Diabetes Care Community

Tag: diabetes risk factors

  • Can eating sugar cause diabetes?

    Can eating sugar cause diabetes?

    [vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=””]If you have diabetes, you’ve probably heard this question many times: “Can eating sugar cause diabetes?” The simple answer is no; however, there are some factors that are worth exploring.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][ad-slot slotcode=’div-gpt-ad-lb-resp-cont1′][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=””]

    Sugar and diabetes: it’s not so sweet and simple

    Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease. It happens when the cells in your pancreas that produce insulin are destroyed by your immune system. No amount of sugar in your diet – or anything else in your lifestyle – causes type 1 diabetes.

    Type 2 diabetes is caused by a number of factors – including being overweight. Weight gain occurs when you take in more calories than your body needs, and sugary foods and drinks generally contain a lot of calories. So, if eating too much sugar is making you gain weight, then you are increasing your risk of type 2 diabetes. That said, type 2 diabetes is a complex disease, and eating sugar – or being overweight – is unlikely to be the only reason why it develops.[/vc_column_text][read-also-article article-slug=”am-i-at-risk-for-type-2-diabetes”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][ad-slot slotcode=’div-gpt-ad-lb-resp-cont2′][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=””]

    What’s the link between sugar and type 2 diabetes?

    While sugar consumption alone doesn’t cause type 2 diabetes, some research has shown that drinking sugary beverages is linked to the disease.

    A meta-analysis was done regarding the link between sugar-sweetened drinks and diabetes. (A meta-analysis combines the results of a number of scientific studies.) Eleven studies that involved more than 300,000 people were analyzed. The researchers found that people who drank two or more servings of sugar-sweetened beverages per day had a 26% greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes than those who drank one sugar-sweetened drink per day. A single serving was defined as 12 ounces (about 350 mL).

    Why does this happen? It is thought that frequent spikes in blood glucose from excessive sugar intake raise insulin demand, which over time may lead to insulin resistance—a key factor in type 2 diabetes development.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][ad-slot slotcode=’div-gpt-ad-lb-resp-cont3′][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=””]

    Diabetes Canada position statement on sugar

    A Diabetes Canada position statement recommends that people should avoid drinking sugar-sweetened beverages to help prevent type 2 diabetes.

    Sugar-sweetened beverages include the following:

    • Regular pop
    • Sports drinks
    • Fruit drinks
    • Lemonade
    • Blended coffee drinks
    • Sweetened iced tea

    These drinks contain large amounts of sugar, calories, and have virtually no nutritional value. In fact, a single serving of pop contains about 40 grams (10 teaspoons) of sugar, which is 80% of the recommended daily sugar intake. Diabetes Canada recommends a maximum of 50 grams (12 teaspoons) of sugar per day for all Canadians – whether or not they have diabetes.

    There are many reasons to control the amount of sugar you consume, and reducing your risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes, are just a few of the important ones![/vc_column_text][vc_message css=””]Learn more about drinks to consume with diabetes here.[/vc_message][vc_column_text css=””]In conclusion, while eating sugar alone does not directly cause diabetes, a diet high in added sugars and refined carbohydrates can increase the risk, particularly when it contributes to weight gain and insulin resistance. Combined with a sedentary lifestyle, high sugar intake can promote abdominal fat accumulation, further increasing diabetes risk. Reducing added sugars in the diet is a beneficial step toward lowering the risk of type 2 diabetes and supporting long-term metabolic health.[/vc_column_text][read-also-article article-slug=”understanding-sugar-content-on-food-labels”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

  • Myths about kicking the smoking habit

    Myths about kicking the smoking habit

    [vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=””]Although smoking cigarettes is harmful to everyone, people living with diabetes are already at an increased risk of heart disease and stroke, so smoking compounds their risk.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][ad-slot slotcode=’div-gpt-ad-lb-resp-cont1′][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=””]

    Myth #1:  I’ve tried so many times to quit and I go back to smoking. I should give up!

    Truth: The more often you try to quit, the more likely you will succeed… so don’t give up!

    Myth #2: I brought this on myself so I should quit by myself… go cold turkey!

    Truth: Although some people do succeed by going “cold turkey”, studies show that people are more likely to succeed if they use smoking cessation help with medications such as Champix® (varenicline) / Zyban® (bupropion) or nicotine replacement (patches, gums etc.).

    Support by healthcare professionals, friends or family also helps, as does having a plan. This includes picking a “start date” and analyzing your “habit” – when and under what circumstances do you smoke?

