Diabetes type 2: Four warning signs in your feet that ‘interfere with daily activities’

Type 2 diabetes can be a 'devastating diagnosis' says expert

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Type 2 diabetes affects millions of people in the UK yet the true number of people living with the condition is far higher than the official statistics. That’s because many people currently have the condition without knowing it. Type 2 diabetes does not present acute changes until blood sugar levels rise to a dangerous level.

When blood sugar levels are consistently too high, it can damage the nerves, this often felt first in the extremities.

This process is known as neuropathy and it often starts in the feet.

According to the Mayo Clinic, burning, tingling, weakness or pain in your feet that interferes with daily activities can indicate blood sugar damage.

Other warning signs include:

• Ulcers
• Infections
• Bone and joint pain.

How to reduce the risk of foot problems

Quitting smoking is key to staving off the risk of diabetic foot problems, along with a host of other health problems.

Most people know that smoking isn’t good for you. But when you have diabetes, smoking causes even more problems.

Diabetes UK explains: “Smoking makes it harder for blood circulation, which is when blood moves around your body, including to your feet.”

According to the health body, this puts you at even more of a risk of amputation.

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Keeping your blood sugar within target will also help prevent damage to your feet and can stop things getting worse.

One of the most effective ways to lower your blood sugar levels is to overhaul your diet.

Carbohydrates are broken down into blood glucose faster than other food groups. This can cause blood sugar levels to soar.

To help you avoid the worst culprits, you should refer to the glycaemic index (GI).

The GI is a rating system for foods containing carbohydrates. It shows how quickly each food affects your blood sugar (glucose) level when that food is eaten on its own.

Carbs that are broken down quickly by your body and cause a rapid increase in blood glucose have a high GI rating.

High GI foods include sugar and sugary foods, sugary soft drinks and white bread.

Low or medium GI foods are broken down more slowly and cause a gradual rise in blood sugar levels over time.

They include:

• Some fruit and vegetables
• Pulses
• Whole grain foods, such as porridge oats.

Some low GI foods, such as wholegrain foods, fruit, vegetables, beans and lentils, are foods we should eat as part of a healthy, balanced diet.

“If you only eat foods with a low GI, your diet may be unbalanced and high in fat,” adds the NHS.

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