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Dietician ASMA JAN
Diabetes mellitus, commonly known as diabetes, is a chronic medical condition characterized by elevated levels of blood glucose (sugar). This happens either because the body cannot produce enough insulin or because the cells do not respond properly to the insulin that is produced. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood sugar.
The theme for World Diabetes Day 2023 is ‘Access to diabetes care’. Diabetes is often referred to as a “silent disease” because it can progress for years without noticeable symptoms. Many individuals may remain unaware of their condition until complications arise. This silent progression is particularly concerning as untreated diabetes can lead to severe health issues, including heart disease, kidney failure, blindness, and nerve damage.
In the context of Kashmir, diabetes has become a growing health concern. The unique socio-cultural factors in the region contribute to lifestyle changes that predispose individuals to diabetes. Urbanization, sedentary lifestyles, and dietary shifts towards high-calorie, low-nutrient foods are prevalent, increasing the risk of diabetes. Additionally, genetic factors may also play a role in the higher incidence of diabetes in certain populations.
As of now, diabetes is considered a chronic condition with no definitive cure. However, it can be effectively managed through lifestyle modifications, medications, and sometimes insulin therapy. Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and managing stress can significantly impact the progression and management of diabetes. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial in preventing complications.
Some general tips for persons having diabetes.(not with any other issue like kidney disease etc)
1.Both quality and quantity of food in a diabetic patients is important.
2. Diabetic diet is a healthy diet in moderate amounts.
3. you should know what, when and how to eat.
4. You should take high fibre, protein in good quantity, low carbohydrates and low fat.
5. Always check your blood sugar
6. Keep your blood sugar in control in order to prevent further complications like kidney issue, eye and heart problems etc.
5. Some best foods for diabetes are
Fatty fish
Green leafy vegetables
Meethi seeds
Eggs
Fibre like isabgol
Chia seeds, flaxseeds, basil seeds
Garlic
Beans
Nuts like walnut almond
Avoid sugar, cake, pastries, fatty foods, organ meat, junk, wazwan, restrict salt
Sample menu:
Early morning: luke warm water with 4-5 soaked and peeled almonds.
5-20 mins walk(indoor during winters)
Breakfast: plain oats or roti veg
Egg -1no.
Tea
Mid-morning: fruit : orange/papaya/apple
Lunch: before meals salads/soup/plain water/meethi seeds water
veg in good quantity
fish/dal
curd
rice very less
4pm tea with roti
7pm dinner: same as lunch
Curd can be avoided and rice can be replaced with besan roti.
Walk 5-10mins
Oil: 1-2 tsp/d
Sprinkle isabgol over curd
Asma Jan is leading clinical Dietician of Kashmir Valley