    Myth #3: It’s too late for me.  I’m old… I’ve already had a heart attack

    Truth: Quitting smoking can cut your risk of another heart attack by 50%. Research also indicates that people who continue smoking after being discharged from the hospital are more than three times more likely to die within a year compared to those who successfully quit. There is a longer life expectancy by quitting, even if over age 80![/vc_column_text][read-also-article article-slug=”following-abcdes-prevent-heart-attack-stroke”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][ad-slot slotcode=’div-gpt-ad-lb-resp-cont2′][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=””]

    Myth #4:  I like smoking cigarettes because it relaxes me.

    Truth: Smoking does not relax people. Cigarettes are stimulants that increases blood pressure and pulse. The perceived relaxation comes from satisfying the nicotine addiction, which reduces anxiety associated with withdrawal.

    Myth #5:  I smoke “light” cigarettes so that’s ok.

    Truth:. “Light” cigarettes do not reduce the health risks associated with cigarette use.

    Myth #6: I only smoke ½ a pack so I am not that addicted.

    Truth: Although the number of cigarettes can be a link to the amount of addiction… take this test.…. How soon after you wake up do you have your first cigarette?

    Do you smoke in the middle of the night?

    Do you smoke within ½ hour of getting out of bed?

    Do you wait until noon to smoke your first cigarette?

    These all indicate an addiction to cigarettes. Knowing this, in addition to how many cigarettes you smoke, can help you decide the dose of nicotine replacement (patches) you need.  Nicotine levels are the lowest in 24 hours in the morning because people have gone without a cigarette (nicotine) overnight, so this drives addictive behaviour.

    The person wanting to quit should speak with their pharmacist or physician when picking a patch dose. It is also recommended that patches be combined with one form of short-acting nicotine replacement (i.e. gum, lozenge, nasal spray, inhaler) for breakthrough cravings.

    The following is a guide only.

    “Light” smokers (<10 cigarettes per day) start with 14mg patch

    “Moderate” smokers (10-29 cigarettes per day) start with 21mg patch

    “Heavy” smokers (>29 cigarettes per day) start with 21+7mg patches

    It is recommended to remain on the patch for at least 4 weeks, with best results among those who remain on it for 8-12 weeks. As you lose the urge to smoke you can gradually decrease the dose of the patch with the help of your doctor and/or pharmacist.

    Myth #7: I shouldn’t use patches (nicotine replacement) or medication to help me stop smoking because I am pregnant.

    Truth: Smoking is bad for babies. According to the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Canada, behavioural therapy and education is the first-line therapy for smoking cessation. If this therapy fails, then nicotine replacement therapy in the form of gum or bupropion may be offered after an informed discussion of the benefits and risks of therapy. There is lots of help out there.[/vc_column_text][read-also-article article-slug=”managing-weight-gain-when-quitting-smoking/”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][ad-slot slotcode=’div-gpt-ad-lb-resp-cont3′][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=””]

    Where to get support

    Get planning advice and specific things to do to quit from Health Canada’s On the road to Quitting – Guide to becoming a non-smoker. Several provinces also have very helpful programs.  Here are some examples:

    British Columbia

    www.quitnow.ca

    1-877-455-2233

    Alberta

    http://www.albertaquits.ca/

    1-866-710-7848

    Ontario

    https://www.ontario.ca/page/support-quit-smoking#section-1

    Saskatchewan

    https://www.saskhealthauthority.ca/your-health/conditions-diseases-services/healthline-online/qtsmk

    Prince Edward Island

    https://pe.211.ca/result/public-health-smoking-cessation-program-66708679

    Provincial Smokers’ Helplines are also available in some areas. For more information, check out the following website: smokershelpline.ca

    Telephone numbers include:

    Newfoundland & Labrador Smokers’ Helpline: 1-800-363-5864

    New Brunswick, PEI and Nova Scotia: 1-877-513-5333

    [/vc_column_text][read-also-article article-slug=”alcohol-consumption-for-people-with-diabetes”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

  • What is the link between diabetes and metabolic syndrome?

    What is the link between diabetes and metabolic syndrome?

