Author: Gloria Penn-Wheatley, MD

There are many different types of diabetes medications, each with its own unique mechanism of action. Here are some of the most common types:

1. Metformin: Metformin is a commonly prescribed medication for type 2 diabetes. It works by reducing the glucose produced by the liver and improving insulin sensitivity, which helps glucose get into the cells where it can be used for energy. It is usually the first medication prescribed.
2. Sulfonylureas: Sulfonylureas are a class of oral medications that stimulate the pancreas to release more insulin. They work by closing potassium channels in the beta cells of the pancreas, which causes the cells to release insulin.
3. DPP-4 inhibitors: DPP-4 inhibitors are oral medications that help regulate blood sugar levels by blocking the enzyme DPP-4. This enzyme breaks down a hormone called incretin, which stimulates insulin production. By blocking DPP-4, the medication helps to increase insulin secretion and decrease the amount of glucose produced by the liver.
4. GLP-1 receptor agonists: GLP-1 receptor agonists like are injectable medications that mimic the action of incretin hormones. They work by signaling the pancreas to release more insulin, while also slowing down digestion and reducing appetite. This helps to lower blood sugar levels and promote weight loss. There are GLP-1’s like Trulicity injectable taken by a number of patients.
5. SGLT2 inhibitors: SGLT2 inhibitors are a newer class of oral medications that work by blocking the SGLT2 protein in the kidneys. This protein is responsible for reabsorbing glucose back into the bloodstream. By blocking SGLT2, the medication allows excess glucose to be excreted in the urine, which helps to lower blood sugar levels. The body is so fascinating.
6. Insulin: Insulin is a hormone that allows glucose to enter cells and be used for energy. People with type 1 diabetes need to take insulin, as their bodies do not produce any insulin. Some people with type 2 diabetes also need to take insulin if other medications are not providing adequate control of blood sugar levels.

It’s important to note that the mechanism of action can vary within each class of medication, and there can be potential side effects for each medication. It’s always important to consult with a healthcare provider before adding any new medications to your diabetes management routine.

Take the name of the medications you are currently taking and see which of the above diabetes medication class your medications fall into. This would help you to know which organ in the body is processing those medications. Ensure to periodically ask your doctor to request blood tests to ensure your organs like the liver, kidneys are still operating optimally. Remember to look up the side effects of all of your medications. This can prompt you to look into lifestyle changes.

Mnemonic : 2liver 2 pancreas 1 kidney

Liver: Metformin & DPP4

Pancreas: Sulfonylureas & GLP-1 (Trulicity)

Kidney : SGLT2 inhibitors

Action: You can look up the names of the medications you are taking and match to above list.

Post your findings

Author: Dr Gloria Penn- Wheatley https

“Daily Diabetes Log Book:” Know your blood sugar numbers ;:

Insulin resistance, a condition where the body’s cells do not respond properly to insulin, can be influenced by various lifestyle factors. Here are some key contributors:

1. Diet:

• High-sugar and high-carbohydrate diets: Frequent consumption of foods high in sugars and refined carbohydrates can lead to spikes in blood sugar and insulin, which may increase the risk of insulin resistance.
• Excessive fat intake: Particularly trans fats and certain saturated fats can contribute to the development of insulin resistance. From my experience most fats affect the body once it has been extracted from the nuts or plants.
• Low fiber intake: Diets low in fiber may negatively affect blood sugar control and insulin sensitivity. This statement is relatively vague – raw vegetables and fruits would be considered good fiber foods without confusing you and sending you on a never ending chase for what is a good fiber food. Leafy greens in the vegetable category would give the best benefits. Fruits with high water content are the best in this category.

1. Physical Inactivity:

• Lack of exercise can contribute to weight gain and body fat, especially visceral fat, which is linked to insulin resistance. Find the exercise that works best with your body. Exercise does not guarantee weight loss but exercise can clear your mind. If weight loss is your end goal see my post on circadian rhythm and the best foods for weight-loss. I am still figuring this out – the weight loss process is not complicated. I will created a post for what works for me. I am wise enough to not call my weight loss success “The way to weight loss”. Post your strategies and also include your body type so readers can have another perspective. (Thank you).
• Sedentary behavior itself, independent of exercise, has been associated with an increased risk of insulin resistance. Your body was built for movement. You can start with walking – 1000 steps and walk consistently . The goal is to make movement a habit. As you create this new habit the body will let you know when it is time to increase the steps.

