COVID 19 has not been easing off of health scares and the anxiety born out of constantly worrying about the safety of your loved ones. Let us not try to add to our health worries. There are things you are doing that could actually be damaging your health. And at a time when we all need to be at peak health, you should focus on strengthening your immunity.
None of us can claim that we are able to resist the lure of fast foods. They are delicious and at the end of a stressful day, these foods can be mood-lifters. They are part and parcel of friends’ meet-ups. We even serve them to guests because who honestly has the time to cook elaborate dishes?
But the harsh truth is, fast foods have a ruinous effect on your health. They are particularly notorious for triggering and/or aggravating obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, non-alcoholic fatty liver diseases and even some types of cancer.
As you may have heard, some of these diseases are considered comorbidities for a person infected with COVID-19. That means if you develop these health conditions, you are likely to suffer a more severe COVID infection than usual. So why take that risk? Let us get into the details of how fast foods can destroy your health.
Fast foods are loaded with unhealthy fats that can increase LDL (bad cholesterol) levels in your body. This LDL deposits along the arteries that carry blood to your heart. The arteries become narrow and the walls become hard. Blood has to push harder to reach your heart. This triggers hypertension (high blood pressure). Also, since the passages are narrowed, very little blood is able to make its way to the heart. Those muscles of the heart that are oxygen-deprived (blood carries oxygen) slowly stop functioning. Eventually, LDL and high blood pressure trigger a heart attack or even a cardiac arrest.
Fast foods may also initiate a stroke. The LDL that accumulates in the arteries as plaque may break free. Blood will carry it to the brain where it will cause a stroke.
NAFLD is a silent killer. It can wear away your liver’s ability to function. It is not just alcohol that causes chronic liver disease but foods that pack in a lot of unhealthy fats and sugars can also damage your liver. Fast foods can cause fats to be deposited in your liver and may even trigger inflammation. If unchecked, this could lead to serious liver damage (cirrhosis). NAFLD may even cause liver cancer. NAFLD is almost always a result of a diet rich in triglycerides (hint: all those rolls, burgers and pizzas you adore). NAFLD can easily be avoided and even if you have already been diagnosed with fatty liver disease, you can drastically reduce your liver fat by losing weight.
Fast foods are loaded with sugars, fats and salts. None of these in excess is good for you, especially if you have already been diagnosed with diabetes. These foods will mess up your diabetes management plans. Besides, fast foods have a high glycemic index, which means right after consumption, they will make your blood sugar level shoot up, the level will drop again soon. This constant fluctuation is really bad for someone with diabetes and may even trigger insulin resistance in people who do not have diabetes.
Also Read: Are French Fries Healthy? A Detailed Nutritional Analysis
By now we all know that fast foods stuff us with calories. Our sedentary lifestyles do not allow us to burn these extra calories and the result is weight gain. This has happened to multitudes of people during the lockdown. But did you know that obesity is the risk factor for many diseases including heart problems, fatty liver disease, arthritis, asthma, type 2 diabetes and stroke?
Fast foods and obesity can also trigger different types of cancers such as breast cancer, endometrial cancer, colon cancer, kidney cancer, ovarian cancer, liver cancer, oesophagus cancer or kidney cancer.
Actually, there is a bit of good news. Some ‘fast foods’ are not all that bad for you. Usually, grilled foods use very very little oil and hence are not exceptionally harmful. Instances of good fast foods include chicken bowls, quinoa bowls, protein bowls, grilled sandwiches, tandoori chicken or paneer, veg/ chicken wraps (if the tortilla is made from whole wheat or mixed grains). But a word of caution, this is not a license to binge on fast foods. Everything needs to be eaten in moderation.
Also Read: Best Fast Food For Weight Watchers: Making Healthy Choices on the Go
Like any addiction, this too may seem like a difficult addiction to extricate yourself from.
Take a vow to steer clear of fast foods. Do not push off implementing this vow, do it right away. There are many healthy foods you can eat that taste exciting. Eat healthy and filling meals so that you are not tempted to binge. Also, remember to exercise a little every day to amplify the effects of your healthy diet and to boost your immunity against diseases.
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.
