Fungus and bacteria love diabetes. Because both are able to more thoroughly survive—and thrive, really—in the presence of sugar, diabetes is a wonderful breeding ground, and provides a superb host. This is particularly true if diabetes is largely uncontrolled, as uncontrolled diabetes means more sugar to feast upon and a greater source of food for both fungus and bacteria.

Sugar and Growth

Just as beneficial bacteria require sugar to grow—think kombucha, water kefir, or even sourdough—harmful bacteria must have a source of sugar in order to proliferate. When your body is plagued by regular bouts of high sugar or your gut is constantly filtering high levels of sugar, your bodily systems are not only overtaxed—you become a walking billboard for mold and bacteria to take up residence.

Keeping your blood sugar low is one of the simplest ways to keep fungus at bay. If you cannot keep your sugar low, however, you may need to consider an alternative method of ridding your body of any unwanted inhabitants, or implementing a series of preventative measures.

These issues are not guaranteed to plague men and women with diabetes, but there are signs and symptoms of more serious issues at play. If any of the following signs apply to your condition, you may require the assistance of a medical professional.

#1. Persistent Foot Fungus

Athlete’s Foot and toenail fungus are relatively common maladies. A quick step into a public shower has the potential to spread yeast common to the feet and toes. Both Athlete’s Foot and nail fungus should, however, be fairly easy to treat and overcome. A fungus that lasts months or years should be addressed by a physician, as it could indicate a larger, systemic problem with yeast, fungus, or bacteria.

#2. Frequent Itchy, Red Spots

A lesser-known symptom of fungus overgrowth is skin rashes. Fungus can cause red, scaly, or itchy patches anywhere on the body, but often sticks to areas prone to dampness, such as the feet, between folds of skin, or between joints such as the knees, elbows, and underarms. These may seem like common rashes, but a rash typically reveals a deeper problem within the body, and can indicate a significant overgrowth of yeast or fungus.

#3. Chronic Fatigue

Finally, experiencing an onset of chronic and debilitating fatigue should never go unexplored. It is common to grow tired or weary following grueling workdays, after a great emotional upset, or during times of trouble. If, however, you are struggling to get through the day without falling into bed or dozing each time you sit, your body is telling you something. Overwhelming fatigue can overtax the human body, resulting in chronic fatigue and—potentially—the eventual shutdown of your organs.

Fungus may not seem a terribly alarming foe, but it can be extremely dangerous for diabetics. A doctor should evaluate any prolonged symptoms of overpopulation as soon as possible.