Am I Diabetic? Symptoms and Health Benefits of Running

Do I have diabetes?

I have graduated from high school for over two years, and my weight is approaching 56 kg.
No matter how I try to lose weight, I can't seem to drop any.
I often feel dry mouth and thirst.
After going to the hospital for a urine test, I was diagnosed with a urinary tract infection and advised to take oral antibiotics and not to hold my urine.
Are these symptoms related to diabetes? Additionally, I jog for half an hour every day.
What are the benefits of this exercise for my body's cells?

Hua Xuan, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/04/07

Dr. Shi Guangzhong reply Internal Medicine

1.
It is common for weight to increase with age, which is related to the decline in our metabolic rate as we get older.
This is why you may have noticed that you could eat anything without gaining weight in the past, but now even a slight increase in food intake leads to weight gain.
Therefore, it is important to develop good lifestyle habits in daily life, such as reducing sugar and oil intake in your diet and exercising regularly.
Exercising for 30 minutes each day is a great habit to maintain.
If you are already exercising diligently but still unable to lose weight, I recommend consulting a nutritionist for dietary advice to find the most suitable eating plan for you.
2.
Dry mouth and urinary tract infections cannot be used to diagnose diabetes; however, individuals with diabetes may experience symptoms such as dry mouth and glucosuria when in a state of hyperglycemia.
If glucose is present in the urinary system, it can promote bacterial growth, leading to urinary tract infections.
Therefore, if you frequently experience urinary tract infections, it is advisable to pay attention to personal hygiene and avoid holding in urine.
You may also consider having a blood test at a metabolic clinic to check for diabetes.

Reply Date: 2006/04/07

More Info

To determine whether you might be diabetic, it’s essential to understand the symptoms and risk factors associated with diabetes. Common symptoms of diabetes include increased thirst, frequent urination, extreme fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing sores. The symptoms you mentioned, such as persistent dry mouth and urinary tract infections, can indeed be related to diabetes, particularly if you are experiencing high blood sugar levels. When blood sugar is elevated, it can lead to increased urination, which in turn can cause dehydration and dry mouth. Additionally, high blood sugar can create an environment conducive to infections, including urinary tract infections.

Given your concerns about weight management and the difficulty you’ve experienced in losing weight, it’s also important to consider that being overweight is a significant risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes. If you have not already done so, I recommend consulting with a healthcare professional who can perform blood tests to check your blood glucose levels. Tests such as fasting blood glucose, oral glucose tolerance test, or HbA1c can provide a clearer picture of your metabolic health and whether you are at risk for diabetes.

Regarding your daily routine of running for half an hour, this is a commendable practice that can have numerous health benefits, especially for someone concerned about diabetes. Regular aerobic exercise, such as running, can improve insulin sensitivity, which helps your body use glucose more effectively. This means that your cells become better at taking in glucose from the bloodstream, thereby lowering blood sugar levels. Additionally, exercise can help with weight management, which is crucial for reducing the risk of diabetes.

Running and other forms of aerobic exercise can also provide several cellular benefits. For instance, it can enhance mitochondrial function, which is vital for energy production in cells. Improved mitochondrial function can lead to better overall energy levels and metabolic health. Furthermore, regular exercise promotes cardiovascular health by improving circulation and reducing blood pressure, which is particularly important for individuals at risk for diabetes.

Moreover, engaging in physical activity can lead to the release of endorphins, which can improve mood and reduce stress levels. This is particularly beneficial if you are dealing with any anxiety or depression, as exercise is known to have positive effects on mental health.

In summary, while your symptoms may suggest a potential risk for diabetes, only a healthcare professional can provide a definitive diagnosis through appropriate testing. Meanwhile, maintaining your running routine is an excellent way to support your overall health and potentially mitigate some of the risks associated with diabetes. It’s also advisable to monitor your diet, focusing on balanced meals that are low in refined sugars and high in fiber, which can further assist in managing blood sugar levels. If you have ongoing concerns, consider reaching out to a healthcare provider for personalized advice and support.

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