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<title>Latest Articles by tom191085</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/</link>
<description>Articles at Populate.NET</description>
<language>en-us</language>
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<title>Simple Steps for Colon Cancer Prevention</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Health/Diseases_and_Conditions/Cancer/simple-steps-for-colon-cancer-prevention.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Health/Diseases_and_Conditions/Cancer/simple-steps-for-colon-cancer-prevention.html</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 15 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Colon cancer (also known as bowel cancer or colorectal cancer) is any cancer that affects the last section of the digestive system (usually the colon or rectum.  It is one of the most prominent cancers in the UK and is responsible for over 16,000 deaths each year.  In this article I will be outlining the  signs, the symptoms, the treatments and the things you can do for effective bowel cancer prevention.

Most cancers of the colon develop from polyps (fleshy growths) in the intestine.  The majority of these polyps are harmless but some become become cancerous.  If left untreated the cancer in these polyps spreads to the colon and in the worst cases other areas of the body too.

Unfortunately it is not known what causes these polyps to become cancerous but there are a number of associated colon cancer risks.  Age is a major risk factor with over three quarters of bowel cancers occurring in people who are over 60 years old.  Diet is another significant bowel cancer risk factor with excessive consumption of red meats and alcohol and a low fibre intake all linked to the development of this cancer.  Other factors that increase your risk of contracting this cancer include a family history of the disease, inflammatory bowel diseases, a lack of exercise and smoking.

If cancer does develop it is often accompanied by a number of symptoms.  These colon cancer symptoms are often quite mild in the beginning but get worse as the cancer grows.  Some of the symptoms are directly associated with the growth of the cancer and include abdominal pain, bloody stools, changing bowel movements and rectal bleeding.  Rectal bleeding in particular is one of the most common symptoms so if you notice any bleeding from this area you should consult your doctor immediately.  Other less obvious symptoms include unexplained tiredness and weight loss.

If you suspect that you have bowel cancer based on the above symptoms you should consult your doctor immediately.  They will then be able to perform the necessary tests.  The first test is usually a rectal exam where your doctor will feel for any lumps or swollen polyps using a gloved finger.  Your doctor may then recommend a colonoscopy, which involves the passing of a small fibre optic camera into your anus, so that they can visual examine your colon.

If any of the tests reveal that you have bowel cancer your doctor will start you on a treatment program.  The treatment offered will be dependent upon whether the cancer is in the early stages or has become more advanced.  Early stage colon cancer is much more treatable than a cancer that has become advanced.

Surgery is the most common treatment for bowel cancer with the procedure attempting to extract the cancerous cells from the colon and then stitch it back together.  Chemotherapy (the use of anti-cancer medications) and radiotherapy (the use of high energy radiation beams) are sometimes used as colon cancer treatments but are more commonly used to help shrink the cancerous cells prior to surgery and then to reduce the risk of the cancer returning after surgery.

Although this cancer can be treated, prevention is a much more attractive and uncomplicated option, plus it is not that difficult  It simply involves making a few positive lifestyle changes.  Exercising regularly is believed to reduce your risk by as much as 40%.  Reducing your red meat and alcohol intake whilst eating more fruits, vegetables and other fibre rich foods can also help prevent colon cancer.  Giving up smoking is another important lifestyle change for the prevention of both bowel cancer and other cancers too.

I hope this article has helped you learn about the symptoms and risk factors for bowel cancer BUT most importantly I hope it inspires you to actively participate in cancer prevention by improving your lifestyle.  Try and eat a balanced diet that contains plenty of fruits and vegetables, try and do some physical activity every day and if you smoke start working towards giving up.  Whilst we still do not know exactly what causes this disease, these lifestyle changes can go a long way towards preventing it.

Whilst every intention has been made to make this article accurate and informative, it is intended for general information only.  Colon cancer is a very serious, life threatening condition and you should discuss any concerns, treatments or lifestyle changes fully with your doctor. ]]></description>
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<title>4 Major Organs that Diabetes can Damage</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Health/Diseases_and_Conditions/Diabetes/4-major-organs-that-diabetes-can-damage.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Health/Diseases_and_Conditions/Diabetes/4-major-organs-that-diabetes-can-damage.html</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 22 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Diabetes is a condition that develops when the body can no longer produce enough insulin to moderate blood sugar levels.  As a result diabetics suffer from extremely high blood sugar levels.  Over time these high levels of sugar in the blood start to affect the blood vessels and other areas of the body.  In this article I will be discussing four of the major organs that can be affected by diabetes damage.

