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The Cholesterol-Heart Disease Connection

Having high cholesterol puts you at increased risk of developing coronary heart disease. Combine high cholesterol with other risk factors, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, and your risk of heart disease increases even more. Many factors can cause high cholesterol, some of which you can do something about and others you cannot.

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Cholesterol is a fatty substance that can harden and stick to your artery walls, causing them to narrow and result in a condition known as atherosclerosis. Clots can then form, further blocking the narrowed arteries, and causing a heart attack when blood can no longer pass through the narrowed arteries to supply oxygen to the heart muscle.

The National Institutes of Health reports that more than 34 million American adults have high cholesterol (higher than 240 mg/dL), about 8 percent of the population.

Who gets high cholesterol? According to the American Heart Association, both white and African American women over age 20 actually have higher rates of total cholesterol levels above 240 mg/dL than men. And it’s not just in adults. High cholesterol may also be a problem in children. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends cholesterol management for some children as young as 8 years of age and low-fat dairy products starting at age 2. Most children with high cholesterol have a parent with high cholesterol.

High Cholesterol Risk Factors

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Heredity, having a family history of high cholesterol and heart disease, your age, and gender are all things that may put you at risk for developing high cholesterol. But a number of lifestyle choices that are within your control can increase your risk:

  • The food you eat. Many foods can drive up your low-density lipoprotein or LDL cholesterol (the “bad” cholesterol). Eating too much saturated fat, trans fatty acids (trans fats), and animal-based cholesterol found in meats, cheeses, and egg yolks contribute to high cholesterol and heart disease.
  • Being overweight or obese. Having an unhealthy weight can increase LDL levels, reduce high-density lipoprotein or HDL cholesterol (the “good” cholesterol), and increase your total cholesterol level.
  • Not exercising. A lack of exercise also contributes to your risk for high cholesterol and cardiovascular disease.

Types of Cholesterol: Assessing Your Levels

When you have a blood test to check your cholesterol level, doctors look at four scores:

  • Total blood cholesterol
  • LDL cholesterol
  • HDL cholesterol
  • Triglycerides

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If your total cholesterol score is less than 200 mg/dL and you have none of the above-mentioned risk factors, you are at low risk for heart disease. A total cholesterol score of 200-239 mg/dL is considered borderline high and anything above that is considered high. But you can also look at the LDL and HDL cholesterol level counts individually for more specific information about your risk for heart disease.

For example, higher HDL or good cholesterol levels are better. A low good cholesterol score (less than 40 mg/dL for men and less than 50 mg/dL for women) puts you at an increased risk for heart disease.

When you look at LDL or bad cholesterol, lower scores are better. The American Heart Association reports that LDL cholesterol is a better gauge of your risk for heart disease than the total cholesterol number. An LDL of less than 100 mg/dL is considered optimal.

Another part of the blood cholesterol test takes a look at triglycerides, which is another type of fat. If you have a high triglyceride level, you’re also likely to have a high total cholesterol level. A normal triglyceride level is less than 150 mg/dL.

Some health care providers use a ratio of total cholesterol to HDL cholesterol instead of the total blood cholesterol. That cholesterol ratio is found by dividing the HDL cholesterol level by the total cholesterol. But the American Heart Association recommends using the absolute numbers for total blood cholesterol and HDL cholesterol levels instead because they are a better tool to help guide your doctor in developing an appropriate treatment plan, if needed.

Lowering Your High Cholesterol: Ideas to Treat Naturally

Now that you know how to assess your cholesterol-heart disease risk, you can start thinking about how to reduce your risk and lower your cholesterol level. For most people, the best plan for reducing cholesterol involves lifestyle remedies that include a diet with the right foods, weight loss, and exercise. These changes are known as therapeutic lifestyle changes (TLC).

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What to eat? Foods for reducing high cholesterol are low in saturated fat and cholesterol. Recipes should include 0 or 1 percent dairy products, lean meats, whole grains, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Use soft margarine in place of butter in your diet menu. Limit foods high in cholesterol such as organ meats, shrimp, and egg yolks.

For people who cannot lower their cholesterol enough with a TLC diet, medication may be needed as well. Statin drugs are the most commonly used cholesterol lowering drugs. These drugs are safe for most people and are very good at lowering LDL cholesterol.

Natural remedies for high cholesterol that show some promise include diet supplements like flaxseed, garlic, and soy. Flaxseed and flaxseed oil contain a substance that may benefit heart disease. Some studies have shown that flaxseed may lower cholesterol in post menopausal women. Garlic can be used as a food or a diet supplement and studies suggest it may slow the development of coronary heart disease. Soy foods and soy supplements have been shown to lower LDL cholesterol.

Natural remedies are not a cure for high cholesterol or heart disease and should never take the place of TLC or prescribed medications. People using any diet supplements or other natural remedies should always consult with their doctors first.

