For all those who think they don’t need to bother with this blog as they don’t have diabetes, think twice! You could be one of the whopping 77.2 million people in India suffering from pre-diabetes! Can’t believe us? Don’t know what we are talking about?
As compared to a healthy person who has less than 100mg/dl as their blood glucose level, a person is said to be suffering from diabetes, where the fasting blood glucose level is above 126 mg/dl.
One is said to be pre-diabetic or have pre-diabetes only when the blood glucose level or the blood sugar levels are higher than usual. However, the blood glucose levels are not as high as those considered for a diabetic.
But if your blood glucose level is between the two, you fit into the category of pre-diabetics. It is like the body’s warning bell to say that if a considerable change isn’t brought into the lifestyle and health condition, you run the risk of becoming a diabetic!
Dealing with diabetes can be cumbersome and time-consuming, especially since it is a chronic disease and you are stuck with it for a lifetime. However, the results of complying with the medical dos and don’ts are rewarding and can help in controlling diabetes. Sticking to around-the-clock diabetes care can help you manage severe and at times fatal consequences.
Here are a few things people suffering from diabetes need to keep in mind to enjoy a healthy life with few complications:
It is advised that you consult your physician or a dietician and have a diet plan chalked out as soon as you find out you are pre-diabetic. You should stick to the diet with dedication. Make sure you get all your doubts on diabetes cleared as to what is okay on cheat days and what is a complete no-no. Knowing about sugar substitutes and their effects on the body will leave you in a better position to decide whether you want to opt for those or not.
Most drugs that are prescribed for diabetes react with other medications and can lead to life-threatening consequences. Always consult a physician before popping any pills and make sure to inform you have diabetes when you go for any other check-up or treatment.
Also, more than one medicine at a time to keep diabetes in check can lead to an increased risk of hypoglycaemia.
A physician must be periodically consulted for ABC check-ups for better management and prevention of diabetes.
A1C test- It is a blood test that measures your blood sugar level on an average over a period of three months. It is different from the daily blood tests that you take. An A1C test needs to be done 2-3 times a year.
Blood Pressure- Blood pressure can harm your blood vessels as much as diabetes can. High blood pressure can have a harmful effect on your eyes, kidneys and can cause a stroke or a heart attack. Please take note, checking blood pressure levels and ensuring they are within the limit is very important for a diabetic patient.
Cholesterol- High cholesterol and diabetes is a terrible combination to have together, as the damage is much faster and worse. Along with diabetes and cholesterol, the diabetic patient is exposed to the risk of heart attack and stroke. To alleviate such conditions, one needs to exercise, teach good eating habits and work at maintaining their cholesterol levels.
Eyes are also very likely to be affected by diabetes. Diabetes patients are at the risk of premature cataracts, glaucoma and even losing their vision. They must visit their ophthalmologist regularly and get their eyes tested for any issues or retinal damage.
Read More: How Diabetes Affects the Eyes?
Diabetes is vicious as it leaves diabetic patients susceptible to a host of diseases as it weakens the immune system. Hence, timely vaccinations and insulin intake, along with regularly scheduled check-ups, must be done without fail. One must ask their doctor about flu shots, Hepatitis B vaccines, and even pneumonia.
The feet of a diabetic person is prone to nerve damage due to decreased flow of blood and can also lead to pain, tingling or loss of sensation of the feet. Wounds, cuts and blisters can cause severe infections.
”More than 30% of the newly diagnosed diabetics are smokers.” Quitting smoking reduces the risk of getting diabetes and health complications, as smoking makes one more susceptible to high cholesterol levels, oscillating blood sugar levels, kidney disorders leading to dialysis nerve damage from diabetes foot ulcers and amputation of toes. Alcohol consumption can cause fluctuations in the blood glucose levels, leading to rising when consumed and then a drop after a short span of time. Although, drinking a moderate amount of alcohol with food doesn’t have a significant effect on the blood sugar level. Read more about the relationship between smoking & diabetes.