1. Obesity:

• Specifically, an increased amount of visceral fat (the fat that surrounds the internal organs) is a known risk factor for insulin resistance.
• Adipose tissue, particularly when excessive, secretes hormones and cytokines that can promote inflammation and adversely affect insulin sensitivity.

1. Stress:

• Chronic stress can lead to elevated levels of cortisol and other stress hormones, which may increase blood glucose levels and contribute to insulin resistance.

1. Poor Sleep:

• Sleep deprivation or poor-quality sleep can affect hormones that regulate appetite and insulin sensitivity, increasing the risk of insulin resistance.
• Obstructive sleep apnea, associated with obesity, also significantly increases the risk.

1. Smoking:

• Smoking has been shown to increase insulin resistance due to the inflammatory response it elicits in the body.

1. Excessive Alcohol Consumption:

• While moderate alcohol intake may have a neutral or beneficial effect on insulin sensitivity, excessive intake can have the opposite effect and contribute to insulin resistance.

1. Age:

• Although not a modifiable factor, as we age, the risk of developing insulin resistance increases, in part due to decreased muscle mass and increased body fat. This statement only hold true if you do not arm yourself with the wellness knowledge that this is abundantly available

It’s important to note that while these factors can increase the risk of developing insulin resistance, the condition is complex and multifactorial, and not everyone exposed to these factors will develop it. Genetics also play a significant role. If you practice natural healthy habits, you can change your genetics.

Addressing lifestyle factors through:

1) Diet modifications (like adopting a balanced diet rich in raw vegetables, fruits.

2) High quality water

3) Consistent movement

4) Reduce stress

5) Smoking cessation

6) No alcohol consumption

7) Great sleep patterns

The above listed categories can help improve insulin sensitivity and decrease the risk of developing the major chronic conditions. There are great books available on each category- place those books in your tool box.

I’ve been on a relentless quest, seeking out the secrets that keep the needle on my scale from dancing downward. When change plays hide-and-seek despite a symphony of plans in play—clearly, there’s wisdom whispering just out of reach. Find out what I do not know.

Circadian rhythms are 24-hour cycles that are part of the body’s internal clock, running in the background to carry out essential functions and processes. One of the most important and well-known circadian rhythms is the sleep-wake cycle. Here are several ways in which circadian rhythms can affect your health:

1. Sleep Patterns: Circadian rhythms help to regulate sleep patterns and determine the timing of when you feel alert and when you feel sleepy. Affecting one’s sleep pattern is all I remembered about circadian rhythm.
2. Hormone Release: Hormones, such as cortisol and melatonin, are regulated by the circadian clock. Cortisol helps to control blood sugar levels and metabolism, while melatonin influences sleep. Whether or not we understand certain processes they affecting us.
3. Eating Habits and Digestion: The digestive system is also on a circadian schedule, influencing when we feel hungry and how well we digest and metabolize food. Base on the Circadian Rhythm schedule I should begin eating after 8 am in the morning and stop by 6 pm. I am now using this new eating schedule. It is about 3 weeks since I started. Benefits no abdominal bloating, no more reflux, no tossing and turning in bed to find the best spot to avoid burping, sleep better. A couple of nights I ate small portions of food and noted old discomforts returned. I found out that lunch time is the best time to consume larger and processed meals. Also healthier choices are better meaning eat with green salads or raw vegetables. Definitely stop all meals healthy or other wise by 4:00 pm. Hot herbal tea with no sugar if feel hungry after 6:00 pm. If I go to a restaurant after 6:00 I will pick on something small and will not order drinks.
4. Mental Health: Disruptions in circadian rhythms, such as those experienced by shift workers or through jet lag, can lead to mood disorders including depression and anxiety.
5. Physical Health: Studies have shown that circadian rhythm disruptions can contribute to various health conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, obesity, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. As mentioned before I am now in my 3 rd week. Following circadian rhythm has caused me to give my body a chance to process what, when, where, and why I consume foods.
6. Immune Function: Circadian rhythms impact the regulation of immune function, affecting how the body responds to infectious diseases and inflammation.
7. Brain Function: Cognitive abilities, including thinking, learning, and memory, appear to be influenced by the sleep-wake cycle and are affected by disruptions in circadian rhythms.