In India, the mention of festivals remains incomplete without Diwali. Diwali is one of the most treasured festivals and celebrates the eternal fight between good and evil. It celebrates the triumph of light over darkness, of knowledge over ignorance. That is why people place diyas, candles and lamps in various corners of their houses to welcome positivity. Another very important facet of Diwali is the celebration of good food and sweets!
For calorie-conscious and fitness enthusiasts, the time of Diwali can prove to be quite the battle between restraint and temptation. So this Diwali how can you win the fight of health over empty calorie consumption?
If you are prone to giving into oily and sugary foods, Diwali and all the delectables that are prepared during this time can amount to the feeling of a kid in a candy store. From samosa, nimkis, murukku, kebabs, kachoris, barfi, Gulab Jamun, kheer, soan papdi, laddoos, kalakand and various types of halwa, every item is made with love and a whole lot of ghee and/or sugar syrup!
Diwali doesn’t just upset your weight loss plans but unhealthy consumption of sweets and deep-fried snacks could usher in a horde of other problems. Some of these are:
Drink warm water with lemon juice after a heavy meal or dessert. Choose healthier desserts containing fewer calories. Avoid treats that are high in sugar and fat and look for fruits. Always share your dessert platter with your family/friends so that you get to eat less.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Although you may not be able to run away from indulging in festive cheer altogether there are certainly a few hacks by adopting which you can lessen the impacts.
During Diwali, there are some food items like dry fruits and kebabs that will not make you go on a guilt trip ride. However, there are a few that you should totally avoid or just restrict yourself to one helping if you are insistent upon incessantly.
When making savoury snacks at home consider adding items to your Diwali menu that can be roasted/ baked in the oven or cooked in the air fryer to minimize health damage. You can also use skimmed milk for sweets (that require milk as the key ingredient such as Kalakand and halwas) instead of fattening full cream milk.
Diwali or any festival is the time when you get to spend time with your friends and family and forget all about your worries. But letting your hair down completely and getting swayed by the infectious festive mood will do you more harm than good. Keeping healthy living as the main goal, modify your Diwali celebrations so that you can optimize your fun minus damage to your overall well being. This festive season, win the fight against guilty indulgence!
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.
Every diabetes patient either faces high blood sugar levels or low blood sugar levels from time to time. High blood sugar levels are known as hyperglycemia, while low blood sugar levels are called hypoglycemia.
For a person with diabetes, it’s exceedingly vital to check blood sugar levels every now and then. Read on to know the normal blood sugar levels in the human body.
For individuals with diabetes, the normal blood glucose range before eating should be 80-130 mg/dL. After 1-2 hours of eating a meal, the blood sugar level range should be less than 180 mg/dL.
A reading of over 180 mg/dL after two hours comes under the high blood sugar level range. On the other hand, a blood sugar level under 70 mg/dL is low.
I routinely advise all my diabetic patients to carry a chocolate with them at all times because low blood sugar is very dangerous than high blood sugar and should be corrected immediately by taking a sweet or glucose.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
High blood sugar or hyperglycemia is an exceedingly common condition. It can be caused due to stress or excessive eating of carbs. It is vital for people with diabetes to monitor blood sugar levels and look out for the signs to take timely action. Here are some of the other sugar level increase symptoms.
Here are a few ways of preventing high blood sugar:
Dietary and lifestyle modifications are very important apart from the recommendations of oral and injectables for control of blood sugar levels. Regular consultation with your physician at least once a year is highly recommended.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D.
If you have persistent sugar level increase symptoms, consult a doctor immediately. They will modify your meal plan, adjust the medical regime and physical activity routine.
Also known as hypoglycemia, blood sugar levels can go down when a diabetic person doesn’t consume sufficient food. Read on to know some of the other symptoms of low blood sugar.
You may show any of these symptoms if your blood sugar drops suddenly. In many cases, people also suffer from low blood sugar even though their levels are higher.
For instance, if the blood sugar level was 300 mg/dL for a week and suddenly lowered to 100 mg/dL, it can also be a symptom of low blood sugar.
Here are some of the ways to prevent low blood sugar problems.
Fast-acting carbohydrates such as juices, glucose tablets and regular soda are effective ways of controlling low blood sugar. If an individual cannot consume food or drinks, make sugar paste and give it to him/her.
