Diabetes facts

How many of us looked at our daughters and thought "my child is cute and roly-poly like a teddy bear" not knowing the results of all the burgers, pizzas, ice-creams and chocolates your little girl has been eating?  Worse still, how many of us can picture our cute kids suffering with life-long diseases like diabetes Type 2 and polycystic ovary syndrome?

If your child is very active there isn't much to worry about, the excess calories get used up. But if she is a "quiet girl" who prefers to play video games, surf the net or watch TV while all the time eating large bags of chips, gummies or other unhealthy foods, then there is cause for concern. Did you know that 30% American children are obese.  And, research indicates that there are other life-threatening dangers that might haunt in the future. So if you were thinking of that physical program her school was talking about, think no more, you have to act now for the sake of your child.

Childhood Obesity leads to Serious Problems

Obesity is a result of life-style. So if your child's life-style is unhealthy, it could lead to obesity and its associated medical complications regardless of age. Also, the lifestyle gets carried into adulthood, so obese children often do not shed the excess weight and end up being obese adults. They are prone to higher risk from various disorders like sleep apnea, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, orthopedic problems, asthma, liver problems, skin disorders and infertility.

Further complication can arise at school because obese children are more likely to be verbally abused by their classmates leading to psychiatric problems, low self esteem, depression and withdrawal symptoms. In essence, the child’s quality of life is severely affected, causing an early death.

Lurking Threat: Diabetes Type 2

In the United States, young kids and teenagers who are overweight are being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes which is becoming an increasingly common occurrence. But before we discuss type 2 diabetes, let us first understand diabetes and why some people suffer from it.  Diabetes is a condition that affects the use of glucose by the body. After a meal, the glucose levels in the blood rise to trigger the pancreas to make insulin and release it into the bloodstream. Insulin, which is a hormone, allows the glucose to enter into the cells. it is the key to open the doors to the cells. In people with diabetes, the body is either unable to make insulin or use all of it.

In people with diabetes type 2, the body produces insulin but is unable to use all of it as it should. This causes the glucose levels in the bloodstream to increase because the glucose cannot enter the cells and do the work of supplying energy to the body. This condition is known as “insulin resistance”. In such a situation, the pancreas produces even more insulin to reduce the blood sugar level. The excess glucose in the bloodstream is sent to the liver, where it is converted into fat and stored  throughout the body. The process causes the person to gain fat weight and may ultimately lead to obesity.

Diabetes Type 2 – Is your Girl at Risk?
Simple put: If your child is obese then, yes! True, diabetes type 2 is also caused by genetic factors but it is primarily a lifestyle disease. In an overweight person, it is difficult for the cells to respond to insulin due to the excess fat and this leads to insulin resistance. At one time, diabetes type 2 affected only overweight adults, but today, even young children suffer from the disease. Given the link between obesity and insulin resistance, it is not surprising that obesity and diabetes are linked.
The Domino effect: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Female Infertility

Unhealthy lifestyle leads to obesity leads to diabetes Type 2 leads to polycystic ovary syndrome leads to female infertility. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder portrayed by the production of excess male hormones (like testosterone) in girls.

Type 2 diabetes and polycystic ovarian syndrome have one common cause – insulin resistance. Type 2 diabetes is often indicated in women suffering from PCOS and obesity is a major contributing factor. The symptoms of PCOS mainly comprise of menstrual irregularities, skin problems like brown patches and acne, excessive facial and body hair, reduced sex drive and female baldness.   

Insulin resistance causes polycystic ovary syndrome due to rise in the insulin levels in the blood stream. Excess insulin induces the ovaries to produce more male hormones which might prevent the release of the egg from the ovaries each month. This leads to female infertility. High level of insulin in the blood increases the conversion of male hormones or androgens to female hormones or estrogens, thus causing an imbalance between the two. This imbalance may result in the formation of ovarian cysts and may also cause further weight gain.

Treating Childhood Obesityand Encourage Healthy Habits in your Child
 
Keep your child busy, enroll her in the school physical program, regulate the time by all means but encourage her to go out and play. She needs to be physically active.

Childhood obesity obviously increases a child’s risk for contracting serious health problems like type 2 diabetes or polycystic ovary syndrome in young girls leading to infertility. Moreover, obese children are more likely to struggle with weight problems even as adults. Parents must therefore take steps to help their children maintain their weight within the healthy range.

