DIABETES

diabetes

Table of Contents

Diabetes: What is it, Types, Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Diabetes is a common health problem that can happen to anyone, no matter their age. There are different types of diabetes, but the most common one is Type 2 diabetes. By using different methods to treat it, people can control their diabetes, stay healthy, and avoid other health issues.

What is diabetes?

Diabetes is a condition that happens when there’s too much sugar in your blood. This occurs because your pancreas, the organ that makes insulin, either doesn’t produce enough insulin or your body doesn’t use it properly. Insulin is like a key that helps sugar get from your blood into your cells where it can be used for energy. When this process doesn’t work right, sugar builds up in your blood, causing high blood sugar levels, known as hyperglycemia.

Diabetes affects people of all ages and can lead to serious health problems over time, like heart disease, nerve damage, and vision issues. It’s a chronic condition, meaning it lasts a long time, but it can be managed with medication and lifestyle changes.

Glucose, or sugar, mainly comes from the food and drinks you consume, especially carbohydrates. It’s your body’s main source of energy, and your blood carries glucose to all your cells. When glucose is in your bloodstream, it needs insulin to move into your cells. Without enough insulin or if your body doesn’t respond to it properly, glucose stays in your blood, leading to high blood sugar.

There are different types of diabetes, including diabetes mellitus and diabetes insipidus. Diabetes mellitus is the most common and is what people usually mean when they talk about diabetes. It includes type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes. Diabetes insipidus is a different condition that also causes increased thirst and urination but is much rarer.

Understanding diabetes and how it affects your body is the first step in managing the condition and staying healthy.

What are the types of diabetes?

There are several types of diabetes, each with its own causes and characteristics. Understanding these types can help you manage the condition better and know what to expect.

Type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form. It occurs when your body doesn’t make enough insulin or can’t use it well. This type often affects adults, but more children are getting it too. It’s linked to being overweight, inactive, or having a family history of diabetes. 

Prediabetes

Prediabetes is when your blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes. It means you’re at risk for developing type 2 diabetes. 

Type 1 diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where your body’s immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells in your pancreas. This type usually starts in children or young adults but can appear at any age. People with type 1 diabetes need to take insulin every day. Up to 10% of people who suffer from diabetes, are having type 1 diabetes.

Gestational diabetes

Gestational diabetes happens during pregnancy. It means your body can’t make enough insulin to handle the extra needs during pregnancy. This type usually goes away after the baby is born, but it increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life. Managing gestational diabetes includes healthy eating, staying active, and sometimes taking insulin.

Other types of diabetes include:

Type 3c diabetes

Type 3c diabetes occurs when your pancreas gets damaged due to conditions like pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, or surgery. This damage affects its ability to produce insulin. Treatment often includes insulin therapy and managing the underlying condition causing the damage.

Latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA)

LADA is similar to type 1 diabetes, but it develops more slowly and is diagnosed in adults over 30. It’s an autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-producing cells. People with LADA might not need insulin right away but will eventually require it.

Maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY)

MODY is a rare form of diabetes caused by genetic mutations that affect insulin production. It usually appears in teenagers or young adults and runs in families. Currently, there are over 10 different types of MODY, which affect up to 5% of people suffering from diabetes.

Neonatal diabetes

Neonatal diabetes, which is a form of monogenic diabetes, occurs in babies within the first six months of life. It’s caused by genetic mutations and can be permanent or temporary. Around 50% of babies with neonatal diabetes have a lifelong condition known as permanent neonatal diabetes mellitus. For the other half, the diabetes goes away a few months after it starts but can return later in life. This type is called transient neonatal diabetes mellitus.

Brittle diabetes

Brittle diabetes is a severe form of type 1 diabetes characterized by frequent and extreme swings in blood sugar levels. This instability can lead to hospitalization and requires careful monitoring and management. Rarely, the patient may need to undergo pancreas transplant to permanently treat brittle diabetes.

How common is diabetes?

Diabetes is a very common condition affecting millions of people worldwide. In the United States alone, approximately 37.3 million people, or about 11% of the population, have diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is the most prevalent form, making up 90% to 95% of all diabetes cases. 

