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In a study of lifestyle habits among the
Pimas, researchers found that those
who consumed an "Anglo" diet were nearly three times
as likely to develop diabetes over about 6 years,
compared with those who followed a "traditional"
diet rich in squash, melons and legumes.
Those who consumed elements of both diets
were also at increased risk.
The Pima Indians of Arizona have undergone
a rapid transition from a traditional lifestyle that included
a healthy diet and exercise through work in fields, to a "Westernized"
lifestyle marked by high-fat foods and less physical activity.
As a result, rates of obesity
and chronic diseases characteristic of Western
populations have
soared.
In fact, the Pima Indians have the highest
rate of type 2 diabetes in the world.
But the Pimas are only one of myriad groups
whose health is being affected by today's lifestyles.
Overall, diabetes was diagnosed
in 22% of the study participants, predominately women.
Foods in the traditional Pima diet do
not cause blood sugar to surge in the way many foods included
in the Anglo diet do. Additionally, a healthier diet is also
associated with a healthier overall lifestyle that includes
exercise.
Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body loses
its sensitivity to insulin, a hormone that regulates blood
sugar, or glucose. When insulin sensitivity wanes, glucose
rises to levels that can, over time, increase a person's risk
of developing heart disease, kidney failure, nerve damage
and blindness.
In another
study, diabetic Pima Indians and whites who consumed a traditional
Indian diet for just 2 weeks
improved their glucose tolerance and lowered their cholesterol.
Diabetes Care
May 2001;24:811-816
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