Diabetes and Arthritis: What the Connection between the Two?

If you look at the chart of the most common diseases or health conditions in India - arthritis and diabetes rank among the top. Research suggests close to half of the people who have arthritis also are afflicted with diabetes.

But, the question is how do diabetes and arthritis go together? What is the relation between the two? If you too are wondering about the same, then you’ve come to the right place. Check out this article to understand the connection between diabetes and arthritis.

Diabetes and arthritis definition

Before we understand the connection between diabetes and arthritis, it's necessary to understand how exactly diabetes and arthritis show up unannounced. So let's dive into it.

Diabetes is caused due to high blood glucose levels and it originates in the endocrine system. There are two types of diabetes that we all know about - Type 1 Diabetes and Type 2 Diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes forms when our body doesn’t produce enough insulin, sometimes none. Insulin is a hormone that turns glucose or sugar into energy. Type 1 diabetes is commonly found in young adults and children.

Type 2 diabetes, one of the most commonly known diabetes, develops when our body stops responding to insulin like it did before. It causes a sharp increase in blood sugar levels which can lead to weight loss and other issues. Type 2 diabetes occurs ideally after the age of 45.

When we talk about Arthritis, on the other hand, it affects your joints by causing swelling, pain, inflammation, stiffness and more. Today, 100+ forms of arthritis exist. Out of which, Osteoarthritis is the most common form known to all. It ideally develops over time primarily due to wear and tear of joints.

The link between diabetes and arthritis

Now that we have an idea about the two conditions, let’s dissect the reason how type 2 diabetes and arthritis or type 1 diabetes and arthritis may be related.

Many research suggests that obesity and ageing are the biggest cause of arthritis and type 2 diabetes. It has been found that due to high blood sugar levels, our cartilage and bone health might go for a toss. Primarily, due to harmful compounds known as advanced glycation end products (AGEs).

AGEs are formed in our body when one or more protein or fat combines with sugar. In a non-diabetic person, our body gets rid of the AGEs directly. But, in a person who has diabetes, these AGEs stay in the bloodstream because of high blood sugar levels. The body is unable to burn it off completely. Now, because of high levels of AGEs, our tissues, especially cartilage, start to get damaged which eventually leads to Osteoarthritis.

While in-depth studies are still ongoing, it is safe to assume that diabetes and arthritis do share a connection. Breaking this link from the roots is the way forward. The more cautious you are with your life choices, the better your chances of avoiding these conditions.

Similarly, type 1 diabetes and Rheumatoid arthritis primarily are an autoimmune disease. In this condition, the immune system perceives our body cells as a threat instead of an ally and starts an all-out attack. Since our own immune system is working against our body, the chances are high that a deeper connection between Rheumatoid arthritis and arthritis exists which is being explored by experts as we speak.

Managing diabetes and arthritis - the way forward

“Do diabetics get arthritis?” This question has been at the centre stage for decades now. While conclusive proof is still being found, we know one thing that living a healthy life is the best chance to prevent diabetes and arthritis symptoms. So, why not focus on something that we can control instead of worrying about something that we cannot?

Here are some best tips that will answer your question, “How to treat diabetes and arthritis?” or “How to manage diabetes and arthritis?”.

1. Cut down on fatty, greasy, & junk food and switch to healthier options like taking the greens and consuming veggies.
2. Burn the extra fat and shed those additional kilos that are straining your joints.
3. Exercise regularly and stay active physically.
4. Mediate and practice yoga to keep your mind calm and composed.
5. Take supplements such as three60+ Daily Joint Care & Protect tablets to take care of your bone health.

Taking proactive steps towards living a healthy lifestyle will help you manage arthritis and diabetes. Keep consulting your doctor from time to time and take precautions wherever possible.