Globally, around 537 million adults live with diabetes, and experts predict this number will rise to 643 million by 2030 and 783 million by 2045. 

In 2019, it was estimated that 77 million people in India had diabetes, and this number is expected to increase to over 134 million by 2045. About 57% of these people do not know they have diabetes. Most cases are Type 2 diabetes, which can cause problems in different organs of the body. [1]

These statistics highlight the importance of awareness and management of diabetes to reduce its impact.

Diabetes Symptoms

Recognizing the symptoms of diabetes early can help manage the condition more effectively. Common symptoms include:

  • Increased Thirst (Polydipsia): Feeling very thirsty all the time.
  • Frequent Urination: Needing to urinate often, especially at night.
  • Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or weak.
  • Blurred Vision: Having trouble seeing clearly.
  • Unexplained Weight Loss: Losing weight without trying.
  • Numbness or Tingling: Feeling tingling or numbness in your hands or feet.
  • Slow-Healing Sores: Wounds or cuts that heal slowly.
  • Frequent Infections: Having frequent skin, gum, or vaginal infections.

Additional symptoms specific to certain types of diabetes include:

  • Type 1 Diabetes: Symptoms can develop quickly over a few weeks. They may also include symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), such as vomiting, stomach pain, fruity-smelling breath, and rapid breathing.
  • Type 2 Diabetes and Prediabetes: Symptoms may develop slowly, and some people may not notice them. Acanthosis nigricans, a condition where the skin darkens, can be a sign of prediabetes.
  • Gestational Diabetes: Typically, there are no noticeable symptoms. It is usually diagnosed during routine screening in pregnancy.

Diabetes Causes

Diabetes occurs when your blood sugar levels are too high. The specific cause of high blood sugar depends on the type of diabetes you have:

  • Type 1 Diabetes: This type is an autoimmune condition where your immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells in your pancreas. The exact cause is unknown, but genetics and environmental factors like viruses might play a role.
  • Type 2 Diabetes: This type results from a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. Your body becomes resistant to insulin, and your pancreas can’t produce enough insulin to overcome this resistance. Being overweight, inactive, and having poor dietary habits increase the risk.
  • Prediabetes: Similar to type 2 diabetes, prediabetes occurs when your body starts to become insulin resistant.
  • Gestational Diabetes: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause insulin resistance, leading to gestational diabetes. This type usually goes away after childbirth but increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later.
  • Other Types: Conditions that damage the pancreas, like pancreatitis or cystic fibrosis, can lead to diabetes. Certain genetic mutations can also cause rare forms of diabetes like MODY and neonatal diabetes.

Prolonged use of certain medications, such as those for HIV/AIDS and corticosteroids, can also cause Type 2 diabetes.

Risk factors

Various factors can increase your risk of developing different types of diabetes:

Type 1 Diabetes

  • Family History: Having a parent or sibling with type 1 diabetes.
  • Genetics: Certain genes can increase your risk.
  • Geography: Higher rates are found in certain countries.
  • Age: More common in children, teens, and young adults.

Type 2 Diabetes

  • Weight: Being overweight is a significant risk factor.
  • Inactivity: Physical inactivity contributes to the development of type 2 diabetes.
  • Family History: Having a parent or sibling with type 2 diabetes.
  • Age: Risk increases as you get older, especially after age 45.
  • Race: Higher risk in Black, Hispanic, Native American, and Asian American populations.
  • Gestational Diabetes: Having gestational diabetes or giving birth to a baby weighing more than 9 pounds increases your risk.

Prediabetes and Gestational Diabetes

  • Weight: Being overweight increases the risk.
  • Age: Risk increases as you get older.
  • Family History: A family history of type 2 diabetes.
  • Race: Higher risk in certain ethnic groups.

Complications

Living with diabetes can be challenging, especially because of the potential complications that can develop over time. These complications can affect many parts of your body and can be serious or even life-threatening if not managed well.

