Type II DIABETES

In the United States, over 18 million people, representing 6% of the total population, have diabetes mellitus. Out of those with diabetes, 5 million remain undiagnosed and about 90% have type II diabetes.

It is estimated that 85% of people diagnosed with type II diabetes are overweight. In addition, it is considered inevitable that individuals who are 30+% overweight will become diabetic. Type II diabetes is caused by an impaired ability of the body to utilize insulin. Insulin resistance and deficiency causes a dangerous rise in blood sugar, which can lead to serious complications including heart disease, peripheral neuropathy, blindness, limb amputations and kidney failure.

Western and naturopathic doctors include diabetes in their differential diagnoses if any of the following symptoms are present: excess urination, excess thirst, excess hunger, weight loss, vision changes, peripheral numbness or tingling, fatigue, slow healing sores, and/or an increase in infections.

Risk factors for type II diabetes include obesity, impaired glucose tolerance, family history of diabetes, sedentary lifestyle and ethnicity. Western doctors treat type II diabetes with diet, exercise, oral hypoglycemic drugs, and insulin when necessary.

In contrast, naturopaths emphasize diet, nutrition and exercise and use oral hypoglycemic drugs and insulin when necessary. Additionally, naturopaths prescribe vitamins, minerals and herbs to help the body utilize insulin and protect vital organs. Type II diabetes is preventable and treatable when patients are invested in their own health care and well being.

ALETRIS Center of Integrative Medicine is a Scottsdale, AZ wellness center serving Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Phoenix, Glendale, Arrowhead, Peoria, Sun City, Chandler, Tempe, Ahwatukee, and Mesa, AZ with specialties in naturopathic medicine, natural hormone therapy, women's health, acupuncture, colon hydrotherapy, natural skincare and sugar hair removal.

The contents of this blog, including text, graphics, images and other material, are for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please seek the counsel of an ALETRIS physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment.