University of Wisconsin - Extension

Chances are, you or someone you care about has diabetes. In fact, about 16 million Americans have diabetes, and the number of cases increases each year.

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form. It is most likely to occur in people who are overweight, over age 40, and have diabetic relatives, is two to three times more common in African-American and Latino populations, and almost five times more common among Native Americans than in the overall U.S. population.

"Diabetes occurs when glucose, or blood sugar, is not able to get into the body's cells," says Susan Nitzke, a University of Wisconsin-Extension nutrition specialist and professor at UW- Madison.

"The hormone insulin usually acts like a key that opens the door to the cell so that glucose can enter and serve as fuel for the body. If the body does not make or use insulin properly, the cells can't use glucose so it stays in the blood, causing blood squar levels to rise."

People with type 1 diabetes produce little or no insulin of their own, and usually develop the disease in childhood or early adulthood. About 123,000 American children have diabetes. People with type 2 produce some insulin, but can't use it properly.

Nitzke says type 2 diabetes is managed with physical activity, a daily pattern of meals and snacks, weight loss if a person is overweight, and dedication, if necessary. Type 2 diabetes should be controlled to achieve normal levels of blood glucose, cholesterol and triglycerides. Diets high in calories and fat, especially saturated fat, can increase a person's risk of heart disease by raising blood levels of cholesterol and triglycerides.

The three major messages identified in USDA'S Dietary Guidelines for Americans are especially useful in managing diabetes:

• Aim for fitness;
• Build a healthy base using the Food Guide Pyramid; and
• Choose sensibly, opting for foods low in saturated fat, cholesterol, added sugar and salt.

"Regular physical activity can often help people with diabetes control their weight and lower blood glucose and triglycerides," Nitzke says. She suggests choosing two or three enjoyable activities to do on a regular basis, such as walking, biking, dancing or swimming. Try to be active at least 30 minutes every day.

Nitzke suggests consulting a qualified health professional, such as a registered dietitian, to build a healthy base of meals plans that work well for your lifestyle. She says there is no such thing as a single "diabetic diet," because each person has different needs and lifestyles.

For more information on managing diabetes using the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, contact your http://www1.uwex.edu/ces/cty">county UW-Extension office to order the publication, "Diabetes and Your Diet: Using the Dietary Guidelines for Americans as a Guide to Healthy Eating, " (NCR 576). The publication includes meal plans, recipes, and information on how to read labels.