Diabetes, Part 2 -- blood flow (continued)

Previously, we noted that red blood cells lose their proper shape and flexibility in diabetes, and this contributes to a reduced ability to pass through our tiniest blood vessels, the capillaries. The result of this is a loss of circulation at the cell level. This phenomenon is not unique to diabetes. It also occurs in Myalgic Encephalomyalitis (ME), also known as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (or CFIDS), Lupus, multiple sclerosis, Huntington's Disease, and malaria.

Dr. L.O. Simpson documented these red cell defects. The Townsend Letter for Doctors reports: "When people become ill or physically stressed, a higher percentage of discocytes transform into the less flexible nondiscocytes. Simpson says that the blood samples of marathon runners show a higher percentage of cup-shaped nondiscocytes (somatocytes) after a race. This higher percentage soon reverts to pre-race, normally-low levels 'of abnormally-shaped cells. Similarly, researchers found that the percentage of nondiscocytes in people with a viral head cold' peaked on the fifth day and declined by the tenth day. "

What is the answer? Simpson suggests three things to try, which have reduced the cell defects in his experience. "Simpson found that vitamin B12 injections reduced nondiscocyte levels in some ME [Myaltic Encephalomyelitis] patients. These patients also experienced symptomatic improvement. Patients whose nondiscocyte levels remain unaffected by the B12 injections noticed no improvement. Research with diabetic patients found that omega-3 fatty acids can also reduce nondiscocyte levels and improve capillary flow; and omega-6, in the form of evening primrose oil, has improved blood filterability in cigarette smokers." (source)

Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are known as Essential Fatty Acids. It is known that many Americans are deficient in these essential nutrients, and those who are ill may have increased need for them. Vitamin B12 is also a possibility for reducing red cell malformations. One of the best ways to take B12 is in sublingual tablets. One of the best forms of B12 to take is methylcobalamin.

Combatting, or better yet preventing, the long term consequences of diabetes is a complicated process. There is no simple road map. However, these substances -- essential fatty acids and Vitamin B12 -- are part of the answer.

Next in the series you will have an opportunity to hear from a doctor on the front lines -- he treated those with diabetes using natural non-toxic non-drug methods, and lectured on the subject. This doctor himself suffered from a sudden-onset case of diabetes after an infection. More to come...

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