The most common complications that arise from diabetes, include:
To sum up, diabetes is a chronic condition, the patient’s daily efforts play a big role in managing it. This can be done by strictly following treatment plans or choosing healthy lifestyles. As the condition develops an unexpected or unfamiliar aspect, medical professionals may need to consult and intervene every now and then. Regular follow-ups, screenings, and easy access to healthcare professionals are essential elements of managing diabetes and minimizing complications.
Also Read: Diabetic Foot: Understanding Its Causes and Research-Based Strategies to Reduce the risk
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. It becomes more so for diabetics who have to keep the blood sugar levels on an even keel. A wholesome breakfast ensures high energy levels throughout the day. It stops you from binging on calorie-rich junk food mid-morning. Even if you wake up with high sugar levels, do not skip breakfast. These days, foods that have a low glycemic index are a good option.
Glycemic index (GI) is a value used to measure how quickly certain foods increase your blood sugar levels. Foods with a low GI are digested and absorbed slowly, as a result of which the rise in your blood sugar levels is smaller and slower. You can refer to the Glycemic Index Food Chart to find out the GIs of various foods, and introduce changes in your diet accordingly. There are also a whole lot of diabetic-friendly alternatives that can be used in healthy recipes for diabetes. Furthermore, you may also refer to the Diabetes Food Chart and prepare a perfect Diabetes Diet Plan with the help of your dietician.
Now, let’s take a look at some of the best diabetes-friendly breakfast ideas.
Nothing beats smoothies when it comes to easy-peasy, filling breakfasts. Blend your favourite fruits like banana or strawberries, low-fat yoghurt, some oats with nuts and some ice. For the adventurous, there are whole lots of flavours like ginger and cinnamon that can be added. This is your quickest, healthiest breakfast that can be had on the go.
Oats is the superfood for diabetics. Fibre-rich, high in nutritional value and with a low glycemic index, Oats can be eaten boiled with milk and with vegetables. Oats dosas, idlis and pancakes work well with the Indian palate. Eating them regularly has known to decrease insulin resistance in diabetics.
Read More: 13 Health Benefits Oatmeal
Eggs are one of the best breakfast options. Rich in protein and other nutrients, they cook quickly and can be made in many avatars. Egg white omelettes with lots of vegetables, scrambled eggs, plain boiled and frittatas are great choices.
In my opinion, increase your fibre intake by adding spinach, kale, or avocado to a smoothie, along with some oats or seeds like chia or flax. According to studies, fibre, particularly the fibre found in cereals, may lessen the absorption of glucose and aid in the regulation of blood sugar levels. Fibre may also help regulate cholesterol levels and lower the risk of heart disease and cardiovascular disease.
Dr. Siddharth Gupta, MD
Nothing can kick start the day like a bowl of freshly cut fruits. Apples, bananas, citrus, papaya and other fruits can be relished with some chopped nuts. You get your daily dose of fibre, good fats from the nuts and a sweet start to the day without a blood sugar spike- a win-win on all counts. Avoid fruit juices as they lack fibre and are full of carbohydrates.
Read More: 1o Low Gi Fruits for Diabetes
The Indian palate cannot do without some carbohydrates. To keep your sugar levels in control, eat idlis made from wheat and Rava, ragi or oats. Have with your favourite chutney. By replacing the rice with wheat and rava you don’t have to worry about your blog sugar levels.
While dosa is considered a light breakfast, you can make yours with oats, ragi or green moong dal to reduce the starch content. Add lots of vegetables as filling and eat with chutneys of your choice.
Who can deny the benefits of a wholesome salad? Add your vegetables of choice like cucumbers, tomatoes, cabbage, lettuce, onions and others, add some quinoa or cottage cheese, drizzle with some olive oil, lemon juice, season and gorge on this in the morning for a good, filling meal.
Researchers have found that oatmeal’s high fibre content may aid in controlling blood sugar levels. In my opinion, add fruit and nuts as garnishes for sweetness and added protein. Oatmeal should be combined with either water or low-fat milk for better health outcomes.
Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS
The north Indian plate is used to either parathas or rotis for breakfast. Instead of wheat rotis, try out bajra rotis, Missi roti or ragi rotis as they are healthier. Couple these with a bowl of yoghurt or curry for a wholesome meal.
Apart from these, there are several Indian breakfasts for diabetics ideas that you can create by mixing and matching the above foods. A healthy breakfast for diabetics does not need to be boring and bland, it just needs to have a low sugar content and a low glycemic index. Something simple as Greek yoghurt with some berries of your choice can be refreshing and yummy. Alternatively, you can add multigrain breads into your diet and top it with avocado or some similar healthy spreads. And while most readymade breakfast cereals are overloaded with sugar and carbs, there are plenty of whole grain, diabetic-friendly options on the market. As always, it is very important to speak with your doctor and nutrition specialist before you make any changes to your diet. Your doctor may have additional instructions which you should follow to ensure you do not cause a spike in your blood sugar levels.
Also Read: 4 Best Foods for Diabetics
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
Having diabetes doesn’t mean you cannot satisfy your sugar cravings. Sometimes you just need desserts, especially when some sugar can raise your spirits. With simple swaps and easy daily adjustments, you can consume desserts without increasing your blood sugar level. How? You need to control your daily sugar intake by thinking creatively about your food choices.
Foods rich in carbohydrates contain some form of sugar, fibres and starch. To digest sugar, our body breaks it down to glucose. This glucose is then transported to body cells to produce energy. This ”transporter” is called Insulin – it moves glucose from the blood to body cells.
However, if you have diabetes, you do not have sufficient insulin. This increases glucose in the blood. Excess insulin can cause serious problems like heart disease, vision problems, kidney disease and stroke.
But there is a catch. The amount of sugar you are consuming depends on the amount and type of carbohydrates you are eating. Most sweets, cakes, candies and cookies have a high level of added sugars and unsaturated/unhealthy fats. Such foods can spike your blood sugar level. This is why you must avoid foods with extra sugar, unhealthy fats and high levels of sodium.
According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), diabetics can consume sweets in a controlled way along with a well-balanced diet. Keep your body weight in check and regulate your everyday sugar intake. Regularly check your blood sugar level.
You cannot cut out sugar from your diet completely. If you do so, it would increase your cravings. So, plan a healthy diet and treat yourself with sweets intermittently.
Here’s how you can regulate daily sugar consumption without setting off alarms:
A healthier portion of sweets and desserts for diabetics can be a part of a balanced diet, even for people with diabetes. But you must keep an eye on your daily sugar and meal carbohydrate intake. If you are having trouble controlling your daily sugar intake or have any doubts regarding it, consult a health care professional and a registered dietitian.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
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Diabetes is a chronic condition that primarily affects your blood sugar levels. If left untreated, it may affect your heart, kidneys, vision and much more.
When you are newly diagnosed with diabetes, your physician may prescribe you one or more types of treatment to manage your blood sugar levels and reduce your complications. You can help yourself with simple lifestyle and diet modifications.
Further, your doctor may also provide you with a care plan for diabetes mellitus.
Knowing that you have diabetes may feel overwhelming and you may not know what to do next. The following ideas can help:
1. Understand What is Diabetes and How to Manage It
The good news is that complications from diabetes can be prevented or delayed when handled correctly. All in all, diabetes is all about managing and monitoring blood sugar levels.
2. Lifestyle Changes for Diabetes
Managing diabetes is about maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a healthy diet, exercise and weight management.
Seek the help of experts like an endocrinologist, diabetes educator and other health specialists to develop the skills to manage your diabetes. Some of the healthy behaviours are:
A person with diabetes mustn’t skip any meals, especially when on medication.
3. Medication for Diabetes
Depending on your medical history and blood sugar levels, your physician may prescribe single or multiple medications to maintain your blood sugar in a healthy range.
