Tag: Blood Glucose Management

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Home Remedies To Reduce Blood Sugar Level Immediately

Home Remedies To Reduce Blood Sugar Level Immediately- Fenfuro

Diabetes is a long-term health condition that affects the body’s ability to convert food into energy either due to insulin deficiency or insulin resistance. Insulin is a hormone that brings high blood glucose levels back to normal levels.

If the blood sugar level is above 126 mg/dL or 7.0 mmol/L in a period before eating (fasting), or above 200 mg/dL or 11.1 mmol/L two hours after eating, it is termed as hyperglycemia.

When blood sugar level reaches around 250 mg/dL or 13.9 mmol/L, the body won’t be able to get enough energy from glucose. To overcome this, the body tries to burn fat leading to diabetic ketoacidosis.

Vomiting or feeling nauseous, sweet-smelling breath, confusion, shortness of breath, dry mouth, and abdomen pain are the symptoms of ketoacidosis.

 

Here are some home remedies to get your blood sugar levels back into a safe zone.

  • Neem Powder

    Neem leaves are an effective remedy for treating diabetes as they are loaded with flavonoids, triterpenoid, anti-viral compounds, and glycosides, which may help manage blood sugar levels. Take some dried neem leaves and grind them in a blender until smooth to make neem powder. Consume this powder twice daily for optimum benefits.


  • Mango leaves

Fresh mango leaves tea works magically for people with diabetes. This tea is made by boiling a few mango leaves for at least 15 minutes, strain and drink this on an empty stomach.

  • Bitter Gourd Juice 

Bitter Gourd contains two essential compounds called charatin and momordicin, that have blood-glucose-lowering properties. Drink bitter gourd juice on an empty stomach every morning. You can also include one dish prepared with bitter gourd daily in your diet to reap its benefits.

Bitter gourd - diabetes

 

 

  • Jamun seed

Jamun seed can reduce blood sugar levels. In a glass of water, add a teaspoon of crushed Jamun seed powder, stir well and drink it regularly on an empty stomach.

  • Ginger

Consuming ginger regularly reduces the blood sugar level and regulates insulin function. Take an inch of ginger and bring it to a boil with a cup of water for 5 minutes and strain. Drink this water twice daily.

  • Fenugreek Powder

Fenugreek is used commonly to control diabetes by improving glucose tolerance, lowering blood sugar levels, and stimulating the secretion of insulin. It is effective in controlling both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Soak two tablespoons of fenugreek seeds in water overnight and drink the water along with the seeds in the morning on an empty stomach regularly.

Fenugreek powder

 

  • Curry Leaves

Curry leaves will reduce insulin sensitivity and blood sugar levels. Chew on the curry leaves or you can add the roasted powder to favorite dishes and salads for controlling diabetes.

  • Cinnamon 

Cinnamon controls diabetes and reduces blood sugar levels by triggering insulin activity. Studies have shown that it helps in reducing oxidative stress which plays an important role in lowering blood sugar levels in cases of type-2 diabetes. Add half a teaspoon of cinnamon powder in a cup of warm water and drink it daily. You can also add cinnamon to tea, smoothies, and desserts.

  • Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera rich in phytosterols regulates blood sugar levels. Consume a cup of unsweetened aloe juice twice daily for immediate results.

  • Amla or Gooseberry

Amla is one of the richest sources of vitamin C, which manages pancreatitis and eventually controls blood sugar levels. It also contains chromium that regulates carbohydrate levels that makes the body more responsive to insulin. Consume it in the form of powder or pickle.

  • Goose berries amla for diabetesDrumsticks or Moringa

Moringa rich in antioxidants and vitamin c can help control blood sugar levels and treat type 2 diabetes. Cut a few pieces and put it into a jug full of water – keep sipping on it whenever. Moringa powder can also be consumed on empty stomach regularly.

Apart from these easily available remedies for diabetes control, add FENFURO natural supplements to your lifestyle to keep your blood sugar levels in check.blood glucose management - Fenfuro

FENFURO also contains a rich variety of saponins and flavonoids. All of these substances are known to play a valuable role in maintaining a stable Glucose level. There are no known side effects.

 

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How to treat and reduce the blood sugar level?

How to treat and reduce the blood sugar level?

 

High blood sugar level is also called Hyperglycaemia in medical terms. Nowadays, it is a prevalent issue among most individuals, both men, and women who are suffering from diabetes. Basically, it affects those who have type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

Apart from that, high blood sugar levels not only affect people who have diabetes but also affect those who are seriously ill due to stroke or a heart attack. Sometimes this term called Hyperglycaemia is confused with hypoglycemia, in which blood sugar drops down. The problem of high blood sugar level is no doubt very discomforting due to which you might want to know the medication or natural ways to reduce the blood sugar level.

So, before we discuss how to reduce the blood sugar level or best supplements for how to lower blood sugar level, let’s discuss its symptoms: –

  1. Feeling very painful and short-tempered.
  2. Urinary frequency
  3. Tiredness
  4. Unwanted weight loss
  5. Dry mouth
  6. Blurred vision
  7. Easy infections like skin infection, thrush, etc

 

Now let’s talk about the best treatment for diabetes: –

  1. Reduce the intake of carbohydratescarbohydrates- FENFURO

Many researchers have studied and proved that if a diabetic person eats a low carbohydrate and high-protein diet, it reduces blood sugar level. Side by side, you can also take the best supplement to lower blood sugar for the best results after thorough research of the benefits and side effects of each.

 

  1. Always eat low glycemic index foods.

If a diabetic person eats the food after measuring its glycemic index, it will lower down blood sugar level. If the score is below 55 on the glycemic index, the diabetic individual can eat that food.

Such foods include: –

  • Legumes
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Meat
  • Green leafy vegetables
  • Low-fat milk
  • Non-starchy vegetables
  • Various nuts and seeds

 

  1. Don’t eat large meals.

If you want to lower down blood sugar level, then ensure that you control the intake of carbs. Apart from that, eat small meals at one time; spreading out one meal into two-three. According to many doctors, if you eat small meals throughout the day, it will help regulate blood sugar levels up to a great extent.

