Rheumatoid Arthritis And Diabetes- What's The Link?

Having Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) can be an enormous challenge for even the most determined amongst us. Even simple daily tasks like doing the laundry or walking to the market can become almost impossible, not to mention the constant pain and stiffness which can significantly increase mental stress. No wonder that people with RA are at high risk of having psychological disorders like chronic anxiety and even full-blown depression.

Now, researchers have found out that people who suffer from RA are at increased risk of getting Type 2 Diabetes.

The research

At the Texas Southwestern Medical School, researchers have looked closely at the general lifestyle, level of activity and daily habits of people with RA. The researchers found that such people have a 50% greater risk of contracting Type 2 Diabetes compared to people without RA.

But why?

The primary reason for this spike in Diabetes risk is the intense inflammation and strong autoimmune reaction that people with RA suffer from. This slows down the body’s ability to make use of the insulin being produced in the pancreas.  

The increased risk of Diabetes can also be the result of decreased level of physical activity. People with RA suffer from constant pain and stiffness, which makes it difficult to move around. Thus, such people are forced to lead a sedentary life. The gradual increase in weight due to lack of calorie-burning activities is in part responsible for the heightened risk of Diabetes.

What you need to do

The first thing is to not panic. Yes, if you have RA then the risk of getting Diabetes is high. Instead of treating this information as a death-knell of doom and gloom, you can use it as a forewarning. Since you already know the risk, you can take steps immediately to prepare yourself for the ugly eventuality.

If you want to reduce the risk of getting Type 2 Diabetes, then you need to adopt the following 5 points without any further delay:

1. Talk to your doctor: Inform your doctor about this important piece of research. To control the risk of getting Diabetes, your doctor will require detailed information about your general lifestyle, daily diet, level of activity and so on. Make sure you have an honest and open discussion.
2. Control your weight: One of the major risk factors for Diabetes is body weight. The greater the weight, the more is the risk. First, find out whether your weight and Body Mass Index (BMI) are in the safe range or not. If they are not, then you need to bring your daily diet under strict control. Immediately cut off fat-rich foods like butter and red meat. Instead, add more nuts, fruits and vegetables to your palate.
3. Exercise regularly: Yes, this is easier said than done for somebody suffering from RA. But it is critical if you want to reduce the risk of getting Diabetes. Regular exercise will not only help in controlling weight, but also keep the musculoskeletal system strong and flexible. Research suggests that people who undertake moderate physical activity in spite of having RA benefit from reduced stiffness and pain sensation.
4. Stay away from junk food: Such foods do not contribute at all to the health of your body. Instead, they just add empty calories. Such foods may also contain high levels of sugar, which in turn puts pressure on your body to maintain the glucose level in your blood.
5. Avoid bad habits: Both smoking and drinking increase the risk of Diabetes while intensifying the symptoms of RA. While smoking slowly destroys your respiratory system, alcohol puts enormous strain on the digestive system (especially on liver). Eliminate both of them from your life if you want to stay healthy.    

By Dr. Shabtab Khalid

Zilaxo Advanced Pain Solution

Note: Through the synergistic combination of Classical Homoeopathy, Ayurvedic-Unani Formulations and Internationally Acclaimed Advanced Physiotherapy, Zilaxo Advanced Pain Solution aims to eradicate joint pain, counter the process of degeneration and promote bone health. The protocol is at once scientific, effective as well as safe. To avail treatment at Zilaxo, call on 1800 419 6607 (Toll free) or WhatsApp at +91 98304 26607.

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