1) THE HEART:- As already discussed, high blood sugar levels can damage your blood vessels.  When these vessels become damaged the flow of blood to your heart becomes restricted.  Your heart needs a good flow of blood to function properly and without this your risk for heart attacks and other heart diseases increases.  There are a number of symptoms that could indicate heart disease which include; breathlessness, chest pains and irregular heartbeats.

2) THE EYES:- When the blood vessels and tissues of the eyes become damaged this can lead to a condition called diabetic retinopathy.  Sufferers of diabetic retinopathy often experience blurred vision and in the worst cases temporary blindness.  Diabetes also increases your risk of developing cataracts (clouding of the eyes lenses) and glaucoma (damage to the optic nerves).

3) THE FEET:- Diabetes can also cause damage to your nerves.  If the nerves in your feet become damaged then some feeling is often lost meaning that cuts and sores can quite easily go unnoticed.  This means that they can become infected without you realising which brings further complications.  Therefore, to reduce your risk of infection it is very important to wash your feet daily and inspect them regularly if you are diabetic.

4) THE KIDNEYS:- If the blood vessels of the kidneys become damaged they cannot remove waste from the blood effectively.  In the worst cases this can lead to kidney failure which will mean you will then require kidney dialysis or a kidney transplant.

As you can see, diabetes is not a condition to be taken lightly.  This article has discussed just some of the damage that diabetes can cause.  However, it can also weaken many of your other organs too.  Fortunately, a lot of this damage can be avoided by following a sensible diabetes treatment plan, eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly.  Many people do not realise how serious contracting diabetes is.  I hope this article has shown you just how important proper treatment can be.

Every intention has been made to make this article accurate and informative but it is intended for general information only. Diabetes is a medical condition and this article is not intended as a substitute for the advice of your doctor or a qualified medical practitioner. If you have any concerns regarding any form of diabetes you should seek the advice of your doctor immediately. ]]></description>
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<title>3 Sweet Diabetic Treat Recipes</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Health/Diseases_and_Conditions/Diabetes/3-sweet-diabetic-treat-recipes.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Health/Diseases_and_Conditions/Diabetes/3-sweet-diabetic-treat-recipes.html</guid>
<pubDate>Sat, 13 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ One of the worries for many people that are diagnosed with diabetes is that they will have to give up their favourite sugary treats. Whilst it is true that you should moderate your sugar intake as a diabetic, by being a little creative you can come up with some sweet treats for yourself. In this article I will be providing you with three diabetic recipes for; chocolate cheesecake, diabetic double chocolate cookies and fruit and bread pudding.

1) CHOCOLATE CHEESECAKE

You will need:
- Margarine for pan
- 15 oz. part skim milk Ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 c. (12 oz.) light cream cheese, softened
- 1 whole egg
- 2 egg whites
- 1 c. unsweetened apple juice concentrate
- 3 tbsp. unsweetened cocoa
- 1 tbsp. cornstarch
- 1 tbsp. sugar
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- 2 tsp. unsweetened cocoa (for topping)

To prepare preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Then lightly grease the bottom and sides of a 9 inch spring-form pan. Next wrap the outside of the pan with aluminium foil. Then place the ingredients in the bowl of a food processor or blender and puree them all till smooth. Next use a rubber spatula to scrape the mixture into the prepared pan. Then put the pan in the oven on a baking sheet for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes turn the oven off and leave the cake in the oven with door closed for 1 hour. Once the hour is up remove the cake and refrigerate. Before unmolding and serving, let it stand at room temperature for 10 minutes. Then sift 2 teaspoons of unsweetened cocoa over the top and slice the cheesecake with a knife that has been warmed in hot water. The finished cake should serve 12 people.

2) DIABETIC DOUBLE CHOCOLATE COOKIES

You will need:
- 2 c. 100% Bran or Bran Buds, All Bran or Fiber One
- 2/3 c. water
- 1 c. egg (5-6 med.)
- 2 tsp. vanilla
- 2 tsp. chocolate extract
- 2/3 c. vegetable oil
- Liquid sugar substitute - equal to 1/2 c. sugar
- 1 3/4 c. flour
- 1/2 c. cocoa
- 1/4 c. dry milk (instant)
- 1 tsp. soda
- 1 tsp. baking powder

To prepare mix the ingredients well and drop the mixture onto a cookie sheet using a teaspoon. Then place the cookie tray in the oven and bake the cookies at 350 degrees for 10 minutes.