  1. Exercise regularly

Apart from taking a supplement to help lower blood sugar or the best medicine for diabetes, exercise is another critical way to reduce it. No doubt, it is a practical and effective way to lower blood sugar. It has been proven that exercise helps in stabilizing blood sugar levels for 24 hours.

The reason is when the body does physical activity, then it needs glucose for more energy. As a result, the cells deliver this glucose all over the body.Excercise- Fenfuro

  1. Take insulin

Insulin is the main thing in the human body, which lowers and spikes the blood sugar level. In the case of a high blood sugar level, the body has low insulin. So, if the individual stabilizes the insulin level, then it helps in lowering down sugar level.

To get an immediate effect, you can talk to your doctor about how much time it will take to lower your sugar level.

  1. Drink lots of water

This is another way to lower blood sugar levels. If a diabetic person drinks lots of water from time to time, then it helps in reducing sugar levels.

The bottom line

Ensure that you talk to your doctor before taking the best treatment for diabetes or trying any supplements that raise blood sugar levels—the reason for this is that it can deliver excess side-effects, which can be very serious.

Fenfuro is a fantastic product because it’s equipped with the power of Fenugreek seeds that are dominant in maintaining a healthy blood glucose level. Fenfuro is a beautiful blend of the innovative production process and a rich mixture of flavonoids and saponins. It is a patented and clinically evaluated product.

Fenugreek seeds extract | FENFUROAll these ingredients play a valuable role in Fenfuro that powers it to battle with diabetes. The product is clinically evaluated and has no side-effect. Besides, it’s 100% natural, and beyond doubt, you can trust the power of Fenfuro for treating diabetes the right way.

References:

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/15-ways-to-lower-blood-sugar#TOC_TITLE_HDR_2

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320738#lowering-blood-sugar-levels

https://www.diabetes.co.uk/how-to/bring-down-high-blood-sugar-levels.html

https://www.everydayhealth.com/diabetes/9-tips-lower-blood-sugar-naturally/

 

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Some Common Myths Related to Diabetes

Diabetes is a common problem these days. When someone is diagnosed with diabetes, they build a thought in mind that they are restricted from eating sugar for a lifetime. They often have a misconception that they need to shift to a distasteful life to keep them healthy.

But these all are merely myths, and it’s challenging to know what is right and what is wrong. The Internet is full of information about diabetes that is claimed to be directly from healthcare professionals. However, not all the facts mentioned there are true.

So, let us understand some of the myths which people believe about diabetes.

Some Common Myths About Diabetes

 

Diabetic People Can’t Eat Sugar

The first common myth about diabetes that we all believe is that people with diabetes have to cut down sugar for their whole lives. They need to eat a sugar-free diet and munch on sugar-free foods.

However, this is just a myth because diabetic people still need to eat a balanced diet that includes sugar too, to maintain good health. People can consume moderate sugar by monitoring their diabetes.

Diabetes Affects Only Fatty People

Another myth about Type 2 diabetes is that overweight people have diabetes. The people suffering from obesity are at a higher risk of diabetes, but that doesn’t mean diabetes can occur to fat people only.

According to research, 20% of people who have diabetes have healthy body weight or are even underweight too. So, it’s just a myth that fat people have diabetes. However, the fact is that anyone can have diabetes.

 

Diabetic People Have to Eat Diabetic Food Only

Another myth about diabetes is that people with diabetes have to eat diabetic food only. They need to cut down their sugars, alcohol, sweeteners, and eat a healthier diet.

However, the fact is that diabetic food can also affect the blood sugar level and is often expensive than regular food. People can eat a healthier diet and don’t need to eat diabetic food.

Diabetic People Get Ill Faster

Now, this is another common myth about diabetes. Diabetic people are more likely to catch a common cold, fever, and other diseases. However, this is not true because the diabetic people’s illness is only relating to the blood sugar level, but that doesn’t mean that they catch other diseases faster.

Diabetes doesn’t affect the rate of catching other diseases.

Type 2 Diabetes is Mild

Another common myth about diabetes is that the Type 2 form of diabetes is mild, but this is not true. No form of diabetes is mild. If you don’t manage or regulate your diabetes, then it can affect your health seriously.

It’s a prolonged disease and causes health complications too. To control diabetes, people have to follow the prescription given by their physician and maintain their health and a healthy lifestyle.

Diabetic People Lose Their Eyesight

This might be true, but not really because people who are not managing their diabetes may be prone to lose their eyesight. However, if they manage their weight and blood glucose level, they are generally not at risk.

FENFURO

Diabetes is one of the common diseases in which the level of blood sugar rises. However, these are some common myths related to diabetes that a person must need to be familiar with.

If a person has diabetes, they need to manage their blood sugar level and improve their health. Fenfuro helps to manage a healthy sugar level and improve the health of people with diabetes.

Fenfuro is derived from the fenugreek seeds that contain flavonoids and furostanolic saponins. These ingredients help manage the blood glucose level. Fenfuro is supported by seven international patents and clinical studies. It has no known side effects.

References

  1. https://www.diabetes.co.uk/diabetes-myths.html
  2. https://www.healthline.com/health/diabetes/diet-myths
  3. https://www.diabetes.org/diabetes-risk/prediabetes/myths-about-diabetes
  4. https://diabetesvoice.org/en/advocating-for-diabetes/top-5-greatest-myths-about-diabetes/
  5. https://www.diabetes.org/diabetes-risk/prediabetes/myths-about-diabetes

 

 

 

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PATIENT EMPOWERMENT: TAKING CHARGE OF DIABETES

Nowadays, diabetes, particularly type 2 diabetes, is one of the fastest growing chronic diseases in the society. Tight blood glucose control, dietary requirements and intake of regular medication are only few things that a diabetic patient needs to manage in order to prevent long-term complications. Assured continuity of care does not only create many challenges for the patient but also for the treating physician who will need to support the patient’s management strategies.

