Am I at Risk for Diabetes? Symptoms and Dietary Habits

Am I at risk for diabetes?

I am 179 cm tall and weigh 54 kg.
Since I contracted pneumonia at the age of 12, I have been experiencing irritable bowel syndrome and fatigue.
No matter what I eat, I can't gain weight.
After a car accident at 14, I began to show symptoms of traumatic brain injury (TBI), which led me to rely on sugary drinks.
I used to drink a large cup of sweet tea (700 cc) daily; if I didn't, I would feel weak and have headaches.
My meals are quite light: for breakfast, I usually have a slice of bread or a small piece of cake; for lunch, I eat white rice with chicken breast and a large amount of vegetables and tofu; dinner is similar.
Occasionally, I eat a banana.
I consume about two cups of sugary drinks daily, totaling around 62 grams of sugar.
About three years ago, my weight dropped to 49 kg, and I had blood tests done at a metabolic clinic, which showed everything was normal.
During a hot summer, I drank a lot of McDonald's beverages, which brought my weight back up to 60 kg, but when I stopped drinking them, my weight dropped back to 51 kg.
Since last year, I have developed a habit of drinking sweet tea in the morning and evening, with about 32 mg of sugar per cup.
I would like to ask the doctor if my eating habits put me at risk for diabetes.
Additionally, I have recently noticed that drinking very sweet sports drinks improves my energy levels, but without them, I revert to a state of fatigue.

Niming, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/12/06

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, the risk of diabetes is very complex and includes factors such as body composition and genetics, which cannot be generalized.
However, it is recommended to reduce the intake of sugary beverages and increase physical activity, as these measures can indeed lower the risk.
Additionally, regular blood glucose testing is advisable as it can serve as a useful reference.
Thank you for your question.

Reply Date: 2020/12/06

More Info

Based on the information you've provided, it appears that you have several factors that could potentially influence your risk for developing diabetes, particularly Type 2 diabetes. Let's break down the relevant aspects of your situation, including your symptoms, dietary habits, and lifestyle factors.

Understanding Your Risk Factors
1. Family History: While you did not mention a direct family history of diabetes, it is important to note that genetics can play a significant role in the risk of developing diabetes. If you have relatives with diabetes, it may increase your risk.

2. Body Weight and BMI: Your height is 179 cm and your weight is 54 kg, which gives you a Body Mass Index (BMI) of approximately 16.8. This is considered underweight. Generally, being underweight is not a direct risk factor for diabetes; however, it can indicate underlying health issues that may affect your metabolism and overall health.

3. Dietary Habits: Your diet consists of light meals, primarily including chicken breast, rice, and vegetables, which is generally healthy. However, your consumption of sweetened beverages, particularly those high in sugar, can be a concern. Regular intake of high-sugar drinks can lead to insulin resistance over time, which is a precursor to Type 2 diabetes.
4. Symptoms of Fatigue and Low Energy: You mentioned experiencing fatigue and a reliance on sweetened drinks to feel energized. This could indicate fluctuations in your blood sugar levels. Consuming high-sugar beverages can lead to spikes and subsequent drops in blood sugar, which may explain your feelings of fatigue when not consuming these drinks.

5. Gastrointestinal Issues: Your history of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and the impact of a traumatic brain injury (TBI) could also affect your overall health and dietary habits. Stress and digestive issues can influence your eating patterns and how your body metabolizes food.

Recommendations for Managing Your Risk
1. Monitor Your Blood Sugar Levels: Given your symptoms and dietary habits, it would be wise to have regular check-ups that include blood glucose testing. This will help you understand how your body is responding to your diet and lifestyle.

2. Balanced Diet: While your meals are generally healthy, consider reducing your intake of sweetened beverages. Opt for water, herbal teas, or other low-calorie drinks instead. Incorporating more whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, and fiber-rich foods can help stabilize your blood sugar levels.

3. Regular Physical Activity: Engaging in regular physical activity can improve insulin sensitivity and help manage your weight. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.

4. Stress Management: Since you mentioned feeling fatigued and relying on sweet drinks for energy, consider incorporating stress management techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or meditation. These practices can help improve your overall well-being and may positively impact your energy levels.

5. Consult a Healthcare Professional: Given your complex medical history, including IBS and TBI, it would be beneficial to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a registered dietitian or an endocrinologist. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific health needs.

Conclusion
In summary, while your current weight and dietary habits may not directly indicate a high risk for diabetes, your reliance on sweetened beverages and symptoms of fatigue warrant attention. By making some dietary adjustments, increasing physical activity, and monitoring your health, you can take proactive steps to manage your risk for diabetes. Regular consultations with healthcare professionals will also provide you with the necessary support and guidance tailored to your unique situation.

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