Diabetes The Not So Silent Epidemic

By Natasha Ryan, ND, Regional Wellness Manager

Knowles Apothecary Wellness

. http://www.knowleswellness.com/

More Complementary & Integrative Healthcare Articles

Diabetes The Not So Silent Epidemic

In 2011 25.8 million children and adults in the United States were diagnosed with diabetes. Even more troubling is the fact that 79 million Americans can be classified as having pre-diabetes based on fasting blood sugar and a marker called hemoglobin A1C. This disease is escalating due to several reasons poor diet, nutrient deficiencies, stress, lack of exercise, and toxins in our environment. Let's understand what's causing this epidemic and take steps to stop it in its tracks.

Poor Diet. The Standard American Diet (S.A.D) is truly sad. It is typically high in unhealthy saturated and hydrogenated fats, low in plant-based foods, low in fiber, high in animal fats and dominated by processed foods, which tend to be high in sugar. If you want to take action and help decrease your chances of developing chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer and more, eat a diet that is high in fiber, primarily plant based, low in processed foods and low in animal fats.

Nutrient Deficiencies. There is a growing body of evidence linking the deficiency of specific nutrients to an increased chance of developing type 2 diabetes. One specific study looked at magnesium levels in participants and found that those with low levels of magnesium had higher rates of diabetes. Another study showed that those with low levels of chromium, copper, iron and magnesium were more prone to developing central obesity. Fat around the stomach is different than fat in other areas of the body. It creates chemicals that can increase inflammation, which disrupts many biochemical processes necessary for health and wellness. Make sure to include nutrient dense foods such as dark green leafy veggies, nuts and seeds to help correct this issue.

Lack of Exercise. From iPads, to video games and television, children are choosing to stay indoors and be entertained instead of going outdoors to play. This is contributing to the rising rates of childhood obesity and diabetes in the U.S. Exercise can keep both the body and the mind in shape. Specifically it helps to control weight, improves insulin sensitivity, relieves stress, boosts energy and improves mood.

Stress. Stress is a fact of life in our society. There are real physiological consequences to excess stress. Cortisol, the main stress hormone in itself is good because it provides your body with a needed increase in blood sugar levels when a bear or tiger is chasing you. Unfortunately, when you are stressed because traffic is at a halt on the beltway, your body may still think a bear is running after you and will continue to cause an increase in blood sugar. Learn to manage your stress as much as possible via yoga, deep breathing meditation or exercise.

Toxins in the Environment. You are exposed to toxins everyday when you apply makeup, clean your sink, wash your clothes or get into your car. More evidence is showing that some of these toxins may have a deleterious impact on hormones in the body and contribute to weight gain. Overweight is one of the number one risk factors for diabetes and other chronic disease.

Diabetes, specifically type 2, can be prevented with a plan. Improve your diet, get moving with exercise and educate yourself about being proactive with your health and wellness.