The Link Between Diabetes and Hormones

Dealing with type 2 diabetes is no easy task. Many people forget that insulin is actually a hormone, one that is responsible for regulating blood sugar levels. As diabetics learn to deal with fluctuating insulin levels, they often have to deal with other hormonal imbalances as well. The hormonal imbalance caused by issues regulating blood sugar levels is often part of a vicious cycle that may affect or be affected by other hormonal imbalances as well. Stress hormones, thyroid hormones, and growth hormones may become imbalanced, leading to further complications. Many women with PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome) also have diabetes as both conditions are often related to obesity and other related health conditions. For women of childbearing age, these types of hormonal issues can lead to fertility issues. While diet and exercise are always an important part of both preventing and treating diabetes, there is much to be gained by addressing hormonal imbalance as well. Read more…