Type 2 diabetes was used to be called non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) or adult-onset diabetes. This form of diabetes develops slowly and symptoms are usually less severe than people with type 1 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes begins as insulin resistance. Insulin resistance is a disorder in which cells do not use insulin properly. As need for insulin rises, pancreas loses its ability to produce insulin.

Recent studies have shown that genetics, fetal history, obesity, lack of physical activity, diet high in fat, and stress may influence in development of this form of diabetes. Also, genetic studies have shown that association of some genes is in fact cause of Type 2 diabetes.

Now on to most important question – is it treatable?

There is still no cure for diabetes but it can be managed. Some of ways to manage diabetes is through injection of insulin in body, careful meal planning, blood glucose monitoring, and exercise.

There are some recent medical breakthroughs that may help in curing of diabetes. One is transplantation of beta cells (the insulin producing cells) which has been successful although with some side effects. Another treatment is pancreas transplantation. This is not recommended treatment for diabetes unless there is a need for a kidney transplant as well. Another approach is genetic manipulation although this is still under study. In this particular treatment, insulin genes are inserted to cells that are not producing insulin to make them produce insulin.

Water is a simple substance consisting of one part oxygen and two parts hydrogen. It has no calories, it’s low in sodium, and contains no caffeine. Water has no fat and no cholesterol.

Every cell, tissue, and organ of body needs water to function. The body needs water more than it needs any other nutrient. Water is main constituent of every bodily fluid--blood, saliva, urine, amniotic fluid (the liquid in a fetal sac), perspiration, synovial fluid, sputum, and tears. Water moistens eyes and tissues lining nose and mouth.

You ask how much water is required by human body? The American Dietetic Association recommends 8-12 cups of water daily. The National Kidney Foundation says, "You should drink at least 12 to 16 cups (3 to 4 quarts or liters) of fluid throughout day. Most of this should be water."

I can't stress to you enough importance of water for a healthy diet/lifestyle. It’s one of my incredible secrets that's really no secret at all.

Writing health and weight loss articles for over twenty years, Bette has become an author in demand.