Erythrocyte sorbitol dehydrogenase activity in diabetic patients.

An increased polyol-pathway activity is implicated in the pathogenesis of some diabetic complications. Little is known about the sorbitol-dehydrogenase (SDH) activity in diabetic patients, although cataract is described in diabetes as well as in SDH deficiency. Therefore, we studied SDH activity and the relation with complications and with sorbitol accumulation in erythrocytes from 96 type 1 diabetics and 29 age- and sex-matched healthy subjects.

Effects of metformin on haemorheology, lipid parameters and insulin resistance in insulin-dependent diabetic patients (IDDM).

We have evaluated the effect of metformin on haemorheology, lipid levels and insulin resistance in insulin-dependent diabetic patients over a 6-week period. Rheological parameters remained unaltered except for the whole blood clogging rate which decreased significantly. No effect on lipid levels was seen.

Effect of omega-3 fatty acids in diet of type I diabetic subjects on lipid values and hemorheological parameters.

Twelve type I (insulin-dependent) diabetic subjects in stable metabolic control for at least 3 mo received a controlled diet containing 50% carbohydrate, 35% fat, and 15% protein. Calorie intake varied from 1800 to 2200 calories, depending on individual needs. Part of the polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acids (omega 6FAs) were isocalorically exchanged with omega 3FAs (2.

Blood rheology during an intensified conventional insulin treatment (ICIT) in insulin-dependent diabetes.

Fifteen insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) patients with minor diabetic complications underwent an intensified conventional insulin treatment (ICIT) program consisting of multiple daily insulin injections with an insulin pen. Blood viscosity parameters were measured before the start, after 6 weeks, 1 and 2 years with a Contraves LS30 viscosimeter. At the start several rheological parameters were disturbed in the diabetic subjects.

Effect of oral antidiabetic drug withdrawal in type 2 diabetes.

Oral hypoglycaemic agents were withdrawn in 22 Type 2 diabetic patients to establish whether long-term use of these products is really necessary. Discontinuation of the drugs resulted in significant increases of HbA1 (8.1 +/- 1.