Oral diabetic medications are most effective for patients with Type 2 diabetes with less than ten years of high blood pressure and who are of normal weight or obese. Though oral diabetic medications may be effective for years, eventually the patient may have to take insulin.

Sulfonylureas are diabetic medications that stimulate insulin production in the pancreas. Patients with allergies to sulfa drugs, or who do not have a functioning pancreas should avoid this diabetic medication. Side effects of this diabetic medication include low blood sugar, upset stomach, skin rashes, and weight gain. This diabetic medication is taken either once or twice a day.

Biguanides are diabetic medications that inhibit sugar production in the liver. This type of diabetic medication may also cause weight loss, which can improve blood sugar levels as well. Side effects of this diabetic medication include complications from alcohol use (more than 2-4 drinks a week), exacerbation of existing kidney problems, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Patients who are having surgery or dye tests should inform their doctors that they are taking this diabetic medication. This diabetic medication is taken three times a day.

Alpha-glycosidase inhibitors are diabetic medications that inhibit starch digestion, preventing blood sugar spikes after meals. Side effects for this diabetic medication include gas, bloating, and diarrhea, though these problems generally subside. This diabetic medication is taken three times a day.

Thiazolidinediones are diabetic medications that increase the sensitivity of cells to insulin, thus pulling glucose out of the bloodstream and into cells. Side effects for this diabetic medication include liver complications, low blood sugar when used in conjunction with other diabetic medications, diminishing effectiveness of oral contraceptives, weight gain, anemia, and swelling of the legs. This diabetic medication is taken either once or twice a day.

Meglitinides are diabetic medications that stimulate the pancreas to produce more insulin immediately after meals. These diabetic medications work more quickly than other diabetic medications, allowing meals to be varied more than with other diabetic medications. Side effects of this diabetic medication include weight gain and low blood sugar. This diabetic medication is taken before each meal.

Type II diabetes is one of today’s most common health conditions. As the rate of obesity has increased in this country, so has the incidence of diabetes. It’s becoming more and more important to understand how to prevent diabetes, as well as the best ways to treat it if we discover that we’re already affected.

Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin, the hormone that converts sugar and other food into energy. The most common type of diabetes seen today is Type II, where insulin is produced (though sometimes not in a high enough quantity), but is not used properly. This results in a higher than normal level of blood glucose in the body. Type I diabetes is diagnosed in childhood, and results from an inability to produce insulin.

Doctors are not entirely sure what causes diabetes, but we do know that family history plays a part. In addition, we know that people who are obese and who do not get regular exercise are at a much greater risk of developing Type II diabetes than those who exercise and maintain a healthy weight. Today, there are about 20.8 million people in the US with diabetes.

Nearly one third of these people don’t realize they have the disease. In addition, about 54 million people in the US are pre-diabetic, meaning their blood glucose levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to be diagnosed with diabetes. Complications from diabetes include blindness, kidney problems, heart disease, stroke, nerve damage and foot and skin problems.

Prevention is critical when it comes to diabetes, and even many people who are already pre-diabetic can reduce their blood glucose levels naturally to prevent their pre-diabetic state from turning into diabetes. In addition, some patients who already have Type II diabetes are able to control their condition with lifestyle changes.

To protect yourself from diabetes, it’s critical to maintain a healthy weight. Eat natural unprocessed foods that are rich in fiber and nutrients. Avoid sugar and white flour, because both of these foods tend to leave us with an excess of insulin.

Exercise every day. Not only can exercise help you keep your weight in check, but it can help your body more effectively use the food you consume, helping to prevent your blood sugar levels constant. Exercising and maintaining a healthy weight are the two most important ways to prevent diabetes, and to help control your insulin even if you’ve already been diagnosed. But, scientists are also discovering that there might be a secret weapon in the fight against diabetes, and it’s safe and simple.

Drink tea. Both green and black teas have been shown to help control blood sugar levels. One study, in particular, performed by the Indian Institute of Chemical Biology in Calcutta, India, showed that tea had a significant effect on the blood glucose levels of diabetic mice. When the mice were given tea, their blood sugar levels stayed consistent and did not rise above normal levels.

Tea, particularly green tea, has been shown to be effective in preventing, and even treating, many forms of disease. It has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, and even cancer. And, some studies have shown green tea to even be an effective adjunct to traditional cancer therapies.

Some researchers have found that traditional cancer treatments, like chemotherapy, are more effective when green tea is used in conjunction with the treatment.

Tea helps keep insulin levels constant in the blood, helping to regulate it naturally. Though most studies showing tea as an effective health protector have recommended green tea over black, this study on diabetes found no difference between the two. So, whether your preference is green tea or black, it may be helpful in the fight against diabetes.

