Inflammation is a natural immune response the body uses to fight infections and repair injuries or damage. Among diabetic patients, though, inflammation can have profoundly negative consequences as well.

How is Inflammation Different for People with Diabetes?

A normal immune response involves inflammation that responds to the threat and then retreats into a dormant state until it is needed to fight another infection or danger. In people who have diabetes, there is an unnatural chronic state of inflammation in which the body’s defense system remains at high alert rather than going dormant.

The result is a vicious cycle in which the heightened inflammation creates greater insulin resistance, which then requires a greater immune response, which creates even more insulin resistance.

Unfortunately, it isn’t only the stress of injuries or illnesses that creates this immune response and cycle in diabetic patients. Emotional stress also exacerbates the problem, making it more and more difficult to control blood sugar.

There are things you can do that will help reduce inflammation and improve your body’s response to insulin in the process. One is following an anti-inflammation diet that is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin C, polyphenols, and curcumin. The diet also seeks to limit the intake of foods that promote inflammation, like red meat and full-fat dairy products.

Inflammation can become a big and painful problem for diabetics. Acting now to reduce inflammation can help you avoid some of the more painful side effects of chronic inflammation.