If your child is obese today, by the time she reaches adulthood she has every chance of being diagnosed with diabetes type 2 and ultimately with Polycystic ovary syndrome.   Help Improve Her Future!

Help Kids Eat Well and Play More

Joslin Diabetes Center, a teaching and research affiliate of Harvard Medical School, is a one-of-a-kind institution on the front lines of the world epidemic of diabetes, leading the battle to conquer diabetes in all of its forms through cutting-edge research and innovative approaches to clinical care and education.

One Joslin Place,
Boston, MA 02215
Phone: 1-800-JOSLIN or 1-800-567-5461 or 1-617-732-2400
Email: Contact Us
Internet: www.joslin.org
Donate: http://www.joslin.org/giving

Joslin Diabetes Center, a teaching and research affiliate of Harvard Medical School,  is a one-of-a-kind institution on the front lines of the world epidemic of diabetes, leading the battle to conquer diabetes in all of its forms through cutting-edge research and innovative approaches to clinical care and education.

Mission: To improve the lives of people with diabetes and its complications through innovative care, education, and research that will lead to prevention and cure of the disease.
Materials: Joslin Center offers a variety of publications for patients and professionals.

When it comes to improving a healthy energy balance, eating less and exercising more would seem like common knowledge. But does this always apply to those with Type 2 diabetes?

When Eating Less is Good for You
When most people think of dieting or good health, they usually think of eating less. Because obesity is a major factor associated with diabetes Type 2, eating less can be almost as beneficial to the Type II diabetic, as it can be to anyone else:

• It can help you lose weight, increase energy levels, improve digestion, and lower stress.

• It may help to increase your lifespan.

• It may help to decrease acidity and constipation.

But is eating less beneficial in every case?

When Eating Less is Not So Good for You
For the Type II Diabetic, there are instances when eating less is not necessarily so good! One example would be when you eat filling food that’s healthy, low-glycemic, and high-fiber. It’s unlikely that anyone would suggest that eating fewer lettuce leaves is good for you! We can all overdo it, but generally, to eat food that is healthy – and more of it – would benefit all of us!

Some of you might say that healthy meals are not that simple. Delicious meals can be simple! Shop once a week, take your meal plan, and stock up on the staples! The simple delicious stew listed in this month’s recipe section is an example! And when you eat food that is healthy, you may be less inclined to give in to cravings (which may increase blood glucose levels), or starve yourself to make up for it (risking dangerously low sugar levels).

When Exercising More is Good for You
Because under-activity is another major factor associated with diabetes, exercising more can have almost as many benefits for the Type II diabetic as it does for the general population:

• It can lower your body fat and increase your metabolism.

• It can burn calories and help you lose weight.

• It can lower your blood pressure and insulin sensitivity.

• It can increase your muscle mass and strength.

 
When Exercising More is Not So Good for You
There are times when, as a Type II Diabetic, exercising more is not so good for you. While the right kind of exercise can lower your blood glucose levels, too much exercise, too intensely, can send a stress signal to the body to increase your blood sugar levels! This is why it is so important to speak with your doctor concerning the right amount of exercise, and to monitor your blood sugar levels when you exercise. A heart rate watch, which can measure your average, peak, and minimum heart rate, is also very helpful.

Maintaining an energy balance is important for everyone, but it’s all the more important with Type II Diabetes! Follow the guidelines above, and a healthy energy balance will be as easy as pie! (Oops – did I say that?)

Eat Well                  and                        Exercise More!

With Springtime and Summer upon us, it’s time to declare war on obesity! In war only the strong survive. We can help. So, here is a 5-step meal plan that will make it so easy to win the war on obesity! Keep reading to learn how to use our little “arsenal” in your war strategy.

Step 1: To Plan is To Win
When you plan meal entrees, side dishes, and snacks, you will be more likely to eat healthy foods. Plus, when you are away from home and you get hungry, packing a healthy snack in your purse, briefcase, or backpack can prevent you from giving in to cravings. But don’t worry or angst over it – make it fun, and use the following tips to toss a weekly plan together as easily as you would toss a salad!

