Exercise Can Reduce Risks Of Diabetes

Exercise Can Reduce Risks Of Diabetes

by: Simon Harris

The 2 types of diabetes are type I and type II. Type I diabetes is characterized by the pancreas making too little or no insulin. An individual with diabetes type I will have to inject insulin throughout the day in order to control glucose levels. Type II diabetes, also known as adult onset diabetes, is characterized by the pancreas not producing enough insulin to control glucose levels or the cells not responding to insulin. When a cell does not respond to insulin, it is known as insulin resistance. When a subject is diagnosed with type II diabetes, exercise and weight control are prescribed as measures to help with insulin resistance. If this does not control glucose levels, then medication is prescribed. The risk factors for type II diabetes include: inactivity, high cholesterol, obesity, and hypertension. Inactivity alone is a very strong risk factor that has been proven to lead to diabetes type II. Exercise will have a positive effect on diabetes type II while improving insulin sensitivity while type I cannot be controlled be an exercise program. Over 90 f individuals with diabetes have type II. Exercise causes the body to process glucose faster, which lowers blood sugar. The more intense the exercise, the faster the body will utilize glucose. Therefore it is important to understand the differences in training with type I and type II diabetes. It is important for an individual who has diabetes to check with a physician before beginning an exercise program. When training with a diabetic, it is important to understand the dangers of injecting insulin immediately prior to exercise. An individual with type I diabetes injecting their normal amount of insulin for a sedentary situation can pose the risk of hypoglycemia or insulin shock during exercise. General exercise guidelines for type I are as follows: allow adequate rest during exercise sessions to prevent high blood pressure, use low impact exercises and avoid heavy weight lifting, and always have a supply of carbohydrates nearby. If blood sugar levels get too low, the individual may feel shaky, disoriented, hungry, anxious, become irritable or experience trembling. Consuming a carbohydrate snack or beverage will alleviate these symptoms in a matter of minutes. Before engaging in exercise, it is important for blood sugar levels to be tested to make sure that they are not below 80 to 100 mg/dl range and not above 250 mg/dl. Glucose levels should also be tested before, during, after and three to five hours after exercise. During this recovery period (3-5 hours after exercise), it is important for diabetics to consume ample carbohydrates in order to prevent hypoglycemia. Exercise will greatly benefit an individual with type II diabetes because of its positive effects on insulin sensitivity. Proper exercise and nutrition are the best forms of prevention for type II diabetics. It is important for training protocols to be repeated almost daily to help with sustaining insulin sensitivity. To prevent hypoglycemia, progressively work up to strenuous activity. As with individuals with type I diabetes, carbohydrates should also be present during training to assist in raising blood sugar levels if the individual becomes low. About the author: This article provided courtesy of http://www.cholesterol-answers.com

Now Fat's Good for Us? Not Just Another Fish St...

