Endocrine Health - Type II Diabetes Flashcards
Q: What is Type 2 Diabetes (T2DM)?
A: Type 2 Diabetes (T2DM) is a chronic condition characterized by hyperglycaemia due to mild to significant insulin deficiency, often with or without insulin resistance.
Q: Why is the burden of Type 2 Diabetes rising globally?
A: The burden of T2DM is increasing rapidly, especially in developed regions. It’s projected to affect 7079 per 100,000 individuals by 2030, with more than 1 million deaths annually, making it the 9th major cause of death.
Q: List common signs and symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes.
A: Signs and symptoms include polyuria (increased urination), polydipsia (excess thirst), polyphagia (excess hunger), extreme fatigue, blurry vision, poor wound healing, recurrent infections, acanthosis nigricans, and obesity.
Q: What are some complications associated with Type 2 Diabetes?
A: Complications include acute hyperosmolar hyperglycaemia, macrovascular issues (cardiovascular disease, hypertension, stroke), microvascular issues (retinopathy, neuropathy, nephropathy), depression, periodontal disease, and Alzheimer’s disease.
Q: Identify some common causes and risk factors for Type 2 Diabetes.
A: Risk factors include strong family history, ethnicity (Asian, African, Afro-Caribbean), age over 45, obesity, diet high in glycaemic load, nutrient deficiencies, reduced physical activity, high oxidative stress, chronic stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and poor methylation.
Q: How does the gut microbiome affect Type 2 Diabetes?
A: Gut dysbiosis can drive inflammation, modulate SCFA production, and increase intestinal permeability, contributing to metabolic endotoxaemia and low-grade inflammation, which are linked to insulin resistance in T2DM.
Q: Name protective and harmful microbiome patterns in Type 2 Diabetes.
A: Protective bacteria include Bifidobacterium, Bacteroides, Faecalibacterium, Akkermansia, and Roseburia. Harmful bacteria associated with higher T2DM risk include Ruminococcus, Fusobacterium, and Blautia.
Q: What are the main naturopathic goals in managing Type 2 Diabetes?
A: Naturopathic goals include stabilizing blood sugar levels, reducing inflammation and boosting antioxidants, correcting macronutrient and micronutrient status, and optimizing insulin sensitivity and mitochondrial function.
Q: What strategies are recommended for stabilizing blood sugar levels in T2DM?
A: Recommended strategies include consuming low glycaemic load (GL) meals, high fibre intake (especially soluble fibre), avoiding refined carbohydrates, and managing stress levels.
Q: How can inflammation be reduced in Type 2 Diabetes?
A: Reducing inflammation can be achieved by avoiding inflammatory foods and beverages, increasing flavonoid-rich foods, using antioxidants, maintaining sleep hygiene, addressing environmental toxins, and supporting GI health.
Q: What are the benefits of correcting macronutrient and micronutrient status in T2DM?
A: Correcting nutrient status can improve glycaemic control, reduce complications, support the immune system, and optimize protein and essential fatty acid intake with meals.
Q: How can insulin sensitivity and mitochondrial function be optimized in T2DM?
A: Through balanced nutrition, specific nutraceuticals, exercise, and supplements like gymnema sylvestre, bitter melon, Panax ginseng, fenugreek, cinnamon, silymarin, and CoQ10.
Q: Name three foods to avoid with Type 2 Diabetes.
A: Avoid sucrose and fructose, processed foods, and refined carbohydrates like bread, pasta, and pastries.
Q: What are some foods beneficial for people with Type 2 Diabetes?
A: Beneficial foods include extra virgin olive oil, green tea, mixed nuts, cinnamon, omega-3 sources, high-fibre foods, fibrous vegetables, and low GL fruits like berries.
Q: Describe the function of Chromium (Cr) in managing T2DM.
A: Chromium is a vital component of chromodulin, which enhances insulin receptor sensitivity. It may reduce carbohydrate cravings and is beneficial in individuals with deficiency.
