Hi Zach's Granny,
I have to say one thing and this isn't an arguement or anything....but why don't you believe any disease is genetic? There are a lot of type2s who are young and have looked after themselves. I do agree that there are a lot of environmental factors (such as the additives put into our everyday food and drinks etc) but surely you must accept that there's a genetic disposition and that environmental factors just help to tip the scales?
There is an illness called sickle cell anemia (not sure whether I spelt that right) but basically it occurs when two parents have slightly 'mis-shaped' blood cells which are there as a kind of evolutionary way of tackling malaria. Basically, the child's blood cells are seriously 'mis-shaped' or sickle-shaped and so it causes serious illness. Now, wouldn't you say this is genetic? Why can't it therefore be right that at least t2 is partly genetic?
I hope you don't think I'm being arguementative, I just wanted to put my view across about it - I'm happy to hear others views but I'm sure there are a lot of t2s out there who would be a little upset to hear someone think it's their own fault for getting this disease.
I also want to say that although in some deep tropical jungle there could be some sort of natural remedy to help diabetes, t1 occurs because our pancreas can no longer make insulin. There isn't a natural remedy for it - we need insulin. If there were to be something which kick-started the pancreas into making insulin again then fine, but t1 occurs because antibodies in the body attack the insulin-making cells in the pancreas and therefore make them unable to produce insulin. Insulin is a hormone and one which our body needs to live. For all the supplements and natural remedies out there, they aren't insulin. They make help regulate our blood sugars a bit but are no replacement for insulin.
One other thing - antibiotics have saved millions of lives around the world. Everything is dangerous in one respect or another - insulin is dangerous if too much is taken. But we have to balance out the benefits and the problems, and do what is best.
Sorry - I really don't mean to be part of a war or anything - I really do respect that you have other views but I believe I am right and like to voice what I believe!!
Claire xx