Important Related Conditions

Some medical conditions increase your risk for heart disease, especially when combined with high cholesterol, another reason to keep cholesterol in check. These include:

  • Blood sugar. People who have diabetes have high blood sugar, also called “high glucose.” You can be born with blood sugar or develop it later in life. Blood sugar is caused by a shortage of, or a poor response to, insulin, the hormone that moves blood glucose out of the blood and into the muscles, fat, and liver cells where it is needed for fuel. Untreated high blood sugar is a major cause of heart disease.
  • Hypertension. High blood pressure often goes along with high cholesterol and heart disease. High blood pressure means that there is too much pressure pushing on the inside of the blood vessels of the body. This can lead to many problems, including increasing the work load of the heart. Too much salt or high sodium in the diet is one of the important risk factors for high blood pressure.
  • Familial combined hyperlipidemia. High blood cholesterol (hypercholesterolemia) and high blood triglycerides can be an inherited genetic disease. People who have this condition have a high rate of heart disease at an early age and begin to develop high levels of blood fats (hyperlipidemia) in their teenage years.

While the American Heart Association reports that from 1995 to 2005 death rates from cardiovascular disease actually declined 26.4 percent and that total cholesterol levels in men over age 40 and women over age 60 declined between 1999 – 2000 and 2005 – 2006, other age groups shown no improvement. African American men and women have a greater risk of death as a result of heart disease than Caucasian men and women, probably as a result of genetics and lifestyle factors.

It’s important that you understand the basics about cholesterol and its implications for heart disease. Know your own cholesterol levels, and if you do have high cholesterol, talk to your doctor about ways you can lower your cholesterol and reduce your risk of heart disease.

Use Supplement for blood sugar: 

FENFURO Regular intake of FENFURO can control the blood sugar level effectively. FENFURO is a first of its kind, safe nutraceutical derived from fenugreek seeds through a patented process.  Through its unique scientific process, FENFURO concentrates the bioactive part of plants into a manageable dose, while removing the inert parts such as cellulose. Also, since a lot of healthy botanicals are not palatable, consuming their concentrate in capsule form in small dosage is a lot easier. FENFURO contains a rich variety of saponins and flavonoids. These substances are known to lower blood lipid level and help in insulin sensitization and glucose regulation. FENFURO is the first dual action insulin sensitizer.

The statement and product have not been evaluated by the FDA to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

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Signs of High and Low Blood Sugar

 

One of the challenges of managing diabetes is maintaining consistent blood sugar (glucose) levels. Even with diligence, some situations can cause high blood sugar, or hyperglycemia, while others can bring on low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia.

There’s a lot you can do to minimize blood sugar ups and downs andavoid complications by monitoring your blood sugar levels with a glucose meter. How often to test depends on many factors, including the type of diabetes you have, any complications you’re facing, and the therapies you’re on, says Amber Taylor, MD, director of diabetes at the Center for Endocrinology at Mercy Hospital in Baltimore, Md.

It’s also important to know the signs of both high blood sugar and low blood sugar, and what actions to take to bring blood sugar levels back to a desired range.

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About High Blood Sugar (Hyperglycemia)

Common signs of high blood sugar include frequent urination, feeling thirsty, eating more food but not gaining as much weight as usual, fatigue, dry or itchy skin, and more frequent infections, says Athena Philis-Tsimikas, MD of the Scripps Whittier Diabetes Institute in La Jolla, Calif.

A blood sugar reading above 180 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) is considered above normal and can bring on these symptoms, although it’s possible to have high blood sugar without any symptoms, Dr. Philis-Tsimikas says. A reading above 300 mg/dL is considered severe. If your blood sugar is above 250 mg/dL for two days, Philis-Tsimikas advises informing your doctor and asking for specific recommendations for treatment. Having blood sugar levels above 300 mg/dL for more than a week can lead to more severe symptoms such as nausea, drowsiness, blurred vision, confusion, and dizziness, especially when standing up from a sitting or lying position.

Ways to treat high blood sugar include:

  • Taking your prescribed medications as directed
  • Eating fewer carbohydrates with your meals
  • Exercising regularly with your doctor’s guidance

About Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)

When your blood sugar drops rapidly or when the reading falls between 50 to 70 mg/dL if you take medications for diabetes, Philis-Tsimikas says you may experience early symptoms of low blood sugar such as shaking, sweating, rapid heartbeat, headache, hunger, weakness, fatigue, impaired vision, anxiety, irritability, and dizziness.

Blood sugar values that drop below 50 mg/dL are considered severe and can lead to more significant and dangerous symptoms such as difficulty concentrating, confusion, loss of consciousness, and seizures. If you experience more than two blood sugar readings below 50 mg/dL in a week, notify your doctor and go over your treatment plan.

To treat blood sugar below 70 mg/dL, Philis-Tsimikas recommends ONE of these options:

  • Drink one-half to one cup of juice, skim milk, or regular soda OR
  • Chew five to six hard candies OR
  • Take four glucose tablets OR
  • Swallow one tube of glucose gel

Then, check your blood sugar in 15 minutes. If it’s still below 70 mg/dL, eat more sugar. If your symptoms don’t stop, call your doctor or seek medical attention. If your blood sugar returns to normal, be sure to eat at your next scheduled meal or snack.

Use Supplement for Diabetes: 

FENFURO Regular intake of FENFURO can control the blood sugar level effectively. FENFURO is a first of its kind, safe nutraceutical derived from fenugreek seeds through a patented process.  Through its unique scientific process, FENFURO concentrates the bioactive part of plants into a manageable dose, while removing the inert parts such as cellulose. Also, since a lot of healthy botanicals are not palatable, consuming their concentrate in capsule form in small dosage is a lot easier. FENFURO contains a rich variety of saponins and flavonoids. These substances are known to lower blood lipid level and help in insulin sensitization and glucose regulation. FENFURO is the first dual action insulin sensitizer.