Long-term Complications

The longer you have diabetes and the less controlled your blood sugar is, the higher the risk of complications. Some common long-term complications include:

  • Heart and Blood Vessel Disease: Diabetes significantly increases the risk of heart problems such as coronary artery disease, heart attacks, strokes, and atherosclerosis (narrowing of arteries).
  • Nerve Damage (Diabetic Neuropathy): High blood sugar can damage nerves, especially in the legs, causing tingling, numbness, burning, or pain. This can lead to serious foot problems and even amputation in severe cases.
  • Kidney Damage (Diabetic Nephropathy): Diabetes can damage the kidney’s filtering system, leading to kidney disease or kidney failure, which might require dialysis or a kidney transplant.
  • Eye Damage (Diabetic Retinopathy): High blood sugar levels can harm the blood vessels in your eyes, potentially leading to blindness. It can also increase the risk of cataracts and glaucoma.
  • Foot Damage: Poor blood flow and nerve damage in the feet increase the risk of various foot complications, which can lead to severe infections or amputation.
  • Skin and Mouth Conditions: Diabetes can make you more prone to infections and other skin conditions.
  • Hearing Impairment: Hearing problems are more common in people with diabetes.
  • Alzheimer’s Disease: Type 2 diabetes may increase the risk of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease.
  • Depression: Managing diabetes can lead to feelings of depression and anxiety.

Complications of Gestational Diabetes

For women with gestational diabetes, managing blood sugar levels is crucial to avoid complications for both the mother and the baby.

  • In the Baby:
    • Excess Growth: High blood sugar can cause the baby to grow too large, leading to delivery complications.
    • Low Blood Sugar: Babies may develop low blood sugar shortly after birth.
    • Type 2 Diabetes Later in Life: Babies of mothers with gestational diabetes are at higher risk of developing obesity and type 2 diabetes later in life.
    • Death: Severe, untreated gestational diabetes can lead to the baby’s death either before or shortly after birth.
  • In the Mother:
    • Preeclampsia: This condition includes high blood pressure, excess protein in the urine, and swelling.
    • Gestational Diabetes in Future Pregnancies: If you had gestational diabetes once, you’re more likely to have it again in future pregnancies.

Prevention

Preventing diabetes, particularly type 2 diabetes, involves making healthy lifestyle choices. While type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented, these strategies can help prevent or delay type 2 diabetes, prediabetes, and gestational diabetes.

Healthy Lifestyle Choices

  • Eat Healthy Foods: Focus on foods that are low in fat and calories and high in fiber. Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are excellent choices. A balanced diet can help control your blood sugar levels and maintain a healthy weight.
  • Get More Physical Activity: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate aerobic activity most days of the week, or at least 150 minutes a week. Activities like brisk walking, swimming, or biking can help control blood sugar levels.
  • Lose Excess Pounds: If you’re overweight, losing even a small amount of weight (5-7% of your body weight) can significantly reduce your risk of developing diabetes. For example, if you weigh 200 pounds, losing 10-14 pounds can make a big difference.

Monitoring and Medications

  • Regular Check-ups: Have regular health check-ups to monitor your blood sugar levels and overall health.
  • Medications: In some cases, medications such as metformin may be prescribed to help prevent type 2 diabetes, especially if you have prediabetes.

Additional Tips for Pregnant Women

  • Healthy Pregnancy Weight: Talk to your healthcare provider about gaining a healthy amount of weight during pregnancy to reduce the risk of gestational diabetes.
  • Healthy Eating and Exercise: Maintain a balanced diet and stay physically active during pregnancy to help manage blood sugar levels.

By making these lifestyle changes and staying proactive with your health, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing diabetes and its complications. Remember, taking small steps every day can lead to big improvements in your health.

Diagnosis and Tests

Type 1 diabetes symptoms often appear quickly, prompting blood sugar testing. In contrast, symptoms of other diabetes types and prediabetes develop slowly or may not be obvious. To address this, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) has established screening guidelines. The ADA recommends diabetes screening for:

  • Individuals with a body mass index (BMI) over 25 (or over 23 for Asian Americans), regardless of age, if they have other risk factors. These factors include high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol levels, an inactive lifestyle, a history of polycystic ovary syndrome or heart disease, and having a close relative with diabetes.
  • Everyone aged 35 and older should get an initial blood sugar test. If the results are normal, they should be retested every three years.
  • Women who have had gestational diabetes should be screened every three years.
  • People diagnosed with prediabetes should be tested annually.
  • Individuals with HIV should be screened for diabetes.

