Do You Have Diabetes? Learn How To Avoid COVID-19

Since the pandemic began, the risk groups that could be seriously affected by the contagion of the new coronavirus have been established. Although the virus as such does not represent a threat in a large proportion since statistically, mortality is low, the truth is that in certain populations or groups there is great danger, especially in those who suffer from heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, lung disease chronic obstructive disease, among others.

Also read: Did you Know that you Could be Immune to COVID-19 Without a Vaccine? Here We Tell you Why

Therefore, the massive contagion forced health entities around the planet to make drastic decisions that we have lived through for more than a year in order to mitigate the impact on that specific niche of people who do have a high probability of death as a result of COVID-19.

However, people with diabetes have more reason to worry and pay attention to their blood sugar levels because if blood sugar control is not managed, the implications of becoming infected with SARS-CoV-2 could be so serious that, according to a study carried out last year by the Lancet magazine, the risk of dying is more than 50%

“It is believed that people with uncontrolled blood sugar levels may be more susceptible to the effects of COVID-19, in part because of the way the virus enters our cells. When someone with diabetes is diagnosed with COVID-19, even if they have mild symptoms and the ability to recover at home, irregular blood sugar patterns have been observed; either drastic increases or decreases, "says Dr. Emily Nosova, a fellow in endocrinology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City.

When you have low glucose levels, this increases your risk of contracting a highly fatal disorder called diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), making it difficult to control fluid intake and electrolyte levels, two important points to avoid sepsis. , that is, the inflammation caused by the coronavirus. On the other hand, when glucose levels are high, this prevents the white blood cells that fight infections in the body from being adequately released and, therefore you are more vulnerable to contagion.

Steps to avoid COVID-19

1. Get vaccinated: Right now the best option is to get vaccinated. This will prevent severe symptoms if the virus is contracted in diabetic people.
2. Biosecurity protocols: Continuing with sanitary measures even when vaccinated is essential. 
3. Physical Activity: This greatly improves inflammatory levels, strengthens the immune system, and offers metabolic compensation for both diabetics and non-diabetics.
4. Food: Maintain a healthy diet and avoid any type of sweet. You should consume fresh fruits, natural yogurt, nuts and hard-boiled eggs.
5. Hydration: Consume at least two liters of water a day to help keep the entire body regulated.
6. Glucometer: It is a good way to monitor blood sugar levels at home and get an idea of the diet management and the care that you should give to the disease in times of pandemic.