Diabetes Serious Health Concern for Latinos; Dietitian Says More Awareness is Needed about the Disease's Link to Other Health Disorders.

NORTHRIDGE, Calif. -- Diabetes is a serious health concern for Latinos and occurs at an earlier age for Latinos than other populations. In fact, the American Diabetes Association states that more than two million Latino-Americans have diabetes, and the prevalence of type 2 diabetes is nearly twice as high in Latinos than non-Latino whites.(1)

Although most Latinos are aware of the disease, many don't realize that diabetes is accompanied by other health disorders, such as heart disease and stroke, high blood pressure, blindness and kidney disease.

"My mother was diagnosed with diabetes last year and learned that improper management of the disease can lead to poor circulation, blindness, amputations and nervous system disease," said Sandra Marin, M.P.H., registered dietitian and Nature Made Wellness Advisor (www.naturemade.com) expert. "I suggest that diabetics follow their doctor's advice, eat `adequate' food portions, exercise regularly and supplement a healthy diet with antioxidants such as those available in the Nature Made Diabetes Health Pack. It is also important that they see their appropriate healthcare practitioners regularly to maintain overall health. I would also recommend that patients take the initiative to educate themselves about the disease by asking questions, reading reliable websites and becoming actively involved in the diabetes community."

Diabetes, a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin -- a hormone that is needed to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy needed for daily life, can also increase the risk of heart problems and increase oxidative stress that makes the body more susceptible to illness. To manage this, diabetics should follow a healthy, balanced diet to help get essential nutrients that may be lacking due to the strain the disease places on the body's health.

As part of Diabetes Awareness Month, Marin has provided the following insight into some of the most common conditions that accompany diabetes:

Heart of the matter

Simply being a diabetic increases the risk of heart problems significantly. Latinos with diabetes tend to be overweight and more prone to high blood pressure and higher cholesterol levels. Diabetes can also cause blood vessel openings to narrow or completely clog up, resulting in a blockage or slowing of blood flow in the body. A heart attack occurs when a blood vessel leading to the heart becomes blocked. To help maintain a healthy heart, adults should exercise at least three times a week and choose a healthier diet with nutrient-rich green, leafy vegetables and whole grains and smaller portions.

Go with the flow

The slowing of blood flow or poor circulation associated with diabetes contributes to a condition called neuropathy, which is nerve damage that leads to numbness and tingling in the hands, legs and feet. Being active keeps blood circulating. Roughly, 10,000 steps a day is the equivalent to the Surgeon General's recommendation of 30 minutes of exercise daily. So get up and get moving!

Keep an eye on eye health

When blood sugars are not controlled, the rate of oxidative stress increases. As a result, diabetics are more prone to eye problems, including glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration and retinopathy, a complication unique to diabetes that occurs when high blood sugar damages the tiny blood vessels in the retina. Beta-carotene, which is found in carrots, sweet potatoes and mangos, helps keep eyes strong.

A dietary supplement like Nature Made's Diabetes Health Pack can help diabetics achieve more balanced nutrition by providing essential nutrients and antioxidants that they need. Latinos with diabetes should work with a primary care physician, a certified diabetes educator to teach them self-care, a registered dietitian to help them design a meal plan that's right for them and an ophthalmologist to screen them for diabetic retinopathy. For additional diabetes management and prevention tips, nutritional advice and information, call 1-800-276-2878 or visit the Nature Made Wellness Advisor at www.NatureMade.com.

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(1) American Diabetes Association, 2002.