Step 2: How to Plan Meal Entrees
One of the fastest and easiest ways to plan meal entrees for the week is to pull out your favorite recipe clippings and cookbooks, and pick out some of your favorite, healthy recipes. If you have some that are not so healthy, try them with some healthy substitutes!

And try some recipes with fewer ingredients. Not only are they easier to shop for and easier to make, but it’s amazing how the separate flavors will stand out in comparison to a recipe where too many flavors tend to drown them all out!

Step 3: How to Plan Side Dishes
Planning a side dish? That’s easy! Choose from a number of colorful vegetables – or pick two compatible vegetables – and steam them or saute them in a spray of olive oil in a non-stick pan. Add just a little butter and a salt substitute, and you’re good to go! Remember that, by steaming or sauteing fresh vegetables, you’ll have that fresh, flavorful taste, but you will eliminate the added salt that is so common in canned vegetables!

If you still don’t have time, try keeping a small countertop or handheld food processor on your kitchen counter. It will have your vegetables sliced in no time!

Finally, at the end of the day, if you’re really beat, the beauty of a salad is that, these days, it doesn’t even have to be prepared! Toss it in a bowl and it’s ready! One of my favorites is to roast sunflower seeds in a shallow pan with no oil. (Don’t worry – they won’t stick.) When slightly browned, toss into a vinegar and olive oil-laced salad – delicious!

Step 4: A Nighttime Tip to Fat Loss
Years ago, a body builder gave me a little tip to fat loss: cut out sugary foods at night, and if you’re hungry, eat only a protein snack. It worked for me – maybe it will work for you, too!

So you can see that the road to weight loss can be easier than you think! If you include fresh vegetables and healthy substitutes when you plan meal entrees, you won’t necessarily have to eat less food, and you just may be amazed at the results!

Diabetes Facts

When it comes to managing Type 2 Diabetes, the essential dietary vitamins and dietary minerals in your diet can make a huge difference! Eating the right amounts and combination of foods can not only make you feel better, but it can even reduce your chances of having Diabetes Type 2 complications.

But let’s face it, even the most perfectly planned meal doesn’t always provide the nutrients you need for optimum support – and that’s why vitamin and mineral supplements are so important! Supplements can also help when you’re not at home or you don’t have time to plan your meals, or when temptation causes you to stray a little off course.

We must get essential dietary vitamins from the foods we eat or from dietary supplements. Our bodies do not make enough of these vitamins and minerals to guarantee a healthy life. Most vitamins and some minerals play important roles in helping the body’s enzymes break down food like sugar, creating chemicals like fatty acid and other functions.

The following vitamins and minerals, in recommended dosages, can provide a really useful addition to your diabetes diet:

Essential Dietary Vitamins

• Vitamin B Complex: Thiamine (B1), Riboflavin (B2), Niacin (B3), Pantothenic acid (B5), Pyridoxine (B6), Biotin (B7), Folic Acid (B9), and Cyanocobalamin (B12): Serves a host of different functions – it supports your nervous system, reduces glucose levels, converts carbohydrates to glucose, and breaks down proteins and fats.

• Vitamin D: Helps to maintain adequate levels of insulin in the blood.

• Vitamin C: Plays a role in preventing vascular and arterial damage, and reduces sorbital (a sugar) accumulation.

• Vitamin E: Improves glucose tolerance and reduces urinary protein loss.  

Essential Dietary Minerals

• Chromium: Improves blood sugar metabolism and increases insulin efficiency. Sometimes referred to as the “diabetic mineral.”

• Vanadium: Supports glucose regulation and insulin efficiency.

• Zinc: Contributes to the synthesis, storage, and secretion of insulin.

• Magnesium: Assists blood sugar stabilization and the metabolism of fats, sugars, and starches.

• Manganese: Promotes protein and fat metabolism, and balances blood sugar levels.

• Potassium:  Promotes good heart health and stable blood pressure

A diabetes diet plan, blood glucose monitoring, medications, and exercise all play a significant role in the management of Diabetes Type 2, but don’t forget the powerful contributions of vitamin and mineral supplements! Adding these nutritional “soldiers” will not only help to round out a healthy diet plan, but will also help to support your diet during times when it may be less than perfect.

