Ask the Diabetes Educator Archive

11/18/02

Q:
My 66-year old wife has been diagnosed with Type II diabetes and also has Thalassemia Minor. Will these two diagnoses hinder her following a diabetic regimen?

A:
Thalassemia is a form of anemia due to irregularly shaped hemoglobin cells. This means reduced ability to carry oxygen throughout the body. This is a separate condition from the cells' abilities to uptake glucose from the bloodstream. The two conditions will be treated separately and should not be incompatible with one another. It is very important for your wife to eat nutrient dense foods in addition to some nutrient supplementation. Hopefully, you'll have access to nutritional and lifestyle support.