3) FRUIT N BREAD PUDDING

You will need:
- 3 slices enriched white bread
- 1 1/2 med. bananas, peeled and sliced
- 1/2 c. sliced peaches with juice
- 1/2 c. cranberries
- 1/2 c. brown sugar replacement
- 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
- 1/3 c. water
- 1/2 tsp. banana extract
- 1/2 tsp. brandy extract
- Grated nutmeg (optional)

To prepare toast the bread on a baking at 325 degrees until dry. Then cut the toast into cubes. Next combine the toast cubes with the fruits. Then dissolve the brown sugar replacement and cinnamon in water. Next add the extracts to the water and pour this over the fruit/toast mixture. Then turn it with a spatula until well coated. Next let it stand for 5 minutes. Then turn it again, scraping down the sides of the bowl. Next place the mixture in a one-quart size oven-proof casserole dish and bake at 350 degrees uncovered for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes serve the pudding warm with a dusting of grated nutmeg. The finished pudding should serve 3 people.

As you can see from these tasty recipes diabetes does not have to spoil your fun. You can still sample the sweet stuff. I hope you enjoy the recipes. ]]></description>
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<title>3 Super Tasty Savoury Diabetic Recipes</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Health/Diseases_and_Conditions/Diabetes/3-super-tasty-savoury-diabetic-recipes.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Health/Diseases_and_Conditions/Diabetes/3-super-tasty-savoury-diabetic-recipes.html</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Diabetes is a condition that develops when your body can no longer produce insulin (type 1 diabetes) or your body's ability to produce insulin is inhibited (type 2 diabetes).  This restricts your ability to absorb blood sugar and leads to your blood sugar levels becoming extremely high.  However, there other ways to control your blood sugar and diet is widely agreed to be one of the best.  In this article I will be providing you with three savoury diabetic recipes you can use to keep your condition under control.

1) BAKED CHICKEN DINNER

You will need:
- 4 oz. chicken
- 1 egg
- 4 oz. cooked peas
- 1/3 c. dry milk
- 2 tbsp. dehydrated onion flakes
- 2 tbsp. green peppers, diced
- 2 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp. salt, seasoned
- 1/2 c. water
- 2 tbsp. pimento, chopped

To prepare combine all the ingredients in a casserole dish, place in the oven and bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes.

2) DELICIOUS SALMON SNACK

You will need:
- 6 oz. salmon
- 1 tbsp. chopped green pepper
- 1/4 tsp. onion flakes
- 1/4 tsp. horseradish
- 1 to 2 tbsp. diet French dressing
- 3 oz. Swiss cheese
- 6 slices tomatoes
- 3 slices of toast

To prepare mix the first 5 ingredients together and then divide the mix into thirds.  After this spread the mix on 3 slices of toast and 1 ounce cheese and 2 slices of tomato to each slice.  Finally, place under the broiler until the cheese bubbles.

3) CHEESE AND ONION CASSEROLE

You will need:
- 8 oz. onions. sliced
- 4 oz. Swiss cheese, grated
- 4 eggs, slightly beaten
- 2 c. skim milk
- 2 tsp. salt
- 1 tsp. pepper
- 1 tsp. garlic powder
- 4 slices enriched white bread, crumbled, divided in half

To prepare combine all the ingredients except 1/2 of the bread crumbs in a casserole dish.  Mix them well and then top the casserole with the remaining bread crumbs.  Place the casserole in the oven and bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes (or longer if the casserole is not cooked all the way through.  The finished casserole should serve 4 people.

I hope you enjoy cooking and eating these tasty recipes.  Many people who are diagnosed with diabetes think that their diet will become bland and boring but these recipes are proof that this is simply not the case.  So what are you waiting for?  Get yourself in the kitchen and start testing these fantastic recipes today. ]]></description>
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<title>3 Fantastic Ways That Exercise Can Help Improve your Diabetes</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Health/Diseases_and_Conditions/Diabetes/3-fantastic-ways-that-exercise-can-help-improve-your-diabetes.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Health/Diseases_and_Conditions/Diabetes/3-fantastic-ways-that-exercise-can-help-improve-your-diabetes.html</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 10 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Exercise can be a fantastic way to manage your diabetes providing you take adequate precautions.  On top of this exercise also has a number of additional benefits including an improved appearance, greater strength and more energy.  In this article I will be discussing the exercise options available to you, the precautions you should take when exercising and the benefits exercise can have on your diabetes.

