In this article you will read:
- What is diabetes mellitus?
- What are the symptoms of a person with diabetes mellitus?
- What factors increase blood sugar?
- Nutrition of diabetics with stress
What is diabetes mellitus?
In the conditions of stress and anxiety, the blood sugar level may rise, and this state that occurs in a person is called diabetes mellitus.
Stress and anxiety in a person cause the release of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline in the body. These hormones increase blood pressure, heart rate and breathing, and increase blood sugar levels. These effects may be short-term or long-term.
Cortisol hormone increases blood sugar levels with the aim of creating more energy for the body and may also cause weight gain. Adrenaline also increases breathing, heart rate, blood sugar and body energy consumption. Stress hormones for the body may cause complications such as increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, weak immune system, anxiety, depression, muscle pains and digestive problems.
Therefore, it is better for you to use stress management techniques such as breathing exercises, yoga, meditation, and massage to reduce stress hormones and control their effects on the body. Also, healthy nutrition, regular exercise, adequate rest, psychological counseling, and the use of medications. According to the doctor's opinion, it can also help reduce stress hormones and control their negative effects.
What are the symptoms of a person with diabetes mellitus?
People who get nervous diabetes and are in stressful and anxious situations have the following symptoms
- nausea
- Blurred vision and vision problems
- Frequent urination
- Very thirsty
- Severe headaches
- Pain in the abdomen
What factors increase blood sugar?
Several factors can lead to an increase in blood sugar or blood glucose. Some of these factors are mentioned below:
1- Unbalanced food consumption: using foods with a variety of sweeteners or foods high in carbohydrates can increase blood sugar levels.
2- Low physical activity: Low physical activity can reduce the body's need for glucose and increase blood sugar levels.
3- Diseases related to increased blood sugar: Some diseases such as type 1 and type 2 diabetes, hyperthyroidism, Cushing's disease, visual stress and wounds and infections can cause increased blood sugar levels.
4- Taking drugs: some drugs such as steroids, beta blockers, diuretics, antidepressants and dream treatment drugs can increase blood sugar levels.
5- Stress and adverse mental conditions: Stress and adverse mental conditions can increase the level of stress hormones such as cortisol, which increases blood sugar levels in the body.
6- Side effects of some diseases: Some diseases, such as kidney and liver diseases, can cause an increase in blood sugar.
As a result, to control the blood sugar level, it is necessary to pay attention to these points, such as proper nutrition, exercise, rest, and taking medicines according to the doctor's opinion. If your blood sugar level has increased, it is better to see your doctor and consult with him about the necessary treatment.
Dr. Mohammad Eslami, clinical psychologist
PhD in psychology from a prestigious European university
Psychosomatic diseases fellowship
Licensed by Iran’s psychology system
Member of the Iranian Psychological Association
Nutrition of diabetics with stress
Proper nutrition is very important for people who are under stress. When we face stress, blood sugar levels also change drastically and the risk for diabetics increases.
In this situation, it is recommended to reduce the amount of sugar intake and reduce the consumption of foods outside the main meal. Instead, try natural sedatives such as brewed tea, honey, lemon, thyme, mint, and aromatic herbs to reduce stress.
Diabetic people should determine their type of food according to the type of diabetes, treatment regimen and medical order. In general, they should limit the consumption of sugar and carbohydrate foods, and on the other hand, it is recommended to consume high-fiber foods and foods with high glucose properties.
Some of the foods that are suitable for diabetics are as follows:
- Fresh vegetables and fruits and whole grains
- Vegetable proteins such as beans, lentils, peas, etc., as well as protein materials such as fish, chicken, and white meat
- Walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts and pine nuts can be used as healthy snacks
- Consuming fatty substances obtained from fish, olives and avocados is recommended.
Nutrition of people with diabetes and stress
Stress can cause drowsiness, digestive discomfort and increase the risk of infection. For this reason, you need to pay more attention to stress management. Activities such as yoga, massage, meditation and exercise can help reduce stress and improve health.
