Article Advise

submitted: Aug 24th 2008 | by: JuliaHanf | Total views: 1 | Word Count: 796 | |

Stress is different for everyone. What is viewed as a productive work environment for one is chaotic negative stress for another. Stressors, or things that are perceived to cause stress, are difficult to categorize. In any case, the result of stress has measurable effects. From tension headaches to serious diseases, stress can bring on a number of complications. It can impact a person's physical and emotional health. In addition, stress not only affects an individual, but those around him, too. In combating serious diseases, such as diabetes, it is important to understand the underlying factors that can trigger the onset of the disease. Stress in relation to diabetes has a strong influence on the body's metabolic processes responsible for glucose conversion. Although difficult to define, stressors can leave their mark on an individual for a lifetime.

Type II refers to one of three forms of diabetes. It occurs when the body no longer regards insulin effectively. Sometimes, the pancreas does not produce enough insulin to lower blood sugar levels. In either situation, an individual's blood glucose level is elevated. The pancreas releases large amounts of insulin to reduce the level quickly, yet abruptly. In response, adrenaline is sent out to balance the spike and sudden drop. In addition, glucose that cannot be converted to usable energy is stored as fat. The stored fat only contributes to an existing weight problem. Furthermore, the repeated cycle of spikes and drops causes damage to the systems in the body. Maintaining a lifestyle that indulges high fat, highly-processed foods or large quantities of food only aggravates the condition further.

Where does stress come into play? Elevated levels of stress cause the body to release the hormone cortisol. Cortisol is found next to the kidneys and surges when an individual experiences a perceived stressful situation or event. Cortisol breaks down muscle. Its chemical byproducts are released into the bloodstream. The byproducts are used by the liver to produce glucose, thereby increasing blood sugar levels. This contributes to an unbalanced metabolic cycle. The additional glucose that is not used as fuel is stored as fat. In addition, the cortisol that was released in response to the stressful situation causes a deficiency in the body. This can trigger disorders such as autoimmunity. Autoimmunity disorders damage insulin-producing beta cells, leading to an insufficient production of insulin. The result is Type II diabetes and a system so interdependent that any alteration can begin an unending chain reaction.

Anti-diabetic medicines that are taken orally by the mouth are effective as insulin injection in controlling symptoms of diabetes. The number of people with diabetes continues to rise while their ages at the time of diagnosis drop. Type 2 diabetes, which used to be called adult - onset diabetes, is now striking children, due largely to the obesity epidemic. Overweight and obese kids that present identifying symptoms like darkness around neck and armpits area are those who frequently get urinary tract infection (UTI).

The number of children at risk of developing Type II diabetes is growing at alarming rates. Studies implicate obesity and stress as factors that contribute to the onset of the disease. It was found parents can pass on their stress level to their children, increasing the likelihood to develop diabetes. For example, mothers who experience stress such as divorce, domestic violence or job stress not only increase their own risk to develop diabetes, but pass on the stress on their children. In addition, psychological and emotional stress can result in physical problems as well. However, a strong social and emotional support system can diminish the impact stress has on a person.

Medication is available for diabetics in pill or injection form. Management of glucose levels requires frequent monitoring and strict adherence to a nutrition plan and schedule. Physical activity has been found to increase a cell's sensitivity to insulin, thereby increasing its effectiveness. Diabetes if not managed can cause rapid deterioration of the body's different systems. Complications can include eye problems, skin problems, kidney malfunction, coma and death.

Finally, diabetes cannot me successfully managed without considering the exercise factor. Activity of some kind will aid the body in reducing weight, blood pressure and blood sugar. Exercise will make the cells of the body more sensitive to glucose, which will help burn stored energy more efficiently. Whatever form of exercise is chosen, it should correspond to an individual's interest and ability. Fighting and managing diabetes is an ongoing process for those diagnosed. However, with timely diagnosis, education, nutrition and exercise an individual can lead a long fruitful life.

About the Author

Julia Hanf author of the book How To Play the Diabetes Diet Game and Win Through a real life crisis Julia figured out how to live diabetes free. Visit http://www.yourdiabetescure.com and learn more about your solution for diabetes.

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