Diabetes

Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not make or properly use insulin. Insulin is used to convert sugars, starch, and other foods into energy. There are several types of diabetes.

Type 1 Diabetes accounts for 5-10% of American diabetes cases. Type 1 diabetes is a result of the body failing to produce insulin.

Type 2 Diabetes results from the body’s inability to properly use the already lowered level of insulin the body may have. This accounts for the majority of diabetes cases.

Gestational Diabetes occurs in women during pregnancy, aftecting approximately 4% of pregnant women.

Pre-Diabetes occurs when glucose levels in the blood are elevated, but not to the extent that a diagnosis of diabetes can be made.

Fruits and Vegetables May Lower Your Risk of Certain Types of Diabetes

High levels of carotenoids in the blood may reduce the risk of diabetes, when compared to those with low carotenoid levels. Carrots are high in carotenoids.

A Harvard study of overweight subjects shows that one daily serving of carrots, yams, sweet potatoes, spinach and kale may cut risk of Type 2 diabetes.

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