Planned intermittent fasting may help in reversing Type 2 diabetes, indicates recent research. While lifestyle changes are important in managing the condition, some additional measures may be required. Type2 diabetes normally affects older adults but is being increasingly noticed among younger Indians. They are at a greater risk of life-threatening complications including kidney damage and heart disease as well.
As discussed in an educational module on Medtalks.in, India currently shoulders 49% of the global diabetes burden, representing the ‘lifestyle disease’ as a massive public health obstacle for the second most populated country in the world. The number of people with the condition are bound to increase considering the rise in disposable incomes and living standards and will reach almost 134 million by 2045.
Speaking about this, Padma Shri Awardee, Dr KK Aggarwal, President, HCFI, Editor in Chief IJCP and Medtalks and President-Elect CMAOO said, “A high-calorie diet rich in processed and junk food, obesity, and inactivity are some of the reasons for the increased number of younger people with diabetes in the country. Not getting checked in a timely manner and not following the doctor’s protocol further complicates matters for them, putting them at a risk of acquiring comorbid conditions at a relatively younger age. There is also a belief that because young people with Type 2 diabetes do not need insulin, it is not as sinister as it seems. However, this is a false notion. This condition requires immediate treatment and management. A young person with Type 2 diabetes may have no symptoms. If there are some, these may be usually mild, and in most cases develop gradually and include thirst and frequent urination.”
The symptoms of Type 2 diabetes develop slowly, over a period of time. Some of them include increased thirst and hunger, frequent urination, weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, slow healing of infections and wounds, and skin darkening in certain areas.
Adding further, Dr Aggarwal, said, “Small and gradual changes can be made in the family so that no one is left out. This will also be encouraging for youngsters with adults setting examples for a healthy lifestyle. Such changes can help a youngster lose weight (if that is the issue) or help them make better eating choices, thereby lowering the chances of developing Type 2 diabetes. This is truer for those with a genetic susceptibility to the condition. Operating as a team, a family is much more likely to be successful.”
Patient education is one of the cornerstones of diabetes management. It is imperative for the patient to be able to correctly identify and adequately solve problems related to the disease and actively collaborate with the healthcare provider.
Some tips from HCFI
· Exercise more Exercise has various benefits including preventing weight gain, controlling blood sugar levels, and other conditions. A minimum of 30 minutes of physical activity every day is very beneficial.
· Eat healthy A diet rich in whole grain, fruits, and vegetables is very good for the body. Fibrous food will ensure that you feel fuller for a longer period and prevent any cravings. Avoid processed and refined food as much as possible.
· Limit your alcohol intake and quit smoking Too much alcohol leads to weight gain and can increase your blood pressure and triglyceride levels. Men should limit drinks to two per day and women to one per day. Smokers are twice as likely to develop diabetes as non-smokers and therefore, it is a good idea to quit this habit.
· Understand your risk factors Doing so can help you in taking preventive measures at the earliest and avoid complications.
