Diabetes Epidemic

With obesity levels being at an all time high, the epidemic of type 2 diabetes is growing at an alarming rate, and will only get worse.

Between 2001 and 2002, the diagnosis of diabetes went from 5.5 percent of Americans to an alarming 6.5 percent. In just one year!

Overall, twelve million Americans have been diagnosed and another 5 million Americans have diabetes and don�t know it. And yet another 12 millions are on their way to type 2 diabetes because of impaired glucose levels.

Not knowing is the worst because risks of untreated diabetes puts us at a terrible risk of complications including but not limited to blindness, amputations and ultimately death.

The stickler is, that type 2 diabetes is almost completely preventable. Doctor�s say eat less, eat better and exercise. The numbers show just how many Americans are currently overweight.

Statistically, people are now living longer, and it has been on the rise for years. But this will not continue if type 2 diabetes is not put under control.

We are a gluttonous society and ultimately it is affecting how we live and how long we live.

And unfortunately, the diabetes epidemic is not just a US problem. It is spreading worldwide with epidemic reports in Asia, the Middle East and the Caribbean.

It is estimated that by 2025, the number of diabetics worldwide will rise to 380 million. And diabetes is now affecting more of the young and middle-aged population in developing countries between the ages of 40 and 59.

Book from an acclaimed diabetic chef (The Kansas City Star)

Diabetic chef When Tom Valenti, chef/owner of New York’s acclaimed Ouest and the West Branch, was diagnosed with diabetes 14 years ago he went through various stages of denial, anger and resignation. In “You Don’t Have to Be Diabetic to Love This Cookbook” (Workman, $19.95), he shares 250 recipes that are as bold and flavorful as his signature restaurant.

Diabetic food everyone can love (Tulsa World)

Tom Valenti's new cookbook is sure to be popular with diabetics and nondiabetics alike.

A potpourri of Items happening in our area (The Times of Northwest Indiana)

A potpourri of items happening in our area. Send new listings to margaret.kullerstrand@nwi.com or fax (219) 933-3249