Survival Strategies for Diabetic Patients Before Insulin Therapy

Before the discovery and widespread use of insulin therapy in the 1920s, people with diabetes, particularly Type 1, faced significant challenges in managing their condition. Various strategies were employed to help them survive, ranging from strict dietary control to the practice of fasting, and the use of herbal and folk remedies.

Dietary Management

Historically, diabetic patients relied on strict dietary control to manage their blood sugar levels. This often involved a very low-carbohydrate diet, which helped reduce the amount of glucose in the bloodstream. The diets were typically high in fats and proteins and low in carbohydrates. This approach, referred to as ketogenic dieting, aimed to reduce the input of glucose into the body and encourage the body to use fats for energy instead.

Fasting

Some patients would practice fasting or severely limit their food intake to control their symptoms. Fasting could provide temporary relief from hyperglycemia, but it was not a sustainable long-term solution. Fasting sometimes involved complete abstinence from food or drinks other than water for extended periods. While it could offer temporary respite from high blood sugar levels, it posed significant risks for the body, including electrolyte imbalances and malnutrition.

Exercise

Physical activity was encouraged as it helped lower blood sugar levels. Regular exercise could help improve insulin sensitivity and overall metabolic health. Although exercise was not a replacement for insulin, it played a crucial role in managing blood sugar levels. Activities such as walking, cycling, or swimming were common for those striving to maintain better control over their diabetes. However, exercise could be limited due to the risks of hypoglycemia or dehydration.

Monitoring Symptoms

People with diabetes learned to monitor their symptoms closely. They would watch for signs of high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) and low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and adjust their diet and activity levels accordingly. This continuous self-monitoring was essential in managing the condition and preventing severe complications. Precise measurement and frequent testing allowed individuals to make informed decisions about their care.

Herbal and Folk Remedies

Some individuals turned to herbal treatments or folk remedies. These practices were largely unproven and varied widely in effectiveness. Common herbal remedies included extracts of fenugreek, bitter melon, and cinnamon. Folk remedies ranged from fasting during specific lunar phases or abstaining from certain foods to taking natural medicine believed to have beneficial effects on blood sugar levels. Despite the popularity of these remedies, their efficacy and safety were not scientifically validated, and they posed risks of interference with modern medical treatments.

Complications and Limitations

Unfortunately, many individuals with diabetes did not survive long without insulin. The prognosis for Type 1 diabetes was poor, with many patients dying from complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or other related conditions. People with Type 1 diabetes were particularly vulnerable, as their bodies could not produce insulin naturally. Without insulin therapy, these individuals faced a high risk of severe hyperglycemia, leading to life-threatening conditions.

The introduction of insulin therapy in the 1920s revolutionized diabetes management. Insulin therapy significantly improved life expectancy and quality of life for those with diabetes. Today, insulin is a life-saving treatment that allows individuals to manage their condition effectively. The development of insulin has been a milestone in the medical treatment of diabetes, ensuring that patients can lead healthier and more fulfilling lives.

Key Takeaways: - Before insulin, strict diet, fasting, and herbal remedies were common but often ineffective. - Insulin therapy has greatly improved the management and prognosis of diabetes. - Modern medical advancements continue to expand treatment options and improve outcomes for individuals with diabetes.