The statement and product have not been evaluated by the FDA to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

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HOME REMEDIES FOR DIABETES

Recent health studies indicate Indians are at greater risk of suffering from blood sugar than any other group in the world. It is predicted that by 2025 India will have more than 60 million diabetic patients. In other words, one in five diabetic patients in the world will be an Indian.

It is likely a combination of our food, lifestyle and genetics. Physical inactivity and the consumption of fatty, high-caloric and sugary foods vastly increase the risk of becoming a diabetic. The unfortunate reality is blood sugar is extremely prevalent in Indian lifestyle. Research proves that making a few key changes to the diet, such as eating more produce, fewer refined carbohydrates, plenty of lean protein, and more “good” fat—helps improve blood-sugar control and cuts the risk of blood sugar related complications.

Indian kitchen has many ingredients which are effective in controlling blood sugar:

Bitter gourd (Karela) can be helpful for controlling blood sugar due to its blood glucose lowering effects. It tends to influence the glucose metabolism all over the body rather than a particular organ or tissue. It helps increase pancreatic insulin secretion and prevents insulin resistance. Thus, bitter gourd is beneficial for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. 

Fenugreek (Methi) is an herb that is highly effective in controlling blood sugar and improves glucose tolerance and lowers blood sugar levels due to its hypoglycemic activity. Being high in fiber, it slows down the absorption of carbohydrates and sugars.

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FENFURO is a first of its kind, safe nutraceutical derived from fenugreek seeds through a patented process.  Through its unique and patented scientific process, FENFURO concentrates the bio-active part of plants into a manageable dose, while removing the inert parts such as cellulose. Also, since a lot of healthy botanicals are not palatable, consuming their concentrate in capsule form in small dosage is a lot easier. FENFURO contains a rich variety of saponins and flavonoids. These substances are known to lower blood lipid level and help in insulin sensitization and glucose regulation. FENFURO is the first dual action insulin sensitizer.

A clinical evaluation of FENFURO was carried out on a total of 154 Type 2 diabetics for a period of 3 months, to determine its efficacy and safety. At the end of three months 83% of the patients reported decrease in fasting sugar levels and 89% patients reported decrease in PP sugar levels. The patients also showed a significant decrease in HbA1C levels as compared to respective baseline value. 48.8% of the patients reported reduction in dosage of anti-diabetic therapy after regularly taking FENFURO.

Powdered cinnamon (dalcheeni) has the ability to lower blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin activity. It contains bio-active components that can help prevent and fight blood sugar.

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Black plum or Jambul, also known as jamun can help a lot in controlling blood sugar level because it contains anthocyanins, ellagic acid, hydrolysable tannins etc.

Apart from including the above mentioned ingredients in diet one should make healthier food choices by including whole grains, oats, channa atta, millets and high fiber fruits and vegetables in the meals. Also, pulses with husk and sprouts are a healthy option and should be part of the diet. Milk is the right combination of carbohydrates and proteins. Two servings of milk in a daily diet is a good option. Good fats such as Omega-3 and monounsaturated fats (MUFA) should be consumed as they are good for the body. Natural sources for these are canola oil, flax seed oil, fatty fish and nuts. These are also low in cholesterol and are trans fat free.

Living with blood sugar can be a blessing in disguise if one learns to make healthiest food choices and follows an active lifestyle.

 The statement and product have not been evaluated by the FDA to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

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How the Blood Sugar of Diabetes Affects the Body

Diabetes mellitus leads to persistently elevated blood sugar levels. Over time, high sugar levels damage the body and can lead to the multiple health problems associated with diabetes.

But why are high blood sugars so bad for you? How much sugar in the blood is too much? And what are good sugar levels, anyway? Web MD takes a look at how your sugar level affects diabetes and your health.

Diabetes and Normal Blood Sugar Levels

At present, the diagnosis of diabetes or pre-diabetes is based in an arbitrary cut-off point for a normal blood sugar level. A normal sugar level is currently considered to be less than 100 mg/dL when fasting and less than 140 mg/dL two hours after eating. But in most healthy people, sugar levels are even lower.

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During the day, blood glucose levels tend to be at their lowest just before meals. For most people without diabetes, blood sugar levels before meals hover around 70 to 80 mg/dL. In some, 60 is normal; in others, 90. Again, anything less than 100 mg/dL while fasting is considered normal by today’s standards.

What’s a low sugar level? It varies widely, too. Many people’s sugar levels won’t ever fall below 60 mg/dL, even with prolonged fasting. When you diet or fast, the liver keeps sugar levels normal by turning fat and muscle into sugar. A few people’s sugar levels may fall somewhat lower. Without taking diabetes medicine, though, or having uncommon medical problems, it’s difficult to drop sugar levels to an unsafe point.

Sugar Levels, Diabetes, and Pre-diabetes

Sugar levels higher than normal mean either diabetes or pre-diabetes is present.

