Diabetes In The Time Of COVID-19

Let’s talk about diabetes and start with the basics. What is it? Diabetes is a disease that occurs when your blood glucose or blood sugar is too high. Blood glucose is our main source of energy and comes from the foods we consume. Insulin, a hormone made by the pancreas helps glucose from food transport into your cells and then used for energy.

There are two major types of diabetes – type diabetes 1 and type diabetes 2. People with type 1 diabetes don’t produce insulin. People with type 2 diabetes don’t respond to insulin as well as they should and also don’t make enough insulin. Regardless of which type of diabetes, they both can lead to high blood sugar levels. So before we go any further, here’s a chance to explore some myths and facts about diabetes – for you or anyone dealing with the disease. 

As you can imagine, food is a huge part in dealing with maintaining and also living your best life with diabetes. The disease is not always easy, but should not be crippling and should not drastically reduce the quality of your life. Besides the obvious sugar management, here are five diet tips you should be following. It’s important to remember that most food that’s prepared outside or pre-cooked is loaded with stuff we wouldn’t put in if we were making it ourselves. This is why it’s extremely important to read labels and understand what goes into food we buy, before we consume it. 

Now that we’re faced with coronavirus or COVID-19, it’s important to understand facts pertaining to those who have diabetes. And one of the facts to note is this – people who have lung issues, heart diseases and diabetes could be at a higher risk for serious complications than those who do not have  these ailments. People with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes are more susceptible to DKA – a life-threatening issue that can cause the blood to become too acidic; this happens when blood sugar levels are significantly too high, making it harder to avoid sepsis and septic shock. So during a time like COVID-19, it’s important to follow precautions strictly, such as washing your hands, avoiding close contact with people especially those who are coughing or sneezing and wear protective masks and gloves when you’re outside. At this stage, self-quarantine is very important – for yourself, and for those in your community. It’s also wise to make sure you have access to a doctor who may be able to help you and insurance company. And if you do feel sick (even with common symptoms like a flu or body aches) we suggest reaching out to your doctor immediately.

We wish you all a safe and low-key time. Remember it’s ALWAYS  better to be safe than sorry.