Introduction
Diabetes is a prevalent health concern in India, affecting millions of people. It’s a chronic condition. It affects how your body regulates blood sugar (glucose) levels.
Understanding Diabetes
There are two main types of diabetes:
- Type 1 Diabetes: A condition in which the body produces little to no insulin. Blood sugar is regulated by insulin.
- Type 2 Diabetes: Insufficient or resistant to insulin production in the body. Consequently, blood sugar rises.
Causes and Risk Factors
People believe that genetics and the environment play a role while the exact cause of type 1 diabetes is unknown. Type 2 diabetes is often linked to lifestyle habits and genetics. Here are some common risk factors:
- Family history of diabetes
- Overweight or obesity
- Physical inactivity
- Unhealthy diet
- High blood pressure
- Gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy)
Symptoms of Diabetes
Early detection is crucial for managing diabetes. The following are some indicators to watch out for:
- Excessive thirst and urination
- Increased hunger
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue and lack of energy
- Blurred vision
- Slow-healing wounds
- Frequent infections
Living with Diabetes in India
Individuals can manage diabetes through lifestyle modifications and, if necessary, medication. Here are some key strategies for managing blood sugar levels in India:
- Diet: Focus on a healthy, balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats.
- Exercise: Maintaining healthy blood sugar levels requires regular exercise. On most days of the week, try to get in at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise.
- Managing weight is key: If you’re overweight or obese, even a bit of weight loss can improve blood sugar control.
- Medications: If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, your doctor may prescribe medications. These may include insulin or oral medications.
- Regular Checkups: Schedule them with your doctor. They will check your blood sugar and adjust your treatment as needed.
More Tips
- Blood Sugar Monitoring: Monitoring your blood sugar at home is key. It shows how your body reacts to food, exercise, and medicine.
- Stress Management: Prolonged stress might exacerbate dysglycemia. For a calmer self, try yoga or meditation to relieve tension.
- Foot Care: Diabetes can increase your risk of foot problems. Inspect your feet daily for cuts, sores, or swelling, and practice proper hygiene.
- Get Support: Don’t hesitate to ask for help from a diabetes educator, dietitian, or counsellor. They can provide valuable guidance and motivation on your diabetes management journey.
Conclusion
By living a healthy lifestyle and getting checkups, you can manage your diabetes. Follow your doctor’s advice. Then, you can live a long and healthy life. Remember, knowledge is power. Empower yourself with information and take charge of your blood sugar levels!
Source: WHO EMRO | Diabetes | Health topics https://www.emro.who.int/health-topics/diabetes/index.html