Tests for type 1 and type 2 diabetes and prediabetes

Diagnosing diabetes involves several tests to measure blood sugar levels and assess how well your body handles glucose. Here are the common tests used to diagnose diabetes:

HbA1C Test

  • What It Measures: This blood test shows your average blood sugar level over the past 2 to 3 months. It measures the percentage of blood sugar attached to hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells.
  • Results:
    • A1C level of 6.5% or higher on two separate tests indicates diabetes.
    • A1C between 5.7% and 6.4% indicates prediabetes.
    • Below 5.7% is considered normal.

Random Blood Sugar Test

  • What It Measures: A blood sample is taken at a random time, regardless of when you last ate.
  • Results:
    • A blood sugar level of 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or higher suggests diabetes.

Fasting Blood Sugar Test

  • What It Measures: A blood sample is taken after you haven’t eaten anything overnight.
  • Results:
    • A fasting blood sugar level less than 100 mg/dL is normal.
    • A fasting blood sugar level from 100 to 125 mg/dL indicates prediabetes.
    • A level of 126 mg/dL or higher on two separate tests indicates diabetes.

Glucose Tolerance Test

  • What It Measures: This test involves fasting overnight, then having your blood sugar level measured. After that, you drink a sugary liquid, and your blood sugar levels are tested periodically over the next two hours.
  • Results:
    • A blood sugar level less than 140 mg/dL is normal.
    • A reading between 140 and 199 mg/dL indicates prediabetes.
    • A reading of 200 mg/dL or higher indicates diabetes.

Additional Tests for Type 1 Diabetes

  • Ketone Test: Your provider may test your urine for ketones, a byproduct produced when muscle and fat are used for energy. This is often done if type 1 diabetes is suspected.
  • Autoantibodies Test: A blood test to check for autoantibodies that are common in type 1 diabetes.

Gestational Diabetes Testing

  • Initial Screening: Your provider will likely screen for gestational diabetes between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy.
  • Glucose Challenge Test: You drink a sugary solution, and your blood sugar level is tested after an hour. If it’s too high, you may need a glucose tolerance test.

Regular testing and early diagnosis are crucial for managing diabetes effectively and preventing complications. If you are at risk or experiencing symptoms, consult with your healthcare provider about getting tested.

Diabetes Treatment and Management

Depending on the type of diabetes you have, managing your blood sugar involves monitoring, medication, and lifestyle changes. Here’s a compassionate guide to help you navigate treatment and management.

Treatments for all types of diabetes

Managing diabetes involves keeping a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and staying active.

  • Healthy eating: Your diet should include more fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. These foods are nutritious, high in fiber, and low in fat and calories. It’s important to reduce saturated fats, refined carbohydrates, and sweets. A registered dietitian can help you create a meal plan that fits your needs and preferences. This might include carbohydrate counting, especially if you have type 1 diabetes or use insulin.
  • Physical activity: Regular exercise is crucial. It helps lower blood sugar by moving it into your cells for energy and makes your body more sensitive to insulin. Choose activities you enjoy, like walking, swimming, or biking. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity most days of the week, or at least 150 minutes a week. Start slowly if you haven’t been active for a while and gradually increase your activity level.

Treatments for type 1 and type 2 diabetes

  • Type 1 Diabetes: Treatment involves insulin injections or an insulin pump, frequent blood sugar checks, and carbohydrate counting. In some cases, a pancreas or islet cell transplant may be considered.
  • Type 2 Diabetes: Treatment often includes lifestyle changes, monitoring blood sugar, and taking oral diabetes drugs, insulin, or both.

Monitoring your blood sugar

  • Regular Monitoring: Depending on your treatment plan, you may need to check your blood sugar up to four times a day or more. Monitoring helps ensure your blood sugar levels stay within your target range. People with type 2 diabetes who aren’t on insulin usually check less often.
  • Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM): CGMs can reduce the need for fingersticks and provide valuable information about blood sugar trends. Regular A1C testing is also recommended to measure your average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months. Most people aim for an A1C below 7%, but your target may vary.

