Running head: TYPE 2 DIABETES PREVENTION AND AWARENESS 1

Type 2 Diabetes Prevention and Awareness

Zahra Osman

Michigan Islamic Academy

 Type 2 Diabetes Prevention And Awareness 2

Abstract

The growing epidemic of type 2 diabetes is one of the leading causes of premature mortality

worldwide, due to the micro and macrovascular obstacles associated with the disease. Type 2

diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the body and how it metabolizes glucose, known as

sugar. This paper aims to address the disregard in the choices made as a part of a routine which

include daily nutrition and exercise and how type 2 diabetes is a prevalent problem in today’s

youth. Finding better methods to help today’s youth can include providing better nutrition based

off a healthy diet, exercise, and prevention education.

Keywords:​ type 2 diabetes, prevention

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Type 2 Diabetes Prevention and Awareness

As today's youth grows, health and physical activity have slowly been shifted to the back

of people's thoughts. Everyday life can become busy and the quickest and easiest option is to

grab an unhealthy snack or meal. Proper nutrition and exercise are the main components to

creating a better and healthier lifestyle. In today’s society there is an overt disregard in the

choices made as a part of a routine which include daily nutrition and exercise. Unfortunately, it

takes its toll on the individual and causes many health problems. If parents do not have the

responsibility and the knowledge needed to be healthy and choose a path that leads to a healthy

lifestyle, children will suffer. Changing and helping to improve the lifestyle of youths is a

problem that can be dealt with. Type 2 diabetes is an extensive concern because it is increasing

and becoming common (MedlinePlus, 2016). Type 2 diabetes occurs in adults, however it can

also develop in young children.

In their book Silink, Kida, & Rosenbloom (2003, p.vii) state:

Type 2 diabetes now affects over 5% of the world's population and is affecting

progressively younger populations. This epidemic of type 2 diabetes parallels the global

increase. The reasons for these concomitant epidemics remain poorly understood, but

involve the complex interactions of genetic predisposition, prenatal environment, and the

major lifestyle and environmental changes brought about by modernization,

industrialization, and globalization. (p.vii)

The research case, The Search for Diabetes in Youth, funded by the National Institutes of

Health (NIH) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), found that from the

years 2002 to 2012, "the rate of new diagnosed cases of type 1 diabetes in youth increased by
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about 1.8 percent each year. During the same period, the rate of new diagnosed cases of type 2

diabetes increased even more quickly, at 4.8 percent. The study included 11,244 youth ages 0-19

with type 1 diabetes and 2,846 youth ages 10-19 with type 2"(National Institute of Health, 2017).

Dr. Giuseppina Imperatore an epidemiologist in National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention

and Health Promotion states, “Because of the early age of onset and longer diabetes duration,

youth are at risk for developing diabetes related complications at a younger age. This profoundly

lessens their quality of life, shortens their life expectancy, and increases health care costs.”

(National Institute of Health, 2017) Diabetes is a prevalent problem in today’s youth. Monitoring

the health of the young generation can help prevent type 2 diabetes which can be moderated by

healthy diet and nutrition, exercise, and prevention education taught in schools.

Diabetes mellitus is a disease that prevents the human body from properly using the

energy gained from eating food. Diabetes can occur in two situations: the first being, when the

pancreas produces little insulin or can no longer produce insulin at all. (Diabetes Mellitus: An

Overview. 2018). Insulin, a hormone produced by the beta cells made by the pancreas, allows the

body to use glucose, which is sugar from the carbohydrates consumed in the food eaten for

energy, or to store more glucose for future use. Insulin helps keep the blood sugar in a person's

body from getting either too high (hyperglycemia) or getting too low (hypoglycemia) (Fischl,

2018). The other situation is called insulin resistance which is when the pancreas can make

insulin, but the insulin that is made does not work as well as it should.

