and feet. Fit shoes carefully to avoid corns and other foot problems that can develop into serious infection. Also keep toe nails trimmed.
Carry in your wallet identification indicating that you have diabetes so that you can receive prompt medical care if you're in an accident or have a high/low blood sugar reaction. Also be alert for signs of an insulin overdose and carry a source of sugar to use if one occurs

Other causes of high blood sugar:

certain medications can raise blood sugar. So too can diseases affecting the pancreas.
Pregnant women sometimes develop gestational diabetes, which can be detected with a blood glucose test.