Diabetes Mellitus
Another condition that may affect the body’s metabolism and lead to rapid weight loss is diabetes mellitus. Diabetes mellitus has two types, type 1 and type 2. They both involve the malfunction of insulin, where type 1 is described as the destruction of insulin-secreting pancreatic islet cells, while type 2 has a genetic predisposition toward insulin resistance. Insulin is vital in regulating blood sugar levels and glucose storage, which the body uses to function properly.
In people with diabetes mellitus type 1, the inability of their cells to use glucose as a source of energy due to the destruction of insulin can trigger reliance on fat stores as the body’s primary energy supply. This can cause an overall decrease in body weight.
In those with diabetes mellitus type 2, the build-up of sugar in the blood can happen due to insulin resistance. When this happens, hyperglycemia can occur, which can damage different organs in the body, such as the kidneys, the heart, blood vessels in the eyes, and peripheral nerves. Therefore, avoiding foods high in simple sugar content is advised. Maintaining a good diet and restricting simple sugars may also contribute to weight loss.
