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Type 2 Diabetes Research Paper

Decent Essays

According to the CDC's National Diabetes Statistics Report in 2017, there are currently 30.3 million adults with diabetes in the United States (2). Globally, there are 440 adults with this chronic disease (8). Diabetes most commonly occurs in people over age 40, however, we are seeing an increase in the prevalence of diabetes among younger adults and children (1). According to both the CDC and WHO, new diagnosed cases of type 1 and type 2 diabetes have increased among youth in the United States (2,8). The CDC suggests that approximately 215,000 people 20 years or younger have diabetes, with most cases being type 1 diabetes (1). During adolescence, snacking and selecting convenient foods are typical eating behaviors. Many of these foods contain …show more content…

This may help prevent the development of insulin resistance, which if mismanaged and ignored could progress to prediabetes, type 1 diabetes, and type 2 diabetes. Annual screening for weight status, hyperlipidemia, and excessive intake of these refined carbohydrate foods are recommended for adolescents (1). In the long run, diabetes contributes to heart disease, hypertension, blindness, kidney failure, stroke, and the loss of limbs due to circulatory and neurological changes (1). Once type 2 diabetes has been developed, management becomes crucial, and this will decrease quality of life. Research indicates that both carbohydrate quality and quantity are important factors in diabetes …show more content…

There are two types of this macronutrient, simple sugars and complex carbohydrates. Carbohydrates have different effects on blood glucose response. Some simple and complex carbohydrates may elevate blood glucose levels more than others (1). Carbohydrates that are digested and absorbed quickly will prompt a spike in blood glucose and a significant increase in insulin secretion, while foods that are digested and absorbed slowly will prompt a gradual increase in blood glucose and insulin secretion. Insulin, a hormone produced by the beta cells of the pancreas, facilitates glucose entry into the cells to be used for energy, helping to regulate carbohydrate metabolism (4). A carbohydrate food’s effect on blood glucose and insulin can be measured through the glycemic index, a system that ranks foods based on their effect on blood sugar levels. Diets with high glycemic index may be associated with the development of diabetes. Refined carbohydrates, an essential component in the Western diet, are typically referred to as high glycemic index foods. Chronic consumption of refined carbohydrates may lead to insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and overweight and obesity; all of which are risk factors or correlations with diabetes; a chronic disease associated with hyperglycemia

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