Essential dietary vitamins and essential dietary minerals are needed in very small amounts. You don’t need a lot of them. If you are thinking about using vitamins or minerals, first discuss the benefits and risks with your health care professional.  A balanced meal is your best source of dietary vitamins and dietary minerals.

Diabetes Facts

Diabetes Type 2 self-management involves steps you can take, on a regular basis, to keep your blood sugar levels within a target range. Managing a proper diabetes program, calls for using blood sugar testing, a diabetes care journal, and diabetes diet plans. So, learning to manage
your type 2 diabetes allows you to live a healthier, more fulfilling
life without the anxiety of medical complications.

Regular Checkups
Regular checkups
with your doctor (or other health care specialist) can ensure that
you’re taking all the right steps, doing everything the right way, and
getting the results you would expect.

Blood
Sugar Testing
Blood
sugar testing kits (with a blood glucose meter or glucometer)
check your blood glucose levels to determine if they are within a
normal range. Levels that are too high could cause blood vessel and
nerve damage, and eventually contribute to a stroke, kidney or heart
disease, etc. Levels that are too low could cause shaking, nausea, and
sweating, and could ultimately lead to a diabetic coma. Normal ranges
would typically be 70-140 mg/dL before meals; <160 mg/dL
approximately two hours after meals (on regular insulin); and 70-140
mg/dL at bedtime.

Medications and Accessories
Devices and supplies that are used in diabetes testing and managing blood sugar levels include:

• Blood
  Glucose Meters, Lancets, Strips and Test Solution: This equipment will check to see if
  your blood levels are within targeted ranges. The lancet draws blood,
  the strip absorbs a drop of blood, and the glucose meter reads the strip
  to determine the blood glucose levels. Don’t forget to use test solutions for check the accuracy of your meter and strip.

• Oral Medications: Prior to
  insulin therapy, oral medications such as Metformin or Diabinese may be
  prescribed to help lower blood glucose levels.

• Insulin Pens
  and Syringes: These are used to administer insulin by injection.

• Other
  Accessories: These may include glucose tablets (designed to stabilize
  glucose blood levels), footwear (shoes for men and women with diabetes, and compression hose and socks designed to improve
  circulation), etc.

Good Nutrition is Low Fat, Low Carb, Low Calorie, and Great Taste
Who said a diabetes meal has to taste like hospital food?

• Diabetes Diet Plans

• Delivered Prepared Meal Service 
  

Increased Exercise, Physical Activity (you name it)
Regular exercise should be an essential element of your Diabetes Standards of Care. Exercise can help you reduce your body fat, control blood sugar levels, reduce stress, and prevent or delay
many diabetes complications.

Diabetes Care Journal
A Diabetes
Care Journal can go a long way toward helping you and your doctor
understand daily habits that may influence your blood sugar levels. With
a journal, you can record daily medications and blood glucose levels,
and identify internal or external influences on your blood sugar levels
that you may not notice otherwise. A form for this purpose can be
printed out at:
http://diabetes.niddk.nih.gov/dm/pubs/type1and2/print_chart_2.htm

Managing
diabetes doesn’t have to be difficult or complicated! By taking the
above steps, you can be well on your way to managing diabetes Type 2.

Eat Less and Exercise More

Diabetes facts

Many people with diabetes are confused about the link between cholesterol, HDL, LDL, and heart disease.  Are you confused? These initials sound familiar don’t they?  You need to know the difference between them all in order to reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke. If you think they are all the same..Read on!

What is Cholesterol?
Cholesterol is fatty waxy material that our body makes. Also, we get it from eating saturated fatty foods (mostly from mammals and birds). To many people with diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and poor blood circulation cholesterol is a villain that does bad things to our bodies. To people with normal blood cholesterol levels cholesterol is a hero for all of the good things it does for our bodies — even if these people do not know the benefits of cholesterol. cholesterol is really both villain and hero.

Cholesterol is
the Villain when there is too much in your blood.
As a villain
cholesterol is a very dangerous material that causes high blood pressure, heart attacks and
strokes.

• High blood pressure develops this way:  Imagine high blood cholesterol being very much like a snow storm on a single lane road. As more and more snow falls, it builds up and becomes crusty. Now, imagine cars traveling on that unscraped mile long road with no exits. The cars in the front are forced to go slow. The cars in the back have to go even slower.

• Stroke happens this way. Imagine somewhere down the same street with 2 feet of compacted snow. A car near  the front of the mile long street, crashed into another and causes a bad 5 car pile up. Traffic comes to a dead stop. Any important business that depends on someone in the cars arriving on time is in serious trouble.

• Heart attack happens this way:  Imagine a car in the middle of the pack with a crazy driver who has to get to work or lose his job. He has to go forward but his old car is stuck. He rides the accelerator hard for 25 minutes. The car is straining, the tires are smoking — All of a sudden he hears a loud POW, the car shakes, the engine stops and red lights come on.

Cholesterol is the Hero when your blood has the right amount.
As a hero cholesterol is a very important material that help the body operate normally. Cholesterol is the:  

• Strengthening mesh present in cell walls or membranes everywhere in the body, including the brain, nerves, muscle, skin, liver, intestines, and heart. It controls much of what enters and leaves the cells.

• Raw material use to make bile acids that help digest fats in the intestines.

• Raw material use to make Vitamin D, and hormones, like estrogen in women and testosterone in men.

What Cholesterol is Not
Cholesterol is not HDL, LDL, or VLDL. Cholesterol has to be all wrapped up in webbing made of lipoproteins. This is a combination of fat plus protein that carries the cholesterol in the blood (blood cholesterol) to its destination.  The big secret to remember is these carriers are made up of different amounts of protein. Remember, the more protein, the higher the density of the carrier and makes a stronger webbing:

• HDL – High density lipoprotein – Let’s say ‘H’ stands for “hero” cholesterol because it does good things. HDL carries old cholesterol from the blood, organs, and tissues to the liver for recycling and disposal. When your body produces more HDL, it cleans more cholesterol  from the blood and lowers your risk of heart attack and stroke.

• LDL – Low density lipoprotein – Let’s say ‘L’ stands for “lousy” cholesterol carrier because it is bad. LDL carries the new cholesterol (most) in the blood from the liver, intestines, skin to all of the cells in the body that make up the organs and tissues. LDL is lighter than HDL because LDL it has less protein is less rugged than HDLs. Therefore, LDLs break apart easily and drop cholesterol on the artery wall.   This causes the blockage. So, the more LDL you have the more cholesterol there is to deposit inside the arteries – This raises your risk of heart attack and stroke.

• VLDL – Very low density lipoprotein – is lighter than LDL and more dangerous because it drops more cholesterol on the walls of blood vessels and greatly raises your risk of heart attack and stroke.

• Note: chylomicron is a new player in artery disease. Chylomicrons (very low density lipoprotein), are even lighter than LDLs. According to Dr. Spencer Proctor  a nutritional  researcher,  chylomicrons are broken bits of cholesterol and fat  that gather on the walls of arteries and may be as dangerous or more dangerous than low-density lipoprotein (LDL)  cholesterol in greatly raising your risk of heart attack and stroke.

How Do You Lower Cholesterol?
There are many methods used to reduce the total cholesterol in the body. Few are free of side effects:

• Prevention

• Eat meats that have little saturated fat. This will reduce your LDL levels.  Eat fish and foods that contain unsaturated fats. Unsaturated fats remain liquid at room temperature.
• Exercising hard causes the body to produce more HDL carriers.

• Eat a diet high in soluble fiber, like oat bran, XXX, etc.  Soluble fiber binds to bile acids and are excreted from the body. This will reduce your LDL cholesterol numbers.
• Eat foods fortified with psyllium. Fiber reduces cholesterol absorption and reduces LDL numbers.

• Supplementation and Nutraceuticals (foods with ingredients that have health benefits)

• Take niacin supplements, useful dosage cause problems with liver. Talk with your doctor about dosage.
• Oat bran for its dietary fiber
• Garlic
• Eat foods fortified with psyllium

• Medication (If you must)
  

• Take statin drugs, like Lipitor, Crestor, and Mevacor. They prevent the creation of cholesterol by the body. Potential for muscle pain and wasting disease.

