PharmEasy Blog

Diabetes Caregiver’s Perspective: How To Take Care Of A Diabetic Patient?

Why Is The Role Of A Diabetes Caregiver Important?

A study of more than 5000 adults with Diabetes highlighted the importance of family, friends, and colleagues in improving well-being and self-management. Family members are often asked to share the responsibility for disease management. They can provide many forms of support, such as instrumental support in driving patients to appointments or helping to inject insulin and social and emotional support in helping patients cope with their disease.

Through their communication and attitudes, family members often have a significant impact on a patient’s psychological well-being, the decision to follow recommendations for medical treatment, and the ability to initiate and maintain changes in diet and exercise.

Family members can feel distressed by their loved one’s diabetes due to limited knowledge about diabetes or not knowing how to support their loved one.

The family may also have misconceptions, such as believing that the patient knows more about diabetes than the patient actually reports or not understanding their loved one’s needs in diabetes management.

Read More About: Tips for Diabetes Management  

Knowledge about the disease, strategies to alter family routines, and optimal ways to cope with the emotional aspects of the disease are some of the aspects of diabetes self-management that family members need.

Educating family members about diabetes-care needs can help ease this strain by explaining why these changes are necessary, how these changes can best be implemented, and where to find additional information, such as healthy recipes or exercise routines.

Ensuring that the person with diabetes gets regular medical care (which may include making appointments as well as providing transportation) Providing healthy meals. Planning the timing of meals, to avoid issues like hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) Encouraging healthy habits, like getting enough exercise and sleep.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

The Cornerstones Of Diabetes Care For Diabetes Caregiver

The following 4 cornerstones of care are really important to pay attention to when taking care of a family member with Diabetes:

  1. Healthy Eating. Making smart food choices and building a diabetes-friendly meal plan (with a variety of foods) will help make sure they get the right amounts of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. Read more about the 4 best foods for a diabetic diet.
  2. Being Physically Active. Exercising and staying active are important for every diabetic patient
  3. Taking Medicine. Your diabetes care team will tell you which medication/insulin is right for your family member. It is also important that you make sure they take all of their other medicine(s) as directed.
  4. Tracking. Checking and recording blood sugar can help you to see patterns. These patterns can tell you how his or her diabetes care plan is working and what (if anything) needs to change.
  5. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
    a. Listen First: One way to start is by doing lots of listening rather than talking. That way you can gauge whether someone is ready to accept help. Everyone is at different stages with their diabetes.
  6. Ascertain where they are in their journey as this will determine how you can best help them. Don’t assume anything.
  7. Have an open conversation: Ask what you can do to help.
  8. Make it a joint effort: Join your friend or family member in his or her efforts to live a healthier lifestyle. Offer to start an exercise program with him or her. Or adopt better eating habits. Let the person you are caring for, know he or she is not alone in this.
  9. Going to the doctor together: It is a good idea to attend medical appointments.
  10. Watch for low blood sugar called hypoglycemia: Symptoms might be sweating, feeling hot, shakiness and a fast-beating heart. It can be dangerous for many reasons and can result in falls or a decline in cognitive functioning.
  11. Check that they’re taking the correct doses of insulin and medication and not skipping meals.
  12. Avoid Getting angry: Especially if you’re dealing with kids suffering from type 1 diabetes. Take a deep breath and control your feelings.
  13. Attend a diabetes support group with them: Encourage the person to attend a diabetes support group, and offer to go along. Both of you can receive support and learn strategies to cope up with your feelings and the disease.
  14. Be positive: A diabetes diagnosis can be scary, especially since there’s always a risk of complications. Although life-threatening complications can happen, you should keep conversations positive when speaking to someone living with diabetes. They are most likely aware of the possible complications, so they don’t need to hear about people who died from diabetes or had limbs amputated. Offer positive support, not negative stories.

If you have a child with diabetes, gradually teach him or her how to manage the condition: Although parents should always have a role in monitoring their child’s diabetes, as they get older, teens can take an increasing role in blood sugar monitoring and meal planning. Read more about symptoms of diabetes in children

Read More About 10 Home Remedies for Diabetes

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.

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.

References

  1. https://diabetes.org/diabetes/loved-ones
  2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8129740/
  3. https://www.cdc.gov/aging/caregiving/caregiver-brief.html

How Effective Are Natural ”Nuskhas” For Managing Diabetes?

Diabetes mellitus, commonly called diabetes, is a lifestyle disorder that causes high blood sugar. In this metabolic disorder, either the body fails to synthesise or is unable to utilise the hormone insulin. The hormone insulin moves sugar from circulating blood into cells to store and make it available for utilisation as energy.

What does Diabetes mean in Ayurveda?

Ayurveda is an ancient Indian medical system. In ancient scripts of Ayurveda, diabetes is described as prameha. Prameha and madhumeha have a description as diseases affecting wealthy, affluent and elite populations. The scriptures have documented the use of Ayurveda in diabetes treatment in detail.

The vaidyas believed that the elite population only engaged in the pleasures of life and not physical activity. However, in modern times, we know that diabetes can affect people from all walks of life.

Even if lifestyle changes may help in many patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, these patients are more likely to develop various medical problems such as damage to their eyes and nerves, as well as heart attacks and strokes, medications play a very important role to prevent this from happening, do not stop your diabetic medications abruptly without consulting your physician.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D

Diabetes and Ayurvedic Doshas

In Ayurvedic manuscripts, the manifestation of madhumeha is through excess thirst and urination. Madhumeha Sanskrit word translated as ”Madhu” means sweet and ”Meha” means urine. The name madhumeha comes from the fact that diabetic urine tastes like honey.

