always thirsty

[Frances]

I recently became vegan in the past 2 weeks. Since doing so I am always thirsty. I drink a lot of water, no soda, little coffee and tea. Anyone know what may be going on?

[raven]

Low sodium intake? I get thirsty when I don't have enough salt in my diet....

[JP]

how did you change your diet? what was your diet before and after? Was the change drastic, as in, what are the stuffs you cut out last?

[Gelert]

It could be low levels of electrolytes, such as salt and so on. Make sure that you not only take on board plenty of fluids, but also salt and a healthy balanced diet.

I also suggest seeing your doctor; continual thirst is a symptom of diabetes. Your doctor can eliminate that, and a range or other possible reasons that few people here are qualified to comment on.

[chloe]

are you eating alot more protein than you did previously, that might have something to do with it aswell.

[fredrikw]

a high intake of carbohydrates also means the body needs more water, so if your switch has meant cutting out protein and increasing carbs this could be one reason.

but as Gelert said, seeing a doctor is probably the best thing to do.

[Frances]

I have taken meat (though I didnt really eat that anyways) and all dairy products out of my diet, added more veggies, tofu and daily vitamins. My first thought is too much vitamins. The low sodium thought is interesting. I am type 1 diabetic and my sugars have been good, no ketones.

[Gelert]

I am type 1 diabetic and my sugars have been good, no ketones.

OK, definitely go see your doctor right now. Even if your blood sugar level is OK presently and no signs of ketoacidosis yet, this could be around the corner.

Undertaking any kind of big diet change (even a so-called "good" one like going vegan!) as an insulin-dependent diabetic is something you really need to be in touch with your physician about, to make sure you have good advice on how to do it and monitoring how your body responds closely.


Prevention is better than cure eh




General point: This is part of why internet medical advice sucks - people giving advice have to rely on the broad strokes of what the OP wishes to share, which may not be complete, and may mislead - bluntly put, garbage in, garbage out.

[Catt Queen]

Gelert is right, please see your doc asap.

[Frances]

Thanks guys. Actually I have been in contact with my doc since before I started this. She says this is a very healthy diet, as long as I get my protein (.8g protein/kg body weight). She mentioned it may be I need more water due to high vitamin intake. I will also mention to her the sodium suggestions. Unfortunately I find doctors are not all that informed on many issues, which is why I look for others to keep me informed. My diabetes is well managed and all my blood and urine test are extremely good. The thirst thing isnt ALL the time, seems to be after lunch and later in the day. I was also very hungry all the time when I started this. After talking to other vegans, it seems I was just not eating enough carbs. I have been eating more the past couple days, and now adding salt to my veggies. Also plan to cut out all coffee, stick with tea. I'll keep you informed on how my thirst does. Love the suggestions, thanks!