By recognising the sugar level increase symptoms mentioned above, diabetes patients can avoid medical emergencies like diabetic ketoacidosis. The sooner an individual understands these symptoms, the sooner they can test and avoid critical situations.
A potent way of managing your diabetes is to keep a clear target range. Monitoring blood sugar levels can help eliminate long term diabetes complications.
1. Sugar-Free Foods
While such foods are free from sugar, they still contain a lot of carbohydrates. It is essential to check the nutritional facts before digging into sugar-free foods. For instance, Sorbitol and xylitol are sugar-free alcohols capable of boosting your sugar levels.
2. Sports Drinks
The goal of sports drinks is to replenish your energy levels quickly. That said, plenty of it contains as much sugar as soda. So they can increase your blood sugar levels.
3. Yoghurt
Many types of yoghurts have healthy bacteria. They help enhance digestion and facilitate the balancing of blood sugar levels. However, some contain added sugars that can affect your normal blood glucose level.
4. Dried Fruits
While fruits are healthy, dried fruits contain a lot of carbohydrates in a small pack. For instance, three dates have 15gms of carbs. That is why they can cause an upswing in your blood sugar levels.
While high blood sugar and low blood sugar are severe conditions, they can be controlled by constant glucose monitoring and avoiding certain habits. To make sure that your average blood sugar level is maintained, you must keep a record of it all. It’d allow your doctor to modify the treatment, for instance, the amount of insulin to take, as and when needed. Plus, you’d be able to take the right actions to control your diabetes by monitoring glucose.
Also Read: Is Sucralose Bad for You? Unraveling the Truth Based on Research
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.
Monitoring blood sugar levels is an essential management criterion if you are diagnosed with diabetes. Here, we are going to discuss when one needs to test their blood sugar, how often and the common mistakes to avoid.
A glucometer is a blood glucose meter that measures the sugar (glucose) level in your blood and displays it on a screen. It is a small and portable device capable of tracking the fluctuations and variations in your glucose level. Be it type I or type II diabetes, a glucometer helps measure your blood sugar at home.
Now that you know the importance of blood glucose meters, you need to know when to measure your sugar levels.
Many diabetic patients use sanitizer to clean before checking sugar. It is very important that the sanitizer is fully dried before pricking for blood or else they will get unusually high reading.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
This section will answer your when and how questions regarding blood glucose monitoring. A qualified physician, diabetes educator or more specifically, a diabetologist’s consultation is necessary for designing your testing schedule. The information below is a general outline of recommendations by medical authorities.
To know whether your blood sugar is in range, laboratory tests must be opted. Your doctor will advise you in detail for the same.
| Parameter | Type I Diabetes | Type II Diabetes |
| Defect | Destruction of insulin-secreting cells of the pancreas (β-cells). | β-cell dysfunction and the body does not respond appropriately to insulin. |
| Testing frequency | Four to ten times a day, it varies upon the severity. | They are recommended to measure once to multiple times depending on the type of medication, the number of insulin shots and the body’s response to the treatment. |
| Testing schedule | Before, during and after exercise.Before meals.Before going to bed.Before driving and once in every two hours of long drives. | Before breakfast, lunch and dinner.After workout.Before going to bed. |
| Increase your testing frequency | When sick or experiencing frequent blood glucose drops (hypoglycemia).When pregnant, breastfeeding or planning a pregnancy.Not able to achieve target blood glucose timely.Developing complications, cardiovascular disorders, gangrene, etc. | Same as that of type I diabetes mellitus.If you are on multiple insulin injections per day or an insulin pump. |
The accuracy depends on the functioning of your glucometer and your ability to perform the procedure accurately. Let us learn step-by-step the correct way to test your blood glucose at home.
Mistake: Pictures on various platforms might give you a false idea of where to prick your finger for taking blood samples. Pricking should not hurt; instead, it should feel like a ”prick.” Testing on the finger pad can be painful as various nerves are located there.
Correct Way: Pricking along the sides/edges of fingers (middle or ring fingers preferably) can help minimise the pain and yield a good amount of blood sample for testing.
