Diabetes has been around since ancient times, but in the 1800s, it was a much more serious and life-threatening condition than it is today. In the 1800s, diabetes was known as “The Sugar Sickness,” and it was one of the most feared illnesses of the time. People had no idea what caused diabetes or how to treat it. As a result, people often resorted to extreme measures in their attempts to deal with the condition.
Treatments and Remedies
In the 1800s, most of the treatments and remedies for diabetes were based on superstition and folklore. Some of the common treatments included bathing in wine, drinking herbs and potions, and even drinking the blood of a black cat! Other treatments included smoking tobacco, rubbing sulfuric acid on the skin, and drinking a concoction made of burnt toast, sugar, and vinegar. Unfortunately, none of these treatments were effective, and most of them were actually very dangerous.
Diet
In the 1800s, the only effective way to treat diabetes was with diet and exercise. People were advised to avoid sweet foods, as well as sugary drinks. They were also advised to eat a balanced diet that included plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Exercise was also important, as it could help to reduce the symptoms of diabetes.
Insulin
By the late 1800s, scientists had begun to understand the connection between diabetes and insulin. They discovered that insulin was necessary for the body to process glucose. In 1921, researchers Frederick Banting and Charles Best successfully isolated insulin from animal pancreases. This marked the beginning of a new era in diabetes treatment, as insulin therapy became available to those suffering from the condition.
Conclusion
In the 1800s, people had very limited options for treating diabetes. Most of the remedies and treatments were based on superstition and folklore, and none of them were effective. The only effective way to treat diabetes in the 1800s was through diet and exercise. Fortunately, in 1921, insulin therapy became available, which revolutionized the treatment of diabetes and made it possible for people to live longer, healthier lives.