Maintaining a consistent circadian rhythm is important for overall health. It can be nurtured through regular sleep schedules, exposure to natural light during the day, and avoiding bright screens before bedtime.

The pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes involves a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors that contribute to the development of the disease. The primary abnormalities in type 2 diabetes are

insulin resistance (when cells in your muscles, fat, and liver don’t respond well to the insulin produced by the pancreas) and not enough insulin produced or available. Here’s a closer look at these two core issues:

1. Insulin Resistance: This is a condition where the body’s cells do not respond properly to insulin. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that allows cells to uptake glucose from the bloodstream. Insulin resistance is typically influenced by genetic factors, obesity, physical inactivity, and certain dietary patterns. As the insulin response diminishes, the pancreas tries to compensate by producing more insulin (hyperinsulinemia) which further promotes insulin resistance.
2. Impaired Insulin Secretion: Over time, the beta cells in the pancreas that produce insulin may become dysfunctional ( tired of the back and forth- insulin up/down) due to the chronic demand for excess insulin to overcome resistance. This leads to an inability to secrete sufficient amounts of insulin in response to blood glucose levels, especially after meals. This beta-cell dysfunction can be exacerbated by genetic factors, high blood glucose (glucotoxicity), high free fatty acids (lipotoxicity), and, in some cases, the deposition of amyloid in the islets of Langerhans.
3. Increased Glucose Production: The liver’s ability to produce glucose (through a process called gluconeogenesis) is typically inhibited by insulin. In type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance can disrupt this inhibition, resulting in increased glucose production by the liver, even when blood glucose levels are high.
4. Altered Hormones and Cytokines: Patients with type 2 diabetes often exhibit alterations in the production of various hormones and cytokines, including incretins (hormones that increase insulin release) and adipokines (cytokines released by adipose tissue) such as leptin and adiponectin. These alterations can impact glucose metabolism and contribute to the pathogenesis of diabetes.
5. Inflammation: Adipose tissue, particularly in obese individuals, can produce pro-inflammatory cytokines that contribute to insulin resistance and beta-cell dysfunction.

The consequence of these pathophysiological changes is chronic hyperglycemia, the hallmark of diabetes, which can lead to a range of complications if not adequately managed. These complications include macrovascular issues (e.g., heart disease and stroke), microvascular issues (e.g., retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy), as well as increased susceptibility to infections and delayed wound healing.

Management of type 2 diabetes initially focuses on lifestyle changes for restoring metabolic balance by improving insulin sensitivity (through diet, medication, exercise, and stress reduction. Medications for enhancing insulin secretion (include medications like sulfonylureas or incretin mimetics), and sometimes supplementing with exogenous insulin. Monitoring and controlling other risk factors such as hypertension and dyslipidemia are also vital to reduce the risk of complications.

After researching for this post I am heading out for a mini vacation to so that the stress in my life can decrease. This blog post is for myself as well as readers.

You can respond with your own Diabetes story.

Wellness clinics are experiencing growth for several reasons. First, there is a growing awareness and emphasis on preventive healthcare. Many people are embracing a proactive approach to their health, seeking ways to prevent illness and promote overall well-being through services offered at wellness clinics.

Additionally, there is a rising interest in alternative and complementary medicine, including services such as acupuncture, massage therapy, chiropractic care, and naturopathic medicine. These services are often available at wellness clinics, attracting individuals who prefer a holistic approach to their health and wellness.

The increasing prevalence of chronic health conditions, such as obesity, diabetes, and stress-related disorders, has also contributed to the demand for wellness clinics. Many individuals are seeking out providers who can offer personalized lifestyle interventions, nutritional counseling, and stress management techniques to help them manage and prevent these conditions.

Furthermore, technological advancements have made it easier for wellness clinics to offer telemedicine services, health monitoring apps, and personalized health tracking. These innovations have expanded the reach of wellness clinics, making it more convenient for individuals to access their services and support.

The COVID-19 pandemic has also played a role in the growth of wellness clinics. The pandemic has heightened awareness around the importance of maintaining a strong immune system and overall health. As a result, many people are turning to wellness clinics for immune-boosting therapies, nutritional support, and mental health services.

