Treatment of Diabetes in Obese Patients

There is a close relationship between diabetes and obesity. In fact, obesity is one of the main risk factors for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes.

When an individual has a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, the person is considered to be obese. This accumulation of excess fat in the body leads to an increase in sugar levels in the blood, causing type 2 diabetes. According to research, the increase in obesity among individuals has resulted in the increased prevalence of diabetes in patients.

In this blog, we will discuss the diabetes treatment in obese patients and how obesity is related to diabetes.

Relationship between obesity and diabetes

Excess fat deposit in the abdomen is a major contributor to diabetes in patients. Obese people usually have a higher risk of chronic inflammation which plays a key role in the increase of blood sugar levels.

It is found that excess body fat contributes to insulin resistance and β-cell dysfunction. As a result, the body cells become less sensitive to insulin released from the pancreas, failing to take up glucose from the blood. With time, the pancreas releases more insulin to maintain the blood sugar level. Ultimately, it gives in to produce the required insulin that the body needs, resulting in increased sugar levels.

High blood sugar is responsible for various complications in the body like heart attack, cancer, sleep apnea, osteoarthritis, and many more.

Now let’s know about diabetes treatment in Kolkata in individuals with higher BMI.

What are the treatment options available?

Reduction of body weight is the primary requirement in the treatment of diabetes for patients with obesity. Treatment involves medicines, surgical interventions, and lifestyle modifications.

At first, the doctor will measure the sugar levels in the blood. Depending on the amount of sugar, the following treatment options are recommended.

• Medicines: Oral medications are prescribed to manage the blood sugar levels mainly type 2 diabetes or prediabetes. Gestational diabetes is also managed by the intake of medicines.
• Insulin: In severe cases, patients are suggested to take insulin to keep their blood sugar levels under control. Keeping the blood sugar level at normal range prevents many complications and improves your long-term health. Insulin is injected into the body by the following means- injectable insulin, insulin pens, insulin pumps, and rapid-action inhaled insulin.
• Bariatric surgery: It is one of the most effective treatments to lose fat in the body. It causes long-term remission of diabetes in patients. For many patients, bariatric surgery is not just a weight loss program but is the actual treatment of diabetes. The surgery helps produce and use insulin efficiently.

Conclusion

Managing diabetes requires lifelong care. If you are obese, managing your weight is also a part of the diabetes treatment plan. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help no matter whether you are suffering from diabetes or obesity. The timely intervention will help lead an improved and healthy life.