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There are several ways diabetes is diagnosed:

  • The first is known as a fasting plasma glucose test. A person is said to have diabetes if his or her fasting blood sugar level is higher than 126 mg/dL after not eating — fasting — for eight hours.
  • The second method is with an oral glucose tolerance test. After fasting for eight hours, a person is given a special sugary drink. That person is said to have diabetes if two hours after the drink he or she has a sugar level higher than 200.
  • The third way is with a randomly checked blood sugar level. If it is greater than 200, with symptoms of increased urination, thirst, and/or weight loss, that person is said to have diabetes. A fasting sugar level or oral glucose tolerance test will be needed to confirm the diagnosis.

But diabetes is not like a switch that gets turned on and off — healthy one day, diabetic the next. Any sugar levels higher than normal are unhealthy. A blood sugar higher than normal, but not meeting the above criteria for full-blown diabetes, is called prediabetes.

According to the American Diabetes Association, 79 million people in the U.S. have pre-diabetes. People with pre-diabetes are five to six times more likely to develop diabetes over time. Pre-diabetes also increases the risk for cardiovascular disease, although not as much as diabetes does. It’s possible to prevent the progression of pre-diabetes to diabetes, with diet and exercise. 

Sugar and Your Body

Why are high blood sugar levels bad for you? Glucose is precious fuel for all the cells in your body — when it’s present at normal levels. But persistently high sugar levels behave like a slow-acting poison.

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High sugar levels slowly erode the ability of cells in the pancreas to make insulin. The pancreas overcompensates, though, and insulin levels remain overly high. Gradually, the pancreas is permanently damaged.

  1. All the excess sugar is modified in the blood. The elevated sugar in the blood causes changes that lead to atherosclerosis, a hardening of the blood vessels.

Because high sugar levels are everywhere, the body can be damaged anywhere. Damage to blood vessels, in particular, means no area is safe from too much sugar.

High sugar levels and damaged blood vessels cause the multitude of complications that can come with diabetes:

Kidney disease or kidney failure, requiring dialysis

Strokes

Heart attacks

Visual loss or blindness

Immune system suppression, with increased risk for infections

Erectile dysfunction

Nerve damage, called neuropathy, causing tingling, pain or decreased sensation in the feet, legs, and hands

Poor circulation to the legs and feet, with poor wound healing

In extreme cases, because of the poor wound healing, amputation is required.

Keeping sugar levels closer to normal can prevent many of the complications of diabetes. The American Diabetes Association’s goals for glucose control in people with diabetes are sugar levels of 70 to 130 mg/dL before meals, and less than 180 mg/dL after meals.

Use Supplement for blood sugar: 

FENFURO Regular intake of FENFURO can control the blood sugar level effectively. FENFURO is a first of its kind, safe nutraceutical derived from fenugreek seeds through a patented process.  Through its unique scientific process, FENFURO concentrates the bioactive part of plants into a manageable dose, while removing the inert parts such as cellulose. Also, since a lot of healthy botanicals are not palatable, consuming their concentrate in capsule form in small dosage is a lot easier. FENFURO contains a rich variety of saponins and flavonoids. These substances are known to lower blood lipid level and help in insulin sensitization and glucose regulation. FENFURO is the first dual action insulin sensitizer.

The statement and product have not been evaluated by the FDA to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

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Type 2 Diabetes and Sleep Troubles

Sleep is important for everyone, but it’s especially important when your body experiences changing blood sugar levels and other symptoms of type 2 diabetes. “Sleep deprivation causes changes in the effectiveness of the body’s control of appetite, which can lead to weight gain, higher blood sugar, and increased resistance to insulin,” says Richard Castriotta, MD, director of the division of pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. 

Although sleep is very important when you have type 2 diabetes, you may find you can’t sleep when you need it most. One explanation for the problem seems to be the connection between diabetes and sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a condition that’s characterized by periods of halted breathing while you’re asleep, which wakes you up repeatedly throughout the night, leaving you fatigued and not well rested in the morning.

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Both type 2 diabetes and sleep apnea are health concerns that are linked to obesity, so experts have long recognized a connection between the two. However, only recently has it been realized how closely these conditions are tied to one another. “There’s much more interrelation between the two conditions than we thought,” says Betul Hatipoglu, MD, a physician in the Cleveland Clinic’s department of endocrinology, diabetes, and metabolism. “In fact, one may actually contribute to causing the other, and vice versa. Recent studies have shown that sleep apnea actually increases insulin resistance, hunger, and other type 2 diabetes symptoms,” Dr. Hatipoglu says. “Other studies have shown that treating sleep apnea also improves the symptoms of type 2 diabetes.”

Other Sleep Issues You Might Face 

Another problem that disrupts sleep is frequent urination, a common symptom of type 2 diabetes. You can’t sleep if you have to keep getting up to go to the bathroom. Hatipoglu says this problem is usually tied to high blood pressure, which is also common with type 2 diabetes. As your blood pressure goes up throughout the night, the need to urinate increases. “If this occurs more than once a night, we view it as an issue that needs to be treated,” Hatipoglu says.

