Type 2 diabetes is a common illness that affects millions of people globally. Symptoms of high blood sugar, particularly in the stomach, can be quite unpleasant if left untreated.
Type 2 diabetes is a complicated disease, and like most complicated things, it’s not always easy to figure out the exact signs and symptoms.
High blood sugar levels can harm the gastrointestinal tract, resulting in a variety of unpleasant symptoms.
High blood sugar levels are known to impact specific bodily areas, such as the abdomen and gastrointestinal tract, causing unpleasant symptoms.
When a person has type 2 diabetes, their digestion often slows down, causing food to stay in their bodies longer than it should.
This can result in a slew of uncomfortable symptoms that interfere with the patient’s day-to-day activities.
So, what are the red flags to look out for?
Gastroparesis
Gastroparesis, often known as delayed gastric emptying, is a digestive tract condition.
It is prevalent in patients who have high blood sugar levels.
The illness makes it difficult for the brain to convey information to the stomach muscles through the neurological system, preventing them from working properly.
Gastroparesis is a condition in which food stays in the stomach for longer than usual.
As a result, undigested food sits in the stomach, potentially causing malnutrition and dehydration.
Gastroparesis symptoms
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- loss of appetite
- Pain in the abdomen
- Heartburn
- Regurgitation
- Bloating
- Muscle deterioration
- Sweats at night
- Feeling satisfied after eating only a modest amount of food
Gastroparesis’ delayed stomach emptying and impaired digestive motility can have a substantial impact on bowel function.
The GI Society states that “symptoms can lead to weight loss and nutritional deficiencies by making it difficult for those affected to consume enough food.”
“Another serious complication is periods of very low blood sugar while the food remains in the stomach and very high blood sugar when it finally makes it to the small intestine,” it continued.
“Gastroparesis often has a negative impact on many areas of life.”
The health website went on to describe how the debilitating sensations and inability to eat regular meals might lead to psychological issues as well.
This is because “patients may feel depressed and anxious and can interfere with their ability to work and participate in social activities.”
Gastroparesis treatment
There are several options for dealing with the painful and unpleasant symptoms of gastroparesis.
Health experts suggest eating more than the typical three meals each day, but in smaller portions.
Other strategies include choosing softer, more liquid-like foods that are simpler to digest.
Reduce your carbohydrate consumption
Carbohydrates have the greatest impact on blood sugar in those with Type 2 diabetes, thus they should be carefully monitored.
This is because carbs are metabolized into glucose and absorbed into the bloodstream.
White bread, rice, and pasta are among the worst offenders when it comes to blood sugar control.
Instead, health experts recommend eating low-carb foods like fish and leafy greens to keep blood sugar levels in check.
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