Sac Revision – Chapter 5 Nhpas

SAC REVISION – CHAPTER 5 NHPAS

DIABETES
→ A chronic condition in which the sufferer is unable to utilise blood glucose correctly.
→ When glucose is not being taken into the cells, the blood glucose levels are high and the cells cannot function normally. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas to enable the uptake of glucose from the blood into the cells. In diabetes, this process is interrupted.
→ There are many possible long term effects of diabetes:
        → poor circulation and cardiovascular disease
        → blindness
        → kidney disease
→ There are three types of diabetes: type 1, type 2 and gestational diabetes. Type 1 diabetes CANNOT be prevented however type 2 diabetes CAN

→ Type 1: characterised by the pancreas not secreting enough insulin to allow glucose from the blood into the cells.
        → Usually occurs in children and youth
        → the cause is unknown, however there is a strong genetic link and exposure to certain viruses
        → as little to no insulin is produced, it must be administered by the individual themselves via an insulin pump (small computerised device that provides insulin through a tube inserted under the skin)
        → individuals with type 1 diabetes must monitor their blood glucose levels to ensure they remain within the desired range
        → if blood glucose levels get too high or too low, side effects such as tiredness, confusion and headaches can occur

→ Type 2: caused by the pancreas not producing enough insulin or the body not being able to use the insulin effectively.
        → Usually occurs in older, often overweight people
        → being overweight is the greatest risk factor
        → there is no cure, however it can be managed by altering diet, physical activity levels and weight management
        → associated with other conditions i.e. obesity, cardiovascular disease, hypertension and high cholesterol

SODIUM
→ mineral which plays a role in the regulation of fluids in the body, including water and blood
→ fluid is drawn to sodium so the amount of sodium in the blood influences the amount of fluid that stays in the cells
→ sodium regulates the balance between fluid inside the cells and the fluid outside the cells
→ high levels of sodium in the body can draw excess fluid out of the cells – risk nutrient because this increases blood volume and contributes to hypertension
→ other effects linked to excessive sodium intake include: heart failure, stroke and heart attack and osteoporosis
→ related to cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis

PROTEIN
→macronutrient
→ function is to promote the growth, maintenance and repair of body cells
→ secondary function: protein is used as a fuel for energy production
→ risk nutrient
→ sources of protein: eggs, beef, chicken, legumes, whole grain cereal
→ protein deficiency may contribute to increased bone density and an increased risk of osteoporosis
→ excess protein may be converted to glucose and then stored as fat
→ excess protein can contribute to obesity and conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus (specifically type 2) and colorectal cancer

DEMENTIA
→ Not a specific disease but rather a term used to describe over 100 conditions that are characterised by progressive and irreversible loss of brain function
→ brain function deteriorates – affects language, behaviour, memory, speech, attention and personality
→Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, dementia with Lewy bodi

OBESITY HEALTH PROMOTION PROGRAM
→ The LiveLighter campaign – encourages people to adopt healthier food intake and physical activity behaviours. Implemented by the Heart Foundation and Cancer Council
→ by reducing obesity levels, the program aims to reduce the impact of related conditions i.e. cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and some cancers
→ uses methods such as advertising campaigns and web-based resources

CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE
→ risk nutrients:
        → saturated and trans fats: contains LDL
        → carbohydrates, protein and fats: contributes energy to the diet which can lead to weight gain, obesity and associated conditions such as cardiovascular disease
        → sodium: can increase blood volume and contribute to hypertension which increases the risk of heart attack and stroke
→ protective nutrients
        → fibre: reduces blood cholesterol levels which reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease. Increases feelings of fullness which reduces overeating and obesity and the risk of cardiovascular disease
        → monounsaturated fats: Reduces LDL which reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease
        → polyunsaturated fats: omega 3 prevents blood clots which reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke
        → water: reduces the risk of obesity and associated conditions such as cardiovascular disease
→ why is it necessary to have a promotion program? Because it has been a leading cause of mortality, morbidity and burden of disease for many years