Having type 2 diabetes may also lead to other disorders that make it harder to sleep. “In addition to sleep apnea, people with type 2 diabetes are at increased risk for restless leg syndrome (RLS) and periodic limb movements in sleep (PLMS), as well as neuropathy and pain-associated sleep disruption,” Dr. Castriotta says. “RLS causes difficulty falling asleep because of strange feelings in the legs beginning in the evening before sleep. PLMS may cause either sleep-maintenance insomnia (difficulty staying asleep) or a feeling of non-refreshing sleep and daytime sleepiness due to slow, rhythmic limb movements during sleep.”

Tips to Get a Good Night’s Sleep

The first step in managing your sleep problems with type 2 diabetes is to see a doctor or a sleep specialist. Sleep apnea is a serious, potentially life-threatening problem that needs medical attention to remedy. Frequent urination and other sleep-depriving issues should also be treated by a medical professional.

In addition to talking to your doctor and seeing a sleep specialist, here are some additional strategies that may help you sleep:

Reduce your caffeine intake: Caffeinated beverages can keep you up at night and increase the urge to urinate throughout the night. If you can’t cut caffeine out entirely, Hatipoglu recommends to at least eliminate your intake in the afternoon and evening.

Curb the use of electronics in the bedroom: Television is a no-no in the bedroom, as it will keep you up when you need to be focusing on resting. Watch TV in another room, and turn it off at least an hour before you want to nod off. Try reading a book or listening to relaxing music instead.

Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and calm: Removing all light from the room, using light-blocking curtains, and outfitting your bed with appropriate bedding helps to create an atmosphere that is conducive to sleep.

Create a regular bedtime schedule: Hatipoglu says you need to train your body to get a good night’s sleep. One of the most important ways you can do this is to create a scheduled bedtime and stick to it as closely as possible each night. You can incorporate things into this routine that get your body ready for bed, such as having a few sips of relaxing chamomile tea, meditating, or doing deep breathing exercises before you close your eyes.

Sleep issues are a troubling side effect of type 2 diabetes that can leave you feeling tired all the time. By taking these steps and working with your medical team, you should be able to have sweet dreams every night.

Use Supplement for Blood sugar: 

FENFURO Regular intake of FENFURO can control the blood sugar level effectively. FENFURO is a first of its kind, safe nutraceutical derived from fenugreek seeds through a patented process.  Through its unique scientific process, FENFURO concentrates the bioactive part of plants into a manageable dose, while removing the inert parts such as cellulose. Also, since a lot of healthy botanicals are not palatable, consuming their concentrate in capsule form in small dosage is a lot easier. FENFURO contains a rich variety of saponins and flavonoids. These substances are known to lower blood lipid level and help in insulin sensitization and glucose regulation. FENFURO is the first dual action insulin sensitizer.

The statement and product have not been evaluated by the FDA to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

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Diabetes and Foot Care

It is predicted that by 2030 diabetes mellitus may afflict up to 79.4 million individuals in India. Diabetes is fast gaining the status of a potential epidemic in India with more than 62 million diabetic individuals currently diagnosed with the disease. Diabetes can be responsible for many health complications in patients, like kidney damage, nerve damage, stroke, heart attack or loss of vision. But what puts a patient in hospital most often is a foot infection or diabetic foot. (Diabetes and its complications)

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The legs have the longest nerves and arteries. For people with long-term blood sugar, high blood glucose causes damage to nerves and blood vessels. With narrowing of arteries, adequate oxygen and nutrients do not reach the nerves in the legs. As a result, legs experience diminished sensation and stability, which makes the feet more vulnerable to wounds. The wounds are difficult to heal because blood sugar often causes poor blood circulation in the lower limbs.

Walking barefoot is considered a serious risk factor for diabetic foot ulcers. A 2013 study on daily habits in The Journal of Diabetic Foot Complications shows that the percentage of high-grade foot ulcers was significant in those who walked barefoot or wore ill-fitting shoes. Indians are known to sit cross-legged. Prolonged pressure on feet often leads to nerve damage. Toe rings in Indian women cut off oxygen and blood supply and along with heat and sweat, fungal infection sets in deep inside the foot.

Good blood sugar management and regular foot care help prevent severe foot sores that are difficult to treat and may require amputation. For blood sugar management, regular intake of supplements like FENFURO can be very successful.  Regular intake of Fenfuro can control the blood sugar level effectively.  FENFURO is a first of its kind safe nutraceutical derived from fenugreek seeds through a patented process.  Through its unique scientific process, FENFURO concentrates the bioactive part of plants into a manageable dose, while removing the inert parts such as cellulose. Also, since a lot of healthy botanicals are not palatable, consuming their concentrate in capsule form in small dosage is a lot easier. FENFURO contains a rich variety of saponins and flavonoids. These substances are known to lower blood lipid level and help in insulin sensitization and glucose regulation. FENFURO is the first dual action insulin sensitizer.

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A clinical evaluation of FENFURO was carried out on a total of 154 Type 2 diabetics for a period of 3 months, to determine its efficacy and safety. At the end of three months 83% of the patients reported decrease in fasting sugar levels and 89% patients reported decrease in PP sugar levels. The patients also showed significant decrease in HbA1C levels as compared to respective baseline value. 48.8% of the patients reported reduction in dosage of anti-diabetic therapy after regularly taking FENFURO.