Now Fat's Good for Us? Not Just Another Fish Story

by: ARA

(ARA) - Low fat, no fat and now they say to eat more fat? Over the years, Americans have been fed different stories about choosing the right foods for optimum health. When researchers warned that too much fat in your diet leads to cardiovascular disease, diabetes and a host of other health problems, Americans jumped on the low fat, no fat bandwagon with little success. New studies reveal that we must have some fat in our diet for good health and reduction of disease. The omega-3 fatty acids are said to be �essential� because they can not be produced by the body and must be obtained through our food sources.. *What are omega-3s? Omega-3 essential fatty acids can come from either plant or marine sources. They can be found in fish and fish oil, unrefined vegetable oils, raw nuts, seeds and beans. Linolenic acid, the marine source, can be found in certain fatty fish such as mackerel, lake trout, herring, sardines, albacore tuna and salmon. These fish and fish oil supplements contain bioavailable docosahexaenoic (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic (EPA) acid, the two kinds of omega-3 essential fatty acids crucial to good health. The plant based omega-3 essential fatty acid is alpha linolenic acid (alpha meaning plant) and can be found in omega-3 rich oils such as flaxseed, canola, soybean and walnut oils. These plant sourced omega-3 EFAs don�t metabolize in the body like fish oil. They need to be broken down by the body�s enzymatic system into DHA and EPA before the body can reap its powerful benefits. Flaxseed oil, the plant source highest in omega-3s, is a great alternative for vegetarians and those who can�t tolerate fish or fish oil capsules. In Dr. Walter Willett�s book, �Eat, Drink & Be Healthy,� he writes: �Given the wide ranging importance and benefits of omega-3 fatty acids, everyone should try to eat at least one good source of them a day.� The omega-3 essential fatty acid is a key component of cell membranes throughout the body, especially the eye, brain and central nervous system. This important fat is the building block of hormones, including those that regulate blood clotting, artery walls and inflammation. A recent study indicated that the omega-3 EFA from fish reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease and can reduce the risk of stroke as well. Fish oil has been found to increase circulation and reduce insulin sensitivity; but most importantly, diabetics who ate more fish had a significantly lower risk of coronary heart disease and total death than those who didn�t eat fish. Fish oils have proven beneficial for people suffering many disorders including depression, cystic fibrosis, Crohn�s disease, irritable bowel syndrome, diabetes and lupus. It also helps keep hair, skin and nails healthy. On a grand scale, omega-3s play a vital role in health. Doctors and researchers have been studying the benefits for years. Now the government and the important organizations are also emphasizing the need for good fats in the diet. Last November, the American Heart Association (AHA) issued a release stating, �omega-3 fatty acids benefit the heart health of healthy people, people at high risk of cardiovascular disease and patients with cardiovascular disease.� The organization recommends that Americans eat fatty fish, such as mackerel, lake trout, herring, sardines, albacore tuna and salmon, at least twice a week. Regular consumption of omega-3 fatty acids from plant sources such as flaxseed, canola, soybean and walnut oils is also highly recommended. Recently, the White House Executive Office sent a letter to the Department of Health & Human Services and the USDA requesting the departments promote the consumption of omega-3 essential fatty acids. The request has been made to add omega-3 essential fatty acids to the new dietary guidelines for Americans, scheduled to be released in 2005. The Executive Office has also asked that omega-3s be incorporated on the soon to be updated 1992 USDA Food Guide Pyramid. The American Heart Association urges Americans to eat fatty fish to get an adequate intake of omega-3s into their diet. Take caution when choosing these fatty fish, as sometimes they are laden with contaminants such as mercury, PCBs and lead. Supplements can be taken if omega-3 rich fish or plants sources aren�t readily available. Before purchasing fish oil supplements it is important to look at the label to make sure it is PCB, mercury and lead free. �Product quality and consumer health are number one for Spectrum. Every lot of fish oil we encapsulate is tested to be free of PCBs, mercury, lead and dioxins,� says Neil Blomquist , CEO of Spectrum Organic Products, Incorporated. �It would be absurd for us to supply consumers with heart healthy fish oil that contained deadly toxins.� Flaxseed, canola, walnut and soybean oils can be incorporated into salad dressings for their omega-3 benefits. Incorporating omega-3 essential fatty acids into your diet, whether by marine or plant source is a good start to a healthier way of eating and living. Reducing your intake of saturated fat and trans fats, exercising and eliminating stress are just as important. Spectrum Organic Products carries a natural and healthy line of trans fat free shortening, margarine, spreads, culinary oils and essential fatty acid nutritional supplement line including PCB mercury free fish oil and organic flaxseed oil. You can find their products in natural food stores and select chain stores across the United States. For more information log onto www.spectrumnaturals.com or call (800) 995-2705. Courtesy of ARA Content About the author: Courtesy of ARA Content Circulated by Article Emporium

4 Important Facts You Should Know About Whey Pr...

4 Important Facts You Should Know About Whey Protein by: Emily Clark Are you concerned about taking care of your body before and after strenuous activities or workouts? Do you try to avoid supplements that contain additives and possible side effects? If you are interested in better health and improved physical fitness you have surely heard that bodybuilders and other athletes are turning to a simple, natural supplement called whey protein. WHY DO ATHLETES USE WHEY PROTEIN? Protein levels are depleted through exercise. Muscles require amino acids to prevent deterioration, give endurance and build mass. Proteins supply these amino acids to the muscles which is why athletes use whey protein. WHAT IS WHEY PROTEIN? Commercial whey protein comes from cow's milk. Whey is the by-product of making cheese and was usually thrown away as a waste product. Now researchers know that whey protein is high quality, natural protein that is rich with amino acids essential for good health and muscle building. It is naturally found in mother's milk and also used in baby formula. It is being considered for use as a fortifier of grain products because of its considerable health benefits and bland flavor. Although protein is also found in other foods such as meat, soy and vegetables, whey protein is proven to have the highest absorption (digestion) levels in comparison to all others. WHO SHOULD CONSIDER USING WHEY PROTEIN? Whey protein has many health benefits including immune support, bone health, sports health, weight management and overall well being. Because amino acids are 'building blocks' for the human body it is sometimes used by patients to speed up the healing of wounds or burns. The high quality protein that comes from whey makes it a recommended choice for those who need optimal benefits from restricted diets including diabetics, those on weight management diets and even ill patients not able to consume enough protein in their diet to assist with healing. CAN WHEY PROTEIN BE DANGEROUS? Whey protein is a food and so it does not have have the risks associated with other supplements. That said, too much of anything carries risks. Extremely high use of whey protein can overload the liver which can cause serious problems. Moderation is always recommended. If you are lactose intolerant you might try whey protein isolate which has less than 1% lactose and should be tolerable for most users. Whey protein is a natural and healthy way to bring protein into your diet and increase well being. The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to medically diagnose, treat or cure any disease. Consult a health care practitioner before beginning any health care program. About the author: Emily Clark is editor at Lifestyle Health News and Medical Health News where you can find the most up-to-date advice and information on many medical, health and lifestyle topics. Circulated by Article Emporium

