Is Feeling Thirsty A Sign For Diabetes? Know How To Spot The Red Flags And Manage It Naturally (Image Credits: iStock)
If you find yourself constantly reaching for water and still feeling thirsty, it might be more than just dehydration—it could be a sign of diabetes. Excessive thirst is one of the most common symptoms associated with diabetes, where the body struggles to control blood sugar levels. In diabetes, excess sugar in the bloodstream forces the kidneys to work harder to filter and remove it, which also increases the body's water loss, leading to persistent thirst.
We got in touch with Dr Paras Aggarwal, Clinical Director and Head of Diabetes Obesity and Metabolic Disorders, Marengo Asia Hospital Gurugram who explains that diabetes-related thirst often comes with other symptoms, including frequent urination, dry mouth, fatigue, and even unexplained weight loss. But why does this happen? Let’s check!
Why Does Diabetes Cause Excessive Thirst?
Dr Aggarwal shares that in diabetes, the body struggles to regulate blood sugar levels. When blood sugar levels rise, the kidneys work overtime to filter out excess glucose, which leads to frequent urination. This increased urine output causes dehydration, triggering a feeling of constant thirst as the body tries to replace lost fluids.
Several signs can indicate that your thirst may be related to diabetes:
- Frequent Urination: If you find yourself urinating more often than usual, particularly at night, it may indicate high blood sugar as the body attempts to flush out excess glucose.
- Dry Mouth and Eyes: High blood sugar levels can reduce saliva and tear production, causing dry mouth and eyes.
- Fatigue and Irritability: Persistent fatigue and irritability can accompany diabetes-related thirst as the body’s energy balance is disrupted.
- Unexplained Weight Loss: Rapid, unexplained weight loss despite increased fluid intake can be a sign of diabetes and should prompt a blood sugar check.
Natural Ways to Manage Diabetes-Induced Thirst
While only a health expert can diagnose diabetes, natural strategies can help ease thirst and stabilise blood sugar levels:
1. Stay Hydrated with Water and Herbal Teas
- Water is the most effective way to stay hydrated without impacting blood sugar.
- Herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint are also beneficial, as they hydrate without adding sugar to the diet.
2. Add Fibre-Rich Foods to Your Diet
- Fibre helps slow the absorption of sugars in the bloodstream, promoting more stable blood sugar levels. Foods like whole grains, leafy greens, chia seeds, and oats are excellent sources.
3. Limit Sugary and Processed Foods
- Reducing processed and sugary foods is crucial for managing blood sugar levels, which in turn can help control thirst. Opt for natural sweeteners like stevia if you crave sweetness.
4. Use Fenugreek Seeds for Blood Sugar Support
- Fenugreek seeds can improve glucose tolerance, aiding blood sugar management. Soak the seeds overnight, drink the water in the morning, or incorporate them into meals for added benefit.
5. Engage in Regular Physical Activity
- Daily exercise, even low-intensity activities like walking, cycling, or yoga, improves insulin sensitivity and helps regulate blood sugar levels. This reduces the risk of dehydration and excessive thirst.
6. Consider Cinnamon for Blood Sugar Balance
- Cinnamon has been shown to increase insulin sensitivity, helping to stabilize blood sugar levels over time. Try adding it to oatmeal, herbal teas, or smoothies.
7. Prioritise Stress Management and Quality Sleep
- Both stress and poor sleep can negatively impact blood sugar control. Practising stress-reducing techniques such as meditation or deep breathing and aiming for 7–8 hours of sleep can support better blood sugar levels and reduce thirst.
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