More than 37 million Americans have diabetes, and that number continues to grow. Many people diagnosed with the disease feel confused, uneasy, and scared because they don’t know the best way to handle their condition.
Experienced naturopathic doctor and certified nutrition consultant Humaira Quraishi, ND, MS, offers personalized diabetes support from a nature-based perspective at her practice in Fort Lee and Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey,
Read on to learn more about diabetes and what it means for you.
Diabetes happens when your body can’t properly regulate blood sugar levels, either due to inadequate insulin production or your body’s inability to use insulin effectively. This leads to elevated blood sugar, which can cause serious complications over time, including heart disease and stroke.
The main types of diabetes and their causes are:
An autoimmune condition, type 1 diabetes occurs when your immune system attacks your pancreas, killing cells important in insulin production. Without that insulin, your blood sugar rises to a dangerous level. You can’t prevent type 1 diabetes.
The causes of type 1 diabetes are uncertain. Experts believe it’s likely related to both genetics and environment.
Type 2 diabetes accounts for the majority of diabetes cases today. It occurs when your body produces insulin but doesn’t use it properly (insulin resistance), causing a blood sugar increase.
Before full-blown type 2 diabetes is diagnosed, many people experience prediabetes, where blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet at the diabetic threshold.
Some main contributing factors are excess body weight and lack of physical activity, although genetics can also play a part. Type 2 diabetes is preventable.
Although diabetes often starts with no symptoms, as it progresses it can cause:
It’s best to be proactive about your health rather than waiting for symptoms to appear. Doing so could help you prevent type 2 diabetes.
Whether you're at risk or already living with diabetes, we work with you to understand the underlying factors and provide tailored care that supports your body’s natural healing processes.
Dr. Quraishi determines the root causes of your blood sugar imbalance by closely evaluating your diet, health, and lifestyle.
After a comprehensive nutritional assessment, she helps you develop a personalized treatment plan that may include changes to your diet, stress management, physical activity recommendations, and supplements or other herbal remedies that support blood sugar regulation.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of diabetes or are concerned about your risk, it’s essential to seek care early. Our all-natural approach helps you manage your diabetes without relying solely on medications. Call our office or use the online scheduling tool to book an appointment today.