PATIENT EMPOWERMENT refers to a process that enables and facilitates behaviour change. The key to empowerment does not necessarily means better compliance to what the doctor says or prescribes but rather in the opportunity to increase patients’ self-sufficiency to improve their decision-making capabilities.

Research has shown that diabetes education is central to effective self-management behaviour, which in the long term can influence clinical and psychological outcomes.

Approaches have now moved from purely educational interventions to those that empower patients based on the assumption that they are managers of their own health. Diabetes education together with patient empowerment has shown to be the key for effective self-management behaviour. When delivered through information and communication technologies (ICT), this solution has shown to lead to better health outcomes.

KEY ELEMENTS OF EMPOWERMENT

 1

 

CHARACTERISTICS OF AN EMPOWERED ACTIVATED PATIENT

 2

  •  He understands his health condition and its effect on his body.
  • He feels able to participate in decision-making with his healthcare professionals.
  • He actively seeks out, evaluates and makes use of information.
  • He feels able to make informed choices about treatment.
  • He is able to challenge and ask questions of the healthcare professionals providing their care.
  • He takes responsibility for his health and actively seeks care only when necessary.
  • He understands the need to make necessary changes to his lifestyle for managing their conditions.

HOW TO EMPOWER PATIENTS?

 3

Diabetes education for the nurses is vital in forming solid knowledge that will equip them to be able to properly educate their patients.

Poor education not only reflects in poor health for the patient but also leads to serious complications and early death imposing a large economic burden on the individual and healthcare systems.

Benefit: This would reduce excess costs for emergency department care and care needed for complications concerning uncontrolled diabetes. A lot of the complications that diabetics face could be prevented easily.

There is a large amount in the community of diabetics that simply do not care about their nutrition or health and are unwilling to make any sort of lifestyle change, those people aside; there is no excuse for the overwhelming amount of complications that some diabetics suffer from due to the lack of knowledge.

A patient with uncontrolled diabetes deals with physical ailments; people with uncontrolled type 1 diabetes often feel ill, experience cognitive dysfunction, have difficulty maintaining their weight at a desired level, and experience fluctuating moods.

Diabetes education can greatly decrease hypoglycemic events in patients with diabetes.

  • SELF MANAGEMENT

4Self-management is seen as a key capability for Patient Empowerment and emphasises that persons with chronic diseases has the central role in managing their health.

Self-management is what people do to manage their diabetes or other chronic condition and its effects on their physical health, daily activities, social relationships and emotions.

Mindful eating: Mindful eating empowers the patient to make flexible decisions through the challenges of life. Mindful eating is one way to get closer to meeting the true needs and in the process gradually allows a person to live the life more fully.

Putting someone on a diet that says to avoid rice, “sweets”, “anything white” or “everything fried” automatically creates cravings and (even worse) guilt if they finally respond to their cravings. When a person gives into their cravings, the patient takes the wrong way & fails to manage diabetes.

  • INTERNET

5Only the internet allows us to set up an independent global diabetological service. The only thing users would need a computer and access to the internet. This service can serve unlimited number of people in the world along with medical consultation.

The key issue for patients & healthcare professionals is how to deliver personalised behavioural support in ways that are affordable and can reach to maximum number of patients. The internet offers several advantages in this regard because it is available 24 hours a day with very low cost.

Benefits

  • It does not require large investments.
  • It does not imply high fees.
  • It can easily be enriched with new information which immediately becomes available to the target group of users in any location in the world.
  • Help patients to monitor their diet and medicinal doses
  • Help both the patient and doctor to monitor the long term effect of the interventions

We cannot empower patients!

We only can provide a framework (tools, services, etc.) that makes it easier for patients to empower themselves.

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SPORTS & EXERCISE TO CONTROL BLOOD GLUCOSE

Maintaining the blood glucose levels under required range is always a difficult task for diabetic individuals. It is always under attention for diabetics to know what to do to keep the blood glucose (or sugar) in range, even under the most challenging circumstances.

There are many prevention and treatment strategies to lower the sudden hikes in the blood glucose levels, which are either suggested by the doctor or healthcare professional or practiced by the diabetic individual itself. The initial step taken by any diabetic individual is to increase the physical activity, which is also suggested by doctors. It is reported that physical activity contributes highly in maintaining blood glucose levels in the body.

HOW THE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY & BLOOD GLUCOSE LEVELS ARE LINKED?

  • Physical activity can lower the blood glucose for up to 24 hours or more after work out by making the body more sensitive to insulin.
  • Checking the blood glucose levels frequently before and after exercise can help to see the benefits of activity.
  • The results of blood glucose help to see how the body reacts to different activities.
  • Understanding these patterns can help to prevent the blood glucose from going too high or too low.

HOW PHYSICAL ACTIVITY ACT INSIDE BODY TO LOWER BLOOD GLUCOSE LEVELS?

Blood glucose levels are increased when either the insulin is not synthesized inside the body or the insulin is not responding to the blood glucose to transfer it to the cells (insulin resistance). Any of the two conditions can develop diabetes.1

During exercise, the demand for fuel increases inside the body and the body responds accordingly.

  • Glucose stored in the muscle is burned very quickly.
  • At about the same time, glucose stored in the liver is released into the bloodstream (like fast fuel injection).
  • Fat is released from special cells called adipocytes. This fat along with glucose makes its way through the bloodstream to the muscles to be used for fuel.
  • Once the fuel reaches the muscle, it must enter through special pathways so that the muscles can use it for energy.

By using the above given pathways, physical activity or exercise maintains blood glucose levels in any of the following ways:

  • Insulin sensitivity: Insulin sensitivity is increased with regular exercise, so the cells are better able to use available insulin to take up glucose during and after activity. This enhanced insulin sensitivity may continue for many hours after the exercise is over, depending on the extent of the activity. The more intense and prolonged the activity, the longer and greater the enhancement in insulin sensitivity.
  • Energy production: When the muscles contract during activity, it stimulates another mechanism that is completely separate of insulin. This mechanism allows the cells to take up glucose and use it for energy whether insulin is available or not.
  • Weight management: Exercise burns calories and builds muscles, which in turn helps the body burn more calories. In people with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes, having too much body fat inhibits insulin from working (to control blood glucose levels). To reach and maintain a healthy weight, just eating right isn’t enough – people need to exercise.

