Hypertension and diabetes

[talkhealth]

What would you say to people who are worried about being overweight with a family history of hypertension and diabetes. Is there a high risk of them developing these problems too?

[Julie Thompson]

Hi

There are two type of diabetes - type 1 and type 2 - type 2 diabetes is as a result of insulin resistance and usually occurs when someone is overweight or obese - you can check out your risk of diabetes here http://riskscore.diabetes.org.uk/2013 . Having a high body weight can also increase your risk of high blood pressure - more information is available here http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/blood-pres ... ction.aspx . Family history can also increase the risks of these conditions. If you have concerns you can discuss your concerns with your GP who can test for both these conditions if required.

[Adam Eason]

Within my own field, we have an impressive body of evidence to suggest hypnosis, self-hypnosis and related relaxation skills can assist (as an adjunct to conventional medical advice and treatment) with the hypertension mentioned here.

I wrote an article on the TalkHealth blog here a few months ago that offers a simplistic technique for helping lower blood pressure, for example:

http://www.talkhealthpartnership.com/bl ... -hypnosis/

Best wishes, Adam.

[Gary Turner]

Hi! Just a quick reply, and unfortunately I can't lay my hands on the direct studies here to reference!

Genetics do play a role in both hypertension and diabetes. There are genetic predispositions - but please remember genes switch on and off depending on environmental cues. So please don't think that just if your parents have one or other you will!

There is growing evidence that going low carbohydrate in your diet (whilst still ensuring that your nutritional requirements are met!) can help stop the genes for becoming carbohydrate (and insulin) resistant from being switched on.

(Please note that I am not a low carb fan - I am a 'right' carb fan - everyone is an individual!)

[Dr Masud Haq]

Hi

Yes, people who are overweight are at increased risk of developing both diabetes and hypertension. This risk is greatest with increasing levels of obesity. Apart from these problems there's also an association with raised blood fats, and low testosterone levels in men. There's also an increased risk of certain cancers, ischaemic heart disease and strokes.

Masud