Ayurveda in Everyday Life

Losing Weight due to Diabetes?: tips, tricks to manage it

17 Jul, 2024

Losing weight due to diabetes can occur for several reasons, primarily related to how the body processes and utilizes glucose, its primary energy source. When someone has diabetes, particularly type 1 or poorly controlled type 2 diabetes, the body may not effectively use insulin or may not produce enough insulin to regulate blood sugar levels properly. 

Losing weight due to diabetes can be attributed to several factors related to how the body processes glucose and insulin.

Reasons for Weight Loss:

1. Insulin Deficiency or Resistance: In type 1 diabetes, the body does not produce insulin, while in type 2 diabetes, the body either doesn't produce enough insulin or becomes resistant to its effects. Insulin is necessary for transporting glucose from the bloodstream into cells to be used as energy. Without sufficient insulin, cells may not receive enough glucose, leading to a shortage of energy and subsequent breakdown of fat and muscle tissues for energy, resulting in weight loss.
2. Increased Urination (Polyuria): High blood sugar levels cause the kidneys to work harder to remove excess glucose by excreting it into urine. This frequent urination leads to fluid loss and can contribute to weight loss due to dehydration.
3. Dehydration: Loss of fluids through increased urination can lead to dehydration. The body compensates for fluid loss by breaking down glycogen (stored glucose) and fat for energy, resulting in weight loss.
4. Increased Appetite: Some individuals with uncontrolled diabetes may experience increased hunger despite losing weight. This occurs because the body is not efficiently using glucose, leading to a feeling of hunger as it attempts to increase glucose intake.
5. Medication Effects: Certain medications used to treat diabetes, such as metformin, can sometimes lead to weight loss as a side effect, although this is less common compared to other mechanisms.

Here are 6 tips to help manage weight and diabetes:

1. Monitor blood sugar levels: Keep track of your blood sugar levels to ensure they are within a healthy range. This will help you make informed decisions about food and exercise.
2. Eat a balanced diet: Focus on whole, unprocessed foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Avoid sugary drinks and foods high in added sugars, salt, and saturated fats.
3. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help control blood sugar levels and reduce cravings for unhealthy snacks.
4. Exercise regularly: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise, or a combination of both, per week. Include strength-training exercises at least twice a week.
5. Get enough sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night to help regulate hunger hormones and support weight management.
6. Manage stress: Chronic stress can lead to overeating and weight gain. Try stress-reducing techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.

Weight loss in diabetes is often a result of insulin issues, increased urination, dehydration, and sometimes medication effects. Managing diabetes effectively through medication adherence, balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is crucial in preventing unintended weight loss. Consulting healthcare providers for personalized advice and support can help individuals navigate these challenges and maintain a healthy weight while managing their diabetes effectively. By addressing these factors comprehensively, individuals with diabetes can strive for better overall health and quality of life.

Team OJSP