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World Diabetes Day
World Diabetes Day, observed on November 14th, stands as a testament to the collective will to combat a pervasive and escalating global health crisis. As we recognize this day, it is imperative to absorb and address the sobering statistic that 1 in 10 adults worldwide are now living with diabetes. This figure isn’t just a number—it’s a mosaic of individual stories, families, and communities grappling with the implications of a chronic condition that knows no borders. Type 2 diabetes, representing over 90% of these cases, is often termed a lifestyle disease, precipitated by factors such as obesity, insufficient physical activity, and poor diet. Unlike type 1 diabetes, which is primarily…
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Tips to Help You Manage Diabetes
If you’ve just been diagnosed with diabetes, it can be tough to navigate – at least initially. For many, managing diabetes means having to make lifestyle changes; and while it’s certainly not a death sentence, it can still be a matter of life or death if you don’t take the appropriate measures to keep yourself healthy. The most common form of diabetes is Type II diabetes. Type II diabetes occurs when the body doesn’t use insulin properly – also known as insulin resistance. This can lead to a number of health problems including heart disease, stroke, neuropathy, and of course high blood sugar. Below are some important steps that you…
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Complications Associated with Diabetes
If you have diabetes, the you know the importance of proper management and making sure your diabetes is under control. If it is left untreated or not properly managed, your risk of developing diabetes-related complications can increase exponentially – and there are many complications that can occur. Among some of the most common complications that are associated with diabetes include heart disease and stroke, kidney disease, eye damage, and nerve damage (also known as neuropathy), just to name a few. Below we take a look at the link between diabetes and these complications that can occur, and the steps you need to take to reduce your risk. Heart Disease and…
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Type 2 Diabetes on the Rise
Type 2 diabetes is on the rise globally, and health experts are now worried that there may not be enough insulin to go around to those who need it – this according to a new study that concluded on Wednesday. Diabetes now affects as many as 9% of patients worldwide, which is a 5% increase compared to the 1980s, and researchers say they expect the amount of insulin that is needed to effectively treat type 2 diabetes will rise by more than 20% over the next 12 years. The vast majority of those diagnosed with diabetes are diagnosed with Type 2, which is linked to both lifestyle (such as lack…
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Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes
There are approximately 11 million Canadians currently living with diabetes, and someone new is diagnosed every 3 minutes. As many as 6 million Canadians have yet to be diagnosed with this chronic disease or are living with what’s known as “prediabetes.” During the prediabetes phase, your blood sugar reaches higher than normal levels but not quite high enough to be considered diabetic. However, research has also shown that certain complications linked to diabetes, such as heart disease, can happen as early as the prediabetic phase, therefore it’s important to have regular checkups with your physician and take any precautions that they recommend, such as changing your diet, checking your blood…
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Dealing with Diabetes During the Holidays
Preparing for the upcoming holidays can be difficult, especially if you’re trying to watch your waistline. The holiday season can also be difficult for individuals who suffer from certain health conditions – for example, diabetes. If you happen to have your diabetes under control, then indulging in some holiday food shouldn’t be a problem. However, if you do not have your diabetes well managed and your blood sugar levels tend to be all over the map with large spikes or low drops, you will want to take extra precautions. While the holidays are usually a time for people to stay home and relax as much as possible, it’s important for…
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World Health Day
On this day, April 7th, we come together globally to observe World Health Day, an annual recognition spearheaded by the World Health Organization (WHO) since 1950. This day serves not only as a reminder of the critical importance of maintaining and advocating for good health but also as an impetus for individuals, communities, and nations to reflect on health issues worldwide and to mobilize efforts to address them. In the Canadian context, where health is seen both as a personal responsibility and a societal commitment, World Health Day underscores the multifaceted approach needed to maintain and improve health for all. It is an opportune moment to delve into the significance…
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National Oral Health Month
April marks a significant time in the calendar for health awareness—National Oral Health Month. This serves as a potent reminder of the pivotal role oral hygiene plays, not merely in safeguarding the mouth’s health but as an integral component of overall wellness. The connection between oral health and general health is deeply intertwined, underscoring the necessity of regular dental exams. Moreover, the practices of flossing and brushing, alongside care for sensitive teeth, are fundamental to maintaining this crucial aspect of our health. The cornerstone of understanding the significance of National Oral Health Month lies in recognizing the profound implications that oral health has on our general wellbeing. Regular dental exams…
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Early Signs and Risks of Glaucoma
Glaucoma, often described as the “silent thief of sight,” is n eye condition that can cause irreversible damage to the optic nerve, the vital link between the eye and the brain, ultimately leading to vision loss, and, potentially, even blindness. The condition is particularly insidious because it tends to progress slowly and without noticeable symptoms in its early stages, making it crucial to be aware of the early warning signs and understand who is most at risk. One of the primary challenges in detecting glaucoma early is its largely asymptomatic nature in the initial phase. However, certain subtle signs might hint at the onset of this condition. These include a…
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The Importance of Good Nutrition
In the realm of maintaining optimal health and well-being, the significance of good nutrition cannot be overstated. It serves as the foundation upon which our bodies build strength, immunity, and overall vitality. This extensive article delves into the multifaceted benefits of good nutrition, outlines how it can profoundly impact our health, and provides examples of foods that epitomize healthy eating. Utilizing insights from nutritional science, we aim to elucidate how dietary choices can influence our physical and mental health, underscoring the importance of informed food selections in our daily lives. Understanding Good Nutrition Good nutrition involves the intake of a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, proteins, carbohydrates, and fats,…