This is how exercise can help lower blood glucose in the short term. And when the body is active on regular basis, it can also lower the glycosylated hemoglobin.

CAREFUL SELECTION OF EXERCISE

Exercise to lower blood glucose levels should be chosen after complete advice from healthcare professional and after completely studying the pros & cons of that specific exercise.

  • Rise in blood glucose due to exercise: It has been suggested that instead of lowering blood glucose levels, some exercises or physical activities raise the glucose levels too.

Reason: It is not unusual to experience a blood glucose rise at the onset of high-intensity exercise. This is caused by a flow of stress hormones that oppose insulin’s action and cause the liver to dump extra glucose into the bloodstream. The supply of glucose becomes more than the requirement by the body. The muscles cannot burn the glucose as fast as the liver is producing it, resulting in increase in blood glucose levels.

2

Exercises, which increase blood glucose levels

  • Weight lifting (particularly when using high weight and low repetitions)
  • Sports that involve intermittent “bursts” of activity like baseball or golf
  • Sprints in events such as running, swimming and rowing
  • Events where performance is being judged, such as gymnastics or figure skating
  • Sports activities in which winning is the primary objective
  • Fall in blood glucose due to exercise: Exercise contributes quite well in maintaining blood glucose in diabetic patients. Sometimes, the blood glucose levels fall more than the required levels. This can be understandable by concentrating the mechanism of lowering blood glucose by exercise.

Reason: The muscle cells have special receptors (called insulin receptors), like doors, that allow glucose to pass from the bloodstream to the muscle. These doors do not open unless they are unlocked by insulin. The good news is that exercise has an insulin-like effect, making insulin work better in the body. During physical activity, the doors swing open easily, allowing more and more glucose to enter the muscle cells to be burned up for energy. The problem is that as you continue to exercise and glucose continues to leave the blood, you may end up with low blood glucose. Thus, the exercise to lower or maintain glucose levels should be chosen after accurate advice from health professional.

Exercises, which maintain blood glucose levels

  • Aerobic exercise: 3Aerobic exercise helps the body to useinsulin  It makes the heart and bones strong, relieves stress, improves blood circulation and reduces the risk of heart disease by lowering blood glucose and blood pressure and improving cholesterol levels.

Recommendation: 30 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous intensity aerobic exercise at least 5 days a week or a total of 150 minutes per week is recommended to maintain blood glucose.

Aerobic exercises include brisk walking, indoor cycling, dancing, low-impact aerobics, swimming, tennis, stair climbing, jogging, hiking, ice-skating, etc.

  • Strength training: 4Strength training (also called resistance training) makes the body more sensitive to insulin and can lower bloodglucose. It helps to maintain and build strong muscles and bones, reducing the risk for osteoporosis and bone fractures. The more muscle you have, the more calories you burn – even when your body is at rest.

Recommendation: It is recommended that doing some type of strength training at least 2 times per week in addition to aerobic activity is helpful in maintaining blood glucose levels.

Some of the strength training activities include weight machines, lifting light weights, heavy gardening to keep & build muscles, etc.

  • Light activities: 5If you are sitting for a long time, such as working at a desk or watching TV, do some light activity for 3 minutes or more every half hour to maintain the blood glucose levels.

Light activities include leg lifts or extensions, overhead arm stretches, walking in place, torso twists, side lunges, etc.

Thus, moderate physical activity advised by health professional should be chosen to lower blood glucose levels. If you combine physical activity with a reduced-calorie eating plan, it can lead to even more benefits. The additional benefits may include improved cholesterol levels, less sleep apnea and being able to move around more easily.

6

BE PHYSICALLY ACTIVE. BE PATIENT. BE DIABETES-FREE.

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HIGH BLOOD SUGAR UNDER PREGNANCY: WHAT TO DO!

HEALTHY PREGNANCY for a woman is the one in which she keeps her blood glucose (sugar) levels in target range i.e. both before she is pregnant and during her pregnancy.

In any case, if a woman is planning to get pregnant, it is the best time to control the blood glucose levels before getting pregnant because high blood glucose levels are harmful for the baby during the first weeks of the pregnancy (even before knowing that you are pregnant). Babies born to women with diabetes, especially women with poor diabetes control are at greater risk for birth defects.

REQUIRED BLOOD GLUCOSE TARGET IN PREGNANCY

Before eating: 60-119 mg/dL
1 hour after meal: 100-149 mg/dL

IMPORTANCE OF PLANNING PREGNANCY IN DIABETES

If you have diabetes during pregnancy, you can still manage the situation by proper planning of your pregnancy. You need to pay special attention to your health and you may need to see doctors who specialise in treating diabetes or its complications.
Pregnancy causes a number of changes in the body, so it might be a requirement to change how you manage your diabetes. Even if the woman had diabetes for years, it may still be a requirement for changing the meal plan, physical activity routine and medicines. As the woman gets closer to the delivery date, the requirements might change again. Thus, planning of the pregnancy becomes a critical task in diabetes.

PREGNANCY COMPLICATIONS DURING DIABETES

As given above, there is a risk of birth defects in the babies born under diabetes. Other complications of high blood sugar before and during pregnancy are:

In mother:

Worsening of diabetic eye problem
Worsening of diabetic kidney problem
Infections of the urinary bladder & vaginal area
Preeclampsia (high blood pressure with proteins in the urine)
Difficult delivery or C-section

In baby:

Premature delivery
Birth defects involving weighing too much or too less or having breathing problems
Increased risk of losing baby through miscarriage
Glucose in a pregnant woman’s blood passes to the baby. If your blood glucose level is too high during pregnancy, so is your baby’s glucose level before birth. In some cases, it has also been seen that after delivery, the baby’s glucose level may drop quickly and go too low.
Prolonged jaundice (yellowing of skin)

LABORATORY EXAMINATIONS REQUIRED BEFORE PREGNANCY
(Under risk of diabetes)1

Examinations before pregnancy suggested by doctor includes:

HbA1c levels (glycosylated hemoglobin)
High blood pressure
Heart disease
Kidney, eye and nerve damage testing
Thyroid test

HEALTHCARE TEAM2

Medical team containing healthcare professionals of diabetes and pregnancy will ensure for the best care. This healthcare team may include:

Medical doctor:

You will need monitoring and advice on glucose control during and after your pregnancy.