Mistake: Using alcohol, licking, touching, eating or keeping hands dirty before testing can cause pain and faulty readings. These activities are likely to cause dilution and massive changes in test results.
Correct Way: Wash your hands with mild soap and warm water. Please avoid using any sanitiser to clean them. Dry washed hands with a towel and collect the sample immediately. Do not use any antiseptic before testing.
Mistake: An essential part of glucose monitoring apart from your blood are the lancets and test strips. Reusing lancets can cause severe pain as they turn blunt after each use. A prick from a sharper lancet will hurt less. Pricking from blunt lancets can cause multiple and hesitation cuts. Moreover, expired test strips are likely to yield inaccurate readings.
Correct Way: Trying to reuse the lancet or expired strip is a loss at your end. It will not only produce faulty results but will impair the progress of your treatment. Use a fresh lancet for every prick and check the test strip’s expiration date.
Mistake: When the edges of your toes keep touching the rough surface of shoes for months, they tend to become firm. You can touch that edge, prick it, peel it and still feel nothing. The same is the case with pricking one finger as calluses build up over time and result in no pain. This might seem easier but is ineffective.
Correct Way: The World Health Organisation recommends using the middle or ring fingers and switching between them so that the fingers heal. It will not only prevent soreness but will also increase the accuracy of results.
Also Read: Is Sucralose Bad for You? Unraveling the Truth Based on Research
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.
For people with diabetes, blood sugar monitoring is a part of their health and fitness routine. Since running lab tests every once in a while can be inconvenient, it is advisable to run blood glucose tests at home using glucose meters. However, it is necessary to exercise discretion while choosing a suitable glucose monitoring device. You must do good research about the products available in the market and their features to make an informed purchase decision.
We can divide glucose monitoring devices into three different types: non-invasive, invasive and continuous.
If you use the meter to scan the area, you get the blood glucose level instantly. This is revolutionary for people with diabetes who no longer have to inject themselves half a dozen times a day or replace test strips and lancets. Nevertheless, options in the market are limited, and the results so far have displayed that the systems offered are nearly not as accurate as the invasive ones. The sensors of these systems also struggle to stay in place.
However, the CGM has its constraints, such as maintenance issues and difficulties in understanding and interpreting the data. There is the issue of sensor malfunctions; the difference between capillary blood glucose and the value displayed by continuous glucose measurement can disorient the user.
You should always know the basics of a glucose monitoring machine to know how it works. First, you need to insert a test strip, followed by poking a clean fingertip with the needle to obtain a drop of blood. The test strip should be carefully touched to the blood; a blood glucose reading would then appear on the screen.
HbA1c is known as glycosylated hemoglobin test. This blood test is used to find out the average blood sugar levels for 03 months. I routinely suggest HbA1c to my patients as it suggests long term control.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
When used properly, blood glucose meters are normally accurate in how they measure glucose. Here are several factors that need to be considered before choosing a blood glucose meter.
A very common but ignored part of glucometers is Establishing the accuracy is very challenging. Glucometers Only analyze whole blood, while glucose is unstable in whole blood.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D
In conclusion, we can say that it is imperative to make sure that the blood glucose meters one is investing in are worth the time, money, trust and effort. Always remember that nothing should come in the way of your good health.
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.
Also Read: Low Residue Diet: A Detailed Guide to Benefits and Preparations
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.
Diabetes Mellitus (DM) generally tends to run in families. If you have been diagnosed with diabetes recently, it is likely that you will find a history of diabetic relatives in your family tree. The question is – Is diabetes a genetic disease? People with diabetes often wonder about the chances of passing this condition to their children or the likelihood of developing the disease if their parents have it.
Your genes definitely play a role in developing diabetes. Having a family history of diabetes raises your chances of acquiring the condition. However, diabetes mellitus is caused by a host of different factors, including genes. Not everyone may inherit the gene, and even if they do, it’s possible to avoid the disease successfully.
The impact of genetic factors varies according to the different types of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is caused by genetic factors mostly, whereas environmental factors heavily influence type 2 diabetes. To understand if diabetes is a genetic disease, we need to understand the role of different factors in developing the disease.