Now that you know the difference between HDL, LDL, and cholestrol, and what causes high blood pressure, heart disease, and strokes — do something about it.  Exercise to raise your HDL level. Eat less saturated fats to reduce your intake of LDL cholesterol. Eat more oats, vegetables and fruits to increase your dietary fiber. And if your doctor recommends you take statin drugs — Do it.   Too much cholesterol becomes too much of a problem.

Get to Know Your Blood Pressure!

	Low Carb Diets Help Diabetes “Read all about it! Low Carb Diets Help Reduce High Blood Sugar Levels in Diabetics!” That is what newspaper boys should be shouting. So, when your doctors says, “You have type 2 diabetes” he will also say you need to control your high blood sugar and weight. This means you will need to adopt healthy food choices and exercise that will include a low carb diet   Confused About Sugar Alcohols? Many people with diabetes are confused about sugar alcohols? They hear that sugar alcohols are not sugar, they don’t raise your blood sugar, and you can subtract them from your carbohydrate count. What is the real scoop on sugar alcohols? Today, diabetics can have “certain” sugars in their diet and still meet the goals for blood sugar levels.           Gingered Beef with Broccoli and Stir-Fry Sauce Are you working so hard that you don’t have enough time to cook a tasty low calorie meal? Unhealthy fast foods or even unhealthy meals from a box! Come on, you deserve better than that. People with diabetes must control their blood sugar, and body fat by cooking meals with low calories, low fat contents, and low glycemic load. TypeFreeDiabetes.com offers this month’s recipe: Gingered Beef with Broccoli and Stir-Fry Sauce for people with diabetes and those who cook the meals for diabetics. Tell us your thoughts on this recipe. We’re excited to offer 20% off of any 2 pairs of diabetic-friendly shoes. Buy comfortable shoes for yourself or your loved ones this Holiday season to give the gift of sole-ful comfort! 10% Off Diabetic Shoes Coupon Code: XtraComfort Your percent fat is in your hands! In diabetic fitness products, this fat analyzer is a must have! The BodyLogic Fat Analyzer measures reads your body fat in just 7 seconds – and.. Save 10% on Body Fat Scales Coupon Code: Spring10 Eat healthy, live healthy and keep your diabetes in check with the Cesto Digital Nutritional Kitchen Scale. The ultra slim, portable scale provides weight and nutritional data anywhere. 10% Cesto Digital Nutritional Kitchen Scale Never arrive empty handed. With these diabetic-friendly gift baskets, you can be sure to pamper your diabetic loved ones with treats they can enjoy. Save 10% on gift baskets Coupon Code: 20GB People with Diabetes need better lighting, and more magnification to see better. They also need to take better care of their eyes. TypeFree Diabetes offers products.. 15% off Best Reading Lights Coupon Code: SeeClearly For that special some-one and those very special times! Who can resist the delicious melt in your mouth texture of chocolates? Here it is! Save 25% on Sugar-Free Desserts & Candy Coupon Code: SweetPlus25     CONTACT US: TYPE FREE, LLC, 3420 PUMP ROAD, #105, RICHMOND, VA 23233 Visit us at: www.TypeFreeDiabetes.com I Email us at: cserv@TypeFreeDiabetes.com

  Pre-Diabetes Basics

Diabetes warning signs for Type 1, and Type 2 are similar in some areas and very different in others. We have listed most of the key signs for each insulin-dependent and insulin-resistant types of diabetes. Warning signs for Gestational diabetes are similar to Type 2 diabetes.

Type 1 Diabetes Warning Signs:                                                                                                    Know Your Blood Sugar Numbers

•  

  Excessive Thirst

•  
  Excessive Urination
•  
  Weight Loss
•  
  Yeast infections
•  
  Dehydration (in spite of good fluid intake)
•  
  Vomiting
•  
  Lethargy
•  
  Confusion
•  
  Flu-like Symptoms
•  
  Extreme thirst
•  
  Bedwetting
•  
  Fruity odor to breath

If you or your child exhibit three or more of these symptoms you should probably be checked for diabetes.