One may ask, how does the body regulate glucose? When a person eats food the glucose

in the body rises to an extreme because the food is converted to sugar and is to be transported to

the cells of the body. After this, the cells in the pancreas sense the increase and release insulin to
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the body. This leads the insulin to do one of its main tasks which is to decrease the blood glucose

levels by activating a system that transports glucose from the blood to the cells in the body. It

then decreases the glucose by prompting an enzyme called glycogen synthase in the liver. This

molecule is then responsible for making glycogen, a long string of glucose, that is stored in the

liver and used in the future when low blood glucose appears. As insulin starts working in the

body, the glucose in the blood slowly returns to the same level it was before food was eaten by

the person. This glucose level, when a person has not eaten, lies around 3.5-6 mmol/L. Whereas

right after a meal, the blood glucose can rise as high as 7.8mmol/L depending on the amount or

substance of the meal. (Khan Academy, n.d)

Type 2 diabetes begins with insulin resistance and it typically ends in loss of insulin

secretion. Tissue cells, over a period of time, become insulin resistant when the cells in the body

become resistant to insulin, the body makes more and increases the amount of insulin to keep the

sugar levels in a regular range. This increase causes more insulin molecules required to open up

the glucose channels. As an example, in tissue cells, it takes one insulin molecule to open one

channel. When a cell is insulin resistant, it takes almost up to four insulin cells to to open a

glucose channel. This would lead the pancreas to continually work overtime to make up for the

demand. As this continues to increase, the pancreas will continue to work until it cannot

compensate for the level of the demand. At this point the blood glucose would gather in the

bloodstream of the person. Eventually, leading a strain on the pancreas making it unable to

produce enough insulin to keep blood sugar levels normal.

The symptoms of type 2 diabetes are similar to type 1 diabetes. Almost 40% of patients

notice any symptoms. The other 60% can deal with increased urination and thirst, a condition of
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hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state, weight loss, excessive fatigue, darkened skin commonly

found in the neck area and underarm area, diabetic ketoacidosis which causes causes

nausea/vomiting, drowsiness, abdominal pain, infections or sores that are resistant to healing,

hunger due to starvation of cells and a severe state of dehydration of the body all which require

hospitalization (Holland & Watson, 2018).

Praise be to Allah (SWT), the Lord of the Worlds, all Knower of illnesses and each of

their hidden cures. May salutation and peace be upon His (SWT) first, Adam(AS), and His last

and final, Muhammad (PBUH). Ameen! In Islam, Muslims come from many cultures and

contribute much to the nutritional practices all around the world. However, the Islamic

nutritional practices are expected to be determined by the regulations and injunctions of Islam as

explained by the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and outlined in the Holy Book, the

Quran.

Islam, is a complete religion that teaches and advises believers as to what the best method

of eating and health lifestyle is. Believers are advised to be moderate in every aspect of life. In

this generation people are living in times where there is an epidemic of chronic illnesses such as

cancers, diabetes, heart diseases, etc, even in the youth. How does one face these challenges in

light of Islam? Abu Hurayrah narrated that the Messenger (PBUH) said, “There is no disease that

Allah has created, except that He also has created its remedy.”(Medicine) The Messenger

(PBUH) furthermore said, “There are two blessings that many of the people lose out on, good

health and free time.” (To make the Heart Tender (Ar-Riqaq)) Prevention of illnesses by

preserving and maintaining good health through diet is astounding means provided by Allah.

Muslims need to be aware of what is good and what is harmful in foods also realizing the harms
 Type 2 Diabetes Prevention And Awareness 7

of chemicals, processed foods and sugar in their regular diet.

The Qur’an is not restricted to mentioning all the permissible and impermissible foods

but also goes to the extent of giving great useful tips regarding a balanced and nutritional diet, a

diet that contains most useful ingredients required for the strength, growth, and repairing the

body. Allah states, "O mankind: Eat of what is lawful and good on earth” and “eat from the good

things which We have provided for you.”(Quran 2:168,172) Analyzing through the Quran

further, those foods that are lawful include: honey (16:68-69), vegetables such as corn and herbs

(55:12, 80:27-32) and fruits such as olives, dates, grapes, pomegranates (6: 99,141), bananas (56:

28-29), cattle (22:28), and fish (16:14). Dr. Shahid Athar stated that these fruits mentioned are

high in fibers, low in calories, and have low amounts of calories.(Health guidelines from Quran

and Sunnah)​ ​It is emphasized clearly that Allah has provided many good things to eat in this

world that can help keep the body healthy and fit. In another verse Allah commands, “Eat of the

good things we have provided for your sustenance, but commit no excess therein, lest my wrath

should justly descend on you, and those on whom descends my wrath do perish indeed.”(Quran