For some pre-diabetics who are trying to ensure that their problems don’t progress, adding tea to your diet may be an easy way to help get your blood sugar levels back to normal. Of course, you will need to continue with your healthy diet and exercise routine, as well.

And, even for those who already have Type II diabetes, a regular regimen of tea may help you keep your blood sugar regulated with less medication, when used along with proper diet and exercise. Of course, as with any other alternative therapy, talk with your doctor. Tea is not designed to replace any medications you’re already taking, and should not be used as a substitute for diet and exercise.

And, beware of drinking highly sweetened tea. Adding sugar to the tea may negate any benefits the tea offers. Use a doctor approved artificial sweetener if you like your tea sweetened.

So, add some tea to your diet. Whether hot or cold, black or green, tea is good for you. And, particularly if one of your health goals is to prevent or treat Type II diabetes, tea may be a simple and effective way to help meet those goals.

People who suffer from Diabetes have to severely limit certain foods to keep their blood glucose level. This does not have to mean, however, that those people cannot enjoy a little bit of luxury in the form of sweets every so often. These are our favorite two recipes for desserts, designed especially with the diabetic in mind.

Sugar Free Chocolate Raspberry Mousse

You will need a 9” pie crust brushed with egg whites, ¼ cup whipping cream, ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/2 cup of fruit-sweet raspberry jam or syrup, ½ pint of fresh, rinsed raspberries, 1 packet of Equal or NutraSweet, 1/3 cup of fat free or light cream cheese, 2/3 cup of partially skin ricotta cheese, ¾ cup of milk, 1 4-serving package of instant sugar-free chocolate pudding, and a mint sprig to decorate each slice.

To make the Creamy Raspberry Filling, first beat the whipping cream. When it is nearly stiff, add the vanilla and a tablespoon of the strained raspberry jam or syrup. Save one berry for the garnish, and fold the remainder of the fresh raspberries and the Equal into the mix. Spread the filling evenly over the bottom of the baked pie shell.

To make the Chocolate Raspberry Mousse, blend the following thoroughly in a blender or food processor: The cream cheese, ricotta cheese and ½ cup of raspberry jam or syrup. When the mixture is smooth and no seeds are detected, hand stir in the milk. Beat in the chocolate pudding powder, only until it is thoroughly mixed. Pour the mousse mixture over the berry filling immediately, making sure that it spread evenly and until the edges of the crust.

Refrigerate for thirty to sixty minutes, until properly congealed. Or you can chill the pie for fifteen to twenty minutes in the freezer. When ready to serve, garnish each individual slice with one raspberry and one mint sprig.

Diabetic Apple Raisin Cookies

You will need one cup of raisins, 1/3 cup of dates, ½ cup of chopped apples, ¾ cup of chopped nuts, 1 cup of water, ½ cup of vegetable shortening, two well-beaten eggs or egg-substitute, 2 ½ teaspoons of liquid sweetener, 1 cup of flour, 1 teaspoon of vanilla, 1 teaspoon of baking soda and 1 teaspoon of baking powder.

Soak the raisins and dates for at least an hour. Then boil the raisins, dates and apples for a full three minutes. Next, you will want to add the shortening to melt, cool and add the remaining ingredients with nuts last. Refrigerate the mix until it is well chilled, then drop the mix by the teaspoon onto a cookie sheet. Bake the cookies at 350ºF. for 10 to 12 minutes, and enjoy!

Diabetes has indeed become a global problem, and in almost every country of the world, it is on the rise. Type 1 diabetes is a chronic disease that affects as many as 16 million Americans. The diagnosis of type 2 diabetes, is also becoming increasingly common in The United States. This type of diabetes is strongly associated with inactivity and obesity of modern day living, and is in fact the most common form of diabetes mellitus. Diabetes is also now starting to plague developing nations, and is found in children, teens and adults within all racial and ethnic groups. It is a serious disease and should not be ignored. The cause of diabetes is unknown, although genetics plays a role.

The key to managing diabetes is knowledge. Diabetes is a chronic (life-long) condition that without treatment can have serious consequences. It is the number one cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD), and the leading cause of blindness among adults in USA.

With diabetes being on such a dramatic increase in the United States, and in fact worldwide, it's helpful to understand what diabetes is, and what to look for. Diabetes is, simply put, a disease in which blood glucose levels are above normal. The symptoms of diabetes are often silent and it's not until a complication, often heart disease, happens that a diagnosis is made. If you wait for symptoms in diabetes, then you are already too late. Although the most common symptoms of diabetes are usually excessive thirst, excessive hunger, and excessive urination, other symptoms may include sweating, trembling, hunger, dizziness, moodiness, confusion, and blurred vision. Although the symptoms in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes are similar, they tend to develop gradually in type II Diabetes, and are not as noticeable as they are in type 1 diabetes.