    [vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=””]The diagnosis of type 2 diabetes can feel very abrupt and unexpected. Do individuals wake up one day and go from having normal blood sugar to having diabetes? Although it may feel as if it is a sudden diagnosis, type 2 diabetes and the progression from normal blood sugars to diabetes is usually a slow progression over time.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][ad-slot slotcode=’div-gpt-ad-lb-resp-cont1′][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=””]People who have higher blood sugars than normal, but not high enough to be diagnosed with diabetes fall into a category called prediabetes. Almost 6 million Canadians fall into this category! Prediabetes is defined by the following:

    • Fasting blood sugar: This test measures your blood sugar when you have not had anything to eat or drink (except water) for at least 8 hours. People with prediabetes have fasting blood sugar between 6.1 to 6.9 mmol/L
    • Glucose tolerance test: This is a test where you have a sugary drink in the lab after fasting for at least 8 hours, and your blood sugar is measured 2-hours later. People with prediabetes have a blood sugar level between 7.8 to 11.0 mmol/L
    • Hemoglobin A1C test: This test shows your average blood sugar level for the past 3 months. People with prediabetes have an A1C between 6.0 to 6.4%.

    [/vc_column_text][read-also-article article-slug=”a1c-what-it-should-mean-to-me/”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][ad-slot slotcode=’div-gpt-ad-lb-resp-cont2′][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=””]The higher individuals fall along the spectrum of the above tests, the higher their risk of developing diabetes. People with both a fasting blood sugar of 6.1 to 6.9 and an A1C between 6 and 6.4 have almost a 100% conversion to diabetes over a 5-year period. Overall, about 30% of people with prediabetes will have diabetes in 5 years, if they make no lifestyle or medication change.

    Studies have shown that the conversion to diabetes can be delayed substantially by making lifestyle changes. Most studies combined an exercise program and diet with weight loss (about 5-10% of body weight) with a successful reduction of conversion to diabetes of 40%- to 60%. Diets are usually low in calories, low in fats, and high in fibre. There is also strong evidence that supports the Mediterranean diet in diabetes prevention. Exercise – both aerobic (e.g. brisk walking) and resistance (e.g. weights) help prevent conversion to diabetes. Some medications have also been shown to prevent the further development of diabetes. Metformin is the medication that is sometimes used, which is also the first choice for treating actual type 2 diabetes. Using metformin in prediabetes prevents conversion in 30% of individuals over 5 years.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][ad-slot slotcode=’div-gpt-ad-lb-resp-cont3′][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=””]Prediabetes and type 2 diabetes, however, are often an expression of a much broader underlying disorder including the metabolic syndrome. This is a very common condition and has several features:

    • High blood pressure: greater than 130/85 mmHg
    • High fats in the blood (triglycerides): greater than 1.7 mmol/L
    • Low “good cholesterol” (HDL): less than 1 mmol/L in men and 1.3 mmol/L in women
    • Elevated waist circumference: men – greater than 102 cm, women – greater than 88 cm*
    • Fasting blood sugars greater than 5.6 mmol/L

    (*These numbers may be lower in some populations)

    Anyone with 3 or more of these features has metabolic syndrome.

    So, people with metabolic syndrome may or may not have diabetes yet but are at elevated risk for diabetes. Also, they are at elevated risk for heart disease as all the features of metabolic syndrome are heart risk factors. Often these run in families. So, have a look at these and if you have a number of these features and have not been screened for diabetes, talk to your health care provider about diabetes risk factors. You can also calculate your risk with the CANRISK questionnaire.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

  • What causes diabetes?

    What causes diabetes?

    [vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Even though diabetes may be caused by many of the same factors as other chronic conditions, people with diabetes often face stigma because there are misconceptions around what causes the disease.

    For example, some think that diabetes is always caused by diet or lifestyle choices. Some believe all obese people will eventually develop the disease or pass on diabetes to their children.

    The truth is, depending on the type, diabetes can be caused by a myriad of factors that researchers are still trying to figure out.

    Type 1 Diabetes Causes

    Type 1 diabetes occurs when your immune system starts attacking and destroying the insulin-producing beta cells of the pancreas. Without enough insulin, the body can’t regulate the blood sugar needed to create energy.

    Although the disease usually occurs during childhood or adolescence, it can also develop in adults. And while it’s definitive cause is still unknown, Type 1 diabetes is thought to be caused by genetics and exposure to environmental factors that may trigger the disease. These include viruses such as German measles or mumps.

    If you have a parent or sibling with type 1 diabetes, your chances are slightly increased for developing the condition yourself. Researchers have also discovered that the disease can develop in people who have a variance of genes in their HLA (human leukocyte antigen) complex, which is used to help the immune system function properly.

