12 December 2024

Diabetes

Prevention, Treatment and Holistic Approaches

Diabetes is one of the fastest-growing global chronic diseases, posing significant challenges to healthcare systems. The numbers are alarming: according to estimates by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), approximately 537 million adults worldwide were affected by diabetes in 2021—nearly double the figure from the year 2000. By 2045, this number could rise to as many as 783 million, an increase of over 50% in just 25 years. In Germany alone, the current prevalence is 11–12%, translating to over 9 million people with diabetes, and this number continues to grow.

Types of Diabetes:

An Overview

Diabetes is classified into three main types: Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 diabetes, and Type 3 diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes is either immunological or idiopathic (of unknown cause). It results in the destruction of beta cells, leading to an absolute lack of insulin, meaning that the immune system attacks the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas.

Type 2 diabetes is caused by four factors, which vary in degree:

Insulin resistance
A secretory defect in both beta and alpha cells
Progressive apoptosis (programmed cell death) of beta cells
Reduced incretin secretion and function

Type 2 diabetes develops gradually and is often the result of genetic predisposition combined with lifestyle factors such as poor diet and lack of exercise. It accounts for about 90% of diabetes cases worldwide. The so-called gestational diabetes occurs only during pregnancy and often disappears after giving birth. However, it increases the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.

Type 3 diabetes is typically associated with a genetic defect in beta cell function, known as MODY (Maturity-Onset Diabetes of the Young).

Also noteworthy is prediabetes, a precursor to diabetes where blood sugar levels are elevated but not yet in the diabetic range. Prediabetes is a serious warning sign, as up to 70% of those affected may develop Type 2 diabetes over time. Early intervention through lifestyle adjustments can prevent the transition to diabetes and sustainably stabilize blood sugar levels.

Health Risks and Complications:

Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to severe health complications. Prolonged high blood sugar levels damage blood vessels and nerves, potentially resulting in cardiovascular diseases, kidney damage, vision problems, and, in severe cases, amputations. Managing and preventing such complications is crucial for both patients and healthcare systems. In 2019, diabetes was the direct cause of 1.5 million deaths worldwide, with an even higher number of indirect deaths from diabetes-related complications. This growing burden has turned diabetes into a global epidemic. Contributing factors include the adoption of a Western lifestyle and unhealthy dietary habits.

Regional Trends

In the USA, over 10% of the population is affected, with numbers steadily rising.
In Europe, cases are also increasing, particularly in Western countries like Germany and the UK, where unhealthy lifestyles are prevalent. By 2045, European diabetes cases are expected to rise by 13%.
In Asia, China leads with over 140 million cases, while India is projected to experience a 68% increase by 2045, potentially triggering a major health crisis.
The Middle East faces alarming growth rates, with a 96% increase anticipated by 2045. Countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE are grappling with some of the highest prevalence rates globally, driven by poor diet and sedentary lifestyles.

A Holistic Approach to Diabetes Management

Given the alarming rise in diabetes, comprehensive prevention and treatment strategies are essential. The MAYRLIFE Health Concept offers a holistic approach designed to prevent and manage diabetes. Through a combination of nutrition, exercise, detoxification, and targeted therapeutic support, individuals with diabetes are guided toward regulating their blood sugar levels and improving their quality of life. Particularly promising results have been seen in the treatment of Type 1 diabetes and prediabetes. Alongside improving overall health, stress management programs and relaxation techniques help individuals cope with diabetes or prevent its onset.

The modern F.X. Mayr Medicine plays a central role, focusing on gut health and overall metabolism while combating inflammation—a critical factor for diabetics. The gut is a key metabolic organ involved in blood sugar regulation, and its microbiome influences insulin sensitivity. An F.X. Mayr cure can often serve as the starting point for a healthier lifestyle. By integrating learned tools into daily .

Gut Rehabilitation and Metabolic Optimization in F.X. Mayr Medicine

Research highlights the significant role of the gut and its microbiome in the development and progression of diabetes. Many people with Type 2 diabetes exhibit an imbalance in their gut flora (dysbiosis), which promotes inflammation and worsens insulin resistance1. The MAYRLIFE approach addresses this by promoting gentle gut rehabilitation and rebuilding a healthy gut microbiome to relieve and optimize metabolism. Restoring healthy digestive function increases insulin sensitivity and improves glucose uptake. Studies also show that targeted support of the digestive system in overweight individuals significantly reduces insulin resistance and inflammatory markers (2).

Nutrition and Fasting as Therapy

Another cornerstone of the MAYRLIFE concept is nutritional therapy, based on personalized diets and fasting periods. Research into the role of intermittent fasting in diabetes treatment shows promising results. Intermittent fasting can stabilize blood sugar levels, lower insulin levels, and reduce fat stores, thereby enhancing insulin sensitivity (3). The “chewing, sparing, and alkaline diet” inspired by F.X. Mayr Medicine helps stabilize blood sugar levels and alleviate stress on the body. By reducing carbohydrates, emphasizing protein-rich foods, and avoiding sugar and processed foods, the insulin demand is lowered. This dietary approach reduces the risk of complications and improves long-term markers such as HbA1c (4).

Exercise and Relaxation in the Holistic Approach

Physical activity is a critical element of the MAYRLIFE concept. Regular exercise has proven benefits for blood sugar regulation and insulin sensitivity. Studies show that daily activity, whether moderate walking or more intense workouts, stabilizes blood sugar levels and significantly lowers the risk of cardiovascular complications in diabetics (5).

Relaxation and stress management are equally important, as chronic stress negatively impacts blood sugar levels and promotes inflammation. The holistic MAYRLIFE approach offers a range of psychological interventions, such as hypnosis, WATSU (water shiatsu), and coaching, to support healthy behavioral changes.

Conclusion

The MAYRLIFE health concept provides a scientifically grounded, holistic approach to addressing diabetes not just symptomatically but at its root. From gut health to dietary interventions and stress management, it empowers individuals to take charge of their health and achieve sustainable improvements in their condition.

Footnotes

Kovatcheva-Datchary, P., et al. (2015). Gut microbiota modulates insulin secretion and function in humans.Cell, 163(1), 84-95.
Pedersen, H. K., et al. (2017). Human gut microbes impact host serum metabolome and insulin sensitivity. Nature, 535(7612), 376-381.
Sutton, E. F., et al. (2018). Early Time-Restricted Feeding Improves Insulin Sensitivity, Blood Pressure, and Oxidative Stress Even without Weight Loss in Men with Prediabetes. Cell Metabolism, 27(6), 1212-1221.
Hu, F. B., et al. (2015). Dietary carbohydrate quantity and quality in relation to risk of type 2 diabetes in women. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 111(2), 487-496.
Colberg, S. R., et al. (2016). Physical Activity/Exercise and Diabetes: A Position Statement of the American Diabetes Association. Diabetes Care, 39(11), 2065-2079.