Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes Mellitus, Hyperglycemia, is an ailment that occurs when the pancreas is unable to secrete enough insulin to maintain a normal blood sugar (Glucose) level, leading to high Blood Sugar levels.  A person is regarded as having Diabetes Mellitus if their Blood Sugar concentration is greater than 140 mg per deciliter after an overnight fast.

 In 2011 5% of the world's population is afflicted with one of the forms of Diabetes Mellitus.

 In 2012 medical costs for Diabetes Mellitus in the USA were estimated at $245 billion dollars. A 41% increase since 2007. According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA).   

 In 2014 Diabetes was listed number seven as the leading cause of death.

Substances, Foods and Herbs that prevent/treat specific forms of Diabetes Mellitus are listed in the individual topics for the two types of Diabetes Mellitus – Diabetes Mellitus Type 1 and Diabetes Mellitus Type 2- Prevention/Treatment.

 Diabetes Mellitus - Treatment/Prevention

Food Additives

 Aspartame may cause Diabetes Mellitus.

Proteins

 Elevated Glycosylated Hemoglobin levels may increase the risk of Diabetes Mellitus Type 2.  Glycosylated Hemoglobin levels are recognized as a screening and diagnostic test for Diabetes Mellitus Type 2.  ^[1]

Amino Acids

 Diabetics should avoid Arginine supplementation due to Arginine's Insulin-raising effect.

 Diabetics should not consume Cysteine supplements.

Carbohydrates

 Fructose may cause elevated serum Triglyceride levels in Diabetes Mellitus patients.

 Excessive endogenous production of Sorbitol The conversion of endogenous Glucose by the Aldose Reductase enzyme is responsible for several of the complications associated with Diabetes Mellitus.

Food Additives

 Aspartame may exacerbate the side effects (e.g. Cataracts, Diabetic Neuropathy;  Diabetic Retinopathy) of Diabetes Mellitus.