First, want to hear a funny story?
I recall working in the residency clinic shortly after graduating medical school. Our clinic was located next to a major University so it was pretty standard to see College students for various ailments.
One day, a young man I had never seen before walked in for an appointment. He was in his early twenties and seemed a bit nervous. When I asked about his concerns, he hesitantly revealed that he had recently slept with a girl.
Naturally, my mind jumped to the possibility of STD testing. It was a common thing requested with college-aged students. But then he lowered his voice and leaned in, sharing a peculiar detail. Apparently, while using her bathroom, he noticed syringes and vials near the sink.
When he questioned her about these items she informed him that these were her diabetic supplies. She needed insulin to control her blood sugar. He then asked me if he could be tested.
I was admittedly a little confused by his question. Not that he would ask to be tested after sleeping with a new partner, but that he would ask to be tested after telling me a story about diabetes. I asked him to clarify, “do you want to be tested for STDs or for diabetes?”
This time it was his turn to look puzzled by the question. “Diabetes” he confidently stated.
I learned two things that day…… I learned how to explain that diabetes was not in fact a sexually transmitted illness.
I also learned that diabetes is not something that people are naturally intuitive about. Lets talk about that a little more…….
Most people are familiar with the term diabetes. One in 10 adults globally are afflicted with diabetes, while 35 million Americans struggle with it.
Most of what we eat is converted into energy.
Carbohydrates are a high energy source. Carbs also contribute the most to sugar production. Sugar circulates in the blood stream and our cells can access it to produce and store more energy.
Most cells require insulin to be able to access the sugar that is circulating. As your cells gobble up that sugar, the sugar levels in the blood stream drop.
Without insulin, the sugar remains in the blood stream.
In type 1 diabetes, the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin are destroyed by antibodies. These patients have to be on insulin.
In type 2 diabetes, our cells develop a degree of resistance to insulin. These patients produce insulin but usually not enough to effectively lower blood sugar.
Type 1 Diabetes: is often referred to as “juvenile” diabetes.
This is an auto-immune disease and it usually comes out in adolescence after a very stressful event.
For example: we may see it after an infection like mono or the flu.
*It’s important to note that these patients would have inevitably developed type 1 diabetes at some point and is not directly correlated to the flu or mono, more so a stressful event on the body that activates the immune system to produce antibodies.
Type 2 Diabetes: is generally developed over time as insulin resistance increases.
There are individual factors that can contribute to insulin resistance.
*Genetics, obesity, hormonal imbalance, stress, smoking and alcohol just to name a few.
The 3 P,s for Type 2 Diabetes:
1. Polyphagia- increased hunger
2. Polydipsia- increased thirst
3. Polyuria- increased urination
The suspicion for diabetes goes way up when these elements are present.
Factors that contribute to diagnosis:
Type 1 Diabetes:
Can only be managed with insulin. While it’s important to be healthy and be mindful of your diet, you can’t control type 1 diabetes with diet alone. You’d be surprised how many people I’ve come across (health care workers included) that believe “trying harder” with diet and exercise can cure type 1 diabetes. This is simply not true.
Type 2 Diabetes:
On the other hand, can very effectively be managed with lifestyle in most situations. Obviously there are exceptions to this. I’ve had patients whose diet is pristine and their exercise program rivals that of an olympic athlete. Yet they still require medication to treat their sugar levels. It’s mostly genetic at that point. Nonetheless, lifestyle approach is by far the most impactful strategy to controlling blood sugar.
This means maintaining a healthy weight. And limiting simple carbs and refined sugars. Not all carbs are created equal.
For example, fiber is a type of carb that doesn’t get broken down into sugar and doesn’t cause sugars to spike. You could also try these 7 natural supplements that have shown promise in type 2 diabetes.
ALA is an antioxidant that has been investigated for its potential to improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels. Some studies suggest it may be beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes.
Some studies have suggested that cinnamon may have a modest effect on lowering blood sugar levels.
Chromium is a mineral that plays a role in insulin action. Some studies have suggested that chromium supplementation may help improve insulin sensitivity.
This compound, found in several plants, has been studied for its potential to lower blood sugar levels. Some research suggests that berberine may be comparable to certain diabetes medications.
Magnesium is involved in various metabolic processes, and low magnesium levels have been associated with insulin resistance.
Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil, may have anti-inflammatory effects and could potentially benefit people with diabetes. They are also known for promoting heart health.
Some studies have suggested that bitter melon may have blood sugar-lowering effects, but more research is needed to confirm its efficacy and safety.
“As a physician, let me assure you that you have all the weapons you need to tackle type 2 diabetes head-on. While it might be a tough opponent, it’s far from unbeatable. Remember, small changes can lead to big victories. So, let’s show that sugar-craving monster who’s boss and kick it to the curb! You’ve got this!”
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of content found on this blog.
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