Diabetes, immune balance and inflammation

Diabetes, immune balance and inflammation

We get our energy from the glucose (sugar) that circulates in our bloodstream. The body uses insulin, a hormone, to control circulating glucose levels. Too high a glucose level is just as bad as too little glucose. Those who cannot control their blood sugar, for example diabetics, are at higher risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, eye, kidney, skin and nervous system complications.

Inflammation is a major contributor to diabetes. Inflammatory markers are higher in diabetics compared to controls, indicating chronic inflammation. Fat cells, particularly those found around the waist, release pro-inflammatory cytokines. These biochemical messages lead to inflammatory responses that can destroy insulin-producing cells.

Controlling excessive inflammation reduces the likelihood of chronic diseases, including diabetes. Diabetics who lower their inflammation levels reduce their risk of other diseases.

The key to excellent health lies in the proper balance between pro-inflammatory (molecules that lead to inflammatory responses) and anti-inflammatory cytokines (anti-inflammatory molecules). We need enough inflammation to protect the body against infections and cancer cells, but not so much that the body starts destroying healthy tissue like insulin-producing cells.

Control inflammation

Restoring the immune system's inflammatory balance and homeostasis can reduce diabetic symptoms, protect against infection, and contribute to overall health by allowing the body to heal itself.

Get your ideal weight.

Overweight people have a higher risk of developing diabetes. Fat cells release pro-inflammatory cytokines, messages that lead to inflammation. Many diabetic symptoms are reduced, even with minimal weight loss.

Make smarter drink and food choices.

Current eating suggestions are to ignore the fat content of your foods and focus on reducing your overall carbohydrate intake.

Limit your intake of:

• Flüssige Kohlenhydrate wie Soda, Fruchtsäfte, „Energy“ -Getränke, Bier.
• Frittierte Gerichte.
• Stärken wie Mais, weißer Reis, Pommes, Nachos, Pommes.
• Weißmehlprodukte wie Brot, Nudeln, Kuchen, Desserts.

Fill half of your plate with vegetables and colorful fruits.

You may also want to add some of the following ingredients: brewer's yeast, broccoli, buckwheat, liver, okra, peas, and spinach.

Become physically active.

Exercise, even without weight loss, helps control blood sugar levels. Muscles release anti-inflammatory molecules with every contraction. Aim to be physically active for at least 150 minutes per week to balance inflammation levels in the body. Walk quickly. Standing instead of sitting. Work faster in the garden. Exercise while watching TV. Just move!

Vitamin D may play a role in balancing inflammatory reactions.

Vitamin D, actually a hormone-like biochemical, is involved in cell growth and immunity. Organ systems such as the liver, skin, thymus, small intestine and pancreas have cells that bind a form of vitamin D. They suppress pro-inflammatory cytokines and increase the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines. Diabetics often do not have enough vitamin D in their bodies.

The body produces its own vitamin D when exposed to the sun. Moderate sun exposure until the skin is slightly pink during the summer months stimulates the production of vitamin D. Vitamin D supplementation may be necessary in temperate climates.

Omega-3 fatty acids.

Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to reduce inflammation. It is recommended that individuals consume 2-3 servings of fish/week or omega-3 fish oil supplements. [Omega-3s from plant sources may not have the same benefits.] Diabetics have found these fatty acids to be helpful. However, ask your doctor if fish oil is right for you.

Moderate coffee consumption.

Certain compounds in coffee may help reduce inflammation, suggesting that moderate coffee consumption may be helpful if you have diabetes.

Hyperimmune Egg.

Immune researchers have shown that consuming several servings of hyperimmune egg per day is a natural way to help the body regain its immune homeostasis.

Lifestyle changes rather than medications are the best ways to restore immune balance, immune homeostasis, and blood sugar control.

Inspired by Hellen C. Greenblatt, PhD