National Diabetes Month is observed every November. This month can help many health and government agencies spread awareness and better understanding of the disease. An article in Food Safety News, said that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration is taking this opportunity to remind people about what diabetes is and how important is safe food handling in this kind of disease.
Diabetes is the kind of disease that can affect the organs in the body. People who live with this disease have a higher risk of being infected with foodborne illnesses. And because their immune system is not that strong, once they are affected it will take longer for them to recover, be hospitalized and worse case would be for them to die.
People affected by this disease have a very weak immune system and might not recognize the harmful bacteria. Because of this slow process, the foreign invasion makes the person with diabetes in a higher risk of infection. Diabetes may also damage the cells that make stomach acids and the nerves that make the intestines move and because of the damage, the food and beverage stay longer in the stomach which gives the bacteria and pathogens time to grow. Kidneys are usually affected as well and might not be functioning properly; this may hold harmful bacteria and toxins in the body.
There are some food that have a higher risk for people with diabetes because many are aware that it might contain harmful bacteria like uncooked fruits and vegetables, some animal products like raw meat. Experts suggest that if you are a diabetic or preparing food for someone who is diabetic you must take note of the following: Clean, Separate, Cook and Chill. This procedure may be really helpful to prevent harmful bacteria and viruses to affect diabetics.
In any case that any family member has foodborne illness even when they are not diabetic you should contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible.