It is caused in part by prolonged hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and results in dysfunction of one or both tibial nerves and a plantigrade stance (down on the hocks).
Don't go for candy or soda especially, but also if you're just going for fruit and you're just taking in simple sugars, this causes a spike in your blood sugar with a subsequent crash.
They can even be taught to let diabetics like Stephen know that his blood sugar levels are smelling low long before he can feel it and definitely before he passes out.
You run more risk of having high levels of blood sugar, so it's better to choose foods with a low glycemic index and eat five to six small meals a day.
Then there is glucose management, a self-care program designed for people with high blood sugar which will help you manage your condition and improve your overall health.