Diabetes and weight gain: the 2 sides of the same coin?
According to the INSERM laboratory, France has 5% diabetics within its population . This figure, ignoring untreated or undiagnosed people, would be underestimated, and could climb to 20 to 30% . If obesity can lead to diabetes, the treatment of diabetes can lead to overweight in the patient.
A real public health issue, it is crucial to fully understand the mechanisms of diabetes and weight gain.
Everything you need to know about the relationship between diabetes and weight gain
Diabetes: a chronic disease
Diabetes is linked to a dysfunction of the pancreas which:
- either does not produce enough insulin;
- either secretes insulin that is not properly used by the body.
Insulin is a hormone whose function is to regulate blood sugar levels. Its lack implies hyperglycemia, high concentration of sugar in the blood. Uncontrolled diabetes induces, over time, serious disorders of many organ systems , especially nerves and blood vessels.
Being overweight causes type 2 diabetes
The WHO (World Health Organization) indicates that the causes of type 1 diabetes (insulin-dependent or juvenile diabetes) are not known. On the other hand, type 2 diabetes (non-insulin-dependent or maturity diabetes) essentially results from a lack of physical activity and excess weight. The majority of diabetics suffer from type 1 diabetes.
Do some treatments promote weight gain?
Taking insulin is part of the treatment for diabetes. If it helps regulate blood sugar, at the same time, it promotes fat storage . Although it promotes weight gain, diabetics should not stop insulin treatment or risk complications . However, some newer types of insulin can reduce or slow this weight gain.
Encouraging research to fight diabetes and weight gain
The XENDOS study (1), published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information, indicates that Xenical could reduce cases of diabetes and allow weight loss . Other trials are underway on Novo-Nordisk’s Liraglutide, which is said to reduce blood sugar levels with accompanying weight loss.
However, these trials are in the exploratory phase, and require additional research to confirm these initial encouraging results.
Tips for managing diabetes and weight gain
Here are 4 good practices to implement to slow down weight gain.
Regular physical activity
The WHO recommends 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week for adults between 18 and 64 years old. It helps eliminate fat, burn calories and regulate blood sugar.
A healthy diet
Recommended foods include whole grains, fruits, vegetables , yogurts, avocados, nuts, etc. Those to avoid are processed foods that are high in fat and sugar. Eating balanced meals at regular times will help you control your weight. A nutritionist or dietitian can advise and support you to find a healthy diet and manage your diabetes and weight gain.
Maintain a normal weight
It is important to measure and control portions along with tracking total calorie consumption . This prevents eating more than necessary, as consuming too many calories can lead to fat accumulation and excessive blood sugar.
Regular screening and treatment of complications
Consult your general practitioner or specialist regularly for better management of diabetes and weight gain.
Stephen Paul is the lead author and founder of My Health Sponsor. Holder of a diploma in health and well-being coaching with more than 200 articles in the field of health, he makes it a point of honor to offer advice based on reliable information, based on scientific research, and verified by health professionals.