Obstetrician-gynecologist:

Has experience treating women with diabetes. You will see your OB/GYN regularly throughout your pregnancy.

Nurse:

Who provides prenatal care and advice on managing diabetes.

Dietitian:

A registered dietitian to help with meal planning. A healthy diet for glucose control and nutrition has never been more important than now.

Psychologist:

To help you cope with stress, worry, and the extra demands of pregnancy.

Pediatrician:

Doctor who will care for children

OTHER CONSIDERATIONS FOR MANAGEMENT OF DIABETIC PREGNANCY3

Exercise:

Exercise as much as possible. Take 30 minutes of walk on regular basis. It will help to control your diabetes and will help to have healthy pregnancy as well.

Healthy lifestyle:

Along with getting your blood glucose levels in your target range, it is important to establish healthy lifestyle habits as well that will reduce the risk for complications and improve the health of the baby. For women with diabetes, this lifestyle change means an HbA1c as normal as possible (less than 7%), achieving or maintaining a healthy body weight, improving diet and exercise and having a pre-pregnancy exam.

Folic acid consumption:

Women with diabetes should take a higher dose of folic acid. The normal daily dose for women trying to get pregnant and for pregnant women is 400µg. It will prevent birth defects in the brain and spinal cord.

Simultaneous medications:

If you take drugs for conditions related to your diabetes, such as high blood pressure, these may have to be altered because they may interfere with the development of the baby inside the womb.

Monitoring:

Expect to monitor your blood glucose levels more frequently during pregnancy. Your eyes and kidneys will be screened more often to check they are not deteriorating in pregnancy, as eye and kidney problems can get worse.

Breastfeeding:

It is recommended to feed the baby after birth as soon as possible– within 30 minutes – to help keep the baby’s blood glucose at a safe level.

Risk of gestational diabetes:

About 4% of all pregnant women without preexisting diabetes will develop gestational diabetes sometime around the 28-week. Gestational diabetes occurs when the mother’s body becomes resistant to insulin, causing glucose levels to build up in the blood. As with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, high blood glucose levels can cause problems for both mother and baby. Women with gestational diabetes usually get a special meal plan and are encouraged to exercise; they also have to test their blood glucose and may need to inject insulin. Gestational diabetes usually goes away after pregnancy, but brings an increased risk for the condition in pregnancy.

Smoking:

Smoking is especially harmful for people with diabetes. Smoking can increase diabetes-related health problems such as eye disease, heart disease, kidney disease and amputations. If you smoke, talk with your doctor about how to quit.

Herbal Supplementation:

Fenfuro is a first of its kind patented and clinically evaluated supplement for effective management of blood glucose levels. FENFURO is a group of furostanolic saponins, derived from fenugreek seeds (Trigonella foenum graecum) by innovative process. One of the most important properties of fenugreek seed extract is blood sugar level (BSL) lowering property. Various studies have investigated blood cholesterol-lowering and blood glucose lowering properties of fenugreek seed extract. FENFURO contains a rich variety of saponins and flavonoids. All of these substances are known to lower blood lipid levels and play valuable role in glucose regulation.fenfuro@
Thousands of women each year are able to monitor diabetes in pregnancy. Remember to manage the glucose levels, prioritize proper nutrition and exercise and stay connected to healthcare team. Medically management of diabetes is the key to the success of pregnancy.

REFERENCES

https://medlineplus.gov/diabetesandpregnancy.html
http://www.webmd.com/diabetes/pregnancy-diabetes-and-pregnancy#1
http://americanpregnancy.org/pregnancy-complications/diabetes-during-pregnancy/
http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/pages/diabetes-pregnant.aspx
https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/diabetes-pregnancy
http://www.diabetesforecast.org/2010/aug/a-guide-to-pregnancy-with-diabetes.html?referrer=https://www.google.co.in/?referrer=http://www.diabetesforecast.org/2010/aug/a-guide-to-pregnancy-with-diabetes.html?referrer=http://www.diabetesforecast.org/2010/aug/a-guide-to-pregnancy-with-diabetes.html?referrer=https://www.google.co.in/?referrer=http://www.diabetesforecast.org/2010/aug/a-guide-to-pregnancy-with-diabetes.html?referrer=https://www.google.co.in/?referrer=http://www.diabetesforecast.org/2010/aug/a-guide-to-pregnancy-with-diabetes.html

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DIABETES CAN CAUSE DEPRESSION

DIABETES

Diabetes is a long-term condition that causes a person’s blood sugar level to become too high. It is a metabolic disease and chronic disorder, which results from defects in insulin secretion or action.

Insulin is a hormone, which is secreted by pancreas and lowers the blood glucose level in the body. When insulin secretion or action is disturbed, diabetes mellitus develops.

DEPRESSION

It is a mood disorder and serious medical illness, which can alter the person’s thoughts, behaviour, feelings and sense of well-being. It is a disorder of brain, which can happen at any age, especially in teens and adults.

World Health Organisation (WHO) describes depression as the major cause of disability, which is estimated to account for 12% of the global burden of disease. It is reported to affect approximately 450 million people.

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN DIABETES AND DEPRESSION

Depression is a very drastic condition becoming common in the general population i.e. approximately 1 in 4 people experience depression in their life and people with diabetes are at more risk to develop depression i.e. up to 50% of people with diabetes are thought to have mental illness such as depression or anxiety. Depressive patients are also at higher risk of developing diabetes. It is also reported that untreated depression can make it difficult to manage diabetes.

