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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an Intuitive Systems site
I was particularly interested in the SHOPPING promise because I find that to be the most difficult part of managing my diet. Other books didn't have anything helpful, and despite its promise, this book doesn't either. One has to read through every single recipe, write down the ingredients of what you want to make, and then go out and get it. Just like every other book. So tell me: how does this help with "shopping"? I expected lists of basic staples in a diabetic's diet. There should be lists of "must-haves" for your pantry. This book lies about what it contains, and is sadly lacking in what it needs.
An expensive mistake, don't buy it.