Health Books about diabetes
What is diabetes?
Diabetes mellitus is a medical disorder characterized by varying or persistent hyperglycemia (elevated blood sugar levels), especially after eating. All types of diabetes mellitus share similar symptoms and complications at advanced stages. Hyperglycemia itself can lead to dehydration and ketoacidosis. Longer-term complications include cardiovascular disease (doubled risk), chronic renal failure (it is the main cause for dialysis), retinal damage which can lead to blindness, nerve damage which can lead to erectile dysfunction (impotence), gangrene with risk of amputation of toes, feet, and even legs. The more serious complications are more common in people who have a difficult time controlling their blood sugars with medications (glycemic control).
The most important forms of diabetes are due to decreased or the complete absense of the production of insulin (diabetes mellitus type 1, the first recognized form), or decreased sensitivity of body tissues to insulin (diabetes mellitus type 2, the more common form). The former requires insulin injections, while the latter is generally managed with oral medication and only requires insulin if the tablets are ineffective. Patient understanding and participation is vital as blood glucose levels change continuously. Treatments which return the blood sugar to normal levels can reduce or prevent development of some of the complications of diabetes. Other health problems that accelerate the damaging effects of diabetes are smoking, elevated cholesterol levels, obesity, high blood pressure, and lack of regular exercise. |
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© 2006 by Dave Taylor: Content from Amazon and Wikipedia
an Intuitive Systems site
Modern medicine is in the throws of a death-grip struggle with the most formidable health crisis in recent history, diabetes. The Center for Disease Control pegs the health costs of America's careless lifestyle habits (poor diet, obesity, lack of exercise) at $176 billion annually. As as result, diabetes is fast becoming your greatest health risk.
Ironically, the more science understands about diabetes, the less and less Americans are applying that knowledge to improving their lifestyle. Nearly 70 percent of adults suffering from adult onset diabetes now risk early death from stroke, heart attack, and kidney failure, say the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists and the American College of Endocrinologists.
The good news is that modern medicine has assembled a formidable resource for combating America's formidable health crisis. That resource is a new book from McGraw-Hill. My review found the book to be the definitive source on diabetes prevention and treatment. Why? The authors employ scientific knowledge in the best way possible. Empowering consumers to take personal responsibility for their wellness by applying the advances of medical science to their everyday lifestyles.
Readers will be delighted to find complex concepts and processes explained in easily understood language enhancing the likelihood for application to daily lifestyle routines. Are you confused about all those diet programs? Excellent reviews of the most popular programs are offered for the reader's consideration. For example, Dr. Phil's "Ultimate Weight Loss Solution Diet" earned high praise, which makes perfect sense because the weight gain on your bottom originates from your top (how you think about food). Additionally, the book's explanation of the difference between "activity" and "exercise" is positively brilliant. A real eye-opener for those who may have been unsuccessful in previous attempts at weight loss and maintenance.
My opinion, the book's greatest value is its central theme. Again and again, the authors empower readers with scientific knowledge, enabling them to make immediate, health-enhancing changes in their lifestyles. Toward that end, here's a list of what I found very useful in the book.
1.How our lifestyle can endanger our health
2.Weight gain myths and realities
3.Reviews of the most popular diet programs, weight-loss plans, and exercise programs
4.Illustrations of therapeutic nutrients composition, and Body Mass Index chart
5.How to get ready to change your lifestyle for the better
6.Appendices of meal plans, recipes, and healthy snacks
By far the best source for healthy lifestyle that I've read in years. Read it, and reap.