Type 2 Diabetes

Rising Prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes: A Global Health Concern

This blog post was motivated by a discussion with a friend whose wife has type 2 diabetes, leading him to search for information. Sadly, this condition is swiftly becoming more common in the United States and around the world. Data shows that in the US, the prevalence increased by nearly 20% from 2012 to 2022, now impacting 13% of adults. Globally, the rate doubled from 7% to 14% over the same timeframe. Worryingly, rates are also climbing significantly among children.

Understanding Type 2 Diabetes: Definition and Management

To start, it's important to define Type 2 Diabetes using the "classic" definition. Type 2 Diabetes is a long-term condition marked by insulin resistance, resulting in high blood sugar levels. As a persistent condition, it is usually managed through lifestyle modifications and ongoing medication. The majority of medications are designed to enhance cell sensitivity to insulin. Even though the body produces insulin, the cells fail to respond to it.

Blood Testing

The Overlooked Importance of Checking Insulin Levels

Many people are probably accustomed to having annual (or more frequent) blood tests that check fasting blood sugar to evaluate the risk of Type 2 Diabetes. You might also be aware of the A1C blood test, which gauges average blood sugar levels over the previous 2-3 months. However, when was the last time your insulin levels were checked?

Root Causes

### Understanding the Root Causes of Insulin Resistance in Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 Diabetes doesn't appear suddenly, and we frequently treat the symptoms instead of the underlying cause. Our attention is usually on elevated blood sugar levels. An important question is why cells resist insulin. One theory proposes that high glucose levels lead to excessive insulin production, causing cells to become desensitized to insulin due to overexposure. Yet, this theory doesn't clarify why there is an overproduction of insulin.

Grasping the role of insulin is essential. Glucose is a fairly large molecule and cannot easily penetrate cell walls. Insulin functions like a key, opening the cell wall to permit glucose entry. My present hypothesis, which I haven't seen research to deny, suggests that "the inn is full." If a cell is already handling a glucose molecule, there's no room for more glucose. However, glucose levels stay relatively high (even in a "normal" range), leading to further insulin release.

Addressing the Root Cause of Type 2 Diabetes: The Role of Insulin and Lifestyle

The main concern with Type 2 Diabetes is not the blood glucose levels; those are just a result. The actual issue lies in elevated insulin levels. By the time a doctor identifies fasting blood glucose (or A1C) levels that suggest Type 2 Diabetes, considerable harm has already been done. There is not enough emphasis on tackling the underlying cause. Contemporary diets frequently include highly processed foods with components more akin to those found in a chemical lab than in a kitchen. Not all healthcare professionals stress the importance of lifestyle changes the same, and resources to facilitate these changes are often insufficient.

Metabolic Health

Breaking the Cycle of Chronic Conditions Through Metabolic Health

When discussing metabolic health, this is what we mean. We aim to disrupt the cycle that perpetuates chronic conditions. The human body is a remarkable machine, designed for efficiency and self-healing. Our goal is to help individuals listen to their bodies and provide optimal nourishment for healing.

Reversing Type 2 Diabetes: The Power of Dietary Changes

In conclusion, I don't view Type 2 Diabetes as a truly chronic condition. Research indicates that people who commit to and maintain dietary changes can eliminate the need for medication. In my opinion, there are two treatment paths: medication (necessary for some initially) or breaking the cycle. If you're labeled “pre-diabetic” or at risk for diabetes, I strongly recommend requesting a fasting insulin level. This information can help you make changes before the situation worsens.

nsider engaging a Health Coach to support your journey as a long-term investment in your health.