Recently, new studies have shown that there may be a correlation between people with type 1 diabetes and the health of their intestinal systems. Type 1 diabetes is actually a type of autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system attacks health cells in error. Specifically, the disease targets and destroys insulin producing islet cells. This leaves the body in a position where it is unable to produce enough insulin – the hormone needed to break down sugars from foods into fuel for cells.
The study shows that people with type 1 diabetes are demonstrating changes in their digestive system that are not present in people without type 1 diabetes. These changes include inflammation and the presence of different gut bacteria in the intestines. While there is no positive proof that one leads to the other, it is safe to say they are connected. And thanks to that connection, you should alter your diet to protect your gut health.
Gluten and dairy have already been proven to incite type 1 diabetes, because they are able to introduce allergens into your digestive tract. Certain dairy products have an A1 protein that can cause this allergic reaction. Constantly exposing your body to these allergic reactions can trigger the auto immune disease. This is even the case with pregnant mothers; they have the possibility of triggering this in their unborn children. To maintain good gut health, you should focus on consuming foods that are high in dietary fiber like legumes and leafy green vegetables, while avoiding foods high in starch and glucose.
