"Diabetes Mellitus according to a medical doctor is a disease in which blood sugar (glucose) levels are abnormally high because the body does not produce enough of the hormone insulin or the body fails to response to insulin.  He cited that insulin plays a key role in moving the sugar from the bloodstream into the cells where it is converted into energy.  Sugar accumulates in the blood if the body cannot adequately produces or response to insulin; diabetes can lead to complications." (Source: Bulletin Today, 2009)

Diabetes and heart

Studies show that diabetes affects the way the heart pumps blood through the body, leading to cardiovascular complications.  It changes the chemical makeup of some substances found in the body, which leads to narrowing or complete blockage of blood vessels.  Diabetes accelerates the build-up of fat, cholesterol, calcium and other substances inside the arteries, preventing the arteries from carrying oxygen-rich blood to the heart, and other parts of the body.

How to prevent diabetes

"According to medical experts some life-style changes may help prevent diabetes such as:

1)  Learn how combat stress.  Recent studies have demonstrated that the faithful use of stress-reduction techniques, such as good meditation and relaxation tapes helps stabilize blood-sugar levels.

2)  Best oatmeal to eat.  Researchers have found that oats is effective for stabilizing blood-sugar levels.  Oatmeal is high in protein and it is also getting much attention for lowering cholesterol according to a study.

3)  Supplements chromium.  This mineral plays an important part in glucose metabolism.  It is not a Wonder Pill but it can have a dramatic effect on metabolism.  It is available in drugstores.

4) Try ampalaya tea.  The wonders of modern science and technology can now produce a tea made from ampalaya and is paid to being upheld as a potent remedy for constipation, high blood pressure, kidney and liver ailment and diabetes, according to research.

5) Aerobic exercise.  Diabetics seem to become less sensitive to insulin as people put an excess weight, and more of the hormone which routinely converts sugar to fuel is required to keep muscles and essential organs functioning.   The best way known to desensitize tissues to insulin is to do aerobic exercise.

6) Stop drinking on your own.  Stimulants in alcohol and caffeine can activate the pancreas and adrenal glands.  Caffeine usually stimulate the production of adrenaline, which in turn causes the liver to release stored blood sugar producing "ups" and "downs" of blood sugar.  The good word is moderation and for coffee break try decaffeinated coffee."

Resources: "Diabetes", Bulletin Today 2009

                    Anonymous, "Tips on How to Combat Diabetes", Women's Journal 12 Jan. 2004