Eat Less and Exercise More — Safely

Type 2 Diabetes Warning Signs:

•  

  Increased thirst

•  
  Increased hunger (especially after eating)
•  
  Dry mouth
•  
  Frequent urination
•  
  Unexplained weight loss (even though you are eating and feel hungry)
•  
  Fatigue (weak, tired feeling)
•  
  Blurred vision
•  
  Headaches
•  
  Loss of consciousness (rare)
•  
  Slow-healing sores or cuts
•  
  Itching of the skin (usually around the vaginal or groin area)
•  
  Frequent yeast infections
•  
  Recent weight gain
•  
  Velvety dark skin changes of the neck, armpit and groin, called acanthosis nigricans
•  
  Numbness and tingling of the hands and feet
•  
  Decreased vision

If your child exhibits three or more of these symptoms you should probably be checked for diabetes.

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Type 2 Diabetes Medications

Sulfonylureas (SUL-fo-nill-u-RAY-us) is a class of medication that signals to the pancreas to release more insulin right after a meal and then over many hours to lower your blood glucose. You should take this medication right before a meal. Sulfonylureas can cause low blood sugar (hypglycemia).

                           
In order for these pills to work, your pancreas must still be able to produce insulin. So, this drug is not good for Type 1 diabetes.

How to Take Sulfonylureas
Sulfonylureas drugs comes as a pill and are taken by mouth once a day at breakfast. It is important to not take more  sulfonylureas pills than your doctor recommends. And, if you miss a dose, do not double-dose. If you do, you may develop low blood sugar.

Along with diet and exercise, sulfonylureas can help Type 2 diabetics lose weight and increase the effectiveness of their insulin. Talk to your doctor about a specific treatment plan, including instructions for how to properly use the brands above. Also, speak with your doctor if you see no change in your weight or blood sugar level.

Hazards to Look Out For
There are some severe side effects associated with sulfonylureas use, including major heart problems. Therefore, it is wise to speak with your doctor before beginning sulfonylureas use. Here are some of the most common precautions to be aware of:

• Sulfonylureas may cause an allergic reaction

• Sulfonylureas may interact with other prescription and non-prescription medications

• Tell your doctor if you are also taking vitamins

• Sulfonylureas may affect pre-existing heart, liver, kidney, thyroid, adrenal, or pituitary issues.

• Your doctor should be informed if you are pregnant, plan on becoming pregnant, or breast-feeding

• Your doctor and dentist should be aware of the sulfonylureas use before any form of surgery

• Sulfonylureas may cause drowsiness, therefore, do not operate heavy machinery, such as a car or heavy equipment, while taking sulfonylureas

• Alcohol may also increase the effects of drowsiness

• Cigarette smoking may cause sulfonylureas to be less effective

• Avoid prolonged exposure to the sunlight while on sulfonylureas. Sulfonylureas will make your skin sensitive to sunlight

Common Side Effects of Sulfonylureas Use Include:                                Exercise Safely to Reduce Blood Sugar!

• Skin rash

• Itching or redness

• Exaggerated sunburn

• Yellowing of the skin or eyes

• Light-colored stools

• Dark urine

• Unusual bleeding or bruising

• Fever

• Sore throat

Common Side Effects of Low Blood Sugar Levels Associated with Sulfonylureas Use include:

• Sulfonylureas may cause low blood sugar levels – check your blood sugar levels regularly

• Shakiness

• Dizziness or lightheadedness                                             Always Have Glucose Tables for Low Blood Sugar

• Sweating

• Nervousness or irritability

• Sudden changes in behavior or mood

• Headache

• Numbness or tingling in the mouth

• Weakness

• Pale skin

• Hunger

• Clumsy or jerky movements

If you suffer from low blood sugar levels as a result of sulfonylureas treatments, you may experience some lasting effects, Including:

• Fainting

• Seizures

• Loss of consciousness

If you suffer from high blood sugar levels, you may experience the following side effects:

• Extreme thirst                                                                                                     Know Your Blood Sugar!

• Frequent urination

• Extreme hunger

• Weakness

• Blurred vision

If you continue to have high blood sugar levels that are not treated by sulfonylureas use or any other medication, you may begin to experience a condition known as Diabetic Ketoacidosis. If so, then contact your doctor immediately and be sure to tell him or her that you are taking sulfonylureas to treat the high blood sugar levels. Some common side effects of Diabetic Ketoacidosis include:

• Dry mouth

• Upset stomach and vomiting

• Shortness of breath

• Breath that smells fruity

• Decreased consciousness