 The following are the tips for healthy feet:

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•Inspect and wash your feet daily: Check your feet once a day for blisters, cuts, cracks, sores, redness, tenderness or swelling. Use a mirror if required. Wash your feet in lukewarm water once a day. Dry them gently, especially between the toes. 

•Don’t remove calluses or other foot lesions yourself:  To avoid injury to your skin, don’t use a nail file, nail clipper or scissors on calluses, corns, bunions or warts. See your doctor or foot specialist (podiatrist) for removal of any of these lesions.

•Trim your toenails carefully: Trim your nails straight across. Carefully file sharp ends

•Don’t go barefoot: To prevent injury to your feet, don’t go barefoot, even around the house.

•Wear clean, dry socks and shoes that fit properly:  Wear socks made of fibers such as cotton. Avoid socks with tight elastic bands that reduce circulation. Always buy comfortable shoes that provide support and cushioning for the heel, arch and ball of the foot. 

•Schedule regular foot checkups.  Visit a podiatrist for regular foot checkups and reduction of early signs of nerve damage, poor circulation or other foot problems. 

 The statement and product have not been evaluated by the FDA to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

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Top Diets for Diabetes

According to government figures, more than 85 percent of people with type 2 diabetes are overweight or obese (although excess weight isn’t the only risk factor for this type of diabetes). But for people with type 2 diabetes who fall into that 85 percent, dropping the pounds can help stabilize blood sugar levels and even eliminate the need for blood sugar medication. 
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So which diet can help you achieve your weight-loss goals? There’s no one right answer. But, says Nora Saul, RD, CDE, a certified diabetes educator and manager of nutritional education at the Joslin Diabetes Center in Boston, “people who have blood sugar can, with a little forethought, use many of the healthy popular diets.” 

Weight-Loss Plans for Type 2 Diabetes 

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 If you have type 2 diabetes and want to lose weight, here are some sensible diet options to try. 
 
DASH Diet: “Although originally designed to lower blood pressure, DASH — or Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension — is an all-around good eating plan,” says Saul. In fact, U.S. News and World Report rated the DASH diet as tops for treating diabetes in a May 2011 article. That’s because the diet is high in fruits and vegetables, which means it’s high in fiber, antioxidants, and potassium. It’s also high in low-fat dairy, calcium, lean protein, and whole grains. “It has meal plans for different calorie levels,” says Saul, which allows flexibility according to your weight. 
 
South Beach Diet: The South Beach Diet is a modified low-carb diet that emphasizes healthy fats. If you want to try it, Saul advises sticking to the maintenance phase of the diet. “The initial phases are too low in carbohydrates,” Saul points out. Yes, people with diabetes have to watch how many carbs and the type of carbs they eat, but you don’t want to cut them out entirely. “I encourage whole grains,” says Saul, who warns against eliminating any specific food group, even for weight loss. (Note: Everyday Health is the publisher of SouthBeachDiet.com.) 
 
Weight Watchers: Weight Watchers is a popular commercial weight-loss plan. It’s also a good choice if you have type 2 diabetes, in part because the system provides group support and accountability in addition to a structured eating plan. People with diabetes might need to make some modifications to the diet plan, however. For example, explains Saul, in the latest version of Weight Watchers counting system or “points,” fruit has zero points. But for people with blood sugar, a serving size of fruit does count toward total carb intake for the day. 
 
Mediterranean Diet: Though not a specific eating plan, a Mediterranean diet mimics the way that people who live in countries around the Mediterranean Sea, such as Greece and Italy, tend to eat. Rich in beans, nuts, fruits, vegetables, grains, and seafood, it isn’t so much a weight-loss diet as a different way of eating. “People lose weight because they are full and are not eating a lot of the empty calories they consumed before,” says Saul, who says this concept works well for people with blood sugar, too. 
 
Atkins Diet: The Atkins Diet gained fame as the diet that led the low-carb diet revolution twice. This diet may be a good option for some people and can help manage blood sugar levels, but it can be too restrictive and may not be a long-term lifestyle choice for everyone with blood sugar. However, reading about and trying out this diet could be a learning experience in terms of understanding how carbs function in your diet. 
 
Jenny Craig: Jenny Craig (now rebranded as Jenny) is a personalized eating and diet program that includes a lot of support as well as prepackaged meals. The catch is that it can be costly and, although the diet plan is intended to ultimately help you make your own meals and food choices, some people might find it difficult to get out of the habit of relying on a stocked freezer. Finally, people with blood sugar that is not adequately controlled may be discouraged from enrolling. 
 
GI Diet: A low glycemic index (GI) diet is an excellent choice for people with type 2 diabetes, Saul says. This one might require some research and study until you understand exactly where foods fit in the glycemic index and how you can include the right ones in your diet. The glycemic index lets you know how fast a 50-gram portion of a carbohydrate food raises blood sugar in comparison with white bread. The lower the number, the better the food is for controlling blood sugar. 
 
