Are you Diabetic? The types, myths, effects, & symptoms.

Weight plays a major factor in Diabetes. Know the symptoms - your life may depend upon it!

Diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in the United States.
If you are diabetic, or know someone who is, please get to the doctor and follow his advice! You'll live longer, be healthier, and you won't be a burden to those who love you!

Types of Diabetes:
There are two types of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2. In Type 1 the body doesn't produce insulin and injections are required for survival. In Type 2, some insulin is produced, however it is insufficient. Type 2 is more likely to occur in individuals over forty, but can strike at any age.

* Symptoms may include:
· excessive thirst
· excessive appetite
· weight loss or weight gain
· fatigue
· nausea, perhaps vomiting
· blurred vision
· in women, frequent vaginal infections
· in men, impotence

Common Myths & Misconceptions:
· Skinny people don't get diabetes.
· Diabetes is caused by obesity.
· Sugar causes diabetes.
· Diabetes skips generations.
· Kids that eat too much candy tend to 'catch' diabetes later in life.
· Diabetics cannot eat desserts or any type of sugar.
· Diabetics can eat all the fresh fruit they want because it is healthy and is a natural source.
· Diabetes is curable.

*Some Truths Relating to Diabetics:
· Caffeine boosts blood sugar
· Fish oil raise blood sugar.
· Aspirin can alter blood glucose levels.
· Diabetics require daily foot care. The perception of pain is often times deadened and before one notices something is wrong, a major infection can occur on the foot. Feet should be checked daily and at each doctor visit.

Long Term Effects:
· stroke
· heart attack
· blindness
· kidney failure
· amputations
· nerve-related problems

What you can do:
· Get tested as soon as possible! It's 'ouchless'.
· Learn first aid treatment for diabetics.
· Exercise and eat healthy. If you are diabetic, eat a snack before heading out to exercise to help prevent a hypoglycemic attack.