Tag: type 2 diabetes

rows of soft drinks
A Closer Look at Liquid Sugar and Diabetes 
Posted on by Leslie Branon

Recent research has shed new light on the risks associated with sugary beverages. A study from Brigham Young University (BYU) has revealed that consuming sugar in liquid form—such as in sodas, sweetened teas, and fruit juices—may increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes more significantly than consuming sugar in solid foods.

What Is Liquid Sugar?

Liquid sugar refers to added sugars found in beverages, including sodas, sweetened teas, energy drinks, and fruit juices. Unlike sugars found in whole fruits, which are accompanied by fiber and nutrients, liquid sugars are absorbed quickly into the bloodstream. This rapid absorption can lead to spikes in blood sugar and insulin levels, placing added stress on the body over time.

Understanding Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes occurs when your body doesn’t respond normally to insulin. Over time, insulin resistance causes your body to require even more insulin, resulting in high blood sugar and increasing the risk of complications such as heart disease, kidney damage, and nerve problems. Factors contributing to type 2 diabetes include genetics, lifestyle choices, and dietary habits.

The Link Between Liquid Sugar and Health Risks

The BYU study found that each 12-ounce serving of sugar-sweetened beverages consumed daily was associated with a 25% increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. This heightened risk is thought to be due to the rapid absorption of liquid sugars, which can lead to increased fat storage, insulin resistance, and inflammation.

Excessive consumption of sugary drinks has also been linked to heart disease. High sugar intake can lead to obesity, high blood pressure, and elevated triglyceride levels—all risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

Reducing the intake of sugary beverages is a proactive step toward better health. Consider the following tips:

  • Choose Water or Unsweetened Beverages: Opt for water, herbal teas, or beverages without added sugars.
  • Read Labels Carefully: Be aware of hidden sugars in drinks labeled as “natural” or “healthy.”
  • Gradual Reduction: If you’re accustomed to sugary drinks, try gradually reducing your intake to allow your taste buds to adjust.

Reduce Your Type 2 Diabetes Risk

Additional steps you can take to protect your health and prevent type 2 diabetes include:

  • Maintain a Healthy Weight: Even modest weight loss can improve insulin sensitivity.
  • Stay Active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week, such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling.
  • Choose Whole Foods: Emphasize vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
  • Limit Processed Foods: Reduce consumption of refined carbohydrates and foods high in added sugars.
  • Monitor Blood Sugar: Regular screenings can help detect early changes and allow for timely lifestyle adjustments.
  • Prioritize Sleep: Poor sleep can affect metabolism and insulin resistance. Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep per night.

Partnering with Experts for Better Health

At Texas Diabetes & Endocrinology, our team of specialists is dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain a healthy weight, a crucial factor in preventing type 2 diabetes and its complications. Through our comprehensive weight management program, we offer personalized guidance to help you achieve your health goals. Our approach includes nutrition education, customized exercise plans, and, when appropriate, a discussion of FDA-approved medications. We focus on supporting you in making sustainable lifestyle changes that lead to improved health and well-being.

Consult with an Endocrinologist in Austin, TX

If you’d like to schedule an appointment with one of our endocrinologists at Texas Diabetes & Endocrinology and discover how our diabetes services and other endocrinology therapies can help you lead a full and active life, please contact us at (512) 458-8400 or request an appointment online.  

What is Metabolic Syndrome?
Posted on by Leslie Branon


Type 2 diabetes and heart disease can stem from and are associated with a set of common factors, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, elevated blood sugar levels, obesity, and physical inactivity. 

When these conditions occur together it is defined as metabolic syndrome. 

Currently up to one-third of all adults in the United States have metabolic syndrome. 

At Texas Diabetes & Endocrinology (TD&E), our team of board-certified endocrinologists and diabetes specialists offer a variety of options to help prevent heart disease and manage weight loss in order to avoid developing metabolic syndrome and other serious conditions. 

What causes metabolic syndrome? 

One of the main contributors in developing metabolic syndrome is being overweight or obese. You are at a significantly higher risk for metabolic syndrome if your body is ‘apple-shaped,’ which refers to carrying extra weight around the abdomen. 

Other common risk factors for metabolic syndrome may include:

  • Advanced age
  • Ethnicity, with Hispanics reported to be at the highest risk 
  • A diagnosis of pre-diabetes, gestational diabetes, or a family history of diabetes
  • High blood pressure or cholesterol
  • Insulin resistance, where the body has a hard time processing sugars

What are some symptoms of metabolic syndrome? 

There are no common symptoms that point towards metabolic syndrome, that is why it is important to get evaluated with your primary care doctor every 1 to 3 years, depending on your age and risk factors. 

How can you prevent developing metabolic syndrome? 

Many of the factors associated with metabolic syndrome can be improved if not fully reversed with dedicated lifestyle changes. Some healthy habits that our endocrinology experts recommend for preventing metabolic syndrome and the risk for diabetes and heart disease are:

  • Eating a well-balanced diet full of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins
  • Monitoring how much salt and sugar are in your diet
  • Aiming for at least 30 minutes of physical activity, at least five days a week
  • Losing weight as directed by your physician
  • Stopping smoking and drinking alcohol in moderation

At TD&E, we offer cardiovascular risk assessment including Advanced Lipid Testing and supportive weight loss counseling and management. 

