Assignment #4 Client Information Package: Type 1 Diabetes Anonymous Due October 17
Table of Contents Outline of Condition... 2 Conventional Approach...3 Harmful Foods... 3 Healing Foods... 5 Conclusion... 7 References...8 1
Outline of Condition According to the Prescription for Nutritional Healing, Diabetes is a disease in which the body either does not produce or cannot properly use the pancreatic hormone insulin (370). Insulin is responsible for managing glucose (sugar) levels in the body, and also how quickly glucose is absorbed into the cells of the body. Glucose is required for energy and brain function (Balch 370). There are two forms of diabetes, Type 1, or insulin dependent diabetes millitus (IDDM) and Type 2, or non-insulin dependant diabetes millitus (NIDDM) (Balch 371). Type 1 diabetes manifests at a young age, and is an autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta-cells in the pancreas. Experts believe this may result from an immune response after a viral infection or something related to nutrition (Balch 371). Type 2 diabetes generally manifests later in life, although it is beginning to manifest more frequently in younger people, and it is largely lifestyle and diet related (Balch 371). For the purposes of this paper, I will be concentrating on Type 1 diabetes. Symptoms of diabetes can include excessive thirst and frequent urination, brought on by excessive sugar build up in the body (Pitchford 371). Other symptoms include inflammation, infections, and rapid weight loss (Pitchford 371). One of the major issues with type 1 diabetes, is episodes of both high (hyperglycemia) and low (hypoglycemia) blood sugar. Symptoms of hyperglycemia include fatigue, a constant need to urinate, extreme thirst, constantly feeling hungry, loss of weight, and problems with eyesight (Balch 371). Hypoglycemia can cause hunger, dizziness, sweating, confusion, palpitations and numbness or tingling of the lips (Balch 371) and can be brought on by exercise, hunger, or excessive insulin (Balch 371). As indicated in Prescription for Nutritional Healing, the major danger is not the disease itself, but the complications that can arise if insulin levels are not maintained at a constant level. Consistently 2
high blood sugar levels can lead to blindness, kidney failure, heart disease, limb amputation and nerve damage (Balch 371). Diabetic Ketoacidosis is another issue with diabetes, it occurs when the body accumulates a very high level of blood glucose and develops a buildup of acidic ketone molecules in the body as a result of the burning of fat stores for energy (Murray and Pizzorno 523). Symptoms of this condition can include fruity breath, disorientation, abdominal tenderness, excessive urination and thirst, hyperventilation, and signs of dehydration (Murray and Pizzorno 523). All of these risk factors indicate that maintaining consistent blood sugar levels through a low glycemic diet is essential for individuals dealing with Type 1 diabetes. Conventional Approach Typical conventional/medical approaches to Type 1 diabetes include insulin delivered via a pump or by injection. These include Rapid Acting Insulin (Humalog/Lispro, Apidra/Glulisine, NovoLog/Aspart), Short Acting Insulin (HumulinR, Novolin R), Intermediate Acting Insulin (Humulin N, Novolin N), Intermediate and Short Acting Insulin Mixtures (Humulin, Novolin & Novolog Mixtures), and Long Acting Insulin (Ultralente, Levemir/Detemir, Lantus/Glargine) (Balch 381). The dosage and application is dependant on the needs of the individual (Balch 381). Insulin is usually a constant requirement with Type 1 (insulin dependant) diabetes, due to the body's inability to adequately produce insulin on its own. That being said, incorporating a whole foods, mostly plant based diet, adequate exercise and other positive lifestyle shifts, can lead to a reduction of insulin requirements and can reduce secondary complications commonly associated with diabetes (Pitchford 374, Murray and Pizzorno 543). Harmful Foods When dealing with Type 1 diabetes, there are several foods that may be harmful, exacerbating symptoms and/or increasing the risk of secondary complications. The chart below provides information 3
