By ZagrebMed
Diabetes mellitus represents a complex group of metabolic disorders characterized by elevated blood glucose levels, stemming from reduced insulin production, its inefficient use, or a combination of both factors. Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar, enabling cells to absorb glucose and use it as an energy source.

Diabetes significantly impacts an individual's daily life, necessitating systematic self-monitoring and lifestyle adjustments. It is crucial to understand the importance of proper nutrition, monitoring blood sugar levels, and collaborating with healthcare professionals to maintain optimal disease control.

Advancements in research and technology offer new perspectives in diabetes treatment, with promising therapies such as stem cell treatments being explored to enhance patients' quality of life. In the upcoming sections of this blog, we will explore aspects of diabetic nutrition, traditional and innovative treatment methods, and potential complications associated with this condition.

Type 1 Diabetes

Characteristics: Type 1 diabetes, often diagnosed in childhood or adolescence, results from an autoimmune attack on the pancreas's beta cells, which produce insulin.

Treatment: Primary treatment involves regular insulin administration through injections or pumps.

Type 2 Diabetes

Characteristics: The most common form of diabetes, type 2 diabetes usually develops gradually and is associated with genetic factors, excessive weight, and lack of physical activity.

Treatment: It may include oral medications, dietary changes, exercise, and, in some cases, insulin therapy.

Nutrition for Diabetics

Carbohydrate Control: Monitoring carbohydrate intake to maintain stable blood sugar levels. Complex carbohydrates with a low glycemic index are recommended.

Varied Diet: Incorporating various fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limiting saturated fats and sugars.

Regular Meals: Distributing meals evenly throughout the day to avoid sudden sugar spikes.

Treatment Methods

Insulin Therapy (Type 1): Regular insulin administration to compensate for deficient insulin production.

Oral Medications (Type 2): Medications improving insulin sensitivity or reducing glucose production in the liver.

Physical Activity: Regular exercise aids in controlling blood sugar levels.

Innovative Treatment Methods

Stem Cell Treatment:

Stem cells are a special type of cells with the role of replacing dead cells or renewing damaged cells to maintain organ function. Stem cells target damaged or dying cells to remove harm. Daily, about 10 billion cells are replaced in the body with new ones. Aging and diseases weaken the function of stem cells, contributing to disease development or exacerbation. Our health and lifespan depend on how efficiently we replace dead and damaged cells with new ones.

Research is ongoing on potential treatments using stem cells to restore damaged pancreatic beta cells responsible for insulin production. Stem cells have various effects, including healing, reducing inflammation, impacting the immune system, rejuvenation, developing new collagen, creating new blood vessels, among many others. The main role of stem cells is to renew damaged cells and replace dead cells with new ones, directly addressing the causes of all diseases, not just the consequences, as seen in modern medicine.

Dr. Dinko Kaliterna, the founder of Poliderma Clinic, is an innovator in regenerative medicine, particularly in stem cell applications, contributing to advancements in treatments for tissue regeneration.  Dr. Kaliterna has devised a special protocol using infusions to remove Advanced Glycation End-products (AGEs). Additionally, energy-boosting and immune-strengthening infusions are utilized. AGE removal, known as deglycation, is crucial for almost everything related to the prognosis of diabetes and health.

Insulin Pumps and Monitoring Systems:

Improved technologies for precise insulin dosing and real-time sugar level monitoring.

Complications and Diseases Associated with Diabetes:

Heart Diseases: Diabetes increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Cardiovascular disease screenings, including various diagnostic methods, are advisable for heart health assessment.

Eye Damage (Retinopathy): Prolonged uncontrolled sugar levels can damage blood vessels in the eyes.

Kidney Issues (Nephropathy): Diabetes can harm the kidneys, necessitating examination by a nephrologist, a kidney specialist.

Nerve Problems (Neuropathy): Nerve damage, often manifested as pain and tingling. Neurologist appointments are recommended if nerve issues are suspected.

Infections and Poor Wound Healing: Reduced body ability to fight infections and poor wound healing.

Diabetes requires careful management, including proper nutrition, regular blood sugar monitoring, and appropriate treatment. Innovations in treatment, such as stem cell therapy, offer hope for future advancements. Understanding and preventing possible diabetes-related complications is crucial to maintaining a high quality of life for individuals living with this condition.