Originally published January 31 2006
Latinos at risk of diabetes should take steps to protect their bodies
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
The Modesto Bee discusses what Latinos can do to lower their risk of diabetes, and several dietary changes are recommended to lower daily amounts of carbohydrates and trans fats.
They count the carbohydrates in their diet, take walks together and ensure there are plenty of vegetables on their dinner plates.
Chavez has seen a doctor about the disease, but Maria's immigration status makes it harder for her to seek care.
She has used a network of friends and family to purchase diabetes medications from Mexico, she said.
The Waterford residents have Type II diabetes, the most common form of the disease and a major health problem in the Latino community.
The 2003 California Health Interview Survey found that 10.5 percent of Latinos contacted in the San Joaquin Valley had diabetes, compared with 7 percent of African-Americans and 6 percent of whites.
Insulin resistance is directly related to being overweight and results in elevated levels of sugar in the blood.
Traditional Mexican foods are rich in fats and carbohydrates.
In addition, immigrants from Mexico and Central America tend to work seasonal jobs, followed by months of unemployment and decreased activity.
"Once they become more Americanized, they start adopting the diet that everyone else follows," said Elizabeth Martinez, a nurse and health educator who works with diabetics.
Martinez has held twice-a-month health screenings at the Carranza Pharmacy on Crows Landing Road and is an educator at the Central California Diabetes Center in Modesto.
He estimates that he fills 20 percent to 30 percent more prescriptions for diabetes medication than five years ago.
Martinez said she knows many Latinos who are not treated regularly for diabetes because of their immigration status or inability to pay.
Health advocates are not aware of statewide or regional initiatives to address diabetes among Latinos.
The disease also is prevalent among the Hmong population of Merced County and Cambodians in Stanislaus County.
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