regarding the risk factors associated with these food choices. Food to Avoid How They Harm Why They Should Be Avoided Refined Flour, Sugar & Salt Trans Fats Saturated Fats Gluten Spike blood sugar High-glycemic foods such as white rice, white flour products, starchy vegetables and many processed foods are quickly converted into blood sugar during digestion, causing insulin levels to go up. Avoiding 'white foods' might be best (Balch 374). Through processing, foods are denatured, removing many of the essential nutrients (Pitchford 371). Trans fats do not support optimal brain function (PFNH 375) Saturated fats can elevate insulin and blood cholesterol levels Creates inflammation in the body Trans fats are directly linked to an increased risk for insulin resistance as well as to an increased risk for blood clots, which can lead to heart attacks or strokes (Mateljan 810). Saturated fats can lead to obesity, increasing the risk of diabetic complications and also raise insulin levels (Mateljan 810). Saturated fats increase blood cholesterol levels, leading to asteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), heart disease, high blood pressure and risk of excessive clotting (Pitchford 160). Given that diabetics are at an increased risk for these conditions, saturated fats are best avoided. * One exception to this rule is coconut oil, which contains medium-chain fatty acids, as opposed to the long-chain fatty acids contained in most saturated fats. These medium-chain fatty acids providing the body with steady energy, and may improving insulin and glucose tolerance over time ( Learn How Coconut Oil Can Benefit Insulin Resistance and Diabetes ) Strong evidence implicates dietary factors such as [...] gluten (are) important triggers of the autoimmune process that lead to type 1 (Murray and Pizzorno 508). Increased susceptibility to infection and issues with inflammation are a factor in diabetes. As a result, foods causing inflammation (such as those containing gluten) are best avoided. Dried Fruit Spikes blood sugar The concentration of sugar in dried fruit is increased due to the lack of water, causing blood sugar to increase much quicker than with fresh fruit (Mateljan 4
810). Healing Foods It is encouraging to note that while the foods listed above can have a detrimental impact on an individual managing Type 1 diabetes, there are also a plethora of beneficial foods that can help reduce symptoms and aid in the prevention or delay of secondary complications. As George Mateljan notes in The World's Heathiest Foods, A nutrient-rich foods diet also provides well-established benefits for persons with diabetes [...] A whole, nutrient-rich foods diet provides not only high levels of antiinflammatory antioxidants and phytonutrients, which lessen the damage that high blood levels of glucose would otherwise cause, but an excellent supply of fibre, which slows digestion, lowers insulin requirements, provides better control of blood glucose and reduces blood cholesterol levels (28). The table below lists multiple foods that have a healing effect on those with Type 1 diabetes. Healing Food Key Nutrients Benefits Spirulina Cinnamon Chlorophyll Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA) Cinnamaldehyde Calcium Magnese Iron Spirulina helps to stabilize blood sugar levels (Balch 374). Chlorophyll increases nutrient absorption, and encourages cell renewal, possibly assisting in rebuilding damaged cells within the body (such as the pancreas) (Pitchford 372). GLA oils regulate insulin and seem to protect against diabetic heart, eye, and kidney damage [...] these and the omega-3 oils help cleanse the heart and arteries (Pitchford 372). Cinnamon lowers blood sugar, triglycerides and bad (LDL) cholesterol (Balch 377). Cinnamon essential oils contain antimicrobial and antibacterial properties (Mateljan 703). Cinnamon promotes balanced blood sugar: compounds in cinnamon stimulate insulin receptors, increasing cells' ability to use glucose (Mateljan 703). Cinnamon contains anti-inflammatory phytonutrients, which help maintain cardiovascular health (Mateljan 5
Oats Buckwheat Red & Purple Fruits Flax Beta-Glucan Avenathramide Magnesium Protein Selenium B1 Phosporus Tryptophan Chiroinositol Magnesium Flavanoids Tryptophan 703). Oats are high in beta-glucan fibre, which has positive effects on cholesterol and blood sugar balance (Mateljan 666). Contains an antioxidant called avenathramide, which contains magnesium (Mateljan 666). Contains additional vitamins and minerals (as indicated) that promote health and wellness. Buckwheat helps with blood sugar balance, and reduces the risk of high cholesterol and blood sugar (Mateljan 688). Buckwheat contains high levels of dietary fibre and magnesium, as well as antioxidants (flavanoids) (Mateljan 688). Anthocyanins The phytonutrients (anthocyanins) found in purple and red fruit (cranberries, cherries, blueberries