Published online Jan 26, 2025. doi: 10.12998/wjcc.v13.i3.94389
Revised: September 28, 2024
Accepted: October 21, 2024
Published online: January 26, 2025
Processing time: 238 Days and 16.5 Hours
In this editorial, we have commented on the article that has been published in the recent issue of World Journal of Clinical Cases. The authors have described a case of unilateral thyroid cyst and have opined that the acute onset of infection may be linked to diabetes mellitus (DM). We have focused on the role of nutrition in the association between DM and infection. Patients with DM are at a high risk of infection, which could also be attributed to nutrition-related factors. Nutritional interventions for patients with diabetes are mainly based on a low-calorie diet, which can be achieved by adhering to a low-carbohydrate diet. However, dietary fiber supplementation is recommended to maintain the diversity of the gut microbiota. Furthermore, high-quality protein can prevent the increased risk of infection due to malnutrition. Supplementation of vitamins C, vitamins A, vitamins D, and folic acid improves blood sugar control and facilitates immune regulation. Mineral deficiencies augment the risk of infection, but the relationship with diabetes is mostly U-shaped and a good intake should be maintained.
Core Tip: Nutrition plays a key role in diabetic infections. Reducing the burden of infection via nutrition is required not only from the perspective of treatment but also to reduce expenses. For patients with diabetes, maintaining nutrient balance can effectively reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, thereby alleviating the risk of infection.