Highlights
- Diabetes affects the body's ability to use or produce insulin
- Type-2 diabetes is most common
- A tailor-made diet can help manage the condition better
Diabetes mellitus is a condition wherein a person is not able to either produce enough insulin or the body is unable to utilize it properly. The global burden of diabetes is currently on a rising trend making India the diabetes capital of the world. According to the official figures released by the World Health Organisation, the "number of people with diabetes rose from 108 million in 1980 to a whopping 422 million in the year 2014". India accounts for nearly 62 million diabetics which is expected to rise to 100 million by 2030.
Type-2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes with obesity as one of the major perpetrators of the condition. Type-2 diabetes can have many repercussions on health, some of the most recently published studies have established a link between type-2 diabetes and cognitive issues. Hypoglycemia, wherein the blood glucose level drops severely low, may trigger cognitive dysfunction and memory troubles in people with type-2 diabetes. It is therefore suggested to manage the condition well and ensure healthy blood glucose levels.
Diabetes management entails making dietary choices that would help control the condition and improve the quality of life. Generally, diabetics are directed to opt for food items that would help regulate their blood sugar level. Refined and processed food items, high fibre foods and sugar laden products are all off limit for people suffering from diabetes.
The diet
Ideally, if you suffer from diabetes, close to 40-60 percent of your daily calories must be derived from carbohydrates, "20 percent should come from proteins and 30 percent or less from fats," noted S.V. Madhu, Research Society for the Study of Diabetes in India (RSSDI). Foods that are low on glycemic load are your best bet.
Managing diabetes
A host of previously published studies established a link between a larger breakfast and better management of diabetes. "High energy intake at breakfast is associated with significant reduction in overall post-meal glucose levels in diabetic patients over the entire day," said Professor Daniela Jakubowicz from Tel Aviv University in Israel.
Superfoods for diabetes
While timely medication, regular checkups and a tailor-made diet can help manage the condition better, adding spurts of diabetes-friendly foods may go a long way in making you feel healthier. Take a look at the list of below, these everyday ingredients are loaded with essential nutrients and are beneficial for diabetics.
Turmeric
This potent spice is known to regulate pancreatic functions and balance insulin level in the body. It also helps in managing blood sugar levels.
Methi seeds
Fenugreek seeds have long been touted for the miraculous health benefits. Soak some seeds overnight and have the water on empty stomach to reap maximum benefits.
Bitter Gourd
Karela finds a dedicated spot in the list of food items that are extremely beneficial for health. Raw bitter gourd juice, consumed on empty stomach, is one of the most recommended herbal remedies for a host of ailments. Team it with a bit of amla and lemon to turn it into an immunity boosting elixir.
Nuts and seeds
Powerhouse of omega 3 and antioxidants, a handful of nuts will not only give your body a much needed energy boost but will also help in tackling diabetes induced inflammation in the body, elevated blood sugar levels and high cholesterol.
Get in touch with a certified medical practitioner to learn more about diabetes and how diet and various ingredients can be incorporated in your meals to provide maximum health benefits.
Inputs from IANS