A new study offers another kernel of truth for those who want to prevent diabetes. Researchers have uncovered a hidden cause of higher blood glucose levels and it is no friend of ours. We know it as “Helicobacter pylori” (“H. pylori”).
The piece of health news shows that the presence of “H. pylori” bacteria is linked with higher levels of “glycosylated hemoglobin” (HbA1c) — an important marker for blood glucose levels and diabetes. This link was stronger in obese individuals with a higher Body Mass Index (BMI). It suggests that the common bacteria may play a role in the development of diabetes in adults.
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“H. pylori” infection of the stomach can lead to gastric and duodenal ulcers. This nasty bacteria is also associated with an increased risk of stomach cancer. Treatment for this type of bacteria is usually antibiotics, before it causes more major problems.
Type II diabetes leads to nearly four million adult deaths around the world. There have been conflicting reports about the association between “H. pylori” infection and type II diabetes. To better understand this connection, researchers analyzed data from two national surveys. They found that “H. pylori” were positively related to HbA1c levels in adults; meaning they had a direct link to your blood glucose levels.
This link was strongest in obese individuals. The idea is that “H. pylori” could affect two stomach hormones that help regulate blood glucose. They even suggest that not using antibiotics in some obese people could be beneficial. That way, society could better eradicate “H. pylori.”
Experts say that adults infected with “H. pylori” who have higher BMI levels may need anti-“H. pylori” therapy to control or prevent type II diabetes. This could, once confirmed by more studies, have huge implications on public health and antibacterial treatment in clinics.
“H. pylori” chronically inflames the inner lining of the stomach. It is the world’s most common cause of ulcers. People get it mostly by eating food and beverages that are contaminated. Three out of 10 Americans will be infected at some point in their lives, half of them by the age of 60. Treatment is needed, because otherwise you can carry the infection indefinitely. One out of six people who are infected end up with ulcers on the duodenum or stomach. Its link with cancer is known and being studied as we speak.