Abraham Tekola, MD lends insight into Diabetes

July 19, 2010 - PRLog -- The main types include type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, and gestational diabetes. Diabetes symptoms may include increased thirst and urination, blurred vision, and fatigue.

The foods recommended for a diabetes diet to control blood glucose (or sugar) are good for those with diabetes -- and everyone else. However, for people with diabetes, the total amounts of carbohydrates consumed each day must be monitored carefully. Of the different components of nutrition -- carbohydrates, fats, and proteins -- carbohydrates have the greatest influence on blood sugar levels. Most people with diabetes also have to monitor total fat consumption and protein intake, too.

To keep blood sugar levels in check, people need to make healthy food choices, exercise regularly, and take the medicines prescribed by a health care provider. A dietitian can provide in-depth nutrition education to help develop a personalized meal plan that fits the lifestyle and activity level, and meets medical needs.

The glycemic index is a ranking that attempts to measure the influence that each particular food has on blood sugar levels. It takes into account the type of carbohydrate in a meal and its effect on blood sugars.

Foods that are low on the glycemic index appear to have less of an impact on blood sugar levels after meals. High glycemic index foods generally make blood sugar levels higher.

People with diabetes have higher than normal risk for heart disease, stroke, and disease of the small blood vessels in the body. Controlling blood pressure and limiting the amount of fats in the diet will help reduce the risk of these complications.

"Limiting the amounts of saturated fats, increasing the amount of regular exercise, and receiving medical treatment can lower bad LDL cholesterol. This has been repeatedly shown in medical studies to help people with diabetes reduce their risk of heart disease and reduce the risk of death if a heart attack does occurs in a diabetic person," said Abraham Tekola, MD.

For more info:

http://abrahamtekola.blogspot.com

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About Abraham Tekola, MD

Dr. Abrham Tekola practices family medicine in Carmichael, California. For more info: http://abrahamtekola.blogspot.com