Whatever has caused the diabetes, whether it is mostly due to one's diet, stress, genetics, or severe illness, each diabetic person's underlying job is to begin exploring, to find the internal resources within themselves, and the accompanying scientific knowledge. This will allow them to create the necessary changes in their dietary patterns. which will in turn, allow them to gain control over this disease, many times without the use of drugs, using only diet, herbs, and some dietary supplements.
Even if the pattern of eating wasn't the cause of one's own diabetes, the increased consumption of Low Glycemic Index foods, and other dietary changes have been shown to have tremendous benefit to the whole body, and may even be the key factor to preventing diabetes in healthy people.
Pulling away from the "Standard American Diet " (S.A.D.) both in the areas of refined carbohydrates and poor quality fats, will, (in many cases), enable the diabetic to gain the control they desire. However, continual dietary diligence and an open mind are required to acquire new tastes in cuisine. Accumulating new, healthy recipes and gaining enough familiarity with formerly unfamiliar foods, (such as grains), helps each person be be not only healthier, but also to feel very satisfied and happy with the new pattern of eating they are learning.
Of course, dietary considerations are not the only subject area to closely examine when one has diabetes. A program of regular exercise is necessary in order to burn off body fats and (equally important), increase the efficiency of blood circulation to all parts of the body, since one of the main problems in diabetes eventually becomes circulation. Some form of daily exercise (cardiovascular type, not weightlifting), in which the heart rate is elevated for at least 1/2 hour each day, is recommended for most diabetics (unless medically contraindicated). Suggested physical activities would include: brisk walking, or jogging, vigorous bicycle-riding, or swimming. Formalized group aerobic exercise programs are also recommended. It is highly advisable to begin slowly, and work into a daily regimen which fits your abilities and limitations.
Another area of concern for heatlh in general, is paying attention to how much water (not sodas or other beverages.... just water) one drinks every day. The daily consumption of water should be a minimum of 1/2 gallon of water each day, and more on warm weather days and in dry climates, (unless medically contraindicated). Exercise or frequent urination cause your body to eliminate water at a higher rate, and care must be taken to keep ones body hydrated.
Removing bad habits, such as doing whatever it takes to quit smoking, can lower your risk of heart attacks or strokes by over 20%. Eliminating ingestion of refined "treats", such as pastries and candies is important.