Lastly, employers are increasingly recognizing the value of investing in employee wellness programs and offering services through corporate wellness clinics. These programs aim to improve employee health, reduce healthcare costs, and enhance productivity, leading to the expansion of wellness clinics within corporate settings.

In summary, the growing interest in preventive healthcare, alternative medicine, chronic disease management, technological advancements, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and corporate wellness programs are all contributing to the growth of wellness clinics.

Turmeric is a spice that comes from the turmeric plant (Curcuma longa) and is commonly used in Indian cuisine. It contains an active compound called curcumin, which has been studied for its potential health benefits, including its effect on blood sugar levels. While there is some research suggesting that curcumin may have a positive impact on blood sugar control, it is important to note that more extensive studies are needed to fully understand its effects and optimal usage.

Here are some ways that curcumin, found in turmeric, may help lower blood sugar:

1. Improved insulin sensitivity: Curcumin may enhance the sensitivity of insulin receptors, allowing cells to take in glucose more effectively. This can help improve blood sugar control.
2. Reduced inflammation: Chronic inflammation can contribute to insulin resistance, which impairs the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels. Curcumin has anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce inflammation in the body, potentially improving insulin sensitivity.
3. Increased glucose uptake: Curcumin may stimulate the transport of glucose into cells, promoting its absorption and utilization. This can help reduce the amount of glucose circulating in the bloodstream.

It’s important to note that the effects of curcumin on blood sugar levels may vary among individuals. Also, the bioavailability of curcumin is generally low, meaning that the body may not absorb it efficiently. To enhance the absorption, consuming curcumin with black pepper or a fat source like oil may be helpful.

While turmeric can be a flavorful addition to your diet, it is important to understand that it is not a replacement for prescribed medications or proper medical care. If you have diabetes or concerns about your blood sugar levels, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional for guidance and personalized advice.

Trulicity (generic name dulaglutide) is a medication that is used for the management of weight loss and type 2 diabetes It belongs to a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, or GLP-1 agonists. Here are some potential benefits of using Trulicity for diabetes management:

1. Blood sugar control: Trulicity helps to lower blood sugar levels by stimulating the release of insulin from the pancreas when blood sugar is high. It also slows down the release of glucose from the liver, which can help maintain more stable blood sugar levels throughout the day.
2. Weight management: Trulicity has been associated with modest weight loss in some individuals. This can be beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes who are overweight or obese, as weight loss can help improve insulin sensitivity and overall glycemic control.
3. Cardiovascular benefits: Clinical trials have shown that Trulicity can reduce the risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes, in people with type 2 diabetes who have a history of cardiovascular disease. It can also lower the risk of kidney complications in people with diabetes.
4. Once-weekly dosing: Trulicity is a once-weekly injection, which can be more convenient for some individuals compared to daily injections or multiple daily oral medications. This dosing schedule may improve medication adherence.
5. Hypoglycemia risk: Trulicity has a lower risk of causing hypoglycemia compared to certain other diabetes medications, particularly when used as a monotherapy or with metformin.

It’s important to note that while Trulicity has potential benefits for diabetes management, it may not be suitable for everyone. As with any medication, there can be potential side effects and individual considerations to discuss with a healthcare professional. They can help determine if Trulicity is the right option for you and guide you on its proper use.

There are various types of diets that people follow for health optimization. Here are a few popular ones: This post is written to let you know the different diets available.