Insulin

  • Type 1 Diabetes: Insulin is essential for survival. People with type 2 diabetes or gestational diabetes may also need insulin.
  • Types of Insulin: There are various types, including short-acting, rapid-acting, long-acting, and intermediate. Insulin is usually injected using a needle and syringe, an insulin pen, or an insulin pump. Pumps deliver insulin continuously and can be adjusted based on your needs.
  • Advanced Systems: Hybrid closed-loop systems combine a CGM and an insulin pump to automatically deliver insulin based on real-time glucose levels. These systems require some user input and are still being improved.

Oral or other drugs

  • Medications: Besides insulin, other medications can help manage diabetes. Some drugs help the pancreas release more insulin, others reduce glucose production in the liver, and some slow carbohydrate absorption. Metformin is often the first medication prescribed for type 2 diabetes. SGLT2 inhibitors help eliminate excess sugar through urine.

Transplantation

  • Pancreas Transplant: For some with type 1 diabetes, a pancreas transplant might be an option, eliminating the need for insulin. However, this requires lifelong immune-suppressing drugs to prevent rejection, which have serious side effects. Transplants are typically reserved for those with severe, uncontrolled diabetes or those needing a kidney transplant.

Bariatric surgery

  • For Obesity: Some people with type 2 diabetes and a BMI over 35 may benefit from bariatric surgery. Procedures like gastric bypass can lead to significant improvements in blood sugar levels, though long-term risks and benefits are still being studied.

Treatment for gestational diabetes

  • Managing During Pregnancy: Keeping blood sugar levels in check is crucial for a healthy pregnancy and delivery. Treatment includes a healthy diet, regular exercise, and monitoring blood sugar. Some women may need insulin or oral medications. Blood sugar levels will be monitored during labor to ensure they stay within a safe range.

Treatment for prediabetes

  • Healthy Habits: Lifestyle changes can help return blood sugar levels to normal or prevent them from rising. Regular exercise (150 minutes a week) and losing about 7% of your body weight can prevent or delay type 2 diabetes. In some cases, medications like metformin, statins, and blood pressure drugs may be recommended.

Managing diabetes is a daily commitment, but with the right plan and support, you can lead a healthy, fulfilling life.

Lifestyle and home remedies

Diabetes is a serious condition that requires full commitment to your treatment plan. Proper management can reduce the risk of serious complications.

  • Commit to Managing Your Diabetes: Learn as much as you can about diabetes. Build a relationship with a diabetes educator and ask your healthcare team for help when needed.
  • Healthy Eating: Focus on a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and legumes. Limit foods high in saturated fats and sugar. If you’re overweight, losing even 7% of your body weight can help control your blood sugar.
  • Regular Physical Activity: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days. This can be brisk walking, biking, or dancing. Include strength training exercises twice a week. Avoid sitting for long periods; try to move around every 30 minutes.

Lifestyle recommendations for type 1 and type 2 diabetes

Also, if you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes:

  • Identify Yourself: Wear a medical ID that says you have diabetes. Keep a glucagon kit handy for low blood sugar emergencies, and ensure friends and family know how to use it.
  • Regular Check-ups: Schedule yearly physicals and regular eye exams to check for diabetes-related complications and other health issues.
  • Stay Vaccinated: High blood sugar can weaken your immune system. Get your flu shot annually and ask your provider about the pneumonia, COVID-19, and hepatitis B vaccines.
  • Foot Care: Wash your feet daily, dry them gently, and moisturize. Check for blisters, cuts, or sores and see your provider for any foot issues that don’t heal quickly.
  • Control Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: Eating healthy and exercising helps control blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Medication may also be necessary.
  • Dental Care: Brush and floss regularly. Schedule dental exams and talk to your dentist if your gums bleed or look swollen.
  • Quit Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of diabetes complications. Seek help from your provider to quit smoking or using other tobacco products.
  • Alcohol Consumption: Drink alcohol in moderation, always with food. Include the carbohydrates from alcohol in your daily count and check your blood sugar before bed.
  • Manage Stress: Long-term stress can raise blood sugar levels. Set limits, prioritize tasks, learn relaxation techniques, and ensure you get plenty of sleep.

Alternative medicine

  • Alternative Therapies: Some substances may help with insulin sensitivity, but results vary. Never stop your prescribed medication without consulting your provider. Discuss any alternative therapies to avoid bad reactions or interactions with your current treatment.
  • No Cure: No alternative or conventional treatments can cure diabetes. Continue insulin therapy as prescribed and consult your provider for any changes.