One must continue these medications as instructed by their doctor and adopt a healthy lifestyle and diet. If in doubt, always discuss medication options with your diabetologist and they can help you understand the possible risks and advantages associated with them.
4. Blood Sugar Monitoring
Keep a glucometer or blood sugar monitor to check your blood glucose levels at home. Extreme sugar levels can cause health complications. Hence, it is essential to monitor and maintain your blood sugar levels in the target range.
5. Maintain Records
Tracking, recording and maintaining your blood sugar levels, diet plan, medications, prescription and other various reports will help you and your diabetologist understand or recognise patterns in blood sugar fluctuations if any. It is essential to maintain a health journal with details, such as meals, sugar levels and exercise regimen.
Keeping the prescription in the doctor’s file makes it easy for the physician to check your history.
Moreover, keeping records helps the physician determine the progress or regress you have made. It can help the doctor in titrating your treatment plan.
6. Find Support
Knowing that others can relate with you as they have the same problems as you have is comforting. You can share your concerns with people going through the same and get ideas on what has helped them.
You can find support and guidance by joining organisations, forums or groups.
Also Read: What is Milk Thistle Good For? Exploring its Research-Backed Benefits
Getting diagnosed with a new disease may be challenging to accept and handle. Hence, it is essential to understand the severity of the disease and implement the changes advised by the healthcare professional.
The critical aspect of managing diabetes is making lifestyle changes and following them to maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Talking to the experts and following their instructions will surely help you.
It is always beneficial to talk to people going through the same issue as it helps you prepare and prevent complications that may arise due to a misstep.
Also Read: “Diet Alert: Foods To Avoid While Taking Metformin”
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
If you are battling diabetes and wish to know about the best diet for diabetes, we have news for you. A vegetarian diet is healthier for diabetes. Research shows that there is a 35% lower risk of developing diabetes if you stick to a vegetarian diet. And those who adopt a vegetarian diet after being a non-vegetarian show a 53% lower risk of developing diabetes than their fellow non-vegetarians.
Food plays a significant role in managing diabetes mellitus. By opting for a vegetarian diabetic diet, you can lead a healthy life and gain maximum health benefits.
A plant-based diet for diabetes is the best. A plant-based diet includes fruits, vegetables, pulses, nuts and seeds. A plant-based diet helps lower the risk of developing chronic diseases like diabetes mellitus, hypertension and cancer.
Plant-based foods are rich in fibre, folate, antioxidants and phytochemicals that boost your health.
Dietary management of diabetes mellitus is the best way to manage diabetes. You can eat all plant-based foods but in moderation. Eating healthy for maintaining your blood sugar levels involves controlling your portion size and fulfilling your nutritional requirements.
The followings foods are to be included in your vegetarian diet for diabetes:
There are countless health benefits of a vegetarian diabetic diet. It is good for your heart as it helps lower cholesterol and LDL levels. A plant-based diet lowers your blood pressure levels and reduces the risk of a stroke and a heart attack.
Here’s a list of health benefits of a vegetarian diet for diabetes:
Plant-based foods or whole foods are rich in fibre content. This helps in the slow absorption of sugars into the blood and helps regulate your blood sugar levels.
Plant-based foods are lower in calories and higher in fibre. This increases their satiety value, thereby making you feel full for a longer time. Your daily intake of calories reduces, which helps you lose weight.
Most animal-based foods contain saturated fat. When you consume a vegetarian diet for diabetes, you consume less saturated fats, thereby reducing your risk of heart diseases and diabetes.
Dietary management of diabetes revolves around plant-based foods for regulating blood sugar levels. A healthy balanced diet is the best diet for diabetes. If you are planning to get on the vegetarian diet for diabetes, you need to be mindful of the following aspects:
A. Consume a limited amount of carbohydrates with each meal. Distribute your carb intake evenly throughout the day.
B. Include a wide variety of plant-based foods in your diet to meet your daily nutritional needs.
C. Your daily diet should consist of a limited amount of carbohydrates, a portion of lean protein and healthy fat in every meal.
