DIABETES AND SUDDEN WEIGHT LOSS

In people with diabetes, insufficient insulin prevents the body from getting glucose from the blood into the body’s cells to use as energy.

When this occurs, the body starts burning fat and muscle for energy, causing a reduction in overall body weight.

Unexpected weight loss is often noticed in people prior to a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes but it may also affect people with type 2 diabetes.

WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR

If you have unintentionally lost more than 5% of your normal body weight, or more than 10 lbs (4.5 kg) in 6 – 12 months or less, you should consult your doctor.

They will be able to determine what’s causing the weight loss (e.g. undiagnosed diabetes) and the best way to treat the problem.