etc) may help lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes (Mateljan 810). Alpha-Linoleic Acid (ALA) an Omega 3 fatty acid Omega-3 oils help clear the heart and arteries, and linoleic fatty acid increases the effectiveness of insulin (Pitchford 372). Alpha-linoleic acid (ALA) reduces inflammation in the body (Mateljan 503). Onions Chromium Onions lower the risk of cardiovascular disease (Murray and Pizzorno 543). Onions have high levels of chromium, a mineral which helps regulate blood sugar: As the active component of glucose tolerance factor (GTF) chromium plays a fundamental role in controlling blood sugar levels. The primary function of GTF is to increase the cells' ability to regulate insulin, the hormone responsible for carrying sugar (glucose) into the cells where it can be used for energy (Mateljan 746). Sweet Potatoes Vitamin C Vitamin E Cartenoids Flavenoids Sweet Potatoes are rich in antioxidant nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin E, carotenoids and flavanoids. Sweet potatoes contain special compounds thought to be beneficial for glucose balance (Mateljan 810). Sweet potatoes are naturally sweet, helping to potentially reduce the craving for other unhealthy sugary foods. Tomatoes Chromium Tomatoes help maintain normal blood sugar and 6
Beta-Carotene Lutein Zeaxanthin Lycopene Vitamin C Vitamin A insulin levels and support normal cholesterol levels (Mateljan 746). Tomatoes contain excellent sources of vitamin C: In addition to its role as an antioxidant, vitamin C is required in immune system function and the manufacture of collagen, the main protein substance of the human body... vitamin C is vital for wound repair, healthy gums, and the prevention of easy bruising (Murray and Pizzorno 529). The high antioxidant content in tomatoes is beneficial: One of the critical goals in diabetes prevention and treatment is to flood the body with a high level of antioxidant compounds to counteract the negative effects of free radicals and pro-oxidants (Murray and Pizzorno 525). Fenugreek Soluble Dietary Fibre Intake of fenugreek results in a significant reduction in fasting blood glucose and improved glucose tolerance test results (Murray and Pizzorno 537). Fenugreek has been shown to reduce cholesterol and blood sugar levels (Balch 374). Fenugreek appears to slow absorption of sugars in the stomach and stimulate insulin ( Fenugreek ) All recommended foods listed above should be organic wherever possible. Conclusion In closing, T. Colin Campbell argues that [a]ll disease starts with genes and gene combinations; what we call diseases are the end stages of interactions between our genes and elements from our environment, through the medium of our bodies (126). If this is indeed the case, it stands to reason that great improvements in health and wellness can occur through changing the impact our environment and food choices have on our genetics. The medical system focuses on disease being site specific, or contained in one organ or system of the body. If we can view the body as a synergistic system, where everything has the potential to work together in harmony, the ability to facilitate positive change in our state of heath increases exponentially. This gives a much more hopeful prognosis to individuals dealing with so-called incurable diseases, such as Type 1 diabetes. 7
References Balch, Phyllis A. Prescription for Nutritional Healing. New York: Penguin Group, 2010. Print. Campbell, T. Colin, and Howard Jacobson. Whole: Rethinking the Science of Nutrition. Dallas, Texas: BenBella, 2013. Print. "Fenugreek." WebMD. WebMD, n.d. Web. 18 Oct. 2013. <http://www.webmd.com/vitaminssupplements/ingredientmono-733-fenugreek.aspx?activeingredientid=733>. Mateljan, George. The World's Healthiest Foods: Essential Guide for the Healthiest Way of Eating. Seattle, WA: George Mateljan Foundation, 2006. Print. Murray, Michael T., and Joseph E. Pizzorno. The Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine. New York: Atria Paperback, 2012. Print. Pitchford, Paul. Healing with Whole Foods: Asian Traditions and Modern Nutrition. Berkeley, CA: North Atlantic, 2002. Print. "Fenugreek Seeds Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits." Nutrition And You.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 17 Oct. 2013. <http://www.nutrition-and-you.com/fenugreek-seeds.html>. Walling, Elizabeth. "Learn How Coconut Oil Can Benefit Insulin Resistance and Diabetes." Natural News. N.p., 25 July 2009. Web. 17 Oct. 2013. <http://www.naturalnews.com/026694_oil_coconut.html>. 8