You may be surprised to learn that while Asians tend to weigh less than other ethnicities, they are actually at greater risk for Type II diabetes. In fact, a recent nationwide telephone health survey found that cases of Type II diabetes were 60% more prevalent in Asian compared with African Americans or Caucasian populations.
Part of the reason appears to be genetic, part due to diet and lifestyle. Genetically, while Asians typically have a lower body weight than Caucasian, they tend to carry more visceral fat (deep abdominal fat) which is associated with diabetes as well as heart disease.
Culturally, one of the challenges Asian diabetics face is altering their diet to reduce their consumption “simple” carbohydrates which are high on the glycemic index. Unlike whole grains, refined grains such as white rice (a staple in Asian diets) lack fiber which helps stabilize blood sugar. During processing, white rice is stripped of the brown-colored rice bran, the natural fiber that slows down the breakdown of brown rice into sugar once consumed. Asian diets are also traditionally lower in protein than western diets. Similar to the effect of eating fiber, protein helps balance blood sugar levels when consumed with carbohydrates.
Asians are also less likely to exercise vigorously than diabetics of other ethnic origin. They are more apt to take a tai chi class, for example, than run on a treadmill or lift weights in the gym. Aerobic exercise and strength training can favorably alter body composition, reducing body fat and adding lean muscle tissue, further reducing risk of diabetes.
Fortunately two new studies are specifically focusing on the prevention and treatment of Type II diabetes in Asian populations. A four-year study conducted by the University of San Francisco is currently looking for Chinese diabetic adults born outside of the US. Participants in the UCSF study will attend classes to learn to manage their disease. For more information, call (415) 476-3889.
A second, 5-year cohort study spearheaded by Sutter Health and the Palo Alto Medical Foundation (PAMF) is aimed at preventing and treating diabetes in California’s 6 largest Asian ethnic groups: Asian Indians, Chinese, Filipinos, Japanese, Koreans, and Vietnamese This study will attempt to identify diabetes risk factors specific to both Asian-Americans in general and the various Asian ethnic groups in particular. For more information, contact PAMF at 650) 321-4121.
Be Well,
Carolyn
Tags: Asian diet. BMI, nutrition for diabetics, type II diabetes
