It’s National Diabetes Month, held each November to raise awareness about diabetes and its impact on millions of Americans. In honor of this month, and in an effort to help those of you in the recovery community lead healthier lives, we’re taking a closer look at the link between alcoholism and type 2 diabetes. Here are a few facts you should know:
Chronic drinking can put you at risk of type 2 diabetes. Here’s why:
- It decreases insulin sensitivity: Alcohol abuse can lower the body’s sensitivity to insulin, which can up your chances of developing type 2 diabetes.
- It increases body weight: And this can increase your risk of obesity, which in turn ups your risk of diabetes. What’s more, individuals who abuse alcohol drink often lack exercise and proper nutrition and smoke cigarettes – three lifestyle habits linked to type 2 diabetes.
- It triggers pancreatitis: Too much alcohol may cause chronic inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis), which can impair its ability to secrete insulin and potentially lead to diabetes, according to the Mayo Clinic.
The Signs of Type 2 Diabetes
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 26 million Americans have type 2 diabetes. Symptoms of type 2 diabetes can vary from person to person and include:
- Increased thirst
- Increased hunger (especially after eating)
- Dry mouth
- Nausea and occasionally vomiting
- Frequent urination
- Fatigue (weak, tired feeling)
- Blurred vision
- Numbness or tingling of the hands or feet
- Frequent infections of the skin or urinary tract
Healthy Living at 10 Acre Ranch
For individuals who have abused their body with alcohol, exercise and proper nutrition is often a distant thought. At 10 Acre Ranch, we teach clients healthy habits and encourage them to carry them into post-rehab. To learn more, call today: 877-228-4679
