World Diabetes Day – Everything You Need to Know About Diabetes

Feeling hungry even after a hearty meal, exhausted despite a nap, or struggling with a nagging foot injury that won’t heal? If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s time to consider that the culprit could be diabetes mellitus. This 14th November, on 'World Diabetes Day', take the opportunity to get your facts about this condition straight. Here’s everything you need to know!

1. Diabetes Mellitus?

The term Diabetes Mellitus isn’t a spell from Harry Potter; it’s the scientific name for diabetes. It originates from the words "diabetes," meaning "honey," and "mellitus," meaning "flow," because the condition was once believed to result in an excess flow of honey or sugar in the blood. This metabolic disorder impairs the body’s ability to produce or use insulin effectively.

2. What is insulin and why is it so important?

Good question! In simple terms, insulin acts as the key that unlocks sugar (glucose) from the food we eat, allowing the body to convert it into energy. When insulin is at optimal levels, it ensures blood sugar levels stay balanced, neither too high (hyperglycemia) nor too low (hypoglycemia).

3. What are the types of diabetes?

Type 1 Diabetes (Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus): Usually occurs at a younger age and requires external insulin. Also known as Juvenile Diabetes.

Type 2 Diabetes (Non-Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus): Common in middle-aged individuals, with obesity being a major contributing factor.

Gestational Diabetes: Occurs during pregnancy and is typically temporary.

4. Does it run in your blood?

Diabetes often runs in families. Besides genetic predisposition, an inactive lifestyle and an unhealthy diet are major contributors. Studies show a strong link between obesity and the risk of developing diabetes in both men and women.

Also Read: Children's Day Special : Make Food Fun for Fussy Kids

5. What are the complications it causes?

Diabetes can affect multiple organs in the body. High blood sugar levels increase the risk of:

• Heart disease
• Kidney problems
• Nerve damage (leading to loss of sensation in hands and feet)
• Vision impairment
• High blood pressure

6. Are diabetes and weight related?

The risk of developing diabetes increases with weight gain. Regular exercise is a powerful tool to combat diabetes, as it enhances the body’s ability to utilize insulin effectively. For obese individuals with diabetes, weight loss is essential for managing the condition.

7. What should a diabetic eat?

A balanced, controlled diet is key for diabetics. While you don’t need to obsess over every bite, planning meals rich in protein and complex carbs but low in fat is crucial.

8. Top 3 food ingredients?

• Fenugreek Seeds (Methi Dana): High in soluble fiber and trigonelline, fenugreek seeds help regulate blood sugar. Soak them overnight and eat them on an empty stomach, or add them to dosa batter, chapati dough, or salads.
• Bitter Gourd (Karela): Though not the tastiest, karela is highly effective in lowering blood sugar levels. Consume it as juice or in stir-fries.
• Guar Gum (Cluster Beans or Gavar): A rich source of fiber and glyconutrients, guar gum has a low glycemic index, aiding in blood sugar control.

Other excellent options include whole grains, oats, ragi, pulses like chana dal and soybeans, and leafy greens such as methi, spinach, and amaranth.

9. What should be avoided?

Avoid foods with a high glycemic index that cause blood sugar spikes, such as:

• Sugar, jaggery, and sugarcane juice
• Processed foods and beverages
• Potatoes, sago, and other starchy tubers
• Refined flour
• Cream, cheese, mayonnaise, and alcohol

10. Can you get rid of diabetes completely?

While reversing diabetes is challenging, it’s not impossible. Type 2 diabetes can often be managed and, in some cases, reversed with a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise.

Looking for diabetic-friendly recipes? Check out a variety of guilt-free options on SanjeevKapoor.com. Start your journey to better health today!