Diabetes is a condition in which the body is unable to control blood sugar levels. When we eat, the body breaks down carbohydrates into glucose (a form of sugar used for energy). Normally, the pancreas produces insulin, a hormone, which enables the body to use or store glucose. People with diabetes either don't make enough insulin or are unable to effectively use insulin. Despite eating enough food, the body is unable get enough fuel and the cells are starved for energy.

According to the American Diabetes Association, about 14.6 million Americans have been diagnosed with diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas are destroyed, preventing the body from making insulin. Patients need regular injections of insulin to stay alive. About 5 to 10 percent of diabetics have this form. It's most commonly diagnosed in children and young adults.

Type 2 diabetes is caused when the body doesn't produce enough insulin and/or is unable to effectively use insulin. The condition can often be controlled with diet and exercise. Some patients also require medication. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of the disease, accounting for 90 to 95 percent of all cases. Risk factors include older age, family history, obesity and lack of physical activity.

Some Americans have blood glucose levels that are elevated, but not high enough to be considered for a diagnosis of diabetes. This condition is called pre-diabetes, or insulin-resistance. About 41 million Americans have pre-diabetes and are at higher risk of developing diabetes.

Complications of Diabetes Over time, elevated levels of glucose injure the blood vessels and can cause organ damage. People with diabetes are at risk for developing heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, blindness (diabetic retinopathy), nerve damage (neuropathy), gum disease, and sexual dysfunction. Diabetics also have impaired wound healing capacity and are at risk for development of serious infections that can lead to amputation.

Diabetes is the fifth most common cause of death by disease in America. The American Diabetes Association says in 2002, diabetes contributed to 224,092 deaths in the U.S.

Vinegar Studies for Type 2 Diabetes Folklore suggests vinegar has many uses for maintaining health. Recently, researchers at Arizona State University, East Campus, tested the effects of vinegar on blood sugar levels. Three study groups were used. One group of participants was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. The second group included those diagnosed with pre-diabetes. The third group had people with normal blood sugar levels. Each participant was given either a vinegar-based drink or a placebo followed by a high carbohydrate meal of a bagel and orange juice. The vinegar drink contained two tablespoons of vinegar containing 5 percent acetic acid.

Several hours after the meal, blood sugar levels were measured. The researchers found pre-diabetics who had the vinegar drink experienced a more gradual rise in glucose levels. Those with diabetes experienced similar results, but to a lesser extent. Investigators aren't certain how vinegar influences blood sugar levels, but the common food ingredient appears to mimic the effects of two commonly used medications for diabetes - metformin and acrabose.

Researcher, Carol Johnston, Ph.D., says vinegar is attractive as a treatment because it is readily available and cheap. However, many people have a hard time getting past the smell and the taste. People who don't want to drink vinegar directly can have a salad before meals with a vinaigrette dressing. Eventually, scientists would like to develop a vinegar pill to make the condiment more palatable.

In another study, researchers wanted to look at the effects of vinegar on cholesterol. After four weeks, investigators found the vinegar had no measurable effects on blood cholesterol levels. However, subjects who drank a vinegar drink lost weight. The investigators are now trying to replicate those findings.

If you have insulin resistance or diabetes, consult with your healthcare provider or nutritionist before taking regular doses of vinegar. For general information on diabetes: American Diabetes Association, http://www.diabetes.org National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, http://diabetes.niddk.nih.gov