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Nearly 79 million Americans are currently vulnerable to developing diabetes and most of them are unaware of the threat, based on a recent report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The CDC says one out of three U.S. adults were built with a condition referred to as prediabetes in 2010 and only 11 percent of those were conscious of their risk. Individuals with prediabetes have blood glucose levels which are elevated although not high enough to be categorized as diabetes.
And with holiday eating frenzy under way, diabetes experts say so many people are increasing their risk for strokes and cardiac arrest as they consume fat and sugar-laden food and drinks.
Dr. Vinita Bhagia, an endocrinologist at Advocate Illinois Masonic Clinic in Chicago, says if prediabetics eat typical holiday fare, they could be unaware of they are putting themselves at risk.
“Holiday favorites like pies, cookies and eggnog can raise blood sugar levels to extreme highs,” says Dr. Bhagia. “Additionally, foods rich in salt and high in fat pose additional risks for prediabetics.”
Dr. Bhagia says the seasonal treats may trigger life-threatening events.
“Diabetes boosts the risk of heart attacks and stroke, much like smoking, hypertension and high blood cholesterol,” she says. “When prediabetics eat dishes laden with salt, fat and sugar, it will be raises their chance of cardiac arrest.”
But just how can people know if they are prediabetic? Dr. Bhagia says blood tests need to be come to obtain a proper diagnosis. She also says you will find physical signs to watch for.
“There may be no symptoms initially, but when sugars get uncontrollably high, the most typical symptoms are excessive thirst, excessive urination, excessive hunger or blurred eyesight,” she explains. “It’s critical for individuals to see their doctor if they experience any of these symptoms, especially after eating.
Getting a handle on prediabetic problems that can lead to Type 2 diabetes, Dr. Bhagia says.
“Long term uncontrolled diabetes can lead to several complications especially affecting the kidneys, eyes, nerves and heart. Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness and foot amputations along with heart disease and stroke.”
In addition to obtaining a diagnosing blood test for diabetes, Dr. Bhagia states that everyone, including those at risk for diabetes, should avoid those foods and drinks that put our overall health in danger.
