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Diabetes & the Importance of Hydration

The National Institutes of Health define diabetes as a metabolism disorder. Hydration is important to diabetics as water in the blood stream helps transport glucose, the body's main energy source, to cells.

  1. Types of diabetes

    • There are three types of diabetes: type 1, type 2, and gestational. Types 1 and 2 are most common, and included in their symptoms is frequent urination, which can cause dehydration.

    Exercise

    • According to PreventionPT, exercise lowers glucose levels, particularly aerobic exercises. Lower glucose levels mean it is unnecessary for diabetics to administer insulin shots as often with regular exercise, making it beneficial to them. During exercise, hydration is necessary to keep the body's fluid level balanced.

    Blood/Glucose Levels

    • High glucose levels can cause dehydration. Dr. Richard Bernstein says that when there is not enough water in the body, it takes water from the bloodstream. Less water in the bloodstream means less efficiency in getting glucose and insulin to cells, which means higher blood sugar levels. Hydration, therefore, is necessary in regulating glucose intake.

    High Blood Sugar

    • Dr. Bernstein says dehydration in diabetics is a vicious cycle. Because it prevents glucose from getting to cells, it causes blood sugar levels to rise. Bernstein says that when blood sugar is high, urination occurs more often, which in turn worsens the dehydration.

    Types of Fluids

    • When hydrating, it is important to drink water instead of sugary drinks, as these kinds of beverages can affect blood/glucose levels.

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