I, too, wish Mr. Karlen the best in his recuperation. It will not be an easy thing, I fear, as our exercise, eating and drinking habits are well established in our formative years and with the slowing of our metabolisms as we age, we need more exercise and less food to have the best health. Recently, it was in the news that some scientists/doctors/people believe that we would all be healthier if we ate less, less meaning to come away from the food table NOT satiated but still a bit hungry. I fear in our country, with our way of life, this would be almost an impossibility for most of us (I know it would be for me!)
Diabetes is an insidious and deadly disease. The exact cause is not known and despite extensive research and education, more people are diagnosed with it than ever before. It is especially epidemic in children and although Type I Diabetes (insulin dependent) is the type most children are diagnosed with, doctors are concerned that the growing percentage of obese children are showing signs of Type II (non-insulin dependent). I personally believe that our modern diet and sedentary life-style is most to blame for this increase in the disease. We eat too much and sit at our TVs and computers too long (I'm more guilty than most.)
My mom (whose mother had diabetes) developed gestational diabetes when she had my youngest brother in 1971. This type can be temporary but my mom still has (Type II) diabetes. Sadly, she smokes like a chimney and doesn't watch her diet. Smoking complicates diabetes greatly. My dad found out he has Type II about 2 years ago. He has always been a non-smoker but he doesn't get much exercise. He tries to watch his diet. I have a cousin, early 50s, who lost a tremendous amount of weight, had a continuous terrific thirst and didn't eat well-balanced meals. He had no idea he had diabetes, even though his mother died from complications. He is now insulin dependent.
May we all continue to wish Mr. Karlen well and draw strength and inspiration for the maintenance of our own health and that of our loved ones.
SDP
