Type 2 diabetes mellitus in the Asian American community

The Asian-American community is extremely diverse, representing nearly 50 countries and ethnic groups (NLM, 2010).  There are nearly 11 million Asian Americans, and that number is expected to triple by 2050 (NLM, 2010).   This diversity makes it difficult to pin down specific diseases for which Asian Americans are at higher risk.  However, Asian Americans tend to be at higher risk for osteoporosis, type 2 diabetes mellitus, cervical cancer, and smoking (GoldSea, 2012).

Asian Americans are at a higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes; however, there is no clear reason why (Mayo Clinic, 2012).   The Western diet that is high in fat and calories, genetic make up, and lower physical activity are all factors that contribute to the higher risk for type 2 diabetes (Joslin Diabetes Center, 2012).  The studies are still trying to determine if one plays a higher role than the other when it comes to type 2 diabetes.

Nutrition plays a large role in the prevention and maintenance of type 2 diabetes.  Since Asian Americans are at higher risk of getting diabetes while maintaining what is considered a normal BMI, they are cautioned against gaining any amount of weight (Joslin Diabetes Center, 2012).  Unfortunately, the typical Western diet is higher in fat and calories than the typical Asian diet, so weight gain happens.  Even when an Asian American is trying to stick to a traditional Asian diet, the ingredients readily available in the west are different enough from the ingredients available in Asia that the fat grams and calories will be different.

Carbohydrates are a necessary part of any dietary plan; however, type 2 diabetics should lean toward the complex carbohydrates as they are digested more slowly than the simple carbohydrates.  A person’s diet should consist of 40%-60% carbohydrates.  Keeping these carbohydrates complex and natural will provide vitamins, minerals, and fibers with the calories (MedlinePlus, 2012).  Processed sugars only tend to spike the blood sugars and provide empty calories; thus, adding to unnecessary weight gain.

Meals should contain protein and fats with the carbohydrates.  While carbohydrates provide the quick glucose for the body, protein provides amino acids necessary for rebuilding and repairing muscles that have been catabolized for energy.  Choosing complementary proteins, like red beans and brown rice, or lean meats and poultry is important for type 2 diabetics.

Fats are a great source of sustainable energy as it takes the body longer to convert fats into glucose.  However, those with type 2 diabetes need to keep the saturated fats as low as possible for heart health.  Type 2 diabetics should stick to lean meats and poultry, low-fat dairy products, use vegetable oils that contain poly- or monounsaturated fats, and fruits (WebMD, 2012).

A person suffering from type 2 diabetes would also need to keep the sodium levels low for heart health.  Using other spices will help provide flavor without the salt.  Also, processed foods are high in sodium, so it may be necessary to avoid those as well.

Persons suffering from type 2 diabetes will need to maintain blood sugar levels for optimal health.  Persons at risk for type 2 diabetes will need to consume a well-rounded diet to help reduce the risks for getting the disease.  Eating regular meals with a good balance of fats, carbohydrates, and proteins and ensuring that most calories consumed are nutritious will also help reduce the risks for getting the disease or help manage the disease once diagnosed.  As the Asian American diet tends to be higher in calories, fat, and sodium than traditional Asian diets, it is important for those at risk to keep track of their nutrition.

GoldSea (2012)  10 Top Asian American Health Risks.  Retrieved on August 7, 2012, from http://goldsea.com/Text/index.php?id=1596/

Joslin Diabetes Center (2012)  Why do people of Asian decent get diabetes?  Retrieved August 7, 2012, from http://aadi.joslin.org/content/asian/why-are-asians-higher-risk-diabetes

Mayo Clinic (2012)  Risk Factors.  Retrieved on August 7, 2012, from http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/type-2-diabetes/ds00585/dsection=risk-factors

MedlinePlus (2012)  Carbohydrates.  Retrieved on August 7, 2012, from http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002469.htm

NLM (2010)  Asian American Health.  Retrieved on August 7, 2012, from asianamericanhealth.nlm.nih.gov

WebMD (2012)  Diabetes Health Center.  Retrieved on August 7, 2012, from http://diabetes.webmd.com/eating-right?page=2