In ancient Ayurveda literature, each person is a unique blend of Doshas. There are three Doshas: Vata, Pitta and Kapha. The Samhitas mention diabetes as primarily a Kapha dosha caused by excess body weight, overconsumption of sweets and lack of physical activity.

Types of Diabetes in Ayurveda 

The treatment of diabetes in Ayurveda is classified based on the categories. Ayurveda has sorted diabetes into two categories and 24 subcategories. The two categories are:

●     Avarana – Avarana is the result of blocked body channels and aggravated by Kapha dosha.
●     Dhatuksyaya – Dhatus are bodily tissues whose affliction leads to juvenile diabetes.

The signs and symptoms of Diabetes

The initial symptoms of diabetes include

●     Hunger and lethargy
●     Frequent urination
●     Increased thirst
●     Increased appetite
●     Itchy skin and dry mouth
●     Blurred vision
●     Delayed wound healing
●     Weakness

Ayurvedic Treatment for Diabetes

Ayurveda in diabetes as a treatment modality offers a holistic approach. Ayurvedic treatment for diabetes varies based on the Prakriti (constitution) and severity of the disease. It includes

● Panchakarma (bio purification procedures)
● Vamana
● Virechana
● Vasti/Basti
● Yoga
● Vyayama (exercise)
● Pathya (diet)
● Herbal medicines

These herbal medicines enhance sensitivity for glucose receptors. They also enhance insulin secretion and support the regeneration of beta cells. 

Ayurvedic Herbs for Diabetes

Herbs play an important role in diabetes management through Ayurveda. These are some of the commonly used Ayurvedic herbs for diabetes treatment.

It is advisable to consult a qualified Ayurveda doctor before administering these Ayurvedic home remedies for diabetes. A combination of these herbs in various quantities is found in the composition of Ayurvedic sugar tablets for managing diabetes.

Diet changes during Ayurvedic treatment of Diabetes

The dietary recommendations for diabetic patients include:

● The diet should be rich in fibre content such as green vegetables and fruits.
● One should consume garlic and onions to manage blood sugar levels.
● Drinking water stored in a copper container.
● Cooking recipes should include whole spices like cumin, coriander, clove, turmeric and cardamom.
● Diet should frequently incorporate bitter and astringent foods like bitter gourd, barley, fish and moong dal.
● One can eat Bengal gram for glucose tolerance and urinary excretion.
● Avoid high carbs and rich fats like potatoes, wheat and milk products.

Ayurvedic home remedy for Diabetes

Since the approach of Ayurveda in diabetes management is holistic, there are some Ayurvedic home remedies for diabetes that can be used. These are relatively safe and simple to use daily.

Ayurvedic home remedies for blood sugar include:

Conclusion 

In conditions such as diabetes, patients may need a holistic mode of treatment to notice the required results. Patients can consider Ayurveda in diabetes treatment. It is a combination of choosing the correct diet, a gentle medium for treatment and regular exercise.

Disclaimer: The information included at this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.

7

An Apple Pudding-Style Dessert With Low Sugar For Diabetes

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)

● 2 tbsps generous tablespoons whole chia seeds (about 30g)
● 1 medium-sized Apple (100gms) – peeled and diced small\
● 2 tbsp rolled oats
● 2 – 3 tbsp water to cook oats
● 150ml almond or any non-dairy milk
● Mixed nuts – 2 raisins + 2 almonds + 2 walnuts – chopped finely
● 2 dates – deseeded and chopped finely
● Vanilla essence (organic) – 2 drops
● Berries – 2 – 3 for garnishing

INSTRUCTIONS

● Rinse the chia seeds thoroughly in a sieve. Add to a deep bowl.
● 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.
● Now prepare oats by cooking them in a small pot with sufficient water to just cook about 2 – 3 tbsp.
● 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.
● After an hour, both the chia seeds mix and oats mix will be ready with flavours muddled up.

To assemble –

● Take a short glass or a bowl. Add the soaked chia seeds mixture which must be now swollen after an hour.

● Take about 3 tbsps of the chia mix and place it at the bottom of the glass.

● Then add the oats, nuts and apple mix.

● 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.

Best Homemade Pulav Recipe To Help Manage Blood Sugar

Diabetics may often be restricted to homemade cooking that takes care of the sugar content in each dish. But there is always scope to diversify your homemade foods and add a flavoursome yet nutritious meal to the daily diet. Bean Dalia Pulav is one such meal that is high in dietary fibre and improves digestion. It also aids in maintaining cholesterol as well as blood sugar levels, making it the perfect recipe for diabetics. You can easily prepare Bean Dalia Pulav by following this recipe.

INGREDIENTS: (Serves 2)

For Sour Cream

In my opinion, one can add nuts to pulav in moderation for added benefits for controlling blood sugar. Nuts are extremely high in dietary fibre, unsaturated fatty acids, plant proteins, mineral flavonoids, phytochemicals, magnesium and potassium. A study from 2014 stated that consuming nuts may be advantageous for people struggling with diabetes.

Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D (Ayu)

INSTRUCTIONS:

Traditional medications for a range of diseases, including diabetes, frequently contain the flavouring agent garlic. So adding garlic to the pulav may not only enhance the taste but may help in managing blood sugar as well. Garlic’s chemical constituents may increase insulin sensitivity and secretion, that may lower blood sugar. Researchers from a 2017 study discovered that type 2 diabetics who took garlic supplements had better control over their blood sugar, cholesterol, and lipid levels.

Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS

For Sour Cream

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.

1

The Healthiest South Indian Dish To Manage Blood Sugar

A nice Ragi Dosa and some piping hot Carrot Poriyal are sure to make your day. Let’s see how you can make them.

Ragi Dosa

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.

Carrot Poriyal

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.

2