D. Monitor your blood sugar levels daily while you are on the vegetarian diabetic diet.
E. Include plenty of vegetables in your diet to improve your fibre intake.
Here are three tips for newbies who wish to start their vegetarian diabetic diet:
1. Portion control for carbs
Most diabetics replace meat with extra carbohydrate-rich foods. This can lead to weight gain and high blood sugar levels.
Try to include carbs rich in fibre to stabilise your blood sugar levels and feel full for a longer time.
Carbohydrates rich in fibre content are:
2. Plant-based proteins
It’s a myth that you can get your proteins only from animal sources. Your dietary protein requirements can be met through a vegetarian diet as well.
Include the following foods for a protein-rich vegetarian diet for diabetes:
3. Healthy fats
By swapping to the vegetarian diet for diabetes, you ensure a huge shift in the dietary management of diabetes mellitus. Avoiding animal products helps keep saturated fats out of your diet. Plant-based foods are rich in heart-healthy fats like omega 3 and omega 6, which help maintain heart health.
Include these healthy fats in your diet:
Focus on eating a healthy, balanced, nutritious meal that contains plant-based foods. This is the crux of your vegetarian diet for diabetes. Incorporate nuts and seeds as a part of your mid-day snack or snack on some veggie sticks with hummus. This helps maintain your blood sugar levels and is essential in the dietary management of diabetes mellitus.
Also Read: Is Honey Good for Diabetes? Unveiling the Research Behind the Sweet Remedy
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
You may think that diabetes means you need to get used to boring, bland food. But this exciting dessert is changing the game for diabetics. With a blend of crunchy nuts, soft cooked oats and a balanced flavour, this Apple & Chia pudding style dessert is just what you need. Say goodbye to dull dishes and hello to healthy desserts!
INGREDIENTS (serves 4)
â— 2 tbsps generous tablespoons whole chia seeds (about 30g)
â— 1 medium-sized Apple (100gms) – peeled and diced small\
â— 2 tbsp rolled oats
â— 2 – 3 tbsp water to cook oats
â— 150ml almond or any non-dairy milk
â— Mixed nuts – 2 raisins + 2 almonds + 2 walnuts – chopped finely
â— 2 dates – deseeded and chopped finely
â— Vanilla essence (organic) – 2 drops
â— Berries – 2 – 3 for garnishing
INSTRUCTIONS
â— Rinse the chia seeds thoroughly in a sieve. Add to a deep bowl.
â— Pour in the almond milk, vanilla essence – 1 drop, and 1 date. Cover the bowl in cling film and put it in the fridge for an hour or so.
â— Now prepare oats by cooking them in a small pot with sufficient water to just cook about 2 – 3 tbsp.
â— Once cooked, turn off the flame and add chopped nuts, finely chopped apple, 1 date and 1 drop of vanilla essence to cooked oats. Let it sit for 15 – 20 mins in the fridge.
â— After an hour, both the chia seeds mix and oats mix will be ready with flavours muddled up.
To assemble –
â— Take a short glass or a bowl. Add the soaked chia seeds mixture which must be now swollen after an hour.
â— Take about 3 tbsps of the chia mix and place it at the bottom of the glass.
â— Then add the oats, nuts and apple mix.
â— Garnish with chopped berries to add natural colour.
The addition of oats and apples helps to increase the natural fibre content in this dish. Higher fibre means slower digestion, which in turn protects you from spiking your blood sugar. The added flavours provide that classic dessert impression without the negative health effects.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
A nice Ragi Dosa and some piping hot Carrot Poriyal are sure to make your day. Let’s see how you can make them.
Ingredients:
Method:
Step 1: Take ragi flour and besan (gram flour) in a mixing bowl or pan. You can even use rice flour or chickpea flour instead of besan.
Step 2: Add finely chopped onions, finely chopped ginger, chopped curry leaves, chopped green chillies, chopped coriander leaves, asafoetida, cumin seeds, grated coconut and salt as per taste.