copyright 2005

Diabetes and Exercise

by: Mike Law

There are two main types of diabetes, type I and type II. Type I diabetes is characterized by the pancreas making too little or no insulin. An individual with diabetes type I will have to inject insulin throughout the day in order to control glucose levels. Type II diabetes, also known as adult onset diabetes, is characterized by the pancreas not producing enough insulin to control glucose levels or the cells not responding to insulin. When a cell does not respond to insulin, it is known as insulin resistance. When a subject is diagnosed with type II diabetes, exercise and weight control are prescribed as measures to help with insulin resistance. If this does not control glucose levels, then medication is prescribed. The risk factors for type II diabetes include: inactivity, high cholesterol, obesity, and hypertension. Inactivity alone is a very strong risk factor that has been proven to lead to diabetes type II. Exercise will have a positive effect on diabetes type II while improving insulin sensitivity while type I cannot be controlled be an exercise program. Over 90% of individuals with diabetes have type II. Exercise causes the body to process glucose faster, which lowers blood sugar. The more intense the exercise, the faster the body will utilize glucose. Therefore it is important to understand the differences in training with type I and type II diabetes. It is important for an individual who has diabetes to check with a physician before beginning an exercise program. When training with a diabetic, it is important to understand the dangers of injecting insulin immediately prior to exercise. An individual with type I diabetes injecting their normal amount of insulin for a sedentary situation can pose the risk of hypoglycemia or insulin shock during exercise. General exercise guidelines for type I are as follows: allow adequate rest during exercise sessions to prevent high blood pressure, use low impact exercises and avoid heavy weight lifting, and always have a supply of carbohydrates nearby. If blood sugar levels get too low, the individual may feel shaky, disoriented, hungry, anxious, become irritable or experience trembling. Consuming a carbohydrate snack or beverage will alleviate these symptoms in a matter of minutes. Before engaging in exercise, it is important for blood sugar levels to be tested to make sure that they are not below 80 to 100 mg/dl range and not above 250 mg/dl. Glucose levels should also be tested before, during, after and three to five hours after exercise. During this recovery period (3-5 hours after exercise), it is important for diabetics to consume ample carbohydrates in order to prevent hypoglycemia. Exercise will greatly benefit an individual with type II diabetes because of its positive effects on insulin sensitivity. Proper exercise and nutrition are the best forms of prevention for type II diabetics. It is important for training protocols to be repeated almost daily to help with sustaining insulin sensitivity. To prevent hypoglycemia, progressively work up to strenuous activity. As with individuals with type I diabetes, carbohydrates should also be present during training to assist in raising blood sugar levels if the individual becomes low. About the author: Whether you are looking for renewed strength, energy and vitality in your life, drug-free relief from arthritis and joint pain, or wanting to make a difference in your financial future by becoming a MonaVie distributor, www.mymonavie.com & www.whatismonavie.com Mike Law is a distributor of some the highest grade health and beauty products available. Rich in antioxidants and anti-aging nutrients, look and feel younger. Contact me or visit my sites to learn how to become a distributor yourself or simply to find out more about the products. www.wealthontap.usana.com Mike Law is also CEO of www.wealthontap.com whose mission is to better people�s lifestyles by substantially improving their health and or their financial status. www.pluginprofitsitebiz.info Complete Money Making Site Setup FREE! Circulated by Article Emporium

Lose Weight Without Starvation!

  Lose Weight Without Starvation!


Whether it be for medical reasons, or just to feel better about themselves, many people at one point or another in their lives need or want to loose weight.   Deciding on a weight loss plan is not as easy as it sounds. There are literally thousands of plans and products on the market today designed to help those who are overweight shed a few, or many unwanted pounds.  Of course, some of these plans are more effective than others, some more cost-effective or cost-prohibitive, and some just complete fads and myths, designed to do nothing other than to make a buck off of you, the bewildered consumer!

