Did you know that people with diabetes are more likely to have inflammation? Most of you might wonder, "What does inflammation have to do with diabetes?" Well, the truth is a lot. In fact, chronic inflammation plays a significant role in the development and progression of type 2 diabetes.
I am always concerned about such metabolic diseases, especially diabetes. I know it's something that we can all reduce (but never really totally avoid).
Let's dig deeper into the connection between type 2 diabetes and inflammation.
What is Inflammation?
Inflammation is your body's natural response to injury or infection. It is a vital part of your immune system, as it helps fight off harmful substances and initiates healing processes. When you get injured or sick, your body releases chemicals that attract white blood cells to the affected area. These white blood cells then protect your body from viruses, bacteria, and other foreign invaders.
In most cases, inflammation is short-lived and beneficial. However, when it becomes chronic (long-lasting), it can cause harm rather than good. Chronic inflammation occurs when there is constant or repeated exposure to harmful stimuli, such as toxins, viruses, and excess fat cells.
A way to lower inflammation is to expose yourself to cold and heat. Here is my guide to you for at home use:
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The Link Between Inflammation and Type 2 Diabetes
Now that we know what inflammation is let's understand its connection to type 2 diabetes. Several studies have shown that people with diabetes have higher levels of inflammatory markers in their bodies compared to those without the disease. These inflammatory markers include C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha).
But why does this happen? It all comes down to how your body responds to insulin, which is the hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels. Chronic inflammation can interfere with the normal function of insulin, making your body less responsive to its effects. As a result, your blood sugar levels may rise, leading to the development of diabetes.
A research by Alain G Bertoni and colleagues looked at the connection between inflammation and type 2 diabetes in different racial groups. They measured inflammation markers such as IL-6, fibrinogen, and CRP among participants without prior diabetes or heart disease. After multiple follow-ups over a four-year period, they found that higher levels of inflammation were associated with an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, regardless of race. The study suggests that monitoring inflammation may help predict the onset of type 2 diabetes.
Is it possible to manage type 2 diabetes by reducing inflammation? We will look at this in the next session below.