Managing diabetes involves a combination of lifestyle changes, medication, and regular monitoring. With the right approach and support, you can lead a healthy and fulfilling life.

Integrated Medicine for Diabetes Treatment

At Dr Monga’s Clinic, our approach to treating diabetes integrates the latest advancements in Ayurveda and allopathy, known as Integrated Medicine. Our doctors meticulously diagnose the root cause of the problem and tailor a treatment plan to meet the unique needs of each patient.

We provide dual prescriptions: one comprising modern medicines to directly combat the infection, and another featuring Shastrokta Ayurvedic medicines aimed at balancing doshas and boosting immunity. This comprehensive approach aims to expedite recovery while enhancing overall well-being.

If you are experiencing symptoms of diabetes, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with Dr. Monga’s Clinic today. Take the first step towards effective treatment and embark on your journey to better health.

Coping and support

Living with diabetes can be challenging and sometimes frustrating, especially when blood sugar levels fluctuate despite your best efforts. However, sticking to your management plan can lead to positive changes in your A1C levels over time.

Managing diabetes effectively requires time and effort, which can feel overwhelming. Talking to someone can help. Your healthcare provider can recommend a mental health professional or support group where you can share experiences and tips with others who understand what you’re going through.

Finding support and sharing your journey can make managing diabetes easier and less isolating. Remember, you’re not alone, and there are many resources available to help you cope.

Preparing for your appointment

If you or your child are experiencing diabetes symptoms, the first step is to see a healthcare provider. For high blood sugar levels, you may be directed to the emergency room. If the situation isn’t immediately risky, you might be referred to an endocrinologist. Soon after diagnosis, you’ll likely meet with a diabetes educator and a dietitian to learn how to manage diabetes effectively.

What you can do

  • Pre-appointment Restrictions: Ask if there are any dietary restrictions needed for tests.
  • Symptom Log: Write down all symptoms, even those that seem unrelated.
  • Personal Information: Note any major stresses or recent life changes.
  • Glucose Records: Bring a record of your home glucose monitoring results.
  • Medications: List all medications, vitamins, and supplements you take.
  • Family Medical History: Note any relatives with diabetes, heart attacks, or strokes.
  • Support: Bring a family member or friend to help remember information.
  • Questions: Prepare questions about your diabetes management and any unclear aspects.
  • Prescription Refills: Be aware if you need any medication refills.

Questions to Ask Your Provider

  • Are my symptoms related to diabetes or something else?
  • Do I need any tests?
  • What else can I do to protect my health?
  • What are my options for managing diabetes?
  • How can I manage other health conditions along with diabetes?
  • Are there any restrictions I need to follow?
  • Should I see a dietitian or diabetes educator?
  • Is there a generic alternative to my medication?
  • Are there any printed materials or websites you recommend?

What to expect from your doctor

  • Your provider will likely ask questions to understand your condition better, such as:
  • Can you describe your symptoms?
  • Are your symptoms constant or do they come and go?
  • How severe are your symptoms?
  • Do you have a family history of preeclampsia or diabetes?
  • What is your diet like?
  • Do you exercise? If so, what type and how much?
  • Being well-prepared for your appointment helps you and your provider make the most of your time together, ensuring better management of your diabetes.

Takeaway

Managing diabetes is a lifelong commitment involving healthy eating, regular exercise, blood sugar monitoring, and medication. Understanding the types, symptoms, causes, and risk factors is crucial. Regular check-ups, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and seeking support can greatly improve your quality of life. Staying informed and proactive in your treatment plan helps prevent complications and ensures better health. Remember, you are not alone—support and resources are available to help you navigate living with diabetes effectively.

Dr. Monga’s Clinic in Delhi is renowned for its expert and compassionate care in treating diabetes. With over 75 years of experience, the clinic combines Ayurvedic and Allopathic practices to provide comprehensive diabetes management. The clinic’s integrated approach ensures personalized treatment plans that address the complexities of diabetes, helping patients achieve better health and quality of life.