Whatever diet you decide on, there are a few overarching principles that should guide your choice. Among them, look for diets that include food you like (or will come to like) and that don’t rely on expensive supplements or tools. And be sure to check with your doctor before beginning any weight-loss regimen.
Use Supplement for Blood sugar: FENFURO Regular intake of FENFURO can control the blood sugar level effectively. FENFURO is a first of its kind, safe nutraceutical derived from fenugreek seeds through a patented process.  Through its unique scientific process, FENFURO concentrates the bioactive part of plants into a manageable dose, while removing the inert parts such as cellulose. Also, since a lot of healthy botanicals are not palatable, consuming their concentrate in capsule form in small dosage is a lot easier. FENFURO contains a rich variety of saponins and flavonoids. These substances are known to lower blood lipid level and help in insulin sensitization and glucose regulation. FENFURO is the first dual action insulin sensitizer.
The statement and product have not been evaluated by the FDA to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
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Pre Diabetes: Everything You need to Know

Pre Diabetes: Everything You need to Know

Simply put, if you have pre diabetes (impaired glucose tolerance), your blood sugar (glucose) is raised beyond a healthy level but is not so high that you have blood sugar. While pre diabetes does not mean you have blood sugar, you are at a far greater risk of developing Type 2 diabetes than someone who does not have pre diabetes. You are additionally at a greater risk of developing cardiovascular diseases like heart disease and peripheral arterial disease.

This article will cover the basics of pre diabetes and the most effective course of treatment if you are diagnosed. Ultimately, lifestyle changes focused on diet and exercise are the most effective preventive measures you can take against the onset of type 2 diabetes.

The Relationship between Blood Glucose and Insulin

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As your food is being digested, various foods are broken down into sugars or glucose, which pass through your stomach and into the bloodstream. Though, to remain healthy, a person should not have blood glucose levels that are too high or too low.

So what does the body do when blood glucose levels begin to rise after you eat? The body releases a hormone called insulin which transports glucose from your blood to your cells which use some glucose for energy while the rest is converted into stores of energy otherwise known as glycogen or fat.

When you are not eating, blood glucose levels will begin to fall as do insulin levels. Some glycogen or fat is then converted back into glucose and released from the cells back into the bloodstream.

A Normal Blood Glucose Level

Your blood glucose level literally refers to the amount of glucose in your blood. A normal blood glucose level should hover between 4 and 8 millimoles per litre (mmol/L). Usually, blood glucose levels are lowest in the morning and highest after eating.

Understanding Diabetes

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Type 1 and type 2 are the two main forms of blood sugar. At this time, type 1 diabetes is not preventable and cannot be cured. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form.

Type 1 Diabetes

In this form of diabetes, beta cells in the pancreas stop producing insulin and so, the level of insulin in the bloodstream drops quickly. Formerly known as juvenile, early-onset or insulin dependent, this disease can develop rapidly and is treated with insulin injections and diet.

Type 2 Diabetes

On the other hand, the symptoms of type 2 diabetes develop over a longer period of time because the body is still producing insulin. Unlike type 1 diabetes where the body stops producing insulin, a person with type 2 diabetes does not make enough insulin or cannot use insulin properly otherwise known as insulin resistance. This means that you need more insulin than normal to keep blood glucose levels down.

What is Pre Diabetes?

The most common form of blood sugar, it is estimated that between 1 and 3 out of every 4 people with pre-diabetes will develop type 2 diabetes within 10 years.

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines a pre diabetic as someone who has:

  • A fasting blood glucose of less than 7 mmol/L; AND
  • An HbA1c blood test level of 42-47 mmol/mol (6.0-6.5%).

Pre diabetes develops for the same reasons as type 2 diabetes i.e. your body is not producing enough insulin or it is not using insulin properly.

Some risk factors include:

  • Being overweight or obese
  • Having a family history of diabetes i.e. a close relative
  • A sedentary lifestyle
  • High blood pressure and high cholesterol
  • PCOS, a hormonal disorder in women
  • A history of gestational diabetes

Symptoms Check

Pre-diabetics typically have no symptoms however a blood test can reveal that you have a raised blood sugar level. If you have high blood pressure, high cholesterol and/or a history of heart attack or stroke, your doctor will also likely recommend a blood test to check your glucose levels.

Can it be treated?

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Knowing whether or not you have pre diabetes is valuable information because the progression to Type 2 diabetes can be treated and prevented. Regular blood tests occurring at least once a year are necessary to monitor blood glucose levels in addition to lifestyle changes.

A healthy diet consisting of whole plant foods is absolutely necessary. Staples including brown rice, lentils, beans, legumes, green vegetables like spinach, broccoli and peas, root vegetables like potatoes and yams and fruits like apples, mangos, pears, apricots, blueberries, bananas and melon are incredibly beneficial foods that should be consumed daily and abundantly.  

Clinical researcher and author Dr. Neal Barnard is treating and even reversing type 2 diabetes with a high fiber, low fat plant-based diet. In fact, a study published in the August 2006 issue of Diabetes Care found Dr. Barnard’s treatment to be 3 times more effective than the American Diabetes Association’s guidelines on how to control blood sugar.

In addition to a diet rich in whole plant foods, natural supplements are worth considering.

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Fenugreek, for example, is an herb derived from Ukraine, India, China and the Mediterranean region. The ripe, dry seeds found in fenugreek contain protein, vitamins, niacin, potassium, and disogenin as well as alkaloids, lysine, L-tryptophan and steroidal saponins. Studies suggest that fenugreek seed extract contains properties that can lower cholesterol and blood sugar. FENFURO is a group of furostanolic saponins derived from fenugreek seeds by innovative and patented process. It contains a rich variety of saponins and flavonoids, all substances known to lower blood lipid levels and a play valuable role in glucose regulation. Fenfuro has been clinically evaluated for safety and efficacy.  For more information visit www.fenfuro.com.

