Several recent studies show that most cases of Type II
diabetes can be prevented with the diabetic medications,
metformin, Avandia or perhaps Actos (Lancet, September 29,
2006; Diabetes Care, Volume 29, 2006). An earlier study
showed that lifestyle changes were even more effective in
preventing diabetes than drugs (Annals of Pharmacotherapy,
July 2004).
People most likely to develop diabetes have a family
history of diabetes, are overweight, and store fat primarily in the
belly, rather than the hips. They often have a thick neck, male
pattern baldness, high blood levels of triglycerides and low levels
of the good HDL cholesterol, and do not exercise. Pre-diabetes
is defined as having a fasting blood sugar greater than 100 but
less than 125, a one-hour-after-eating blood sugar greater than
160 but less than 200, and an HBA1c greater than 5.7 but less
than 6. (HBA1c is a blood test that measures how much sugar is
stuck on cells).
If pre-diabetics take medications used to treat diabetes,
or change their lifestyles, they markedly reduce their chances of
going on to develop diabetes. Both the prevention and treatment
of diabetes involves preventing blood sugar levels from rising too
high after meals. To do this, a person should avoid the foods
that cause the highest rises in blood sugar levels, such as those
made from flour, those with added sugar, and sugar water found
in fruit juices and many soft drinks. Other recommendations are
to lose weight, exercise, and eat fewer calories.
If you fit the
description of a person at risk for diabetes, check with your
doctor and get a blood test called HBA1C. If the value is greater
than 5.6, you should start your diabetic prevention regimen
immediately.
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Dr. Gabe Mirkin has been a radio talk show host for 25 years and practicing physician for more than 40 years; he is board certified in four specialties, including sports medicine. Read or listen to hundreds of his fitness and health reports -- and the FREE Good Food Book -- at http://www.DrMirkin.com
