DIABETES: How to Take Care of Your Skin When You Have Diabetes

Joy Pape writes:

"Your skin is the largest organ of your body. Rather than just thinking of your skin as something of beauty, think of the beauty of how it protects you. Feet usually get most of the attention when it comes to diabetes and skincare. But you need to think about all of your skin, not just your feet. Here are some basics of skin protection to keep your skin healthy. 

Your Goal 

Your goal is to keep your skin intact. Think maintenance rather than repair. Look at and inspect all of your body daily. Get to know your skin so you’ll be able to see any changes right away. If there is a change, think about what may have caused it. For example, if your skin is drier than normal, is your blood sugar high? High blood sugar can cause dry skin. Discuss any changes with your healthcare team. 

Your Aim 

Aim to keep your blood sugar levels as close to normal as possible. High blood sugar levels not only cause you to lose fluids but affect your nerves and circulation, which also involves your skin integrity and healing. 

Drink Water 

Moisturize from the inside out by eating healthy foods and drinking plenty of fluids, especially water. Staying hydrated keeps your skin soft and supple, and is also important for general health and other bodily functions. 

Moisturize 

You really can’t add moisture to your skin from the outside, but you can and do lose moisture from your skin. You should use moisturizers and creams to lock the moisture in. However, remember that while moisturizing is good, wet is not. Skin exposed to too much moisture from soaking in water can break down. Keep skin clean, dry, and protected with moisture barriers. 

Pressure and Friction 

Pressure- and friction-relieving devices should be used by people who are immobile or have lost some of their feelings. These devices — such as pressure-reducing mattresses, beds, and wheelchairs — help relieve pressure sores. These sores are injuries to your skin caused by pressure and/or friction. The first sign of a pressure sore is a red area on the skin that turns into a sore or blister. 

Sunscreen 

Protect your skin from the sun by wearing sunscreen. Choose a product with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 15 or higher. Cover all skin that is exposed to the sun. For best results, apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside, and reapply every 2 hours and after swimming. Some of your medicine may make you more sensitive to the sun. 

Protect Your Feet with Socks 

You may have lost some of the protective quality of your nerves, so it’s important to protect your skin from extremes of temperature. Avoid heating pads, hot water bottles, electric blankets, hot baths, or soaks. Use your elbow to check the water temperature before you shower or take a bath. You can use a bath thermometer to make sure the water temp is no more than 92°F. In the cold weather, wear warm clothes to match the weather, including gloves and warm socks that fit. 

Mind Your Feet 

Know and follow preventive foot care guidelines. Check your feet daily for cuts, sores, blisters, or other signs of injury. Apply lotion for dry skin on your feet after you have washed and dried them. Get your toenails clipped regularly. And avoid walking anywhere barefoot. Taking care of your skin is part of good diabetes management. Learn more about great skin and how to keep it healthy here."

Words above from article here

You may be interested in reading 'Introduction to low-carb for beginners', find it here

Dear reader, you will find a variety of articles and recipe ideas within this blog. Please note, not all may be suitable for you. If you may have any food allergies, or underlying health issues these must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e. use your meter. 

All the best Jan