By David Jacobi, M.D.
Internal Medicine,
Henry Ford Medical Center- Fairlane

There’s no sugar coating it: diabetes is a national health problem affecting millions of children and adults. According to the American Diabetes Association, 20.8 million Americans have the disease and about one- third of them don’t even know they have it. This includes Middle Easterners who in their native countries, walk and eat natural and nutritious meals. In the United States, many of them can afford their own cars and eat plenty of junk and fast foods. This unhealthy lifestyle contributes to diabetes and other major diseases.

Despite these disturbing figures, there are ways to help prevent and treat the disease. The first step is to gain some general understanding of diabetes. Diabetes is a disease in which sugar levels are high and the body does not produce or properly use insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is needed to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy for daily life. Increased hunger, unexplained weight loss and frequent urination are strong indicators of possible diabetes.

Like many other chronic diseases, no one really knows what causes diabetes. However, genetics and environmental factors such as obesity and lack of exercise appear to play roles. People who are older than 45, overweight, have strong family history, high blood pressure and cholesterol are also at a higher risk of developing the disease.

The two most common types of diabetes are type 1 and type 2. Usually diagnosed in children and young adults, type 1 was previously known as juvenile diabetes. Affecting about 10 percent of Americans with diabetes, the body does not produce insulin. These patients take insulin every day. Left untreated, they are at risk for heart disease, blindness, and nerve and kidney damage.

In type 2 diabetes, commonly referred to as adult onset diabetes, the body does not properly respond to insulin. More and more children are being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. The majority of these young people are obese. Children who are inactive, overeat and have a family history of diabetes have a higher incidence of type 2 diabetes. These patients usually take diabetes pills or insulin every day. People suffering from this condition are at higher risk for heart disease, kidney damage and skin conditions. Diabetics can also develop serious eye and foot problems that can lead to blindness and even limb amputation.

This information may be a bit scary to most people. The good news is that those with diabetes who receive proper medical care usually may lead long and normal lives by being closely monitored by their physician. Also, it can be beneficial to work with a registered dietician who has the training and expertise in how the body uses food.

Dieticians work with diabetics to provide education on how foods can affect blood sugar levels as well as how to coordinate medications and eating. Families can reduce the chances of developing diabetes by limiting junk and fatty foods to help rid the body of high levels of sugar and saturated fat. Also pump up your family’s health by riding a bike, swimming or taking a brisk walk instead of watching TV or playing video games. Regardless of your health condition, it is always a good idea to consult with your physician first for maximum good health. To make an appointment with a Henry Ford physician or specialist, call 1-800 HENRYFORD (800-436-7936).