    Find out more about type 1 diabetes here.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][ad-slot slotcode=’div-gpt-ad-lb-resp-cont1′][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

    Type 2 Diabetes Causes

    More common in adults, type 2 diabetes occurs when your body either resists the effects of insulin or doesn’t produce enough to maintain a normal blood sugar level. Specifically why this happens is still unknown, although genetics and lifestyle factors (such as excess weight and inactivity) can be contributing factors. Being overweight is strongly linked to the development of type 2 diabetes but not everyone with the condition is overweight.

    Find out more about type 2 diabetes here and how obesity can contribute to diabetes here 

    Most people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes will have the condition for the rest of their lives or until there is a cure. But more and more research is pointing to ways people can delay the progression of the disease and even reverse it. For example, researchers are currently working on preventing the destruction of the beta cells in people who are newly diagnosed with type 1. A recent study[1] showed that type 2 diabetes could be reversible by removing fat from the liver and pancreas through weight loss. Read more about reversing diabetes here.

    As researchers worldwide continue to look for ways to cure diabetes, you too can delay or prevent future complications by managing your disease. That means keeping your blood sugar targets in check and working with your healthcare team to ensure you address any concerns early. Of course, the importance of staying active and eating well shouldn’t be discounted either.

    [1] Newcastle University. “Type 2 diabetes is a reversible condition.” ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 13 September 2017.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

  • Is there a way to determine if I am at risk for diabetes?

    Is there a way to determine if I am at risk for diabetes?

    [vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]If you are at risk for type 2 diabetes, an important step you can take is to do a diabetes risk assessment. Read on to learn more about assessing your risk for diabetes.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][ad-slot slotcode=’div-gpt-ad-lb-resp-cont1′][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

    Risk factors for diabetes

    There are a number of risk factors for type 2 diabetes. Some of them can be managed or reduced, while other factors may be beyond your control.

    Common risk factors include:

    • Being over 40 years of age
    • Having a close relative with diabetes (for example, a parent, brother or sister)
    • Being of African, Arab, Asian, Hispanic, Indigenous or South Asian descent

    [/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”38604″ img_size=”full”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Having any of the following conditions can also increase your risk of type 2 diabetes:

    • High blood pressure or high cholesterol levels
    • A high body mass index or being overweight (especially if the excess weight is around your stomach)
    • Prediabetes
    • Polycystic ovary syndrome
    • Psychiatric disorders (such as schizophrenia, depression or bipolar disorder)
    • Sleep apnea 
    • Acanthosis nigricans (dark patches of skin called that usually form in the groin, armpit or neck)

    [/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”38605″ img_size=”full”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][ad-slot slotcode=’div-gpt-ad-lb-resp-cont2′][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

    What is the CANRISK diabetes assessment tool?

    The Canadian diabetes risk questionnaire (CANRISK) was developed by the Public Health Agency of Canada. The questionnaire helps Canadians identify their risk of prediabetes or type 2 diabetes. Completing the questionnaire gives people an overall score that shows their risk for prediabetes or diabetes.

    There are 11 sets of questions, and it takes only 5 or 10 minutes to complete the questionnaire.

    Some of the topics include information about your age, weight, family history of diabetes, eating habits and physical activity.

    You can complete the CANRISK questionnaire here.[/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”38606″ img_size=”full”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

    Why is early detection of prediabetes and diabetes important?

    The sooner that prediabetes or diabetes is diagnosed, the more you can do to stay healthy and avoid complications.

    If you are diagnosed with prediabetes, adopting a healthy lifestyle (including eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly and losing weight can help prevent you from getting type 2 diabetes.

    If you are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes early in the course of the disease, the same lifestyle alterations, plus medications – if needed – can help prevent or delay complications of the disease.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][ad-slot slotcode=’div-gpt-ad-lb-resp-cont3′][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

    Who should use CANRISK?

    The CANRISK questionnaire is mainly intended for use by adults between 40 and 74 years of age. However, it can also be used by younger people who may have an increased risk for diabetes (for example, if you are overweight or a member of a high-risk ethnic group).

    What should you do with your CANRISK score?

    If your CANRISK score suggests that you have a moderate or high risk of diabetes, book an appointment with your healthcare team to discuss these results.[/vc_column_text][read-also-article article-slug=”am-i-at-risk-for-type-2-diabetes/”][vc_column_text]If you are at risk for type 2 diabetes, there are many steps you can take to help prevent or delay the disease and its complications. Determining your CANRISK score is the first step you can take toward helping ensure that you remain healthy.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]