Step 3: Add buttermilk and 1.5 cups of water. To make the buttermilk, stir briskly ¼ cup curd with ¼ cup water.
Step 4: Mix very well with a thin batter.
Step 5: Cover and let the batter rest for 15 to 20 minutes.
Step 6: Heat a hot Tawa and sprinkle it with some water.
Step 7: Give the batter a good mix and pour it on the pan with a ladle.
Step 8: Cook it till crisp.
Ingredients:
Method:
Step 1: Soak moong dal in water for 10 minutes, drain and keep it aside.
Step 2: Put grated coconut, green chillies, cumin seeds and 1 tsp water in a grinder.
Step 3: Heat oil in a pan and put mustard seeds and hear them sizzle. Add the urad daal next.
Step 4: Add curry leaves, dry red chilly and curry leaves next.
Step 5: Next, pour the rinsed moong daal and add turmeric and finely chopped carrots and stir.
Step 6: Add 1/3 cup of water and salt to taste and let it cook.
Step 7: Add the ground coconut paste next, mix well and cook on a low flame for a minute.
Step 8: Serve hot with a side of ragi dosa.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
If you are ready to make certain dietary and lifestyle changes while battling diabetes, there are many questions that may pop up in your mind. Following are a few commonly asked questions by a diabetic:
Q1: What foods should I eat and avoid if I have diabetes?
Ans: Soft drinks, fried and junk food, canned juices, ice creams, tea and coffee with sugar, sweets should be avoided. Whole grains, brown rice, fresh vegetables, fresh fruits, beans, meat (not deep-fried), eggs, low-fat dairy products are good to eat.
Q2: What is the best thing for a diabetic to eat before bed?
Ans: Nuts, boiled eggs, fresh salads, sugar-free yoghurt, apple and roasted chickpeas are good snacks to have before bed.
Q3: Are bananas good for diabetes?
Ans: If had in a moderate amount and at proper intervals, bananas are good for diabetes. It’s rich in fibre and has vitamin B6, C and minerals. It can help in reducing spikes in blood sugar levels.
Also Read: 10 Low GI Fruits for Diabetics
Q4: Are potatoes bad for diabetics?
Ans: Potatoes are rich in carbohydrates which means they can raise blood sugar levels. However, eating a small portion of potatoes is fine.
Studies have revelaed that due to their high antioxidant content and starch-digesting enzymes, green, leafy vegetables have been discovered to be beneficial for patients with diabetes. Infact, kale juice may assist persons with subclinical hypertension lower their blood pressure and control their blood sugar levels.
Dr. Siddharth Gupta, MD
Also Read: Desserts For Diabetics: An Expert’s Guide To Enjoying Sweet Treats Safely
Q5: What is the best breakfast for a diabetic to eat?
Ans: Sprouts, besan chilla, boiled eggs, oats and quinoa can be the best breakfast for diabetics.
Q6: Can I have chocolates with diabetes?
Ans: A small amount of chocolate can be consumed by diabetics. Dark chocolate is the best option. Read more about the health benefits of dark chocolate.
Q7: Do lemons lower blood sugar?
Ans: Lemons are very good for diabetics. Lemons have a low glycemic index and help regulate blood sugar levels. They prevent sudden spikes in blood sugar levels.
Q8: Is ginger good for diabetes?
Ans: Yes, ginger increases the absorption of glucose into muscles, this helps in managing blood sugar levels. They also help regulate insulin production.
Also Read: 5 Diet Tips for Diabetes Management
Q9: Can drinking a lot of water lower your blood sugar?
Ans: High blood sugar increases the risk of dehydration. So, drinking water helps to rehydrate the blood and this helps the body to remove excess sugar through urine. Water per cent doesn’t change your blood sugar levels.