Contact Us to Help Manage your Diabetes, Osteoporosis and Thyroid Conditions 

If you’d like to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists at Texas Diabetes & Endocrinology and discover how our diabetes services  and other endocrinology therapies can help you lead a full and active life, please contact us at (512) 458-8400 or request an appointment online.  

Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram and check back with us each month as we provide you helpful wellness and health information.

Diabetes and Heart Disease  
Posted on by Leslie Branon

Approximately every 33 seconds someone in the United States dies from some form of heart disease, and those who have diabetes are twice as likely to develop heart disease than others. 

Heart disease, or cardiovascular disease, encompasses the many conditions that could damage your heart, the aorta, or its vast network of surrounding blood vessels, veins and arteries. Heart disease typically prevents blood from flowing effectively in and out of the heart.  

If left untreated, it can lead to a stroke or heart attack.

What is the connection between diabetes and heart disease? 

High glucose levels and high blood pressure, both associated with diabetes, can lead to damaged blood vessels over time and cause wear and tear on the heart muscle.  People with diabetes also tend to have high cholesterol levels which lead to plaque buildup in the arteries (atherosclerosis) which restricts blood flow. 

Since February is American Heart Month, our team of board-certified endocrinologists aims to ensure that all of our patients are aware of the potential risk for heart disease, while becoming educated on how to prevent it.

What are symptoms of heart disease?

Some common symptoms to watch out for that may be signs of heart disease include: 

  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest pain, also known as angina, or chest tightness or pressure
  • A slowed heartbeat
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness 
  • Chronic pain or numbness in your arms
  • Pain in the neck, jaw, throat, or upper back

How is heart disease diagnosed?

If you notice any of these symptoms, and you have diabetes or other risk factors for heart disease (such as a family history), it is important to get examined right away.

Diagnostic tests that your doctor may use to determine if you are suffering from heart disease are:

  • An electrocardiogram (EKG)
  • Stress test
  • Cardiac CT scan or MRI

At TD&E, we offer heart disease prevention services and diagnostics such as Advanced Lipid Panel Testing and Coronary Artery Calcium Tests. 

We will always work in close conjunction with your cardiologist to create the best treatment plan for both your heart health and diabetes. 

Contact Us to Help Manage your Diabetes, Osteoporosis and Thyroid Conditions 

If you’d like to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists at Texas Diabetes & Endocrinology and discover how our diabetes services  and other endocrinology therapies can help you lead a full and active life, please contact us at (512) 458-8400 or request an appointment online.  

Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram and check back with us each month as we provide you helpful wellness and health information.

How to Ease Holiday Travel with Diabetes 
Posted on by Leslie Branon

The holiday season is here, and with it comes the excitement of decorating, gift-giving, family, friends, food and possibly travel. While all of these things are what make the holidays the most special time of the year, they can also cause stress for some – especially those living with diabetes.

Holiday food indulgences and travel can be challenging with diabetes if you are not prepared, but they can absolutely be enjoyed if you take the time to plan ahead.

How can I travel during the holidays and still manage my diabetes effectively? 

Here are five tips for holiday travel from our team of board-certified endocrinologists at Texas Diabetes & Endocrinology: 

  • Check in with your physicians and endocrinologist and make sure that all your prescriptions are filled before you leave town.
  • Take care when packing your medications and bring extra supplies to have with you in case of a travel delay or an emergency (insulin, test strips, syringes, batteries for glucose monitors, etc.). If traveling by airplane, stash your medications in a carry-on bag so that they are easily accessible and not stuck in checked luggage if it’s lost.
  • Pack healthy snacks for your journey so that you do not have to rely on airport or rest  stop food that is typically full of added sweeteners, carbs, fats and sodium. Safe options that will help keep blood sugars low include hard-boiled eggs, sliced veggies or fruit, nuts, portable salads with grilled meats, or sandwiches on whole-wheat/low-carb bread or tortillas.
  • Once you have reached your destination, adjust the timing of your medications or injections to fit the new time zone you’ve arrived in, if applicable.  Set alarms for yourself on phones, smartwatches or Ipads so that you do not miss your scheduled dosages while enjoying your holiday activities. 
  • Test often to avoid any serious blood sugar highs or lows. Take into consideration your surroundings also and know that higher altitudes and cooler or warmer temperatures could have an effect on your readings.

Finally, remember to enjoy your trip and special time with family and friends! 

For information on how to safely navigate airport security with diabetes medications and medical supplies, visit the TSA/ U.S. Transportation Security Administration. 

Try new and festive foods in moderation and practice healthy portion control to avoid overindulging and unexpected spikes. More on smart eating tips for the holidays from TD&E can be found here.

Contact Us to Help Manage your Diabetes, Osteoporosis and Thyroid Conditions 

If you’d like to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists at Texas Diabetes & Endocrinology and discover how our diabetes services  and other endocrinology therapies can help you lead a full and active life, please contact us at (512) 458-8400 or request an appointment online.  

Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram and check back with us each month as we provide you helpful wellness and health information.

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