The Problem of Elevated Interleukin-6 in T1D

In our bodies, Interleukin-6 (or IL-6), is a cytokine that plays a crucial role in managing inflammation and metabolism. Cytokines are small signaling proteins secreted by the immune system that act as chemical messengers to regulate immunity, inflammation, and blood cell production. The production of IL-6 in short healthy bursts, like during exercise, helps improve insulin sensitivity and promotes T-cell production and tissue repair.

Why this matters

In type 1 diabetics, IL-6 is consistently elevated because the immune system consistently attacks the beta cells in the pancreas. As a result, this immune response creates chronic inflammation in the body. This chronic inflammation not only promotes insulin resistance and fatigue but also accelerates a cascade of age-related disorders in type 1 diabetics.

Disorders like heart and cardiovascular disease, neuropathy, kidney disease, reduced hormone production, Osteoporosis (bone breakdown), Sarcopenia (muscle breakdown), mobility issues, eye disease, infections, anemia, etc. If I were to use a metaphor, chronic inflammation literally "burns or cooks the tissues and organs inside our bodies".

Several studies have also shown IL-6 as being strongly linked to the pathogenesis, activity, and inflammatory response of celiac disease (CD) in T1Ds.

What triggers this

High intake of dietary sugars is a key driver of inflammation, acting as an "accomplice" by triggering the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin-6 (IL-6). Elevated glucose levels (hyperglycemia) stimulate this response through several mechanisms, particularly by inducing oxidative stress and activating innate immune system receptors, such as Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), leading to macrophage activation and the release of inflammatory factors. Basically, anything that causes oxidative stress will cause inflammation in the body. Chronic elevated levels of IL-6 also trigger other cytokines like IL-17 and in a domino effect becomes vicious circle of havoc reaping factors.

Here's a short list of things that can cause inflammation and raise IL-6 in the body.

1. Uncontrolled BG levels that remain above 130 mg/dL (7.2 mmols)

2. Processed foods and beverages high in carbs

3. Poor sleep

4. Excess visceral and subcutaneous body fat

5. Caffeine

6. Alcohol and Smoking

7. Pollution and radiation

8. Mental and Emotional stress

9. Excessive exercise

10. Infections

11. Some artificial sweeteners

How to reduce the impact of IL-6

Although it is not possible to eliminate the excess production of IL-6 altogether due to our condition, it is possible to reduce chronic inflammation.

Tight BG control under 130 mg/dL

Having a HbA1c of at least 126 mg/dL (7 mmol) or lower, and keeping BG levels under 130 mg/dL for as long and as often as possible throughout the day and night. is key to lower IL-6 and avoid early onset age-related diseases. This is one big reason that mimicking a normal BG level to the best of our ability is the name of the game.

Adequate sleep, cortisol and epinephrine from the body.

Many T1Ds have issues with a good night's rest, even when on the pump. However, deep sleep is by far the number 1 go -to source for eliminating oxidative factors like IL-6, cortisol and epinephrine from the body. If this is an issue for you, taking regular naps is the next best thing.

Moderate resistance training

Regular exercise and resistance training promote a heallthy cardiovascular system, better cellular oxygenation,

The net benefits of creating more muscle mass support are enormous when it comes to lowering chronically high levels of IL-6 in the T1D body. better glucose uptake, boosting overall metabolic health, so it’s a balance. While IL-6 has its complexities, the net benefit of more muscle is stronger insulin management and better metabolic resilience in the long run.” Resistance training promotes the muscles to improve glucose uptake and produce hormones called myokines, but also stimulates the release of other hormones like testosterone, growth hormone, and endorphins, which help keep IL-6 in check.

Reduce oxidative stress as much as possible

I know, a modern world free of stress, pollution, radiation, war, social pressures and money problems is impossible and being a T1D is already heavy load on our shoulders. Take it one day at a time. You've got this!

DISCLOSRE

My goal is not to freak or stress T1D degree turn. s out with this information, but to create awareness and amplify our potential towards a more secure and brighter future as T1Ds. Remember, knowledge is power. The more we know about the WHYs, the easier it is for us to master the HOWs. You own your diabetes, it doesn't own you. Skal!