CAUSES OF DEPRESSION IN DIABETES

  • The hardship of managing diabetes can be stressful and can lead to symptoms of depression.
  • Diabetes leads to many health complications that may worsen symptoms of depression.
  • Family history of either condition
  • Obesity
  • Hypertension
  • Inactivity
  • Coronary artery disease

According to the above data, the complications of diabetes are major reason behind the development of depression. By treating diabetes or its complications can help in the management of depression too.

SYMPTOMS OF DEPRESSION IN DIABETES

The diagnosis of depression in a diabetic individual is important, which can be done by monitoring the symptoms of depression. These include:

  • No longer finding pleasure in the activities that you once enjoyed
  • Experiencing insomnia or sleeping too much
  • Loss of appetite or binge eating
  • Inability to concentrate
  • Feeling lethargic
  • Feeling anxious or nervous all the time
  • Feeling isolated and alone
  • Feeling sadness in the morning
  • Feeling that you “never do anything right”
  • Having suicidal thoughts
  • Harming yourself

 MANAGEMENT OF DIABETES AND DEPRESSION TOGETHER

Diabetes self–management programs

Diabetes self assessment programs can focus on behaviour and help the people to improve their fitness levels and manage weight loss and other cardiovascular disease risk factors. These programs also improve the quality of life and sense of well being of the affected person.

Diabetes self-management strategies include:1

  • Monitoring blood glucose levels on regular basis
  • Monitoring weight gain/weight loss
  • Regular exercise or other physical activities
  • Healthy eating and planning of diet according to the blood glucose levels
  • Regularity with anti-diabetic medications
  • Consuming lesser carbohydrates2

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy reported to have improvements in depression patients, which has resulted in better diabetes management. Psychotherapy can be short term or long term.3

Goals of the psychotherapy include:

  • Recognition of potential triggers
  • Identification and replacement of unhealthy behaviors
  • Development of positive relationship of patient with others
  • To promote healthy problem-solving skills

Medication

  • Anti-diabetic medication: For treating depression raised from the diabetic complications, it is better to treat diabetes first. When the diabetes will be treated, depression will automatically be cured. It is better to consume herbal supplements, which can prevent and treat diabetes with much lesser complications.

One such anti-diabetic herbal supplement is Fenfuro. Fenfuro is clinically proven and supported by six international patents for effective and safe management of blood glucose levels.

If cognitive behavioural therapy and anti-diabetic supplementation is not sufficient for the treatment of depression, then, psychotherapist can be consulted to treat with anti-depressant medications. Psychotherapist can prescribe from any of the following anti-depressant categories:

  • Tricyclic anti-depressants: They work by boosting the levels of certain chemicals in the brain that help nerve cells to communicate with each other. If these chemicals are out of balance or don’t work like they should, messages might not make it through the brain correctly that can lead to depression.
  • Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI): They affect the way in which brain uses a chemical called serotonin. Changing the balance of this chemical may help the brain cells to receive messages better and boost mood.
  • Serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRI): They block the re-absorption of both serotonin and norepinephrine. Like SSRIs, they improve the way in which brain sends and receives messages.

These anti-depressants should only be consumed after consultation with psychotherapist. Some strong anti-depressants can cause diabetes. Due to this, doctors prescribe small doses initially and increase the dose on requirement.

 

REFERENCES

https://fenfuro.com/product/fenfuro/

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DRUG-INDUCED DIABETES

DIABETES is a well-known disease these days. It occurs when the sugar or glucose levels rise inside the human body. This rise in blood sugar levels takes place due to abnormal functioning of the cells known as β-cells of pancreas.

Under normal conditions, these cells release insulin on requirement to transfer glucose from blood to the tissues/cells for energy. This transfer balances blood sugar levels. The misconduct of these β-cells disturbs the balance of blood sugar levels and causes diabetes.

The activity of β-cells can be disturbed due to many reasons. One of those reasons is the consumption of some therapeutic agents.

THERAPEUTIC AGENTS can influence the development of diabetes, especially when pre-existing risk factors are present and these may cause glucose control to deteriorate if administered to those with existing diabetes.

It has been found that drug-induced diabetes can develop at the age of 20 years but it is more prone at the age between 40-60 years. The chances of development of drug-induced diabetes are found to be more in females (70%) as compared to males (30%).

ACTION OF DRUGS INDUCING DIABETES

Therapeutic agents causing diabetes may act either by increasing insulin resistance or by affecting the secretion of insulin or both.

 2

  • Grouping of drugs according to the mechanism of inducing diabetes
    • Drugs that cause diabetes by interfering with insulin production & secretion are:
β-receptor antagonist

(used in hypoglycemia)

 Tacrolimus

(immunosuppressant used in organ transplant)
Priminil (Vacor)

(used as rodenticide)

 Didanosine

(used as anti-retroviral therapy)
Pentamidine

(antimicrobial medication in used in pneumonia)

 L-asparaginase

(as anti-cancer agent)
Diphenylhydantoin

(used as anticonvulsant or antilepptic drug)

 Opiates

(used as pain reliever)

  • Drugs that cause diabetes by developing insulin resistance:
Glucocorticoids

(to control and treat inflammation)

 β-receptor antagonist

(used in hypoglycemia)
Megasterol acetate

(used as anti-cancer drug & appetite stimulant)

 Growth hormone

(growth stimulant)
Oral contraceptives

(used to prevent pregnancy)

 Protease inhibitors

(used as anti-retroviral therapy)
  • Drugs that act both on insulin secretion and resistance:
Thiazide diuretics

(to control blood pressure)

 Diazoxide

(used in treatment of acute hypertension)
Cyclosporine

(immunosuppressant used in organ transplant)

 Atypical antipsychotic

(used to treat psychotic conditions)
  • Treatments that induce diabetes by increasing nutrient flux:
Nicotinic acid

(used in dyslipidemia)

 Total parenteral nutrition

(used in intravenous feeding of person)
  • Grouping of drugs according to the capability of inducing diabetes

These agents may be divided into widely used medications that are weakly diabetogenic and drugs used for special indications that are more strongly diabetogenic.