Nowadays, there is really no reason to feel deprived, when working on eating to lose weight, or for good health.  The foods which were put here on earth for us can be prepared in many delicious fashions, with myriad accents and sides, and can never be boring.  Especially with the internet, and its literal millions of recipes from all corners of the globe there is no shortage of information on food preparation.  One can sample a different country's flavor every time he or she eats, with a little planning and preparation.  While there are many dishes to choose from, there are a few really HEALTHY, LIFE-LONG DIETS which a medical professional would recommend.

The "Low Carb Plan" is one of them. On this plan, one would limit his or her carbohydrates to a few grams per day, forcing the body to burn its stored fat for energy, thus helping the dieter to see results within a few weeks.  Foods that should be avoided include anything containing white flour such as white bread, rolls, bagels, pasta and white rice, along with candies, and other "goodies" containing refined sugar, which is really not healthy, and may contribute to pre-diabetes or diabetes, if it is eaten indiscriminately.  Also to be avoided would be sweetened soft drinks, or refined sugar in coffee or tea.  It helps to add either honey, agave nectar or Splenda to drinks instead of white sugar.  While it may seem a lot to give up, cutting back on these foods, and opting for whole grains wherever possible, even in pasta, already leads to better health, and is a must for those suffering from diabetes. It is fairly unanimous among medical professionals that excesses in refined sugars and starches (simple carbohydrates) can lead to Pre-Diabetes, or full blown TypeII Diabetes, while decreasing intake of these foods has a direct effect of lowering blood glucose  Managing your diet as described above will help you to maintain a healthy weight, can lower cholesterol and blood pressure, give you more energy and better concentration, and an all-around healthier lifestyle.  This is especially true of those with a family history of Diabetes TypeII, Heart Disease, High Blood Pressure, Stroke, etc.

There are good carbohydrate choices. Meat is naturally low in carbohydrates. Liver is the exception to this rule. Eggs, poultry, fish and shellfish are good menu choices. They are easy to prepare and are full of vitamins. Green vegetables that are low in carbohydrates include broccoli, asparagus, spinach and other leafy green vegetables, cauliflower, green beans, brussels sprouts and celery.  If the recommended daily servings of fresh fruits, veggies and lean proteins (don't forget your legumes for protein - they're wonderful sources!) are consumed regularly, it is difficult for one to be hungry, and soon, the cravings for sweets are a thing of the past!  I promise you that this is true, from personal experience. There are so many good choice foods to choose from, and so many ways to prepare them that the bad choice foods will not be missed when on a proper, well-thought-out, low carb diet.

Fiber is another essential part of  a proper diet.. Fiber helps one to feel full longer as well, and helps to keep the digestive tract from being "clogged", if you will.  This can lead to toxins building up in your body, inflammatory diseases, chronic pain, and a host of other health issues, often serious.. When you do not get enough fiber it defeats the purpose of trying to eat a proper diet.  Also just as important to anyone's health and well-being is water.  One needs to remember to keep hydrated, as this is what ensures the body's absorption of all of those good vitamins mentioned above.  If we eat the right foods, but they are not properly and thoroughly assimilated, then we've really not done all we need to do in order to maintain our healthy weight and other important levels already mentioned.   It is generally recommended that an adult drink at least 64 ounces of water each day for proper hydration and digestion. .

If you're not one who likes to plan and prepare a lot, there is always the simple salad with leafy greens, and perhaps some grilled poultry or fish, both of which will add to the benefit of the fresh vegetables, loaded with important vitamins, minerals and trace minerals.  One important thing to note is that more often than not, processed foods have been prepared such that much of the important stuff is changed or destroyed, and the best way to get all of the body's much needed trace elements and phytonutrients is to eat the whole fruit or vegetable, raw.  This is what is lacking in many diets today, and our health is showing this more and more.  SO, toss a nice green salad, with some fresh tomatoes (also very important for cancer prevention), lean meat, and perhaps some whole-grain bread for added fiber and flavor, drizzle some olive-oil vinaigrette over it, and eat hearty!

SO, you can get really creative, try a different international flavor for every meal, if you like, or you can do it "Back to Eden" style.  It's up to you, but be creative, try different things, and enjoy the wide variety of foods that are healthy for you to eat, and without limitation!  Watch the weight drop, your glucose and blood pressure drop,  your energy levels rise, along with your self-esteem and confidence that you've made a life-long, life changing choice!

Happy Eating!