In an this fascinating discussion with Dr. Maria, we delve into the intricacies of diabetes, exploring different types, their unique challenges, and the roles that dietary choices and lifestyle changes play in managing this chronic condition. As we navigate through this conversation, we also emphasize the importance of mindset and community in fostering health and resilience.

Introducing Dr. Maria

Dr. Maria is renowned for her holistic approach to health, integrating culinary nutrition, integrative medicine, and trauma-informed care. Her work revolves not only around treating diabetes but ensuring that individuals understand their health from a comprehensive standpoint. During our talk, Dr. Maria shares invaluable insights into how we can approach diabetes with more understanding and clarity.

Types of Diabetes Explained

Dr. Maria begins by distinguishing between the different types of diabetes:

• Type 1 Diabetes: This autoimmune condition requires lifelong insulin management as the body produces antibodies that attack the pancreas.
• Type 1.5 Diabetes: A condition where patients have antibodies indicating a risk for full insulin dependency but are not yet there, necessitating careful monitoring.
• Type 2 Diabetes: Characterized by insulin resistance, this type can be managed and often reversed through lifestyle changes.
• Type 3 Diabetes: Known as insulin resistance affecting the brain, which poses a risk for dementia and cognitive decline.

The conversation underscores the complexity of insulin resistance and how it impacts various forms of diabetes, highlighting how crucial it is to understand the specific needs and challenges each type presents.

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Managing Diabetes with Diet and Lifestyle

As Dr. Maria shares, managing diabetes involves much more than monitoring blood sugar levels. It encompasses understanding the roles of various macronutrients, paying close attention to the types of fats consumed, and managing the interplay between diet and hormonal changes, particularly in women over 40.

• Fats and Insulin Resistance: While carbs are a known factor in diabetes management, saturated fats can significantly influence insulin resistance by blocking the body’s ability to use insulin effectively.
• Importance of Fiber: Increasing fiber intake from around 10 to 15 grams a day to 30 to 40 grams has shown potential in lowering A1C levels, the marker often used to measure diabetes management.

The Mindset Shift

Dr. Maria emphasizes the role of mindset in managing diabetes effectively. Adopting a mindset that avoids feelings of restriction or guilt allows individuals to enjoy their meals healthily and without obsession. This balanced approach ensures dietary freedom while maintaining control over one’s health.

The Power of Community and Support

One unique aspect of Dr. Maria’s approach is her focus on community. Her 12-week program for women in Texas combines personalized medical guidance with group medical appointments, fostering a supportive environment where patients not only learn but share experiences and challenges. This community-driven model reduces the feeling of isolation that can accompany a diabetes diagnosis.

Conclusion: Transforming Lives Through Knowledge and Support

The conversation with Dr. Maria sheds light on the holistic approach to diabetes, focusing on knowledge, empowerment, dietary freedom, and the invaluable support of a community. Her insights remind us that understanding our bodies and maintaining a positive mindset are crucial steps toward living vibrantly with diabetes.

As Dr. Maria advocates, “Vegetables are not the bad carbs. Eat your vegetables. And most of all, remember that restriction will never lead you to freedom.”

Whether you’re beginning your journey or looking to refine your approach to managing diabetes, the insights gleaned from this conversation can guide you toward informed and empowered health decisions.

About Dr. Maria:

Dr. Maria is a holistic Integrative and Lifestyle Medicine provider who practices online  in Texas. While in residency, Dr. Maria realized the many missing links in the care she provided to her patients. She noticed patients would visit the office for medication refills but not necessarily live healthier. After four years in practice, she completed her training in Lifestyle Medicine; then she retrained as a yoga instructor. She is also trained in culinary medicine and plant-based nutrition.

In 2021, she started her Integrative Medicine fellowship since she believes patients deserve holistic care. She is a trauma-informed physician, recognizing that the events of harm to one’s life have affected the body, mind, and spirit. Her approach to care is “your body tells a story, and you can rewrite the narrative.” She is the author of Healing the Wounds of Medicine: Stories and Journaling for Physicians. 

Dr. Maria is also the host of the brand new podcast called Beyond Medicine: Humanized Care for Women of Influence.

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