Soaking the feet can dry out the skin. This can worsen the foot problems that people with diabetes experience.
How can Epsom salt be dangerous for those with diabetes? There are several potentials dangers of soaking in Epsom salt for those who have type 2 diabetes. One reason is that Epsom salt can cause a drying effect on the skin. This can therefore cause the skin to crack, and leave the broken skin vulnerable to infection.
For pain, you may soak your feet in an Epsom salt soak, using two tablespoons Epson salt in a large basin of lukewarm water. Soak for 20 minutes (no more) and dry well afterward to prevent moisture from lingering.
Also, don't soak your feet—that can dry your skin. Calluses occur more often and build up faster on the feet of people with diabetes. This is because there are high-pressure areas under the foot. Too much callus may mean that you will need therapeutic shoes and inserts.
Blood sugar regulator: Both the magnesium and sulfate in Epsom salts help the body produce and use insulin better. With regular oral or transdermal Epsom salt intake, your blood sugar can be better regulated, resulting in improved daily energy levels and a lowered risk for diabetes.
Myth: People with diabetes can't cut their own toenails
Not true: the general advice on toenail cutting applies to everyone. If you have diabetes you should keep your nails healthy by cutting them to the shape of the end of your toes.
People sometimes soak their bodies in Epsom salt baths or drink Epsom salt after dissolving it in a glass of water. However, some people should not consume Epsom salt at all. These include those with kidney disease or heart disease, pregnant women, and children.
You can make an Epsom foot bath by adding one cup of Epsom salts to a tub of warm water. Soak your feet in this mixture for around twenty minutes for relief.
Clean feet are a necessity for people with diabetes. Wash your feet every day with warm, but not hot water. Once they are clean, pat them dry with a towel. Make sure to dry the area between your toes, and apply cornstarch or an unscented foot powder.
Don't soak your feet. Dry your feet completely and apply lotion to the top and bottom—but not between your toes, which could lead to infection. Never go barefoot. Always wear shoes and socks or slippers, even inside, to avoid injury.
Epsom salt is a mineral compound with many different uses, but people with diabetes should avoid using it. No form of foot soak is appropriate for individuals with diabetes.
People should still use vinegar with caution, however. It is possible for vinegar to irritate already inflamed skin. Vinegar is also not appropriate for treating wounds on the foot. People who have diabetes should avoid using vinegar for foot problems.
Magnesium appears to help manage blood sugar levels among people with diabetes. Also, those who tend to consume less magnesium typically have poorer blood sugar regulation and a higher risk of type 2 diabetes than people who consume higher amounts ( 2 , 3 , 4 ).
Consider socks made specifically for patients living with diabetes. These socks have extra cushioning, do not have elastic tops, are higher than the ankle and are made from fibers that wick moisture away from the skin. Wear socks to bed. If your feet get cold at night, wear socks.
Diabetic neuropathy is common and can't be reversed. However, you can manage it through a variety of ways. These include: managing blood glucose levels.
Men with diabetes are 3x more likely to have trouble getting or keeping an erection. There can be several reasons for this, such as limited blood flow, nerve damage (neuropathy) and damaged blood vessels. It can also be down to medication or just how you're feeling at the time.
Warning Signs of Diabetic Foot Problems
Increase swelling of legs or feet. Change of skin color. Burning or tingling sensation. Lack of feeling in the feet.
When used as a soak, Epsom salt is generally considered safe. If you've never had an Epsom salt bath, consider testing a patch of skin with magnesium sulfate and water first. Avoid submerging broken skin in an Epsom salt bath.
Lowers Blood Pressure
Did you know that the magnesium found in Epsom salts can lead to reduced blood pressure and a slowed heart rate? If you suffer from high blood pressure, soaking in healing Epsom salts may be helpful in lowering your blood pressure and even in improving your heart health.
For most people with diabetes, fruits — including bananas — are a healthy choice. However, some people who are following low carb diets need to watch their total carbohydrate intake to stay within their daily carb allotment. This means foods higher in carbs, including bananas, have to be limited on low carb diets.
Medicare will cover the treatment of corns, calluses, and toenails once every 61 days in persons having certain systemic conditions. Examples of such conditions include: Diabetes with peripheral arterial disease, peripheral arterial disease, peripheral neuropathy, and chronic phlebitis.
Do not eat white bread, chips, and pastries, which quickly increase blood sugar. Avoid processed foods and meats as they will be rich in salt and oil. Restrict fried and fatty foods. Do not take full fat dairy products.