Gillian McKeith's Food Bible (180 page)

TYPES OF DIABETES

There are two main types of diabetes: type-1 and type-2. In the UK, approximately two million people have been diagnosed with diabetes, and it’s believed there are about a further 750,000
people who have the condition but have yet to be diagnosed. Of those who have diabetes, between 85 and 95 percent have type-2.

TYPE-1 DIABETES

Type-1—
also known as insulin-dependent diabetes or juvenile-onset diabetes—occurs mostly in children and young adults. In this form of diabetes, the body cannot make insulin due to the destruction of the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Treatment includes insulin injections several times a day (for life), along with a monitored diet and exercise regime.

CAUSES MAY INCLUDE

Genetic predisposition.

Autoimmune disease.

Certain viruses.

TYPE-2 DIABETES

Type-2—
also known as non-insulin-dependent or adult-onset diabetes—is the most common form of diabetes, occurring mostly in adults over 40. However, due to dietary and lifestyle changes over the last few decades, this type of diabetes is becoming increasingly common in younger people, and is associated with the growing obesity trend in the west. Statistics show that more than 80 percent of people diagnosed with type-2 diabetes are overweight.

In type-2 diabetes, the pancreas continues to produce insulin, but either it does not make enough or the body is unable to use it efficiently. This form of diabetes is usually treated with tablets that help the body to make better use of the insulin that is produced and/or a carefully planned dietary and exercise regime. In some people, insulin injections may also be required.

RISK FACTORS INCLUDE

A close family member has diabetes.

You are overweight.

You have a waist circumference of more than 37 inches (94 cm) for men and 31.5 inches (80 cm) for women.

You have high blood pressure or high cholesterol.

You’ve had a heart attack or a stroke.

You’re a woman with polycystic ovary syndrome and are overweight.

Your GP has told you that you have impaired glucose tolerance.

Sedentary lifestyle.

Action plan

If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, your aim should be to try to achieve normal blood glucose levels. This action plan will help you to keep your blood sugar level under control, maintain energy, and lose weight.

CAUTION

If you have type-1 diabetes, or you are taking insulin or oral medication for type-2, please check with your GP before following any of the recommendations in this action plan, as they may enhance the effect of your drugs, possibly leading to your blood sugar level dropping too low. Therefore this plan, or any part of it, should be undertaken only under the supervision of a health professional.

EAT/DRINK