To begin lets discuss the types of exercise available to you.  Exercise generally falls under two main categories; 'Cardiovascular Training' and 'Resistance Training'.  Cardiovascular training focuses on improving the amount of oxygen that is delivered to your muscles which in turn improves your endurance and stamina.  There are many choices when it comes to cardiovascular exercise which include cycling, jogging and swimming.  Resistance training focuses on improving your strength using short, explosive movements.  When it comes to resistance training the choices are a little more limited and involve the use of free weights, machine weights or your own body weight.

So which type is best for your diabetes and your overall health?  Well, both types have their advantages.  Cardiovascular training is more effective at stimulating the body to use blood sugar for energy but weight training has been linked with significant improvements in blood sugar control.  My advice is to do a mixture of both cardiovascular training and resistance training as part of your regular exercise routine.  This will allow you to gain the maximum benefit from each type of exercise which include:

1) IMPROVED BLOOD SUGAR CONTROL:- As mentioned above both types of exercise can help you control your blood sugar levels by prompting your body to burn more blood sugar.  In fact in some cases of type 2 diabetes exercise has been so effective that it has removed the need for insulin injections.

2) IMPROVED RECEPTIVENESS TO INSULIN:- One of the key problems facing diabetics is a lack of insulin in the body.  However, research suggests that regular exercise can improve the body's sensitivity to insulin.  Therefore, by exercising regularly diabetics can use the limited insulin they have available more effectively.

3) REDUCED BODY FAT LEVELS:- Both types of exercise can help you burn fat in different ways.  Cardiovascular training stimulates fat burning directly (both during and after exercise) whereas building muscle mass through resistance training can slightly increase the number of calories you burn each day.  Fat cells are more resistant to insulin than muscle cells and so by burning them off through exercise you can make your body more receptive to insulin.

Although regular exercise is a fantastic way to moderate your diabetes it is very important that you take the following precautions.

- Always monitor your blood sugar levels before, during and after exercise using a portable glucose meter.  Although exercise can help control your blood sugar levels you need to be aware if any fluctuations occur.

- Always keep insulin and glucose nearby so that you can quickly address any potential blood sugar fluctuations.

- Make sure that you stay properly hydrated whilst working out as dehydration can can cause further blood sugar fluctuations.

- Talk to your doctor before beginning an exercise plan.  They will know about your health better than most people and therefore will be able to advise you of any further precautions you need to take when exercising.

Regular exercise can do wonders for your health, your appearance and your diabetes.  If you want to command greater control over your diabetes then you should start getting physical today.  Begin with just a daily brisk walk and then progressively work your way towards more intense forms of exercise.  Before you know it you will have made huge steps in your health, your fitness and your diabetes management.

Every intention has been made to make this article accurate and informative but it is intended for general information only. Diabetes is a medical condition and this article is not intended as a substitute for the advice of your doctor or a qualified medical practitioner. If you have any concerns regarding any form of diabetes you should seek the advice of your doctor immediately. ]]></description>
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<title>5 Simple Ways to Formulate a Diabetes Diet</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Health/Diseases_and_Conditions/Diabetes/5-simple-ways-to-formulate-a-diabetes-diet.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Health/Diseases_and_Conditions/Diabetes/5-simple-ways-to-formulate-a-diabetes-diet.html</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 08 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Since the food we eat is very closely linked with our blood sugar levels, it is not surprising that diet is one of the most effective tools we have available when combating diabetes.  In this article I discuss five simple dietary changes that can help keep your diabetes under control.

Main Article:
One of the main symptoms of diabetes is higher than normal blood sugar levels which is brought on by the lack of insulin in a diabetic person's body.  The food you eat has a direct impact on your blood sugar levels and because of this diet is one of your best tools in the fight against diabetes.  In this article I will be discussing five ways your diet can be modified to keep your blood sugar levels normal and keep your diabetes under control.

1) EAT 5 OR 6 SMALL MEALS PER DAY:- Most people eat 3 main meals per day; breakfast, lunch and dinner.  Whilst blood sugar levels to rise to some extent following meals, eating large amounts of food in one sitting can cause them to increase significantly and then drop a few hours later.  This is why you may experience a sudden burst of energy immediately after a large meal but then feel tired and sleepy a few hours later.  By breaking your meals down into 5 or 6 smaller meals you can minimise these blood sugar surges and spread them more evenly throughout the day, meaning that your blood sugar levels will fluctuate less and be much more stable.