Even though there is no actual cure for Diabetes, it can be kept under control. Monitoring your blood sugar (also called glucose) level can help you take better care of your diabetes. This is easily checked with a blood glucose meter (glucometer), and is one of the most important steps you can take yourself in managing your diabetes. Keeping your blood sugar level as close to normal as possible will help you to feel better, and also reduces the risk of long-term complications of diabetes. High blood sugar can cause heart and kidney problems, blindness, stroke, the loss of a foot or leg, or even kill you. Low blood sugar, known as hypoglycemia, only occurs as a result of treating your diabetes, and it can quickly become an emergency that needs to be treated immediately.

Blood sugar increases after you eat or drink anything besides water, so you have to watch your diet carefully, as too much sugar in your food will give a high blood sugar level. As mentioned previously, being able to check your blood sugar levels on a day-to-day basis can greatly improve your diabetes control. Spreading carbohydrate intake throughout the day also helps to keep your blood sugar levels within a safe range.

While some diabetics can manage their blood sugar levels with just oral medication, others need insulin. You will be guided by your medical team as to the best course for you personally.

Diabetes is a truly global problem, and a very serious disease which is tough to tackle. Diabetes is no respecter of age, class or race and is on the rise, both in men, and women, young and old. The key to managing diabetes is knowledge, so try to equip yourself with the information you need to control your diabetes properly.

Of all the afflictions of modern living, diabetes is one that is most common in this century. This unique disease is an affliction that sometimes goes undetected in people for a long while before one actually spots it. It is also a disease that does not confine one to bed rest like a bout of flu, or a viral infection. It shows no outward symptoms like pain or swelling or cough or discomfort. The only suspicion aside this illness is an unnatural craving for sweet things, which again, often gets dismissed as a weakness for sweets or as possessing a sweet tooth. Also, this love for the sugary stuff is not an invariable accompaniment of the disease.

The cause of this disease is the lack of insulin in our body. This hormone is essential for the body to get energy from the food that we eat. So a diabetic may have a hearty appetite and not benefit nutritionally, from the food that he or she consumes. The disease is not limited to a particular age group and even children can be afflicted by it. That is why medical science has categorized diabetes into two major types. Type I diabetes is a form where the body stops producing insulin altogether. This form usually starts in children. The Type II form of diabetes is the category in which some insulin is produced by the body but this insulin is not used properly by the body.

Being a disease that one has to live with for a lifetime, the best way to manage diabetes is to bring about a change in the lifestyle of the individual. Besides medication, diabetes is a disease that has extensive mental and physical implications. Persons suffering from this disease need to be aware of the symptoms of depression and remain in a healthy state of mind. Joining a support group is a big step ahead in remaining healthy despite having diabetes.

Diabetes management is not an easy task. Keeping your blood sugar levels within the needed range can be difficult, and insulin injections can sometimes be a hassle in certain situations. Maybe it is for these and other reasons that you have been looking for different alternative ways of keeping your diabetes under control. Many diabetics have tried to use natural remedies to help with their disease management, and many of them have experienced positive results. It is understandable to feel skeptical about natural resources to treat diabetes, since many companies and businesses make outrageous false claims about the results you can achieve with their natural products.

Although the truth is that natural remedies may not cure your diabetes completely of replace your need for insulin shots or pills, they can possibly help you manage your glucose levels and keep your diabetes under control. Let us take a look at three natural remedies that have made a positive impact on diabetes.

Chromium

Chromium is an essential mineral found in many foods that we eat on a daily basis. This trace mineral helps burn carbs and fats, but its main function is to increase insulin efficiency when controlling blood glucose levels. Although people with diabetes usually have low levels of chromium, this is not believed to be a cause for diabetes.

Chromium picolinate is the form of chromium usually sold as a supplement, because it is easier for the body to absorb. Recent studies have shown that chromium has helped people with diabetes and insulin resistance, but it has not been a complete cure for diabetes.

Although it seems like trying this supplement would be a smart thing to do, you must be careful. Other studies have shown that chromium can increase your risk for heart disease, and the truth is that no one really knows what amount is safe to take in supplement form. You should never exceed 120 micrograms.

