Navigate weight gain challenges in Type 1 diabetes with Meri Sehat's expert guidance. Discover effective strategies for a healthy weight and diabetes management.

Weight Gain In Type 1 Diabetes And How To Address It

Weight gain is an important issue for individuals with type 1 diabetes (T1D). A general perception of this type of diabetes is that it causes weight loss.

Introduction

<p>Recent research suggests that <a href="https://merisehat.pk/article/the-intricate-relationship-between-weight-gainloss-and-depression">weight gain</a> is more than part of the recovery process: individuals with T1D are more prone to putting on excess body weight than those without the condition. Compared to the general population, nearly 50% of the patients with T1D have greater hip and waist circumferences, making them either overweight or obese.<sup><a href="#accordion">[1][2]</a></sup></p>

<p>Understanding the reasons behind this phenomenon and adopting appropriate strategies can help you manage diabetes effectively.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

Understanding weight gain in type 1 diabetes

<p>There are several causes of weight gain if you have T1D.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5><strong>Insulin Therapy</strong></h5>
	</li>
</ul>

<p>You need insulin to maintain optimal sugar levels. However, the therapy may also enable your body to store glucose as fat, subsequently leading to weight gain.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5><strong>Insulin Resistance</strong></h5>
	</li>
</ul>

<p>This is a condition where your body becomes less responsive to insulin. Your doctor may recommend higher doses or change the type of insulin to keep your sugar levels under control. There&rsquo;s one side effect, though &ndash; weight gain.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5><strong>Hypoglycemia</strong></h5>
	</li>
</ul>

<p>When your blood sugar levels drop too low, it can trigger intense hunger. You may end up overeating. If these episodes are frequent, they may lead to weight gain over time.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5><strong>Lifestyle</strong></h5>
	</li>
</ul>

<p>Not being active, having unhealthy eating habits, and even stress can be dangerous in terms of contributing to weight gain with T1D.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p>There&rsquo;s no one-size-fits-all strategy to lose weight. What works for&nbsp; someone may not be suitable for you.<sup><a href="#accordion">[2]</a></sup><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5><strong>A Healthy BMI</strong></h5>
	</li>
</ul>

<p>Before getting started on your weight loss journey, you need to know what a healthy BMI is for you. Your BMI is a ratio of your height and weight. A BMI of 25-30 is considered overweight, while over 30 makes you obese.</p>

<p>Your waist size usually depends on both your ethnicity and gender. For instance, women should ideally have a waist size of less than 80 cm, whereas men should aim for a waist size less than 94 cm.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5><strong>A Healthy Diet</strong></h5>
	</li>
</ul>

<p>It&rsquo;s great to sit down with your diabetes team before trying any new diet. Anything you eat will likely influence your blood sugar levels and your medication.</p>

<p>That said, the rule of thumb is that men require 2500 kcal/day and women require 2000 kcal/day for a healthy weight. However, this may vary given how active you are or what your weight management goals are.</p>

<p>You may want to focus on portion control and whole foods, such as lean proteins and whole grains. Drink water instead of sugary drinks, and don&rsquo;t take those second helpings. Also, try avoiding processed foods as much as possible.</p>

<p>In simple words, just don&rsquo;t skip meals and check your blood sugar levels regularly to avoid episodes of hypoglycemia.</p>

<p><strong>Note:</strong> Don&rsquo;t worry if you don&rsquo;t see progress overnight or occasionally stop tracking your calories. The emotional stress may make you binge even more.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5><strong>Regular Physical Activity</strong></h5>
	</li>
</ul>

<p>Try to aim for nearly 30 minutes of moderate exercise for most days of the week. This will regulate your blood sugar levels. Moreover, techniques like yoga exercises can help reduce stress and prevent weight gain.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li>
	<h5><strong>Surgery</strong></h5>
	</li>
</ul>

<p>This is often kept as a last resort. Ask your doctor if you qualify for bariatric surgery. There are different types of options available, which influence how your gut hormones work and the way your body uses insulin, making them effective for weight loss.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Important!</strong></p>

<p>Do not reduce or skip your insulin dosage to stop the weight gain. It is important to take your medications, insulin included, as directed by your doctor. Discuss your weight gain with your doctor to find effective solutions.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

Conclusion

<p>Losing extra weight will help you reduce your risk of complications like stroke and heart disease. Even losing 5% of your weight can greatly improve your cholesterol and blood pressure, which affects your overall health.</p>

<p>While weight gain can be a challenge for individuals with T1D, adopting healthy lifestyle habits and working closely with healthcare providers can help manage this issue effectively.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

Key Takeaways

<ul>
	<li>If you have type 1 diabetes, insulin therapy, insulin resistance, binging during hypoglycemic episodes, and leading a sedentary lifestyle can contribute to weight gain.</li>
	<li>You can achieve better overall health and well-being by focusing on balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and proactive diabetes management.</li>
</ul>

[1] Mottalib A, Kasetty M, Mar JY, Elseaidy T, Ashrafzadeh S, Hamdy O. Weight Management in Patients with Type 1 Diabetes and Obesity. Curr Diab Rep. 2017;17(10):92. Published 2017 Aug 23. doi:10.1007/s11892-017-0918-8

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