2) LIMIT YOUR DAILY CALORIES:- Developing a general understanding of how many calories are in the foods that you eat and how many calories you need to maintain a healthy body weight is a great way to keep your weight under control.  But why is this important for diabetics?  Well, fat cells have a number of characteristics that can aggravate diabetes one of which is that they have a lower number of insulin receptors than muscle cells.  Therefore, by reducing your body fat levels you can increase your body's receptiveness to insulin making it easier for your body to control your blood sugar levels.

3) INCREASE YOUR SOLUBLE FIBRE CONSUMPTION:- One of the benefits of soluble fibre is that it holds food in the digestive tract for longer.  This in turn means that sugars are released into the blood in a slower and more controlled way.  Therefore, consuming more soluble fibre can help keep your blood sugar levels under control and minimise any rapid changes in your blood sugar levels.  Fruits and vegetables are great sources of soluble fibre with apples, oranges and mushrooms being particularly rich in the substance.

4) REDUCE YOUR SALT INTAKE:- Although salt does not directly affect your blood sugar levels it can affect your blood pressure and with high blood pressure comes further complications such as heart disease.  People with diabetes have a greater chance of developing high blood pressure than people without the condition.  Therefore, combining the two is a recipe for disaster (excuse the pun).  The recommended daily intake for salt is 6g so you should try and make sure that your maximum daily intake does not exceed this.

5) REDUCE YOUR ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION:- Moderate alcohol consumption does not pose a significant to most people's health.  However, excessive alcohol intake can have a negative impact on your diabetes with the complications including hyperglycaemia (extremely low blood sugar levels).  Therefore, you need to moderate when it comes to alcohol intake.  Men should try to stick to 3-4 units per day whilst women should try to stick with 1 or 2 units per day.

Since diet is so closely linked with blood sugar levels it comes as no surprise that it must be closely managed in order to keep your diabetes under control.  However, this does not mean that it has to be restrictive or boring.  I hope this article has shown you how some simple dietary changes can significantly improve your diabetes.

Every intention has been made to make this article accurate and informative but it is intended for general information only. Diabetes is a medical condition and this article is not intended as a substitute for the advice of your doctor or a qualified medical practitioner. If you have any concerns regarding any form of diabetes you should seek the advice of your doctor immediately. ]]></description>
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<title>4 Common Symptoms of Diabetes</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Health/Diseases_and_Conditions/Diabetes/4-common-symptoms-of-diabetes.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Health/Diseases_and_Conditions/Diabetes/4-common-symptoms-of-diabetes.html</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 26 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Diabetes is a condition which develops when your body's insulin (a hormone that helps convert blood sugar/glucose into energy) production becomes inhibited.  This has a knock effect on your blood sugar levels which increase due to this lack of insulin.  However, the associated symptoms are often difficult to identify.  A lot of the time the symptoms are so mild that they are not noticed and in other cases the symptoms take years to develop.  In this article I will be discussing four of the top diabetes symptoms that you should look out for.

1) HYPERGLYCAEMIA:- Hyperglycaemia refers to higher than normal blood sugar levels which in most cases are brought about by the lack of insulin in a diabetic person's body.  Insulin usually works as a control mechanism and keeps blood sugar within a normal range (around 80 milligrams per decilitre to 110 mg/dL).  Without insulin blood sugar levels can consistently become higher than normal and in diabetics persistent hyperglycaemia is common.  Blood sugar levels are said to be hyperglycaemic if they are consistently above 126 mg/dL.  With persistent hyperglycaemia comes a number of symptoms which include:

- Blurred Vision.
- Constant Thirst.
- Hunger Pangs.
- Frequent Urges to Urinate.
- Persistent Weakness/Tiredness.

Hyperglycaemia does require your attention.  Insulin injections can be used for mild occurrences but more severe occurrences may require medical treatment.

2) HYPOGLYCAEMIA:- Hypoglycaemia refers to lower than normal blood sugar levels.  It can be brought about by not eating enough calories on a day to day basis, not consuming enough calories post exercise and excessive alcohol consumption.  Although hypoglycaemia can affect all diabetics it is most common in type 1 diabetics when they inject too much insulin.  The symptoms of hypoglycaemia include:

- Blurred Vision.
- Dizziness.
- Hunger Pangs.
- Shaking.
- Sweating.

Like hyperglycaemia, hypoglycaemia will require your attention.  Mild occurrences can usually be overcome by eating 10g - 20g of sugar or consuming glucose tablets.  However, more serious hypoglycaemia will require glucagon to be injected via paramedics.

