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Type 1 Diabetes

Most people think Type 1 diabetes only has complications that deal with cardiovascular problems, nerve damage, kidney problems, and blindness. Did you know that Type 1 diabetes could also have an effect on your bones? Scientists are not sure why patients with Type 1 diabetes have a lower bone mineral density than people without diabetes. That means that those who suffer from diabetes are at a greater risk of damage to bones such as breaks and fractures. Hip fractures appear in patients with Type 1 diabetes at twice the rate of people without the disease. If you are female, the risk goes even higher. Women are more prone to increased risk of osteoporosis but the threat is even higher if she has diabetes.

Doctors admit they are uncertain if the disease itself is to blame for poor bone density. The lack of control over the disease may also be part of the dilemma. Researchers are studying a trial group of women in what they hope will help them discover if bone density is changed by controlling Type 1 diabetes.

They hope to discover if there is a distinction in those women who take care of their diabetes and those who are not in control. They will also be testing for levels of Vitamin D, which is also important in building strong bones. They want to find out if diabetes has any control over Vitamin D, or if Vitamin D has any control over the diabetes.

Researchers will also look at another substance named IGF-1 or insulin like growth factor. It has similar qualities to insulin and stimulates cells to grow and divide. IGF-1 has dissimilar characteristics that affect different cells throughout the body. It affects cells in organs, skin, nerves, cartilage, and bone. It seems that the more IGF-1 a body has, the higher the bone mass is. It was revealed that people with the disease have lower levels of this substance, and lower bone density. Once the researchers know what the connection is between Type 1 diabetes and bone density, they may be able to come up with prevention or a treatment for bone density problems.

You can help take care of your bones if you are a diabetic. You can help improve bone mass by eating dairy products, preferably those that are low in fat. Cheese products, even ice cream is a good source of calcium and will help strengthen your bones.

Vitamin D is a source you get from the sun. It’s important to get plenty of sunshine and the Vitamin D you need from it. You can safely get the Vitamin D you require, if you protect your skin while out in the sun. Orange juice and other products are often fortified with Vitamin D.

Take care of your bones. Watch out for objects you might trip over and wear good shoes when walking. If you are a Type 1 diabetic, it is particularly important to take care of your feet and legs. If you are on the go, and have Type 1 diabetes, or are doing anything else that may cause a fall, wear the protective gear that is recommended.

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Today's Diabetes Tips

If you have diabetes, the best advice I can give is to always carry an apple or some grapes with you. There is no quicker way to get a natural sugar replenishment if you are feeling your blood sugar levels dropping too low. Candy or sugary soft drinks will bring you blood sugar level up fast, but it could do so too fast and send you over the edge in the other direction.

If you have a history of diabetes in your family, being watchful of your carbohydrate and sugar intake is critically important . Carbohydrates aren't all bad for you. You should try to cut out the refined carbohydrates like sugars and fats. Having balanced and regular meals goes a long way towards healthy weight. You'll see that when you eat three regular meals a day, with small but nutritional snacks between meals, it will feel like you are more full and have less desire to pig out on candy and junk food.


Important Info

Always consult your doctor or health care specialist if you are in any way concerned about your physical wellbeing.



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