Foot ulcers are one of the main concerns of diabetics. Around 15 percent of Americans with Type 2 diabetes will have a foot ulcer, and half of those diagnosed with require hospitalization for treatment. Unfortunately, amputation of the limb is a real possibility.
However, a new study shows that doctors may be able to take advantage of a new weapon against diabetic foot ulcers – probiotics.
Troy Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing would like to share this study conducted by Babol University in Iran.
Researchers there studied data from 60 adults from 40 to 85 years of age who had a grade 3 diabetic foot ulcer. Half of the patients were given probiotic capsules and the other half were given a placebo.
After 12 weeks, those who took the probiotics had reductions in ulcer length, width, and depth. Glucose and insulin levels of those who took the probiotics were also better than those assigned to the placebo.
“Probiotics may help to improve inflammatory factors through producing [short chain fatty acids] in the gut and reducing production of hydrogen peroxide radicals,” the researchers wrote.
Of course, prevention is the best course when it comes to diabetic foot ulcers. If you’re at risk, you’ll want to be sure to do the following:
- Wash and inspect your feet daily.
- Wear properly fitted shoes.
- Keep toenails trimmed.
- Keep blood sugar levels under control.
