Could there be a cure for diabetes?
Diabetes is a major concern for many Americans. According to
the Center for Disease Control and Prevention,
“24 million Americans have
diabetes. Of these people living with diabetes, about 18 million have been
diagnosed, and about 6 million do not know they have it.” Diabetes alters the
way the body uses blood sugar, also known as glucose. Healthy glucose levels
are critical because it is a main energy source for the brain, muscle and
tissue cells, according to the Mayo Clinic. In type 1 diabetes, insulin-producing “islet” cells
in the pancreas are mistakenly destroyed by the immune system. “Islet” cells
are vital because they regulate blood glucose levels.
Around the world, thousands are
researching the causes, prevention, and medication of diabetes. The Diabetes
Research Institute (DRI) is currently conducting research to find a cure. In
the eyes of DRI, a cure would mean: “The ability to restore natural insulin production
and normalize blood sugar levels without imposing other risks.” According
to their website they already have a therapy that
“works.” The DRI and their collaborators have found that transplanting
insulin-producing “islet” cells from donor organs, they are able to “restore
natural insulin production in patients” of their clinical trials. These
patients have normalized blood sugar levels, are insulin free, and do not
experience hypoglycemic episodes. According to DRI, some patients in the trial
have been without insulin for more than a decade.
DRI is continuing to research a
biological cure for diabetes by creating BioHub. A Biohub is a bioengineered
organ that acts like a native pancreas. The BioHub will contain thousands of
insulin-producing cells that will be able to determine blood sugar levels to
release the correct amount of insulin need at exactly the right time. Three
major hurdles still stand in there way: getting enough insulin-producing cells
for transplant, finding an optimal place within the body to place the BioHub,
and having it be accepted by the body. The DRI is addressing “these challenges
by drawing on recent developments in bioengineering, immunology, and decades of
transplantation expertise.”
Finding a cure would be amazing for the
millions who suffer from diabetes, and their loved ones. It is arguable if
BioHub would be a true cure, but this research is leading to new discoveries
and treatments. In the meantime, diet is an essential way to ensure blood sugar
levels are regulated and healthy. Kay’s Naturals is an excellent choice,
because it does not affect blood sugar levels- even our Cinnamon Pretzels. To
see all of the healthy, protien-rich, gluten-free, low-sugar, and scrumptious
snacks we have, go to kaysnaturals.com