20:81)

It is essential that any food should be consumed in moderation. Allah says in verse 31 of

surah Al-Araf, “eat and drink and do not commit excesses; indeed He does not love those who

are excessive.” (7:31). Prophet Muhammad advised Muslims to not overeat, it can be described

by the hadith, “Don’t indulge in overeating because it would quench the light of faith within your

hearts” (Al-Mustadrak, vol. 3, p-81). Lessons can be learned from the eating habits of Ahlul Bayt

(the family of the prophet). It was reported that the Prophet and his cousin Ali refrained from

eating any type of bread made from flour, however they would eat those of the bread that
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included wheat bran or barley. This shows how in the prophetic times people would refrain from

anything that would affect the health of the body.

The theme of keeping respect for the body can come from the Quran and Hadith which

includes having regular physical activity. Nutrition and diet play a big role in maintaining a good

healthy body, so does having a good regimen of exercise. Islam emphasizes this, even fulfilling

three of of the five pillars. Exercise and fitness play an indispensable part in the life of a Muslim.

In accordance with the realistic and holistic approach to life, everything should be done in

moderation meaning there should not be any fanatic behavior. Islam teaches the practices of

prayer, pilgrimage, fasting, and obligatory fasting which will benefit Muslims in the hereafter.

There are many benefits of the spiritual actions done by Muslims. These actions such as the

obligatory fasting, prayer, and pilgrimage can not only be beneficial spiritually but also

physically. The movements done in these actions help strengthen the bones in the body and help

with flexibility. For example walking around the Kaa’ba seven times help strengthen the bones

in the legs and hips. Prostration during prayer can help with flexibility in the legs strengthen the

back. In addition, fasting can boost metabolism and aid with self control. There are verses in the

Quran about the people who walk on Earth, one verse specifically indicates how the Prophet

(PBUH) used to walk: They say, “What sort of messenger is he that eats and walks in the

markets?… (Quran, 25:7). (How the Quran and Hadith tell us to keep physically healthy, 2017)

Dr. Omar Kasule (2008), Harvard Professor of Islamic Medicine, has voiced that the Prophet

(PBUH), would walk in the form of “harwalat” meaning hasty walking when he completing

various activities.

A representative from the World Health Organization in the Middle East, Dr. Mohammad
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Al-Khayat referenced many ideas from the Quran and Sunnah, one of which includes, Abu

Huraira reported Allah's Messenger (PBUH) saying, “Do not with your own hands throw

yourself into ruin.” (2:195) The second of which is, “A strong believer is better and is more

lovable to Allah than a weak believer, and there is good in everyone, (but) cherish that which

gives you benefit (in the Hereafter) and seek help from Allah and do not lose heart, and if

anything (in the form of trouble) comes to you, don't say: If I had not done that, it would not

have happened so and so, but say: Allah did that what He had ordained to do ”(The Book of

Destiny)

Everyone can benefit from a healthy eating plan regardless of whether the person has a

high risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Nutrition for children is based on very similar principles

as nutrition for adults. Everyone needs the same types of nutrients such as carbohydrates,

minerals, protein, vitamins, and fat. Children, however, need different amounts of nutrients at

different ages (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2017). The best way to prevent type 2 diabetes follow and stay

with a healthy lifestyle, which includes making smart food choices.

Diet affects a person’s health greatly, one of the most important aspects of preventing or

controlling type 2 diabetes is to regulate what a person puts in their body. With the rise of

processed foods, many lose the great nutritional value in their foods. Nowadays, people have the

ability to drive to fast-food restaurants and order an entire meal that lacks nutrition but contains

large amounts of carbohydrates and fats. Fats, sugar, calories and carbohydrates are

macronutrients that are critical to staying healthy (Challem, 2007, p. 44). These nutrients must

be eaten in moderation and be well-balanced. Parents must make smarter choices when deciding

