Diabetes Doctors in Chicago
Prevent, alleviate, or heal disease—naturally.
Meet our practitioners who specialize in natural Diabetes treatment
Recommended health tests for Diabetes
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
How it works
Consult with our health coaches who will learn about your symptoms, habits, and goals.
Take personalized home health tests to discover potential root causes of any symptoms or conditions you may have.
Review your results in just days with our functional medicine doctors, nurses, and dietitians who will help you achieve optimal health.
Learn about Diabetes
Diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by high levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood. It occurs when the pancreas is no longer able to produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar. There are primarily two types of diabetes: type 1, where the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells, and type 2, which is more common and occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn't produce enough. Managing diabetes involves monitoring blood sugar levels, adopting a healthy lifestyle, and using medication or insulin therapy as prescribed.
Causes
The exact cause of type 1 diabetes is unknown, but it's believed to be an autoimmune response where the body attacks its own insulin-producing cells. Genetics and environmental factors may play a role. Type 2 diabetes is largely caused by lifestyle factors and genetics. Being overweight, physically inactive, and having a family history of diabetes increases the risk. Insulin resistance, where cells in the muscles, liver, and fat do not use insulin well, is a precursor to type 2 diabetes. Other risk factors include high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol levels, and a history of gestational diabetes.
Signs and symptoms
The symptoms of diabetes include frequent urination, excessive thirst, hunger, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow healing of wounds. Individuals may also experience unexplained weight loss (more common in type 1 diabetes). In type 2 diabetes, symptoms often develop gradually and can be so mild that they go unnoticed for a long time. High blood glucose levels can cause symptoms like yeast infections and darkening of the skin in certain areas of the body, known as acanthosis nigricans. It's important to recognize these symptoms early as untreated diabetes can lead to more severe health complications.
Diagnosing Diabetes
Diagnosing diabetes involves a series of blood tests. The most common are the fasting plasma glucose test, which measures blood sugar levels after an overnight fast, and the a1c test, which provides an average blood sugar level over the past two to three months. An oral glucose tolerance test, where blood sugar levels are tested before and after consuming a sweet drink, is also used especially for gestational diabetes. For a diagnosis of diabetes, these tests should be repeated on a different day to confirm the results. Early detection through screening is crucial for managing and treating diabetes effectively.
Prevention and natural treatment
Preventing type 2 diabetes involves adopting a healthier lifestyle, including regular physical activity, a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding tobacco use. Diabetes management requires keeping blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible to avoid complications. Treatment for diabetes typically involves lifestyle adjustments, monitoring blood sugar levels, and may also include medication or insulin therapy. Education on managing diabetes is crucial; this may include nutritional advice, exercise, and understanding how to monitor blood sugar levels. In some cases, bariatric surgery may be recommended for people with obesity and type 2 diabetes. Ongoing medical care and regular check-ups are essential to manage the condition effectively.
Browse popular locations
Atlanta, GA- Chicago, IL
- Los Angeles, CA
- Miami, FL
- Austin, TX
- Dallas, TX
- New York, NY
- Seattle, WA
- Charlotte, NC
- Las Vegas, NV
- Houston, TX
- Philadelphia, PA
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