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition wherein the body attacks its own immune system, leading to the destruction of the pancreas cells responsible for producing insulin. This hormone helps in carrying sugar into the cells for the production of energy. This condition results in hyperglycemia (increased blood sugar levels) and requires the affected person to take insulin injections to restore the insulin their body doesn’t create.
Children or young adults are more likely to develop type 1 diabetes.
Is Type 1 diabetes caused by genetic factors? Yes, genes can play an important part in developing this disease, but that’s not the only reason. This is seen even in identical twins who share the same set of genes. Sometimes one twin might get type 1 DM, whereas the other won’t. This is where environmental factors can play a role.
Type 1 diabetes can evolve over time, and there might be certain factors that cause the trigger of autoimmune antibodies that cause type 1. Once a person has developed type 1, the condition can’t be cured, but it is manageable through medical intervention.
Type 2 DM is the most common type of diabetes. Globally 6.28% of the world’s population is afflicted by type 2 diabetes mellitus. As seen in type 1, people affected with type 2 are more likely to have a family history of this diabetes type.
Type 2 diabetes is genetic too but, unlike type 1, genetics have a smaller role to play in this case. Environmental factors and daily lifestyle have a more significant impact on developing this condition.
People with two or more risk factors are more vulnerable to developing type 2.
Also Read: 75 Soft Challenge: A Comprehensive Guide to Embrace the Lifestyle Change
Diabetes mellitus is a complex disease that can be caused by multiple factors. It is normal to wonder if diabetes is a genetic condition or not, especially when one has family members who have diabetes. However, diabetes mellitus is caused by several other reasons besides just genetic factors. Once you identify the probable factors and causes of diabetes mellitus, you can modify your habits and reduce your chances of developing diabetes.
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Managing type 2 diabetes is closely linked to choosing the right blood glucose meter for monitoring glucose levels.
If you have type 2 diabetes or know someone close to you who has this condition, the doctor may have recommended you (or them) to invest in a good blood glucose meter to monitor your blood sugar level.
For diabetes patients, managing their lifestyle is important because even the slightest of changes can cause a spike or decline in sugar, causing severe complications if not diagnosed well in time.
So, to know how to control type 2 diabetes, you have to know how to buy the right blood glucose meter to monitor and manage type 2 diabetes.
Investing in the right blood glucose meter is helpful for various reasons.
To educate yourself on how to control type 2 diabetes, you first have to know about buying the right blood glucose meter.
Here are some simple tips to keep in mind while purchasing a monitoring meter to choose the best blood glucose meter to manage type 2 diabetes:
1. Check how easy it is for you to use this meter
People with type 2 diabetes have to know how to use a blood glucose meter for monitoring their daily glucose level. If the person is not comfortable using the meter or does not know how to use it by themselves, the blood glucose meter may not be the right choice for them.
User error (not taking the blood sample properly) is a major reason why readings don’t turn out to be accurate. So, choosing a user-friendly blood glucose meter is important.
2. Make sure the test strips are readily available
Test strips have to be bought separately and used every time to take the blood sugar reading with a meter. Although third-party test strips are available at many medical stores, you must check if they are compatible with the monitoring meter.
3. Does the size suit your needs?
A glucose meter won’t do any good if you can’t carry it easily or read from it comfortably. Meters come in many different sizes for people with different needs.
If the patient has weak eyesight, they may purchase a bigger meter that shows the readings clearly and won’t stress out the eyes. Whereas, for someone who travels a lot, buying a big meter can be difficult to take everywhere. Such people should always go for a smaller meter.
4. What are the additional features?
A wide variety of blood glucose meters are available in the market. Some come with a background light that makes it easier to read even in low lighting, some have an audio option, and some can even store data for past readings, which makes it easier to maintain a record. Choose the meter which has additional features that suit your requirements best.
5. Get the meter approved by your doctor before purchasing
It is a good idea to check with the person who knows best how to control type 2 diabetes – your doctor. They may have a different opinion than yours because of their vast experience and certified knowledge about type 2 diabetes and your condition. So, get your doctor’s green light before you buy the meter.
By following these tips, you can better educate yourself to control type 2 diabetes by regularly monitoring your blood sugar levels. Keep these suggestions in mind when you purchase a blood glucose meter.
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