  • Weakly diabetogenic medications include antihypertensive agents, statins and oral contraceptive pills.
  • Strongly diabetogenic include steroids, antipsychotics and a range of immunosuppressive agents.
  • There are also a number of known β-cell poisons including the insecticide Vacor, alloxan and streptozotocin which can cause permanent diabetes.

TREATMENT & PREVENTION STRATEGIES

  • Management of drug-induced diabetes is important as the diabetes so developed can convert into permanent diabetes for whole life. To prevent the development of diabetes, the blood glucose levels should be monitored regularly.
  • In cases in which the drug that induced diabetes must be continued, insulin therapy is the most efficacious approach. The diabetics should also try to use the lowest effective dose of therapeutic drug, if possible. Whenever is the possibility, the therapy should be altered.
  • A drug which is supposed to have adverse effect on blood glucose level should be avoided in a patient of diabetes, pre-diabetes or insulin resistance.3

Other diabetes management strategies include:

  • Healthy eating: Lifestyle management is the utmost requirement in the  management of drug-induced diabetes. The sweets and fats should be avoided as much as possible. Fruit juice should also be limited. Meals should not be taken more than 3 times a day. Alcohol intake should also be avoided (not more than 1-2 drinks/day) and blood glucose levels should be monitored before & after drinking.
  • Exercise: In drug-induced diabetes, physical activity
    contributes greatly towards the improvement in health. 30 minutes of moderate activity is recommended on regular basis by physicians. It is also required to check the glucose levels before & after the 4physical activity. The meal should also be planned according to the blood glucose levels checked previously.
  • Fenugreek supplementation: Another approach to tackle the drug-induced diabetes is by the treatment of diabetes along-with the on-going therapeutic drugs. It has been reported by many researchers that fenugreek is effective in the management of diabetes mellitus. In animal studies, the diabetes was induced in the animals with the help of alloxan or streptozotocin. Then, they were treated with fenugreek supplements. After some days of treatment on animals, improvements were noticed. There was improvement in the blood glucose levels on regular consumption of fenugreek supplements.5

In an animal study conducted by Babu KR et al., it was seen that fenugreek extract produced hypoglycemic effect in alloxan-induced diabetic rats after 7-21 days of oral administration. Their histopathological study on the rats showed that the alloxan-damaged β-cells were also restored on treatment with fenugreek extract.

It has been reported by Gaddam A et al. that fenugreek act by controlling the insulin resistance. The hypoglycemic effect of fenugreek was reported by them in their clinical study on both male and female volunteers having diabetes.

In a clinical study conducted by Verma N et al., fenugreek seed extract (Fenfuro™) exhibited anti-diabetic activity in male & female volunteers diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus. On completion of their clinical study, they found reduction in both fasting plasma and post-prandial blood sugar levels in 83% of the study subjects. Fenfuro™ was also safe during & after the study treatment.fenfuro@

According to many reported animal and human studies, fenugreek is safe and effective in the management of diabetes whether induced by drugs or develops itself. Being an herbal supplement, it does not caused any side effect in any animal or human volunteer.

REFERENCES

 

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Hypertension & Diabetes

Blood pressure is the force of blood against your blood vessels as it circulates. This force is necessary to make the blood flow, delivering nutrients and oxygen throughout your body. High blood pressure, also called hypertension, means there is too much pressure in your blood vessels. It may precede the onset of diabetes mellitus (DM). In many of the cases, both hypertension and diabetes mellitus may be diagnosed together. Diabetic population has almost doubled occurrence of hypertension as compared to non-diabetic general population.

Diabetes and high blood pressure are considered as major cardiovascular risk factors, which mean these can lead to coronary artery disease, stroke, left ventricular hypertrophy, and nephropathy. Patients suffering from both diabetes and high blood pressure have greater risk of atherosclerosis.

What are causes of high blood pressure?2

Are you diagnosed with blood pressure & diabetes?

If yes, then monitor yourself regularly

Learn how to measure blood pressure & blood sugar at home, keep record of these.

What are the recommendations for starting anti-hypertensives?

British Hypertension Society, British Hyperlipidaemia Association and British Cardiac Society have jointly suggested the initiations of treatment of hypertension in diabetics when BP is equal to or more than 140/90 mm Hg. According to the WHO Expert Committee Recommendation in Hypertension Control treatment may be instituted at BP 130/85 mm Hg in a patient with diabetic nephropathy

Are lifestyle modifications recommended for Diabetic hypertensives?

Lifestyle modifications are must for diabetic hypertensive patients. These modifications also correct obesity, hyperglycaemia, hyperinsulinaemia, and act as primary prevention against cardiovascular risks. These will reduce blood pressure and control blood glucose levels.

Regular physical activity

It has been observed that regular physical activity has an independent cardioprotective effect.  Regular aerobic exercise can reduce systolic BP by an average of 4 mmHg and diastolic BP by an average of 2.5 mmHg. It is advised to all patients to become physically active, as part of a comprehensive plan to control hypertension and diabetes, regardless of drug treatment. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity on most, if not all, days of the week.

3

Quitting smoking

Quitting smoking may not directly reduce BP, but markedly reduces overall cardiovascular risk. The risk of myocardial infarction is 2–6 times higher and the risk of stroke is 3 times higher in people who smoke than in non-smokers.

Quitting smoking also helps in better management of blood glucose and HbA1c levels.4

Dietary Modification

Adequate intake of dietary-fibre, and K+, Ca++, Mg++ from fresh fruit, green vegetables, and dairy products should be ensured. Mg++ is provided by chlorophyll of green leafy vegetables. Anti-obesity diet should not contain more than 1/3rd of total calories from fat. Of the fat calories, 1/3rd should be derived from saturated fat and 2/3 from poly- or monounsaturated fat.

5

Weight reduction

Every 1% reduction in body weight lowers systolic BP by an average of 1 mmHg. Weight reduction by as little as 4.5 kg reduces BP and/or prevents hypertension in a large proportion of overweight people. Weight loss of 10 kg can reduce systolic BP by 6–10 mmHg.

