Chilly Friday morning with sunny skies expected in the afternoonRuling on abortion amendment expected on Monday
Childhood obesity quadruples risk of developing type 2 diabetes: Journal of the Endocrine Society. Obesity and Diabetes are epidemic health problems. Obesity affects 12.7 million children and teens in US. 3600 new type 2 diabetes cases diagnosed each year (age 25). Conclusions: 1 in 11 adults has type 2 diabetes. 415 million people worldwide. Heavy burden on society due to cost of treatment. Prevention is key. Omega-3 intake through mother’s breast milk may lower type 1 diabetes risk: Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder. Body’s own immune cells attack the beta cells. Beta cells produce insulin. Insulin decreases the level of sugar in the blood. Commonly diagnosed in teenage years. Studying the link between omega-3 serum levels and autoimmunity: National Institute of Health and Welfare in Helsinki, Finland. High levels of omega-3 fatty acids = lower insulin autoimmunity Breastfeeding was superior to formula feeding in prevention. Omega-3 fats: Fish Fish Oil Nuts Leafy vegetables Vegetable Oils Alternative therapies for diabetes prevention: Fenugreek Magnesium Cassia cinnamon Aloe vera Garlic Alpha-lipoic acid = antioxidant (spinach, broccoli and potatoes) Chromium Omega-3 fatty acids Reducing stress – relaxation therapy, massage, reflexology Risk factors for children to develop type 2 diabetes: Being overweight – especially belly fat Sex – girls > boys Age – usually by 10 years Family history – increases risk. Race or ethnicity – increased in African-American, Native American and Hispanic. Risk factors for adults and diabetes: Being overweight or obese Excess fat around the abdominal region Age – increases after age 45 Diet – excess carbohydrates Sleep patterns – increased with sleep apnea Family history – increases risk Stress – cortisol Gestational diabetes – increases risk. Polycystic ovary syndrome – insulin resistance Ethnicity – African-Americans, Native Americans, Hispanics, Pacific Islanders and Asian Americans Metabolic syndrome – 3 or more conditions that put one at risk for diabetes. Treatment and alternative therapies: Lifestyle changes Weight loss Moderate, consistent activity Increase muscle mass Increase flexibility Reduce stress Healthful diet Keeping a strict meal schedule Stop smoking Avoid excess sugars Coffee intake in moderation Getting enough sleep Monitoring blood glucose Take medications as prescribed.