3) DIABETIC KETOACIDOSIS (DKA):- When your body fails to convert blood sugar into energy it starts to use fat and muscle for energy instead.  The breakdown of fat causes ketones (fatty acids) to be released into the bloodstream and over time these build up and lead to the onset of DKA.  DKA is most prevalent in type 1 diabetics and is usually brought about by a lack of insulin which prevents your body from getting adequate energy from the available blood sugar.  However, it can also be linked with illness and infection.  The symptoms of DKA include:

- Abdominal Pain.
- Fruity Smelling Breath.
- Dry Skin.
- Vomiting.

DKA is one of the more serious symptoms of diabetes and will require immediate medical attention.  In the worst cases it can be fatal.

4) HYPEROSMOTIC NON-KETOTIC ACIDOSIS (HONK):- HONK is most prevalent in type 2 diabetics.  It occurs when the body responds to the high levels of blood sugar by passing additional urine.  This can then lead to extreme dehydration and HONK for which the symptoms include:

- Dry Skin.
- Excessive Thirst (which does not disappear following fluid consumption).
- Fevers.

Like with DKA, HONK is very serious condition and requires proper medical attention right away.

I hope this article helps you identify the often elusive symptoms of diabetes.  The symptoms can range from the mild (which are normally self treatable) to the serious (which usually require professional medical assistance).  However, remember that the symptoms are only an indicator of diabetes.  For the best results you should go and book yourself in for an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible and get yourself tested for diabetes.

Every intention has been made to make this article accurate and informative but it is intended for general information only. Diabetes is a medical condition and this article is not intended as a substitute for the advice of your doctor or a qualified medical practitioner. If you have any concerns regarding any form of diabetes you should seek the advice of your doctor immediately. ]]></description>
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<title>4 Top Tests for Diabetes</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Health/Diseases_and_Conditions/Diabetes/4-top-tests-for-diabetes.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Health/Diseases_and_Conditions/Diabetes/4-top-tests-for-diabetes.html</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 25 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Diabetes is a disease caused by a lack of insulin (a hormone that your body relies upon to convert blood sugar into energy) in the body.  But how can you test for diabetes and see whether you have contracted the disease yourself?  The best way is to go and see your doctor and ask them to test you.  They will then be able to give you an accurate diagnosis.  In this article I will discuss four of the most popular diabetes tests that your doctor is likely to use.

1) FASTING PLASMA GLUCOSE (FPG) TEST:- The FPG test has become one of the most popular diabetes tests.  The main drawback with the FPG test is that it is not suitable to test for gestational diabetes (a form of diabetes which develops during pregnancy).  However, if you are not pregnant the chances are that your doctor will use this test to make their diagnosis.
To begin you will be scheduled in for a FPG test.  Your doctor will require you to eat nothing for at least eight hours prior to the test.  During the test they will take a blood sample and measure your blood glucose levels.  They will then analyse the blood sample and diagnose you based on the following rules:

- A blood sugar level of 99 milligrams per decilitre (mg/dL) or less = Normal.
- A blood sugar level of between 100 mg/dL and 125 mg/dL = Impaired Fasting Glucose (a form of pre-diabetes which if left untreated can develop into type 2 diabetes).
- A blood sugar level of 126 mg/dL or greater = Type 1 or type 2 diabetes.  In this instance you will be given another FPG for accuracy.  If both FPGs suggest that you have diabetes your doctor will investigate further and diagnose you with type 1 or type 2 diabetes

2) ORAL GLUCOSE TOLERANCE TEST (OGTT):- This test is similar to the FPG but it can be used to diagnose all types of diabetes.  If you are a man or non-pregnant woman your doctor will book you in for an FPG test.  Following the FPG test they will then give you a drink containing glucose and take regular blood samples after you have drank it.  If you are pregnant you will be given the glucose drink without an FPG test and regular blood samples will be taken following consumption.  In both variations the final blood sample will be used to make a diagnosis based on the following rules:

- A blood sugar level of 140 mg/dL or less = Normal.
- A blood sugar level of between 140 mg/dL and 199 mg/dL = Impaired Fasting Glucose (a form of pre-diabetes which if left untreated can develop into type 2 diabetes).
- A blood sugar reading of 200 mg/dL or greater = Type 1, type 2 or gestational diabetes.  If you are a pregnant woman then you will be diagnosed with gestational diabetes.  Otherwise your doctor will investigate further and diagnose you with type 1 or type 2 diabetes.

