Weight can influence diabetes, and diabetes can influence weight. This relationship may be different for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, but the end advice is the same: Managing weight can really make a difference in a person’s diabetes management plan. So, let’s take a look at the relationship between weight and type 1 diabetes, then the relationship between weight and type 2 diabetes.
Weight and Type 1 Diabetes
If a person has type 1 diabetes but hasn’t been treated yet, he or she often loses weight. While this may sound good, it really isn’t. It is a result of unhealthy weight loss. Basically, in type 1 diabetes, the body can’t use glucose properly because the pancreas no longer produces insulin that’s needed to get glucose into the cells. So, as a result of this, the body flushes the unusable glucose (and the calories) out of the body in urine, or pee. This flushing of calories means the person can lose weight.
However, after treatment for type 1 diabetes, a person usually returns to a healthy weight.
But, do not be fooled. Sometimes, people with type 1 diabetes can be overweight, as well. They may be overweight when they find out they have diabetes or they may become overweight after they start treatment. Being overweight can make it harder for people with type 1 diabetes to keep their blood sugar levels under control. If you are over weight, and you find you have trouble keeping your blood sugar levels under control consult your doctor, and try to get on a weight loss plan.
Weight and Type 2 Diabetes
Most people are overweight when they’re diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. This does not mean that being overweight means you are automatically going to get type 2 diabetes. However, being overweight or obese increases a person’s risk for developing type 2 diabetes.
People with type 2 diabetes have a condition called insulin resistance. Which means you are able to make insulin, but the body can’t use it properly to move glucose into the cells. As a result, the amount of glucose in the blood rises. The pancreas then makes more insulin to try to overcome the problem. Eventually, the pancreas can wear out from working overtime and may no longer be able to produce enough insulin to keep blood glucose levels within a normal range. It is at this point, that the person officially has type 2 diabetes.
There are people that do not have diabetes that have insulin resistance. People with insulin resistance are at high risk for developing type 2 diabetes if they don’t already have it.
People with insulin resistance (type 2 diabetes or otherwise) are often overweight and don’t exercise very much. But weight loss, eating healthier foods and portion sizes, and getting exercise can reverse insulin resistance, and decrease the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. For people with type 2 diabetes, reversing insulin resistance makes it easier to get blood sugar levels into a healthier range.
So how can you manage your weight?
– Use a meal plan
– Exercise regularly
– Possibly take medications to reach and maintain a healthier weight.
– Remember that weight loss won’t happen overnight, but learning how to eat right and exercise to get to a healthy weight can help you keep it off.
– Forget fad diets.
– Stick to the insulin schedule.
– Watch the snacking.
– Turn the table on cravings.
If you can do these things, you will not have as much trouble managing your blood sugar levels.