With regular exercise, healthy diet and natural supplements, the onset of type 2 diabetes can be prevented.

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DIABETES DIET FOR INDIANS

Diabetes control is governed by following the right diabetic diet. What to eat and what not to eat is important for diabetes control and diabetes cure or diabetes reversal.

These are the top 15 diabetes diet tips from diabetologists and nutritionists. Even if you are pre-diabetic or borderline diabetic, or diabetes is part of your family, it is important to follow a diabetic diet to prevent diabetes.

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Diabetologist, Dr. Sanjiv Bhambani with Moolchand Medcity suggests, “A diabetes diet should be high on fibre, must contain milk without cream, buttermilk, fresh seasonal fruits, green vegetables, etc.” But remember to consume these components in moderation.

DIABETES DIET FOR INDIANS should have the ratio of 60:20:20 for carbs, fats and proteins. The doctor explains, “Per day calorie intake should be between 1,500-1,800 calories with a proportion of 60:20:20 between carbohydrates, fats and proteins, respectively.” He adds that a diabetes diet should “have at least two seasonal fruits and three vegetables in a diet plan.”

Though dry fruits may seem like a healthy snack, it is not a good option for diabetics, as the fructose can spike your sugar level. Go for fresh fruits rather than dry fruits for diabetes control (but there are some restrictions… we’ll come to it). But you can still opt for nuts as a healthy snack.

THE DOCTOR SHARES HIS RECIPE FOR DIABETES DIET FOR INDIANS:

 – Drink tomato juice with salt and pepper every morning on an empty stomach.

– Intake of 6 almonds (soaked overnight) is also helpful in keeping a check on diabetes.

 Rekha Sharma, President and Director of Indian Dietetic Association, shares some major diabetes diet pointers that one should follow at home or at a restaurant.

 WHOLE GRAINS, OATS, CHANNA ATTA, MILLETS AND OTHER HIGH FIBRE FOODS should be included in the meals. If one feels like consuming pasta or noodles, it should  always be accompanied with vegetable/sprouts.

 MILK is the right combination of carbohydrates and proteins and helps control blood sugar levels. Two servings of milk in a daily diet is a good option.

Diabetes Control: Diabetic Diet Tips

 – HIGH FIBRE VEGETABLES such as peas, beans, broccoli and spinach /leafy vegetables should be included in one’s diet. Also, pulses with husk and sprouts are a                healthy option and should be part of the diet.
– PULSES are important in the diet as their effect on blood glucose is less than that of most other carbohydrate containing foods. Vegetables rich in fibre help lowering down the blood sugar levels and thus are healthy.
– GOOD FATS SUCH AS OMEGA-3 and monounsaturated fats (MUFA) should be consumed as they are good for the body. Natural sources for these are canola oil, flax seed oil,   fatty fish and nuts. These are also low in cholesterol and are trans fat free.
– FRUITS high in fibre such as papaya, apple, orange, pear and guava should be consumed. Mangoes, bananas, and grapes contain high sugar; therefore these fruits should be   consumed lesser than the others.

– Use FENFURO Regular intake of FENFURO can control the blood sugar level effectively. FENFURO is a first of its kind, safe nutraceutical derived from fenugreek seeds through a patented process.  Through its unique scientific process, FENFURO concentrates the bioactive part of plants into a manageable dose, while removing the inert parts such as cellulose. Also, since a lot of healthy botanicals are not palatable, consuming their concentrate in capsule form in small dosage is a lot easier. FENFURO contains a rich variety of saponins and flavonoids. These substances are known to lower blood lipid level and help in insulin sensitization and glucose regulation. FENFURO is the first dual action insulin sensitizer.

SMALL FREQUENT MEALS:

A large meal gives rise to higher blood sugar in one’s body, therefore it is essential to take small frequent meals to prevent both higher and very low blood sugar values and keep them constant. Small in between snacks can be dhokla, fruit, high fibre cookies, butter milk, yogurt, upma/poha with vegetables etc.

A person with diabetes should follow a diet which is low in carbohydrates, high in fibre and contains adequate amounts of proteins, vitamins and minerals; and avoid fatty foods and sweets. He/she should also take frequent small meals (5 meals pattern).

WHAT NOT TO DO:

-Artificial sweeteners can be used in cakes and sweets for diabetic people (in moderation).
-Have lots of fluid.
-Limit intake of alcohol.

SHOULD YOU HAVE NON-VEG?

In non-vegetarian diet, seafood and chicken can be taken rather than red meat as red meat contains higher amount of saturated fats. Also, patients with high cholesterol should avoid egg yolk and red meat.

The diabetes diet for Indians includes carbohydrates, proteins and fats. As always, a balanced and planned diet can build and improve personal health. A controlled diabetes diet may seem like a drag and bore, but a good cook can add life to a diet. Time to call up mom and experiment with diabetes diets!

The statement and product have not been evaluated by the FDA to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.