To my knowledge, chia seeds are frequently referred to be a superfood due to their high antioxidant and omega-3 content. Additionally, they are a rich source of fibre and plant-based protein. Studies have revealed that patients with type 2 diabetes who were overweight lost more weight after six months when they ate chia seeds compared to people who ate an oat bran substitute. Therefore, chia seeds may aid in the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS
Q10: Can I lead a normal life with diabetes?
Ans: Yes, with some changes in lifestyle and regular medications, a person can lead a normal life.
Also Read: How to Control Diabetes?
For more detailed information on diabetes, click here!
Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.
422 million people worldwide suffer from a very serious condition i.e Diabetes. So, here are some frequently asked questions by a diabetic that can help you or your loved ones!
Q1: Why is my blood sugar high in the morning?
Ans: Insulin is responsible for maintaining normal blood sugar. In diabetics, either insulin is not produced or it doesn’t show a 100% effect. In the morning, hormones like glucagon and GH (they increase blood sugar) are high which results in higher sugar levels.
Q2: How do you feel when your blood sugar is too high?
Ans: An increase in the frequency of urine, increased thirst, rise in fatigue, body ache, weight loss are all symptoms of high blood sugar.
Q3: Does hot or cold weather affect blood sugar levels?
Ans: Weather does affect the blood sugar levels but not significantly. Slightly higher sugar levels are observed in cold weather conditions.
Q4: Do I need to take medications even on the days that I feel fine?
Ans: Yes, you should. Skipping your medicines will cause fluctuations in your blood sugar levels which will eventually lead to complications. Furthermore, inform your doctor if you have any history of allergy to medicines (if experienced in the past).
Q5: Can changing medications help in faster recovery?
Ans: While uncontrolled levels warrant a change in medications, changing medications won’t lead to faster recovery if your blood sugar levels are under control.
Q6: Why is diabetes becoming a problem in our country?
Ans: A change in dietary habits (consumption of junk food, fried food, fast food) and sedentary lifestyle has resulted in an increased risk of diabetes in India.
Also Read: “Diet Alert: Foods To Avoid While Taking Metformin”
Q7: Can a person without symptoms have diabetes?
Ans: Yes. It’s quite common to have no symptoms, especially in early diabetes. A lot of cases of diabetes are accidentally diagnosed on routine testing.
Q8: Is diabetes more common among men or women?
Ans: The incidence in men is more as compared to women. However, the risk of complications is more in women.
Also Read: 8 Early Symptoms of Diabetes in Men
Q9: Can I control diabetes without medication?
Ans: In cases where sugar levels are mildly increased, dietary and lifestyle modifications can maintain a normal sugar level without any need for medication.
Read More: 10 Home Remedies for Diabetes
Q10: Can diabetics fast for 3 days or more?
Ans: Fasting for more than 24 hours in diabetics can be dangerous especially when taking medication while fasting. It can lead to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Also, eating after a couple of days of fasting can cause hyperglycemia (high blood sugar).
Q11: How should you prepare for a diabetes test?
Ans: 3 types of sugar levels are tested in diabetes – fasting, postprandial and random. For fasting blood sugar, you should not eat or drink anything for at least 8 hours before the test but you can drink water in small amounts. Postprandial sugar is tested 2 hours after a meal. Random sugar can be checked at any time.
Also Read: Desserts For Diabetics: An Expert’s Guide To Enjoying Sweet Treats Safely
Q12: Can I outlive diabetes?
Ans: Yes. With good control of blood sugar levels, proper medications and a good lifestyle, you can live a healthy life and beat diabetes.
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Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.
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Diet
Read More: 5 Diet Tips for Diabetes Management
General useful information
Weight loss is an integral part of Diabetes Management. To do so, slow down your eating process and speed up weight loss. Diabetes is not the end of the world. Debunk Diabetes Myths Here. And most importantly, follow your doctor’s advice completely.
Need more information on diabetes and its related diseases? Ask Anya! Chat with Anya Bot here via Facebook and get more information on diabetes management.
Also Read: Are Bananas Good for Diabetics? A Research-Based Analysis
Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute fairly common advice given to patients, and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.
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