Infections And Diabetes

Diabetics are at  greater risk for developing many types of infections. The risk is usually, but not always, related to increased sugar levels. High blood sugar provides an ideal environment for bacteria to grow, impeding the immune system's ability to fight infection. As the body starts to fight against infection it releases certain hormones; these hormones can interfere with the action of your insulin. Your body starts to produce more glucose (sugar). When your sugar is high, your white blood cells, which fight against infection, can't fight the bacteria because they are slowed down by the higher blood sugar. During cold and flu season, take extra precautions to protect yourself from infection. You will need an antibiotic to help the immune system fight a bacterial infection. Some bacteria are harmless; others can be very harmful. The ones that are harmful have the ability to make chemical changes that are poisonous to the body's cells. Most bacterial infections make you sick. It takes a lab to identify the exact germ that is causing the problem. When they know the specific germ, they can treat it with the proper antibiotics. Antibiotics destroy bacterial cells, but not human cells. Each class of antibiotics targets specific bacteria. Bacteriostatic antibiotics inhibit the growth of bacteria. broad-spectrum antibiotics are effective against a wide variety of microorganisms. Many infections produce inflammation, which is a reaction generated by your immune system. The inflammation appears red because of an increased blood supply to the area, swelling comes from fluid accumulating in the tissue, and pain comes from nerve irritation and heat from generalized fever. Because bacteria are alive, they can be killed, but they can and do perform many chemical processes to stay alive. Some antibiotics kill bacteria outright, while others try to slow down their process of multiplication until the body's immune system can kill them. Bacteria produce so quickly that antibiotics become ineffective over time. The antibiotic will kill millions of bacteria, but the few that are left mutate and become stronger.
You can help the body fight infection. Take all the medication prescribed by your doctor, even if you are feeling better. Keep your blood sugar level in an acceptable range, and eat plenty of RAW fruits and vegetables. The enzymes from raw fruits and vegetables will help fight the infection. In the winter months you might need a little extra Vitamin C, and/or  Vitamin  E. Continue to take your medication. Substitute your usual foods with digestible foods and liquids if you can't eat as you normally do. When you have an infection, you need to check your blood sugar more often and test for ketones. You can purchase ketone-testing strips at your pharmacy. If ketones are present, you should consult with your doctor.
Next month will be on viruses. Viruses are very different because they are not really alive.