what foods to give to children. Dr. Meg Crook, an endocrinologist at Blue Ridge Endocrinology
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stresses the fact that “a change in diet can improve risk of diabetes dramatically” (personal

communication, 2011). When choosing a healthy diet based on protein, seafood, lean meat and

poultry, eggs, beans, soy products, and unsalted nuts are really great options. Encouraging

children to eat a variety of fresh, canned, frozen or dried fruits is better option rather than fruit

juice. Including vegetables in meal is hard, many say it may not taste pleasing or children will

not eat it, the best way is to let the child choose a vegetable of their choice, but there is a

limitation. Grains play a major role in everyday which includes making the the right choice to

pick a type of grain and choosing when to include it in a meal. The best option is to limit and to

choose whole grains, such as whole-wheat bread, wild or brown rice, quinoa, and oatmeal. The

last step to a healthy diet is to encourage children to eat and drink low-fat or fat free dairy

products such as yogurt, cheese and milk.

The effect physical activity has on blood glucose will vary depending on how long a

person is active. Physical activity can lower blood glucose up to 24 hours or more even after a

workout by making the body sensitive to insulin (Blood Glucose and Exercise, 2017). Physically

active individuals have a better health outlook than their peers. Regular and moderate physical

activity has a positive influence on health and vitality. A minimum of 20 to 30 minutes of

physical activity a day will benefit health and assist with weight loss (Blood Glucose and

Exercise, 2017). A formal workout with excessive gears is not necessary to have these benefits a

walk around a big area will suffice. Exercise can reduces people's chances of developing

illnesses such as diabetes. Aerobic exercise will help body use insulin significantly. It makes the

heart and bones strong, reduces your risk for heart disease by lowering blood glucose and blood

pressure and improving cholesterol levels, improves blood circulation, and relieves stress.
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Strength training also called resistance training makes the body sensitive to insulin and lowers

blood glucose. It helps to maintain and build strong bones and muscles, reducing risk for bone

fractures and osteoporosis.

Attending school has a great influence on children, this is why it is critical that schools

should take on responsibility to help children learn about the risk of type 2 diabetes. Most

schools only have health classes in high school, but many lack in the lower grades where they are

needed. Children need the time to examine and review the nutritional value in foods and the

benefits of physical activities. Schools can help inform the younger students about websites that

educate about the risks of diabetes. As an example, the American Diabetes Association gives

information about every type of diabetes. This website is a great example because it can also

show who can be at high risk for procuring diabetes and how close they are to getting diabetes.

Nevertheless, people do not care to go out and give information. Schools can provide education

and programs to allow support children and aid them to become healthy and responsible.

In conclusion society can help the young generation to help prevent type 2 diabetes by

giving information on healthy diet and nutrition, exercise, and prevention education taught in

schools. It is important to help the growing generation to prevent this illness because it can create

many side effects and ruin a person's health. Muslims need to encourage children that Islam does

not only teach people to become spiritual, good, and willing people but it tells people to take care

of the body and help inform people of the good things in life that will benefit humans.
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References

Al-Khayat, M. H. (2004). ​Health as a Human Right in Islam​. World Health Organization.

Athar, S. (n.d.). Health guidelines from Quran and Sunnah. Retrieved from

https://www.soundvision.com/article/health-guidelines-from-quran-and-sunnah

Blood Glucose and Exercise. (2017, September 25). Retrieved from

http://www.diabetes.org/food-and-fitness/fitness/get-started-safely/blood-glucose-control

-and-exercise.html

Challem, J. (2007). ​Stop prediabetes now.​ Hoboken, New Jersey: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Diabetes in Children | Type 1 Diabetes | Type 2 Diabetes. (2016, June 30). MedlinePlus

Retrieved from ​https://medlineplus.gov/diabetesinchildrenandteens.html

Diabetes Mellitus: An Overview. (2018, October 10). Retrieved from

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Fischl, A. H. (2018, July 06). What is Insulin? Retrieved from

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Holland, K., & Watson, K. (2018, July 13). Type 2 Diabetes in Children: Symptoms, Risk

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https://www.healthline.com/health/type-2-diabetes-children

Kasule, O. H. (2008, December 20). Physical Activity and Exercise: An Islamic Perspective.

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