Diabetes: How Much Sugar is Too Much?

November is diabetes awareness month! Diabetes is a condition that affects how the body turns food and sugars into usable energy. The human body breaks down the food we consume into sugar, which can then be used by the cells of the body as energy. The key element needed for these cells to use the sugar is insulin. 

There are two types of diabetes. The first is type 1 diabetes; this is when the body does not create enough insulin. There is too much sugar left in the bloodstream which causes adverse effects on the organs of the body. Individuals with type 1 diabetes are required to take insulin daily in order to survive. Type 2 diabetes on the other hand is when your body cannot use the insulin that is created, or there is not enough insulin created, thus not being able to keep sugar at a normal level. Type 2 diabetes is usually diagnosed in adults, however, more recently, there are more children and teenagers being diagnosed. Type 2 diabetes can be controlled through diet, exercise and medication. 

With excess sugar in the bloodstream, a very common issue that can arise is neuropathy. Sugar causes damage to the nerves which then affects their ability to transmit signals throughout the body. When this happens, you lose sensation and have pain and numbness in the hands, feet and legs. Nerve damage can also have detrimental effects on the digestive system, urinary tract system, blood vessels and the heart. 

With loss of sensation and damage to the circulatory system, wounds are more likely to develop as you cannot feel pain. Individuals with neuropathy and diabetes need to be VERY careful with their feet and ensure that if they get a sore, they stay on top of it and prevent further damage. Foot orthotics are a very common treatment that diabetics can use to protect their feet and avoid this damage. With proper support, cushioning, offloading and alignment, we are able to adequately provide the protection necessary to prevent damage. If you or a loved one have diabetes or neuropathy and would like a consultation to see how we can prevent future issues, please do not hesitate to reach out to our office.

 

The Custom Orthotics Team (519) 850-4721 | office@customorthoticsoflondon.com | @cool_bracing