1. Mediterranean Diet: Inspired by the traditional eating patterns of countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, this diet emphasizes consuming fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, olive oil, and lean proteins like fish and poultry. It limits the intake of red meat, processed foods, and added sugars.
2. DASH Diet: The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet focuses on lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of heart disease. It emphasizes a balanced intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy while reducing sodium, saturated fats, and added sugars.
3. Plant-based Diet: Plant-based diets, such as vegetarian or vegan diets, prioritize fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds while avoiding or minimizing animal products. These diets can provide numerous health benefits when well-balanced and nutritionally adequate.
4. Ketogenic Diet: The ketogenic diet is a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet that aims to encourage the body to enter a state of ketosis. By drastically reducing carbohydrate intake and increasing fat consumption, the body is forced to use fat as its primary energy source. This diet is primarily used for weight loss or to manage certain medical conditions, but it may not be suitable for everyone.
5. Paleo Diet: The paleo diet is based on the idea of eating foods that our ancestors from the Paleolithic era would have consumed. It focuses on whole foods such as lean meats, fish, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds while avoiding processed foods, grains, legumes, and dairy products. The emphasis is on consuming foods in their most natural state.
6. Intermittent Fasting: Intermittent fasting is not a specific diet but rather an eating pattern. It involves cycling between periods of fasting and eating within a defined time window. Common methods include the 16/8 method (fasting for 16 hours and eating within an 8-hour window) or alternate-day fasting. It may help with weight loss, blood sugar control, and other health benefits.
7. Carnivore Diet : The carnivore diet is a dietary approach that involves consuming only animal products and excluding all plant-based foods . With the knowledge that plants contain lectins and oxalates. These components cause persons to develop sensitivities to those foods and through inflammation affect the gut’s lining. It is an extremely restrictive diet where individuals primarily eat meat, fish, eggs, and certain dairy products while avoiding fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, and other plant-based foods. Since meats are more dense in comparison to fruits and vegetables,; persons tend to feel full on less, which leads to weight loss and positive come as pertain to a number of diseases.
8. Fruitarianism is based on the belief that fruits have the highest nutritional value and should be the main source of sustenance. Some fruitarians also believe in practicing ethical eating by avoiding harm to plants, which they perceive as being possible when consuming plant roots, leaves, or seeds.

9. Breatharian : This lifestyle adapt the concept of eating little to no food. There are a number of persons who follow this lifestyle. This lifestyle is maintained with a great focus on spirituality.

It’s important to note that individual dietary needs can vary, and what works for one person may not be appropriate or effective for another. Consulting with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian can help you determine the best approach based on your specific health goals and requirements.

Lectins are proteins found in many plant-based foods. While lectins are part of a natural defense system for plants, some people may have sensitivities or adverse reactions to them. Here are some common foods that naturally contain lectins:

1. Legumes: Legumes like kidney beans, lentils, chickpeas, and soybeans contain lectins. Cooking legumes thoroughly can help reduce the lectin content.
2. Nightshade vegetables: Certain vegetables from the nightshade family, including tomatoes, potatoes, eggplants, and peppers, contain lectins.
3. Grains: Some grains such as wheat, barley, and rye contain lectins, especially in their raw or undercooked forms.
4. Seeds and nuts: Lectins can be found in certain seeds and nuts, such as peanuts, cashews, and sunflower seeds. Soaking, sprouting, or cooking them can help reduce lectin levels.
5. Dairy: Cow’s milk and other dairy products may contain trace amounts of lectins. However, the impact on human health is generally minimal.
6. Fruits: Certain fruits like bananas, apples, berries, and melons contain lectins, but they are typically present in lower amounts.

Keep in mind that cooking, soaking, fermenting, or sprouting foods can often reduce lectin levels and mitigate their potential adverse effects. If you suspect that you have a lectin sensitivity or any digestive issues, it may be helpful to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized advice.

The difference in weight loss between a carnivore diet and a fruit-based diet can vary based on individual factors, such as metabolism, calorie intake, and overall dietary adherence. It’s important to note that weight loss primarily occurs when there is a calorie deficit, which means consuming fewer calories than your body needs.

Here are a few reasons why some people may experience more weight loss on a carnivore diet compared to a fruit-based diet:

1. Calorie density: Animal products tend to be more calorie-dense than fruits, meaning they contain more calories in a smaller portion. This can potentially lead to a feeling of satiety with fewer calories consumed, resulting in weight loss.
2. High satiety: Protein and fat, which are abundant in animal products, can promote feelings of fullness and satiety. This may help control appetite and reduce overall calorie intake, contributing to weight loss.
3. Elimination of high-sugar fruits: Many fruits contain natural sugars, which can contribute to calorie intake. By eliminating or reducing high-sugar fruits in a carnivore diet, individuals may consume fewer calories, resulting in weight loss.
4. Individual factors: Each individual’s response to different diets can vary due to genetics, metabolism, and other factors. Therefore, some people might personally experience more weight loss on a carnivore diet due to how their bodies respond to it.

It’s important to remember that sustainable weight loss involves a well-rounded and balanced diet. Consulting with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian can help determine the most suitable diet plan for your specific needs and goals.