Staff | Diabetes Textbook

Should People with Diabetes Wear Flip Flops?

When it comes to footwear, people with diabetes need to be particularly cautious. Diabetes can cause nerve damage, known as neuropathy, which can lead to a loss of sensation in the feet. This makes it more difficult for individuals to detect injuries or irritations, increasing the risk of complications like foot ulcers and infections. Given these risks, the question arises: should people with diabetes wear flip flops?

Risks Associated with Flip Flops

Flip flops are a popular choice for warm weather due to their comfort and ease (eg Archies). However, they offer little to no protection for the feet. For people with diabetes, this lack of protection can pose significant risks:

Increased risk of injury: Flip flops provide minimal coverage, leaving the feet vulnerable to cuts, scrapes, and other injuries. For someone with diabetes, even a small cut can become a serious issue if not properly cared for.
Exposure to foreign objects: Flip flops do not protect the feet from sharp objects, hot surfaces, or other hazards that could cause injury.
Poor foot support: Flip flops often lack the arch support and stability that people with diabetes need to prevent foot problems like plantar fasciitis or other structural issues.
Increased risk of infection: If an injury occurs while wearing flip flops, the risk of infection is higher due to the open nature of the footwear.

Considerations for People with Diabetes

Given the potential risks, it’s essential for people with diabetes to carefully consider their footwear choices. While flip flops might be comfortable and convenient, they may not be the best option for everyday wear, especially in situations where the feet are more prone to injury.

Alternatives to Flip Flops

For people with diabetes, it’s often recommended to opt for shoes that provide better protection and support. Some alternatives to flip flops include:

Closed-toe shoes: Shoes that cover the entire foot can protect against injuries and provide better support.
Orthotic shoes: Custom orthotics or shoes designed for people with diabetes can offer additional support and protection.
Therapeutic footwear: Specialized footwear designed for people with diabetes can help prevent foot complications and promote healing.

While flip flops might be a comfortable choice for some, people with diabetes should approach wearing them with caution. The risks associated with flip flops, such as increased vulnerability to injury and infection, make them a less-than-ideal choice for everyday wear. Instead, individuals with diabetes should prioritize footwear that offers protection, support, and comfort to help prevent complications and maintain foot health. Consulting with a healthcare provider or podiatrist can provide personalized guidance on the best footwear options for managing diabetes-related foot issues.

DASH Diet Modified for Diabetes Lowers Blood Sugar Levels in Clinical Trial

A recent clinical trial led by researchers at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found that a modified version of the DASH diet, called DASH4D, is effective in lowering blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. The DASH4D diet is similar to the original DASH diet but is lower in carbohydrates and higher in unsaturated fats, with reduced potassium levels to improve safety for individuals with chronic kidney disease.

The study, published in Nature Medicine, involved 89 participants with type 2 diabetes who ate prepared meals at a clinical research center for 20 weeks. The results showed that when participants consumed the DASH4D diet, they had a clinically meaningful reduction in average blood glucose level and an increase in average time spent with blood glucose in the recommended range compared to when they consumed a standard diet.

Specifically, the study found that:

Participants on the DASH4D diet had blood sugar levels that were on average 11 mg/dL lower than when eating the standard diet.
Participants on the DASH4D diet stayed in the optimal blood glucose range for an extra 75 minutes a day.
Larger improvements were seen in participants who had higher blood glucose levels at the start of the trial, with those with HbA1c above 8% experiencing an increase in time in the optimal blood glucose range by about three hours per day.

The researchers hope that the results will lead to incorporating the DASH4D diet into clinical guidelines and improving type 2 diabetes management in the broader population. The study’s findings suggest that the DASH4D diet can be a sustainable and effective approach to managing type 2 diabetes, with potential benefits for population health.

Skin Care of the Foot in Those with Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic condition that can have a significant impact on the health of the feet. Individuals with diabetes are at increased risk of developing foot complications, including ulcers, infections, and amputations. Proper skin care of the foot is essential for preventing these complications and maintaining overall foot health.

Phase 3 study supports use of canagliflozin for type 2 diabetes in children and adolescents

A recent phase 3 clinical trial published in Annals of Internal Medicine supports the use of canagliflozin for treating type 2 diabetes in children and adolescents. The study involved 171 participants aged 10-18 years with inadequate glycemic control, who received either oral canagliflozin or a placebo for 52 weeks.

Latest Cures for Chilblains in Diabetes

Chilblains, also known as perniosis, are a common condition characterized by inflammation of small blood vessels in response to cold temperatures. People with diabetes are particularly susceptible to chilblains due to impaired blood circulation and neuropathy. Effective treatment of chilblains in individuals with diabetes requires a comprehensive approach that addresses both the symptoms and underlying causes.