Insulin Resistance

If you've been recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes, you might be feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what steps to take next. But don't worry, you're not alone. In fact, more than 50% of US adults have diabetes or pre-diabetes. In this blog post, Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson provides a list of the top 10 things you need to know when you're newly diagnosed.

First, it's important to understand what type 2 diabetes and prediabetes are. Essentially, these conditions occur when your body is no longer using insulin properly, often due to chronically high blood sugar levels. The good news is that these conditions can be reversible in many cases, and there are specific nutrition methods that can help lower your insulin needs.

It's never too early to take action and start managing your condition. The earlier you start, the easier the process will be, and the less damage you'll have to fight against. Your food choices and lifestyle habits play a crucial role in managing and reversing your diabetes. It's important to choose foods that have a positive impact on your blood sugar levels and to incorporate exercise into your routine to improve insulin sensitivity. Seeking ongoing support from a healthcare professional who specializes in holistic approaches can also be beneficial. Remember, you're not alone in this journey, and with the right support and knowledge, you can take control of your health.

Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson discusses the signs and causes of prediabetes. She explains that prediabetes occurs when the body becomes less sensitive to insulin, a process that can occur over many years before blood sugars start to rise. Nicholson highlights that over 50% of the adult population in the United States has diabetes or prediabetes, including those who are not overweight. She emphasizes that only 12% of adults have optimal levels of markers for metabolic disorders.

Nicholson provides an overview of blood sugar, insulin, and the two main types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2. She explains that type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease where the body doesn't produce insulin, while type 2 diabetes occurs when the body doesn't use insulin properly due to insulin resistance. She discusses the diagnoses of prediabetes and diabetes based on various laboratory markers such as fasting blood sugar and hemoglobin A1c. Nicholson points out that many doctors don't test insulin levels, which are crucial in assessing diabetes and prediabetes progression.

The blog post also addresses the causes of diabetes progression, emphasizing that high insulin levels originate from increases in blood sugar due to dietary carbohydrates. Nicholson argues that cutting back on carbohydrates is the fastest and most sustainable way to lower blood sugar and insulin levels. She also explores the impact of stress on blood sugar, mentioning that cortisol release can cause blood sugar rises. Nicholson criticizes the medications and conventional treatments available for prediabetes and diabetes, stating that they don't address the root cause and may have negative side effects. She encourages focusing on diet and lifestyle factors to address the true underlying causes of elevated blood sugar and insulin levels.

Link to the original post: [Prediabetes signs and causes](https://www.healthylifewithandrea.com/prediabetes-signs-and-causes/)

Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson highlights the dangers of under-eating and over-exercising in the pursuit of weight loss. Despite popular belief, these practices are not sustainable or effective. Under-eating can lead to a drop in metabolic rate and the breakdown of lean tissue, hindering weight loss progress. Over-exercising, while beneficial in moderation, can cause fatigue, injuries, and illness. Additionally, excessive fasting can result in the loss of lean tissue and dysregulation of hormones. To achieve a healthy balance, Nicholson suggests finding the right combination of nutrition, exercise, and self-care, tailored to individual needs. If unsure, seeking the guidance of a professional can help navigate this journey towards sustainable weight loss.

Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson emphasizes the importance of gut health and blood sugar management for overall well-being. While these two areas may seem unrelated, they have a significant impact on every aspect of our health, from digestion and immunity to mood and metabolism. When the balance of bacteria in our gut is disrupted, it can lead to a range of symptoms including bloating, gas, and fatigue. Similarly, poor blood sugar control can contribute to issues like diabetes, weight gain, and hormone imbalances.

Fortunately, there are steps we can take to support our gut microbiome and maintain healthy blood sugar levels. A healthy diet should prioritize quality protein, healthy fats, and non-starchy vegetables while minimizing starches, sugars, and refined carbohydrates. Adequate sleep, stress management techniques, regular physical exercise, and engaging in activities that bring joy are all important components of a healthy lifestyle. Additionally, supplementation may be beneficial to address specific deficiencies or imbalances. It's crucial to approach health holistically and recognize that when we address one area, others can also fall in line. By focusing on gut health and blood sugar management, we can lay the foundation for a lasting plan of action.

Functional Nutritionist Andrea Nicholson explores the little-known effects of blood sugar dysregulation and offers advice on how to manage it. Blood sugar dysregulation occurs when blood sugar levels fluctuate or remain chronically elevated, and it can be caused by factors such as stress, certain medications, and an unhealthy diet. While many people associate blood sugar imbalance with diabetes, studies have shown that 88% of adults have metabolic dysfunction, which includes blood sugar imbalances and insulin resistance.

The effects of blood sugar dysregulation can extend beyond diabetes and include fatigue, anxiety, depression, chronic inflammation, sugar cravings, increased appetite, headaches, imbalanced gut, joint pain, poor memory, weight gain, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, fatty liver, and hormone imbalances. To determine if you have blood sugar dysregulation, Nicholson suggests blood testing or using a continuous glucose monitor, which can provide insight into how your body responds to certain foods and activities.

To manage blood sugar dysregulation, Nicholson recommends eating a quality diet that prioritizes protein and healthy fats, managing stress and prioritizing sleep, and incorporating daily physical activity. By making mindful choices about carbohydrate intake, stress management, sleep habits, and exercise, it is possible to reverse blood sugar imbalances and achieve optimal health. Nicholson also emphasizes the benefits of working with a coach or nutritionist who can provide guidance and support tailored to your specific needs and goals.