3) RANDOM BLOOD GLUCOSE (RBG) TEST:- The RBG does exactly what it says and involves a random blood test being taken.  RBG tests can be performed without the assistance of your doctor using a glucose meter (a piece of medical equipment that calculates the approximate level of glucose in your blood).  The test involves pricking your finger with a lancing device (a device which draws a small amount of blood from your finger), placing the blood on a test strip and then inserting this test strip into your glucose meter to get a reading.  If multiple RBG tests show that you have blood sugar levels higher than 200 mg/dL then you may have diabetes.

Although RBG tests are easy to perform they should NOT be used as the only test when diagnosing diabetes.  They are approximately 10% as accurate as laboratory tests and therefore any concerns you may have as the result of multiple RBG tests should be followed up with your doctor.  Only your doctor will be able to give you a full and accurate diagnosis.

4) GLYCOSYLATED HAEMOGLOBIN TEST:- Glycosylated haemoglobin is the term used to describe haemoglobin that has bound with glucose.  Glycosylated haemoglobin cells usually last for between two to four months.  If you have diabetes or you are not managing your diabetes effectively the level of glycosylated haemoglobin in your blood will increase.  To begin the gylcosylated haemoglobin test your doctor will take a blood sample and analyse the glycosylated haemoglobin levels based on the following results:

- Glycosylated haemoglobin levels of between 4% and 6% = Normal. 
- Glycosylated haemoglobin levels below 7% = Diabetes that is under control.
- Glycosylated haemoglobin levels greater than 7% = Diabetes that is not under control.

I hope this article has shown you that there are multiple tests available to determine whether or not you have diabetes.  However, you must remember that these tests are useless unless performed under the supervision of a doctor or other qualified medical professional.  Many factors can affect your test results and your doctor will be able to look at all the relevant factors and then make an accurate diagnosis.  If you think you may have diabetes and want a solid answer then go see your doctor and get yourself tested today.

Every intention has been made to make this article accurate and informative but it is intended for general information only. Diabetes is a medical condition and this article is not intended as a substitute for the advice of your doctor or a qualified medical practitioner. If you have any concerns regarding any form of diabetes you should seek the advice of your doctor immediately. ]]></description>
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<title>What Are The Causes Of Diabetes?</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Health/Diseases_and_Conditions/Diabetes/what-are-the-causes-of-diabetes.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Health/Diseases_and_Conditions/Diabetes/what-are-the-causes-of-diabetes.html</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 12 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Research into diabetes is increasing all the time.  Despite this no one actually knows what specifically causes diabetes.  This has led to a number of rumours circulating some which are partially true and others which hold no truth at all.  In this article I will be discussing what is known about the causes of diabetes.

1) GENERAL CAUSES:- We know that diabetes develops as a result of your body's cells not getting enough insulin (a hormone which helps convert blood sugar/glucose into energy).  This is usually because your pancreas fails to generate enough insulin or because your body's cells start to resist insulin.  Although we know what leads to the development of diabetes we do not currently know why this happens in certain individuals and not others.

2) GESTATIONAL DIABETES (GDM):- Again we do not know the exact causes of GDM although it is strongly linked with hormonal changes that occur during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy.  During this time the placenta releases hormones which block the normal action of insulin to ensure that the growing baby gets enough glucose.  This causes pregnant women's insulin needs to increase by two or three times the normal rate.  Failure to meet this need leads to the onset of GDM.  Approximately 5% of pregnant women develop GDM and although we have a good idea of what causes it, we do not know why it affects certain women and not others.  There are a number of associated risk factors but currently no definitive reason.

3) TYPE 1 DIABETES:- Type 1 diabetes is caused by damage to the pancreas as the result of an auto-immune attack where the body's immune system starts to attack the insulin producing beta cells of the pancreas.  Once more, whilst we know what causes type 1 diabetes we are still unsure what triggers this response.  A number of suggestions have been put forward (including viral infections and faulty nerves) but currently none of these suggestions can be applied universally.

4) TYPE 2 DIABETES AND PRE-DIABETES:- Pre-diabetes is an early form of type 2 diabetes and the causes of each are very similar.  Type 2 diabetes develops when the body stops responding to insulin.  The pancreas reacts by producing additional insulin and the liver responds by releasing extra glucose.  Over time this limits the effectiveness of the pancreas and further increases insulin resistance in the body.  As with the other types of diabetes we do not know what causes the above reaction.  However, there is very strong evidence that type 2 diabetes is linked to age, ethnicity, family history, inactivity and obesity.