 6 

 

Reducing Alcohol Intake

Reducing alcohol intake may reduce BP in many patients and also contributes in better management of blood sugar levels.

Co-existence of diabetes mellitus and hypertension increases the risk of macro – and micro-vascular complications. Blood pressure should be measured in supine, sitting, and standing postures in a diabetic patient to detect existence of autonomic neuropathy and drug induced postural hypotension. A good BP control (130/80 or below) prevents or retards the progress of both micro and macro-vascular complications. Tight control of blood glucose levels prevents or delays the progress of micro-vascular complications.

It is very important and must of diabetic hypertensive patients to modify their lifestyle to lead a healthy and happy life.

FenfuroTM is a clinically evaluated dietary supplement for effective management of blood glucose levels. It is supported by 6 international patents.

fenfuro@

References

 

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INSULIN: HEALTH RISKS

Insulin hormone is a chemical messenger secreted by the beta cells of pancreas, which allows the body to utilize glucose from carbohydrates and convert the extra glucose into energy for future use. Insulin maintains the sugar balance in the body by keeping blood sugar level from getting too high (hyperglycemia) or too low (hypoglycemia). Glucose obtained from the food does not directly convert into energy. When we eat food, the blood sugar levels rise and beta cells of the pancreas are then signaled to release insulin into the blood stream. Then the released insulin absorbs the sugar by binding to insulin receptors and converts excess of the sugar in glycogen (energy), which get stored in the liver. It has dual mode of action i.e. an excitatory one and an inhibitory one:

  • It stimulates glucose uptake and lipid synthesis.
  • It inhibits the breakdown of lipids, proteins and glycogen, and inhibits the glucose pathway (gluconeogenesis) and production of ketone bodies (ketogenesis).

Sometimes glucose metabolism gets impaired, characterized by hyperglycemia which may be due to either pancreas does not secrete insulin or insulin receptors do not respond to the insulin properly. This condition is also known as diabetes mellitus. So it becomes essential to take the insulin externally.

1

Endogenous insulin (that which is found naturally in the body) acts on the principle of feedback. If glucose levels rise when eating something sweet, insulin secretion is increasing, too.

Exogenous insulin Patients suffering from Type I Diabetes are treated by doses of insulin produced by sources external to the body of the patient and administered in addition to the endogenous insulin. This type of insulin produced by sources other than human body is called exogenous insulin.

RISKS OF INSULIN INTAKE

When the insulin metabolism in the body gets impaired, then sometimes it becomes necessary to provide it externally. But there are certain side effects of insulin therapy. These are:

Hypoglycemia: It is the most serious problem associated with insulin therapy and it is also called as insulin reaction. It occurs 2

when blood sugar levels fall below the normal limits. If the insulin dose is high, then the blood glucose levels may decrease abruptly and if remain untreated may lead to seizure, death or coma. Hypoglycemia is associated with increased plasma dopamine, epinephrine and plasma renin activity. Signs and symptoms of low blood sugar are feeling weak, drowsy, or dizzy, experiencing shakiness, confusion, anxiety, nausea, or headache, blurred vision and loss of consciousness.

Weight gain

Weight gain during insulin therapy is the common problem that may be presented as edema. Weight gain may be associated with abrupt restoration of glucose control in a patient whose control was poor previously. It may be due to more efficient use of calories during insulin therapy, suggesting additional benefits of dietary and exercise modifications. Insulin therapy leads to increase in body fat as a result of the elimination of glycosuria and reduction in 24-hour energy expenditure which results in an insulin-associated decrease in triglyceride or free fatty acid cycling, glucose and protein metabolism and hence weight gain.

3

Renal problems

Insulin therapy may also cause renal complications such as decreased renal plasma flow, glomerular filtration rate and significantly increased urinary albumin excretion rate. However, these changes are reversible upon resolution of hypoglycemia. Therefore changes in kidney function during insulin-induced hypoglycemia may result from direct stimulation of the efferent sympathetic nerves to the kidney and hormonal counter regulatory mechanisms.

Allergic reactions

Patients on insulin therapy may experience allergic reactions in response to insulin. Sometimes these reactions may be minor like hives or itchiness, but sometimes may be life threatening such as swollen tongue, tightness in chest, difficulty breathing, dizziness or fainting and may need hospitalization. These reactions may be localized (such as rashes at the injection site) or systemic (itching, redness, muscle cramps.).

Hypophosphatemia

Hypophosphatemia is one of the major metabolic complications of insulin therapy, particularly in the patients who are on treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) as insulin increases intracellular phosphate transport. Sometimes hypokalemia and hypomagnesaemia may also occur during insulin therapy.

Skin related complications

Other adverse effects of insulin include loss or overgrowth of fat tissue at injection sites. Repeated use of the same injection site increases the risk of lipoatrophy — with time, patients learn that these areas are relatively pain free and continue to use them. However, the absorption of insulin from lipoatrophic areas is erratic leading to frequent difficulties in achieving ideal blood glucose control.

Lipohypertrophy is the most common cutaneous complication of insulin therapy.

Drug interactions

Exogenous insulin interactions include alpha and beta-blockers and other high blood pressure drugs, steroids, hormone-based contraceptive pills, asthma and cold medications, aspirin, thyroid medications, and even other diabetes drugs.

Administration of exogenous insulin provides a different insulin gradient than that occurring after endogenous insulin secretion. Endogenous insulin secretion acts initially on the liver where a major portion of it is taken up and <50% reaches the peripheral tissues. Exogenously administered insulin must circulate through the peripheral tissues before it can reach the liver; therefore, peripheral hyperinsulinemia is necessary to attain adequate insulin to regulate the liver. Another downside of insulin therapy is the need to increase the dose and the regimen complexity with time, the increase in severe hypoglycemia, and the potential increase in mortality as well as the potential increased risk for specific cancers.

It becomes all the more important for medical practitioner, patients and other stake holders to USE EXOGENOUS INSULIN INTELLIGENTLY, CAUTIOUSLY & JUDICIOULY.

References

http://www.iddt.org/about/gm-vs-animal-insulin/allergic-reactions-to-insulin