Diabetes is a disease that is rapidly evolving into one of the most threatening global epidemics of the 21st century. All the statistics confirm it: this disease is responsible for the loss of millions of lives every year (due to its complications, with the main one being the heart problems it can cause). What is more, diabetes is a huge financial burden for the national health systems of every country.

It has been described as the silent disease, because it can remain hidden for years without causing any symptoms. When the symptoms do appear it may be too late. They usually appear when the levels of blood sugar are already very high (typically more than 200 mg / dl) and the disease is already set.

The most typical symptoms of diabetes are excessive thirst and hunger and rapid weight loss. This condition is characterized by hyperglycaemia, which means elevated levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood. The blood sugar goes up because of the absence or reduced function of insulin. Insulin is a hormone produced in the pancreas and is responsible for maintaining normal glucose levels.

There are two types of diabetes: Type 1, in which no insulin is generated, because of the destruction of the beta cells in the pancreas. It usually appears at a young age. In Type 2, there is either a reduced insulin production or most commonly insulin is not used properly by the body. Also there is the gestational diabetes, which is reversible.

Here are some good ways to start a Diabetes Disease Management Program:

Regardless of whether you suffer from type 1 or 2, the carbohydrates you consume must be spread throughout the day. You shouldn’t have 1-2 large meals, but 5-6 small ones. Of these, 3 can be the main meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) and the rest 2-3 can be snacks. The meals should be taken at fixed times every day and the consumption of sugar and salt should be in moderation.

Due to the increase risk for coronary heart problems, you should limit the intake of saturated fatty acids, which cause an increase in ‘bad’ cholesterol, LDL. The amount of calories you consume each day from saturated fats should not exceed 7% of the total number of calories. These fats are contained in foods of animal origin, such as eggs, red meat (beef, pork, and lamb), butter and dairy products. Prefer eating white meat, like poultry and fish that are low in saturated fatty acids and eat red meat only once per week. Also don’t ever cook rice and potatoes with meat, because the can act as a sponge absorbing all the fat of the meat.

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