How does type 2 diabetes work?
Each cell in the body needs a continuous supply of glucose to satisfy its energy requirements. Glucose, however, cannot penetrate the outer layer of a cell without the assistance of insulin, which plays the role of a ‘gatekeeper’, needing to open a ‘portal’ so that glucose can gain access to the cell. With diabetes, this mechanism becomes impaired, causing a shortage of glucose inside the cell and an excess on the outside. Blood glucose levels start rising and excess glucose molecules leave the body via the urine.

What is the difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes?
With Type 1 diabetes, the body stops producing enough insulin (not enough gate keepers). With Type 2 diabetes, however, the body makes sufficient insulin, but the mechanism by which it works starts failing (gate keeper not doing his work properly). 

Excess body fat plays a major role in causing many people to become type 2 diabetics. (Type 1 is different). This is because increased fatty deposits, especially those that accumulate around the stomach area, cause a biochemical abnormality that makes insulin less effective, called insulin resistance. To do the same task, more insulin is needed. A vicious cycle begins and insulin levels rise above the normal level. [Read more about insulin resistance]

What is the metabolic syndrome?
Although the primary feature of diabetes is raised blood glucose levels, numerous other chemical abnormalities are also associated with this condition. Insulin resistance, resulting in increased blood insulin levels, causes a rise in bad cholesterol as well as an increase in blood pressure. Both these conditions lead to hardening of the arteries. This development is called the Metabolic Syndrome and can lead to heart attacks and strokes.

What are the symptoms of type 2 diabetes?
Because the onset of type 2 diabetes is usually gradual, most people have no or only subtle symptoms during the early stages. (Unlike type 1, which develops rapidly and presents with dramatic symptoms). As blood glucose levels rise, symptoms become more prominent. Glucose eventually bypasses the kidney’s re-absorption mechanism and draws water along with it. This causes frequent urination, resulting in dehydration and increased thirst.  Fatigue is caused by an energy shortage within the cells. High glucose levels also alter pressure within the eyes, causing blurred vision. Yeast flourishes in the presence of excess sugar and frequent yeast infections are therefore common. 

What is a diabetic diet?
In the past, diabetics were given a “diabetic diet” that supposedly kept your blood glucose levels in check. Patients were told to consume lots of complex carbohydrates like crackers and bread, rather than fruit, and any form of sugar was absolutely forbidden. The discovery of the Glycaemic Index, however, has proved that most crackers and bread raise your blood glucose levels much faster than pure white sugar does. Fruit, especially grapes, was also forbidden in the past, but vegetables such as potatoes were considered beneficial. Again, the GI has proved that this concept has little scientific foundation, as a baked potato has a much higher GI value than grapes and therefore raises your blood glucose levels much faster.

The concept of the “diabetic diet” is therefore considered old fashioned and has become obsolete. The principles of “diabetic dietary management” are now basically the same health-orientated guidelines all of us should be adhering to, especially those of us with a weight problem.

What can I do to control my blood sugar?

Step 1
Limit the total quantity of food consumed at each meal. This is referred to as the GLycaemic Load (GL).

Step 2
Adhere to a diet based on the principles of the Glycaemic Index (GI). This is a classification of carbohydrates based on the speed at which individual food items release glucose into the system and raise blood glucose and insulin levels. Low GI carbohydrates release glucose at a much slower rate than high GI carbohydrates, and therefore assist with weight loss. Here are some examples:

Various factors affect the rate at which glucose is released from the intestines. Individual properties relating to the actual food substance, the presence of fat, fibre and protein in a mixed meal and different food production and processing techniques all determine how quickly each food substance will be digested and thus release its glucose content.

Most individuals eat food according to food brands. Check the GI value of your local food brands by obtaining a Glycaemic guide or index of your country. (Ask at your local bookshop.)

Step 3
Protect your heart.
Because diabetics have an increased risk of developing cholesterol problems and hardening of the arteries, they must also adhere to a diet low in saturated fat and salt.

Step 4
Medication.
You may already be on prescription medication. If so, stay on it. Please bear in mind that many diabetics who change their lifestyles may be able to manage their condition without the aid of diabetic medication, or may be able to reduce the dosage of their current medication.

Step 5
Go for regular checkups.
Monitor your blood pressure and glucose levels regularly at your local pharmacy clinic. In addition to this, you also need to consult your personal physician at least twice a year, even if your diabetes is well controlled.

[For information on how a natural product can help control your sugar levels]