Diabetes
Diabetes mellitus (MEL-ih-tus), often referred to as diabetes, is characterized by high blood glucose (sugar) levels that result from the body’s inability to produce enough insulin and/or effectively utilize the insulin. Diabetes is a serious, life-long condition and the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. Diabetes is a disorder of metabolism (the body's way of digesting food and converting it into energy). There are three forms of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that accounts for five- to 10-percent of all diagnosed cases of diabetes. Type 2 diabetes may account for 90- to 95-percent of all diagnosed cases. The third type of diabetes occurs in pregnancy and is referred to as gestational diabetes. Left untreated, gestational diabetes can cause health issues for pregnant women and their babies. People with diabetes can take preventive steps to control this disease and decrease the risk of further complications.
Recently Answered
- Q What are the benefits of reducing insulin levels?
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Dr. Dean Ornish, Internal MedicineReducing insulin levels has other benefits. Insulin also plays a key role in increasing cholesterol synthesis. When your insulin levels rise, your liver makes more of an enzyme called HMG-CoA reductase which, in turn, causes your body to make more... Full Answer
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- Q What should I avoid while using glucose control drinks?
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Stacy Wiegman, PharmacyYou do not need to avoid anything specific while taking glucose control drinks. However, it is important to follow the meal plan described by your doctor or diabetes educator and to use glucose control drinks appropriately as part of that plan. Full Answer
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- Q How should I use glucose control nutritional drinks?
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Stacy Wiegman, PharmacyGlucose control nutritional drinks serve as a snack or a small meal. They are not intended as a meal replacement or as a treatment for a hypoglycemic (low blood sugar) or hyperglycemic (high blood sugar) episode. In addition, they are best consumed once... Full Answer
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- Q Should I tell my doctor I am using glucose control drinks?
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Stacy Wiegman, PharmacyIt is always a good idea for your healthcare provider or diabetes educator to know about any medications, supplements or other products that you use, including drinks to help control glucose, or blood sugar, levels. A healthcare professional can help... Full Answer
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- Q How do glucose control nutritional drinks work?
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Stacy Wiegman, PharmacyThe ratio of nutrients (proteins to carbohydrates to fats) in glucose control drinks is specifically designed to help those with type 2 diabetes avoid dangerous spikes in their blood sugar levels. Glucose control drinks also contain nutrients... Full Answer
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- Q How are Glucose Tolerance and Glucose Balance different?
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Stacy Wiegman, PharmacyBoth Beta Fast Glucose Tolerance and Glucose Balance are extended-release supplements that help promote healthy blood sugar levels. However, the active ingredients in these two products are slightly different. Glucose Tolerance contains two major... Full Answer
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- Q What are glucose balance supplements?
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Stacy Wiegman, PharmacyGlucose balance supplements are natural, herbal remedies for high blood sugar. The active ingredient in this product is gymnema, which works to lower blood sugar in the body. Other natural ingredients assist in the lowering of blood sugar and... Full Answer
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- Q How does a glucose balance supplement work?
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Stacy Wiegman, PharmacyThe active ingredient in glucose balance supplements is gymnema, which is primarily responsible for the supplement's effectiveness. Gymnema works by decreasing the body's amount of sugar absorption, thus lowering blood sugar levels. It also has... Full Answer
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- Q What are the side effects of glucose balance supplement?
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Stacy Wiegman, PharmacyNo dangerous side effects associated with the use of glucose balance supplements have been reported. However, because very little research has been done to prove the complete safety of these supplements, it is wise to consult with a physician... Full Answer
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- Q Who should not use glucose balance supplement?
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Stacy Wiegman, PharmacyBecause the effects of glucose balance supplements on unborn babies is not known, pregnant women should not use them without the approval of a doctor. Diabetic individuals should also consult with a physician before using glucose balance... Full Answer
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