If you are thinking about giving chromium supplements a shot, do your research. Make sure the company you buy the products from is reliable, and always consult with your doctor before trying out new treatment options.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a spice derived from the bark of an evergreen tree, which is native to India. Its active ingredient has been proven to act like insulin and lower blood glucose levels. In medical studies, cinnamon has also been proven to lower bad cholesterol levels. Another great benefit of cinnamon is that it helps neutralize free radicals, dangerous chemicals which are elevated in diabetics. Neutralizing these free radical will help reduce or eliminate risk of serious complications.

Calcium

Calcium is a very important mineral found in the human body, and deficiencies in it have been linked to diseases like diabetes, cancer, heart disease and osteoporosis. Studies have shown that people with high intakes of calcium reduced their risks of type 2 diabetes by a significant percentage.

Having a daily intake of calcium in dietary or supplement form is very important to good health and to avoid serious diseases, including diabetes.

A new anti-diabetes drug gives the people of India a new hope in fighting diabetes. Experts however are still divided about the medication’s effectiveness despite significant evidences of the pill’s power to stop diabetes by as much as 60 percent. Nevertheless, experts are still very hopeful for the drug, known as Rosiglitazone, to be what the diabetes capital of the world needs, and perhaps what could benefit other diabetes-laden countries as well.

India is known to have the highest rate of diabetes all over the world with over 40 million diabetics that are projected to double in the next three decades. A study conducted by the Diabetes Reduction Assessment with Medication (DREAM) has revealed in their most recent monthly publication through The Lancet that when Rosgilitazone, was administered to pre-diabetes patients for three years, the onset of diabetes is blocked by 62 percent. At the same time, 70 percent of the participants were able to normalize their glucose levels to healthy measures.

This could provide India a very significant protection against diabetes being aware that it is estimated that at least 10 million Indians would become diabetic within the coming five years. The results of the DREAM study suggests that with diabetes medications such as rosiglitazone combined with changes in lifestyle, members of the Indian population nearing the threshold of diabetes can prevent acquiring the disease. But not all experts are sold to these findings.

Some members of the American Diabetes Association are still quite adamant about the immediate prescription and dispensing of the drug to pre-diabetes patients as the treatment also shown some potentially serious side effects. The DREAM study itself reported some cases of cardiovascular problems related to the medication. While the side effects were not fatal and quite insignificant in number when compared to the large sample, some experts believe that long term studies should be conducted to ensure the drug’s safety.

Proponents of the treatment, particularly those living in India, see that there is limited time to wait for such safety studies considering that there are places where diabetic is already considered an epidemic. For example, in India, at least one out of every 10 individuals are already considered seriously pre-diabetic with their cases so severe that mere lifestyle changes are sent o be insignificant in stopping the disease from progressing. In such a scenario it is seen that a delay of immediate intervention (by using the drug) would pose great threats even with considerable diet changes and exercise.

Some diabetes experts on the other hand believe that promoting the drug would induce not only patients, but doctors as well to skip diet control and exercise as parts of diabetes prevention. The promises of the medications make it appear that they are the easy way for blocking the disease, when other factors such as physical activity and diet are still necessary. Such is why these experts still believe that patients and doctors still have to wait.

A recent international conference headed by world renowned diabetes experts held at Chennai addressed the debate over such medications versus lifestyle changes. Most agreed that lifestyle changes are still the most important factors in preventing diabetes and that drugs are there just to aid such modifications. What might be certain could still be that the use of the latest anti-diabetes medications is still pending.

If you have been diagnosed with diabetes then you know that you are going to be in for some changes in your life. Most of the time your diet and exercise routine will have to change to help keep your blood glucose levels under control. Diabetes is not something that can be taken lightly, because it can cause quite a few medical problems and in the worst case even death. The best way to keep your blood glucose levels under control is using a blood glucose meter. If your blood glucose levels get out of whack, then you might have to take extra insulin to get your level within the normal range. Your blood glucose meter will become one of the most important things that you have to try to combat diabetes. There are many different kinds of blood glucose meters available on the market today, so here is some of the things that you will need to consider when picking the meter that is right for you.

Most insurance companies will usually cover most of the cost of a blood glucose meter, so the differences between the meters should be the only things you need to know about to make your selection. All blood glucose meters need 1 micro liter or less of blood to perform a blood glucose test, but some meters use less than others. Also most meters can perform the test within ten seconds, but some can do it as fast as three seconds, so this can also be a factor in your decision. Also some meters come with more options than others. You can get information about how certain food has affected you between readings, you can connect some meters to your computer, and some meters just give you a simple score. You need to decide what you want from your meter and pick the one that is right for you. All of these options can help you choose the meter that will help you manage your blood glucose levels effectively, because that is the only reason to buy a blood glucose meter in the first place.