Functional Medicine - Diabetes

Dr. Paul M. Bekkum, host of the Extraordinary Health podcast, discusses diabetes in detail. He explains the differences between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, pre-diabetes, and metabolic syndrome, emphasizing the importance of early intervention to prevent progression to Type 2 diabetes. Dr. Bekkum highlights the serious complications of diabetes, including cardiovascular disease, hypertension, retinopathy, kidney disease, neuropathy, and the risk of amputations due to poor circulation, particularly in extremities. He also notes the potential for periodontal disease, pain, and depression as complications. Dr. Bekkum advises proactive health management, including regular physicals and lab work to detect early signs of diabetes. He recommends dietary changes, such as reducing simple sugars and eating a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables (with a preference for vegetables due to their lower sugar content). He also suggests the use of continuous blood glucose monitors to track blood sugar responses to different foods. For managing diabetes, Dr. Bekkum recommends a comprehensive approach including exercise, diet, and lifestyle changes. He emphasizes the importance of good quality fats, adequate protein intake, and avoiding processed meats and excessive alcohol. He also suggests supplements like alpha lipoic acid, high-potency multivitamins, methylated B complex, essential fatty acids, and antioxidants. Regular exercise, stress management, and maintaining healthy relationships are also crucial. Dr. Bekkum encourages listeners to be vigilant about their health and offers a complimentary consultation at his clinic. He concludes by inviting listeners to contact his office for further assistance and to keep following the podcast for more health-related information.