Introduction: Diabetes is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases globally, with far-reaching and widespread effects. The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies diabetes into various types based on its causes and clinical presentations for more accurate diagnosis and treatment. These types include Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 diabetes, gestational diabetes (GDM), and special types of diabetes.
Type 1 diabetes, also known as insulin-dependent diabetes, is primarily caused by a significant decrease or absence of pancreatic β-cells. It is an autoimmune disease where the patient’s immune system mistakenly attacks pancreatic β-cells, leading to insufficient insulin secretion. Insulin is a key hormone for regulating blood sugar levels, and its deficiency results in sustained high blood sugar levels, triggering diabetes. As Type 1 diabetes progresses, patients often need insulin injections or insulin pumps to sustain life because their bodies cannot produce enough insulin. Over the past century, treatment options for Type 1 diabetes have been relatively limited, mainly relying on insulin injections to control blood sugar levels.
In our country, the prevalence of diabetes remains high. According to the latest data released by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), the global adult diabetes population has surged to a staggering 537 million in 2021, with China alone having 140 million diabetic patients, accounting for 26.2% of the global total. This massive number underscores the severe challenges China faces in diabetes prevention and control.
Among these patients, the majority have Type 2 diabetes. According to statistics from Frost & Sullivan in 2019, Type 2 diabetes accounts for 96% of the total number of diabetes patients. Type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease resulting from the combined effects of insulin resistance and impaired pancreatic β-cell function. Unlike Type 1 diabetes, patients with Type 2 diabetes have not completely lost pancreatic β-cell function, but their secretion capacity is insufficient to meet the body’s insulin needs. Therefore, Type 2 diabetes patients may initially control their blood sugar levels through oral medications and lifestyle changes, but as the disease progresses, they may also require insulin therapy.
The Lancet: Developing diabetes before the age of 30 shortens life by 14 years
Early-onset diabetes specifically refers to diabetes diagnosed before the age of 40. Epidemiological survey data reveals that among diabetic patients already seeking medical care, the prevalence of early-onset Type 2 diabetes is approximately between 10% and 15%. While this proportion may not be high, considering its significant impact on patients’ quality of life and life expectancy, its harmfulness should not be overlooked. Early-onset Type 2 diabetes patients often exhibit a series of more unfavorable health indicators compared to older diabetic patients. They typically have a higher body mass index (BMI), indicating a higher likelihood of obesity. Additionally, they often have higher blood pressure, which is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
Moreover, these patients may also experience elevated concentrations of atherosclerosis-related lipid levels, further increasing their risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. More alarmingly, their blood glucose control often rapidly deteriorates, making them more susceptible to diabetic complications. The combined effect of these adverse factors places early-onset Type 2 diabetes patients at a higher risk of premature death. To provide a more intuitive demonstration of this risk, a study published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology offers compelling data support. The study found that individuals diagnosed with diabetes at the ages of 30, 40, and 50 will experience a reduction in life expectancy by approximately 14, 10, and 6 years, respectively. This data is shocking and once again highlights the severe impact of early-onset diabetes on life expectancy.
Poor blood sugar control can cause what harm to the body?
Causing bodily damage
Under long-term high blood sugar conditions, our blood vessels, especially the microvasculature, can be severely damaged, leading to diabetic retinopathy, kidney disease, and neuropathy. In terms of vision, high blood sugar can damage the microvasculature of the retina, causing blurred vision and even blindness. Concerning the kidneys, high blood sugar can lead to glomerulosclerosis, gradual loss of kidney function, and eventual progression to uremia. In the nervous system, high blood sugar can impair peripheral nerves, causing numbness, pain, and even loss of sensation.
Affecting the cardiovascular system
Diabetes increases the risk of atherosclerosis, narrowing blood vessels, affecting blood supply to the heart and brain, thereby increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Additionally, high blood sugar disrupts lipid metabolism, further exacerbating the atherosclerosis process.
Impact on daily life
In addition to these serious complications, high blood sugar also affects our daily lives. It can lead to physical fatigue, mental lethargy, affecting work efficiency and quality of life. Moreover, since high blood sugar can compromise the body’s immune system, it makes us more susceptible to infections such as respiratory infections and urinary tract infections.
Is it Unwise to Eat Eggs with Diabetes?
When discussing dietary management for diabetic patients, we often encounter various questions regarding food choices, with the statement ‘Diabetics should not eat eggs’ being particularly concerning. After in-depth research and medical practice, we can provide a clear answer to this statement: Diabetic patients can actually eat eggs, but certain details need attention. Eggs, as a common food ingredient, have significant nutritional value that should not be overlooked. They contain rich high-quality proteins, various vitamins, and minerals, all of which are crucial for maintaining normal bodily functions.
For diabetic patients, protein is an essential component for the body tissue design and repair. Vitamins and minerals also play a role in maintaining normal metabolic functions. Therefore, moderate consumption of eggs is beneficial for diabetic patients. For diabetic patients, eggs not only can be eaten but can also provide certain benefits:
High-quality protein source
The protein in eggs is considered high-quality, with amino acid composition similar to what the body needs, making it easy for the body to absorb and utilize.
Low glycemic index
Eggs have a relatively low glycemic index (GI), meaning they do not rapidly increase blood sugar levels like some high-sugar foods. This is good news for diabetic patients, as they need to avoid significant blood sugar fluctuations.
Provide essential nutrients
Eggs are rich in various vitamins and minerals, such as vitamins A, D, E, B12, iron, zinc, etc. These nutrients are crucial for the health of diabetic patients and help maintain normal physiological functions.
Multiple studies have shown that moderate egg consumption by diabetic patients has no significant effect on blood sugar levels. For instance, a study published in the American Journal of Nutrition found that eating an egg per day does not cause an increase in blood sugar levels in diabetic patients. Another long-term study also found no significant differences in blood sugar and lipid measurements between diabetic patients who consumed eggs and those who did not. These studies provide robust scientific evidence for diabetic patients to consume eggs.
In conclusion, diabetic patients can eat eggs, but attention should be paid to controlling the intake amount and cooking method. Moderate egg consumption can provide necessary nutritional support for diabetic patients while helping control blood sugar levels. However, for patients with comorbidities, adjustments to the dietary plan under medical guidance are necessary to ensure overall health.
