What Is Type 5 Diabetes: Causes, Early Signs, Remedies, And More

What IsTYPE 5 Diabetes?

Diabetes is more often discussed in terms of Type 1 and Type 2. However, lesser-known types like Type 5 Diabetes, also known as Malnutrition Related Diabetes Mellitus (MRDM)/Severe Insulin Deficient Diabetes (SIDD), are equally significant. In today's times, where undernutrition is a growing public health concern, it is essential to be aware of the health risks associated with it.

Type 5 Diabetes is more likely to occur in individuals who are undernourished, particularly young adults and adolescents in underprivileged areas. It is commonly caused by chronic malnourishment, which affects the development of the pancreas, causing sudden insufficiency of insulin. Unlike Type 2 diabetes, where there is high insulin resistance, MRDM is marked by an absolute deficiency of insulin production, resembling features of Type 1 but without the autoimmune component.

This type of diabetes is estimated to affect 20-25 million people globally, reported in tropical nations like Asia and Africa, where poverty, poor hygiene, and lack of adequate protein intake are the major causes behind its occurrence. Historically, scientists have placed Type 5 diabetes under the umbrella of SIDD (Severe Insulin-Deficient Diabetes), a type of diabetes with poor insulin release, low BMI, and risk for complications such as retinopathy and kidney disease.

Causes OfTYPE 5 Diabetes

The lack of protein-energy during childhood accounts for most of the cases. Micronutrient deficiencies such as zinc, magnesium, and B vitamins are also responsible, as they are responsible for insulin synthesis and glucose metabolism. Poor Sanitation, low birth weight, and food insecurity also contribute. These diabetic patients tend to be underweighted, with a body mass index (BMI) significantly lower than the usual one, further complicating the differentiation of the condition from other types of diabetes.

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Early SignsOf TYPE 5 Diabetes

The early signs of Type 5 diabetes are subtle and can be risky if ignored. Some of the signs include persistent fatigue, unexplained weight loss, excessive thirst, frequent urination, and delayed wound healing. Due to a lack of knowledge and the absence of diagnosis in poor or rural populations, patients arrive late when complications like diabetic retinopathy, neuropathy, or kidney issues have begun to develop.

Remedies ForTYPE 5 Diabetes

An overall holistic approach to treatment is required, not just for controlling blood sugar levels but also to address the root cause of the condition. Nutritional rehabilitation is the pillar, focusing on a protein-rich and calorie-dense diet, alongside multivitamin and mineral supplements. Treatment with insulin is usually required, given the pancreas’s impaired insulin production. Alongside conventional medicine, homeopathy can play a complementary role.

"Homeopathy medicines like Syzygium jambolanum (for preventing excess urination and blood sugar), Phosphoric acid (for controlling fatigue), and Uranium Nitricum (for aiding in the facilitation of the improvement in metabolism) have produced encouraging anecdotal results. These must always be given under the observation of an experienced homeopathic prescriber, depending on individual constitution and symptoms," shared the expert.

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Aside from medicine, exercise, stress reduction, and good sleep can improve sensitivity to insulin and overall quality of life. Yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises are particularly helpful in maintaining emotional and hormonal balance. Essentially, managing Type 5 diabetes involves an integrated, empathetic strategy beyond symptom control to heal, restore homeostasis, and nourish the body at its core level.

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