5) RUMOURS:- Since the exact cause of diabetes is unknown, there are a number of false suggestions floating around.  These include diabetes being contagious (there is a hereditary element but it cannot be passed directly from person to person), diabetes being caused by sugar (excessive sugar consumption does not cause diabetes but is linked with obesity, a diabetes risk factor) and stress causing diabetes (stress can aggravate the condition in diabetics but there is currently no evidence that it causes diabetes).

Currently, we have a general understanding of what happens inside our bodies to cause diabetes.  However, the trigger behind these causes is still a mystery.  Perhaps the strongest link is that between inactivity, obesity and type 2 diabetes but even this does not fully explain why some obese individuals never develop the disease.  As research into the causes of diabetes continues, the best advice is to try and keep your blood sugar levels within a normal range.  Keeping your weight under control, exercising regularly and eating a healthy diet can all play their part in this process.

Every intention has been made to make this article accurate and informative but it is intended for general information only.  Diabetes is a medical condition and this article is not intended as a substitute for the advice of your doctor or a qualified medical practitioner.  If you have any concerns regarding any form of diabetes you should seek the advice of your doctor immediately. ]]></description>
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<item>
<title>What is Type 2 Diabetes?</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Health/Diseases_and_Conditions/Diabetes/what-is-type-2-diabetes.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Health/Diseases_and_Conditions/Diabetes/what-is-type-2-diabetes.html</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 11 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Type 2 diabetes (also known as non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) or adult-onset diabetes) is the most common form of diabetes affecting around 90% of sufferers.  It develops when your pancreas no longer produces sufficient insulin (the hormone which helps break blood sugar down for energy) or when your body's cells become resistant to insulin.

It is not known exactly what triggers type 2 diabetes but development begins when the cells in your body stop responding to insulin.  This restricts your ability to convert blood sugar into energy so the pancreas and liver both respond by releasing extra insulin and glucose.  If this happens for a prolonged period, your pancreas's insulin production capabilities become limited and your body's cells start to further resist insulin.  This eventually leads to your blood sugar levels becoming excessively high and the onset of type 2 diabetes.

Since type 2 diabetes often develops gradually over time the symptoms are very difficult to spot.  In many cases there are no symptoms at all and even when symptoms do unfold they are typically so mild that the sufferer does not notice them.  However, if you notice any of the following symptoms (no matter how slight) you could have type 2 diabetes:

- Cuts or sores that heal slowly.
- Feelings of drowsiness.
- Greater hunger and thirst levels.
- Soreness in your legs.

To get tested for type 2 diabetes you need to go and see your doctor.  They will then test your blood sugar levels to gauge whether you have diabetes.  Two of the most popular tests are the fasting plasma glucose test (where you fast for eight hours and then have your blood sugar levels measured) and the oral glucose tolerance test (where you consume a sugary drink and then have your blood sugar levels measured).  If either of these tests confirm that you have type 2 diabetes your doctor will be able to give you further advice on effectively managing your condition.

Type 2 diabetes is associated with a number of complications and can cause serious damage to your body if not managed properly.  Poorly management of the disease can lead to hyperosmotic non-ketotic acidosis (a type of coma brought on by a lack of insulin), damage to your eyes, damage to your heart, nerve damage and more.  Thankfully, the majority of these complications can be avoided by following your doctors advice and managing your diabetes properly.

Your doctor is likely to make a number of recommendations in this area.  You will be advised to get a blood testing kit so that you can continually check your blood sugar levels.  You may also be prescribed insulin injections depending upon the severity of your condition (approximately 40% of type 2 diabetics require additional insulin).  However, in most cases changes to your diet and exercise routine will be enough.  On the diet side you will be advised to cut down on salt, reduce your alcohol intake and eat more frequently throughout the day.  For the exercise you will be advised to participate in 30 minutes or more of moderate intensity activity per day.

The development of type 2 diabetes is heavily linked with poor lifestyle choices.  If you want to stop this condition from destroying your health then you need to listen to your doctor and start making the correct lifestyle choices today.

Whilst every intention has been made to make this article accurate and informative it is intended for general information only.  Diabetes is a medical condition and this article is not intended as a substitute for the advice of your doctor or a qualified medical practitioner.  If you have any concerns regarding type 2 or any other form of diabetes you should seek the advice of your doctor immediately. ]]></description>
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