If you are managing diabetes or seeking expert advice, book a consultation with Dr. Monga’s Clinic in Delhi today to receive the best care.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Diabetics should avoid sugary drinks such as soda, fruit juices, and energy drinks because they can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels due to their high sugar content. [2]

Berries, such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, are among the best fruits for diabetics. They are low in sugar and high in fiber and antioxidants, which help manage blood sugar levels. [3] [4]

Diabetics can eat rice, but it’s important to choose whole grain or brown rice over white rice and consume it in moderation. Whole grains have a lower glycemic index, which helps in maintaining stable blood sugar levels. [5] [6]

Yes, chapati made from whole wheat flour is good for diabetics. It has a low glycemic index and provides fiber, which helps in controlling blood sugar levels. [7] [8]

Ghee can be included in a diabetic diet in moderation. It contains healthy fats that can help in maintaining blood sugar levels, but it’s important to use it sparingly to avoid excess calorie intake. [9] [10]

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  2. Sparapani, V. de Cássia, & Jacob, E. (2015). What is it like to be a child with type 1 diabetes mellitus? Pediatric, ResearchGate. (https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Valeria-Sparapani/publication/272790316_What_is_Like_to_Be_a_Child_with_Type_1_Diabetes_Mellitus/links/558acb5c08aee99ca9ca2e60/What-is-Like-to-Be-a-Child-with-Type-1-Diabetes-Mellitus.pdf)
  3. Roglic, G. (2016). WHO Global report on diabetes: A summary. International Journal of Noncommunicable Diseases. (https://journals.lww.com/ijnc/_layouts/15/oaks.journals/downloadpdf.aspx?an=02040632-201601010-00002)
  4. Buchanan, T. A., Xiang, A., Kjos, S. L., & Watanabe, R. (2007). What is gestational diabetes? Diabetes Care. (https://search.proquest.com/openview/4d8277db59e13b0dfea74a3ffa22f71f/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=47715)
  5. Jarrett, R. J., & Keen, H. (1976). Hyperglycaemia and diabetes mellitus. The Lancet, Elsevier. (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0140673676908448)
  6. Meetoo, D., McGovern, P., & Safadi, R. (2007). An epidemiological overview of diabetes across the world. British Journal of Nursing. (https://www.magonlinelibrary.com/doi/abs/10.12968/bjon.2007.16.16.27079)
  7. Buse, J. B., Caprio, S., Cefalu, W. T., Ceriello, A., et al. (2009). How do we define cure of diabetes? Diabetes Care, American Diabetes Association. (https://diabetesjournals.org/care/article-pdf/32/11/2133/602708/zdc01109002133.pdf)
  8. Epidemiology of type 2 diabetes in India (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8725109/)
  9. Sugar-Sweetened Soft Drinks, Obesity, and Type 2 Diabetes (https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/article-abstract/199296)
  10. Diabetes Mellitus Control Including Fruits in Diet: Exhaustive Review and Meta-analysis (http://research.manuscritpub.com/id/eprint/3910/)
  11. Intake of Fruit, Vegetables, and Fruit Juices and Risk of Diabetes in Women (https://diabetesjournals.org/care/article/31/7/1311/39081/Intake-of-Fruit-Vegetables-and-Fruit-Juices-and)
  12. Substituting Brown Rice for White Rice to Lower Diabetes Risk: A Focus-Group Study in Chinese Adults (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0002822310005249)
  13. Can the diabetes/cardiovascular disease epidemic in India be explained, at least in part, by excess refined grain (rice) intake? (https://journals.lww.com/ijmr/citation/2010/31030/Can_the_diabetes_cardiovascular_disease_epidemic.1.aspx)
  14. High-molecular-weight barley β-glucan in chapatis (unleavened Indian flatbread) lowers glycemic index (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0271531709001249)
  15. Food Habits and Consumption Practices of Missi Roti Among Diabetics (https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/09709274.2006.11905890)
  16. CRITICAL REVIEW OF COW GHEE INTAKE AND ITS RELATION WITH PRAMEHA OR DIABETES (https://wjpr.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/article_issue/1518746047.pdf)
  17. Traditional Indian beliefs about the dietary management of diabetes—an exploratory study of the implications for the management of Gujarati diabetics in Britain (https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1365-277X.1992.tb00170.x)

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