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Real members of DiabetesTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A DiabetesTeam Member asked a question 💭
Buffalo, NY

3 years being diagnosed, I’ve kept my A1C in range of 5.9 - 6.1 not in any medication but noticed lately my feet are always cold at night! It’s annoying! Any tips to help with this aside from slippers..? Not sure if something I should worry about

January 8, 2021
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A DiabetesTeam Member

Happy Day Kelly and Monique. I go get the foot cream for diabetics and spend time massaging my feet before putting on socks before bed. I will also do this massaging before I go for a walk. Let me know if that helps.

January 8, 2021
A DiabetesTeam Member

With your A1C that low (either just "at risk" or pre-diabetic depending how your local jurisdiction classifies things) make it quite unlikely that your cold feet are the result of restricted blood vessels etc due to diabetes.

My feet have been like ice blocks my whole life - for decades before I was diagnosed.

Since you have noted this "more recently" has anything in particular changed? Are you less active particularly during the pandemic? That could result in a slowing of your circulation which would lead to colder extremities.

Also, if you are managing your diabetes by reducing carbs that means your body is burning more of the protein you eat as energy (which is usually satisfied by the carbs). While that's a good thing for your blood sugar, it is primarily protein that is fuel for body heat - so if it's being used to feed cells (at least partially) instead, you will have a little less body heat produced.

If you think that may be a possibility you could try increasing your daily protein intake by 10 or 20% and seeing if that helps.

January 8, 2021
A DiabetesTeam Member

Tell your doctor, get some heavy socks that are loose and not binding. Even a warm bath or shower before sleeping is good. Sending positive thoughts your way

January 9, 2021
A DiabetesTeam Member

I wear socks in bed but if I have time a 30 minute walk after dinner gets the blood pumping and my feet warm for bedtime

July 24, 2022
A DiabetesTeam Member

Have a briskvwalk after your dinner in the evening to help your circulation

June 29, 2022

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