Diabetes - Concerns & Care

Diabetes is a condition where in there is decreased production/absolute lack of insulin in our body or there is intolerance the produced insulin. This causes an improper metabolism of the macronutrients especially carbohydrates. Diabetes is characterized by hyperglycemia( increased glucose levels in blood), polyuria( increased frequency of urination/micturition), polydipsia(increased thirst), polyphagia(increased hunger).other than these classic signs there are various symptoms in the patients such as fatigue, decreased energy levels, recurrent infections, weight loss etc. As per Ayurveda, the initial onset of iabetes is referred to as Prameha and can graually devlop into Diabetes Mellitus which is termed as Madhumeha and carectorized as a MahaaRoga (Major disease) as it is known to affect the major organs of the body upon onset. Although there are many forms of diabetes, i.e, it could be due to Vaata, Pitta or Kapha, by and large Diabetes Mellitus is observed mainly as a Kapha Dosha.

Concerns Poor or no diabetes management can lead to further complications such as increased cholesterol levels, problems related to heart, kidney, eyes, peripheral neurons, non healing ulcers etc. Although all major organs dysfunction is painful to endure, the worst to deal with becomes peripheral neuropathy, as it affects normal daily functions. This may mean reduce or no sensitivity to heat, cold, or pain in the feet, legs, or hands. An accidental cut or sore that may not completely heal or take ages to heal. This can be fatal as an infection that won't heal may lead to an amputation, even death.

The onset of nerve damage is very quiet, develops gradually and shows up differently with different patients. Some people feel tingling, some feel pain. some others ma have no sensation or numbness in the fingers and toes. These changes are so gradual that one might not even notice it and may inadvertently get attributed to the ageing process.Most of the complications can be reduced and become less and less life threatening and a quality life is very much a possibility. A strong resolve, consultation with an expert, and proper body treatment with experts can go a long way in ensuring that a patient reaches complete life expectancy without a hitch. A definite protocol is very much needed in every diabetic patient Care

Dietary habits: Main principle of Ayurveda prescribes that the correct diet acts as a part of the medicine itself. “The one who eats well lives well and knows no diseases”. A balance diet and timely meal as prescribed by the physician is the basic step forward in diabetes management. There are Do’s And Don’ts in the diet.The food should be high in nutrients, low fat and moderate levels of carbohydrates. Rice eating should be completely avoided – this is a misconception. As per Ayurveda food constitutes of Rasa (essence and potency) and Virya (energy).

Anna Rasa and Virya are essentialities for the human system and helps in balancing Doshas. Carbohydrates are very much essential to the body for instant energy and it should not be completely removed from the diet. Rather quantity of rice can be reduced and substituted with fiber rich diet such as whole wheat, greens and vegetables. The beverages should be of low calories and should be sugarlessEating absolute sugary items is a big no to the diabetic patient. Rather they can substitute it with artificial sweeteners in an inevitable condition. Using synthetic sweetener a lot is a also a major blow to the health.

Daily regimen: One should start their day with a brisk walk which is compulsory to every diabetic patient. Several researches show the reduction in plasma glucose level in the patients who indulge in regular exercises or a brisk walking. There is an absolute contraindication for sedentary lifestyle and should be very active in their daily activities. Involving Yoga and Pranayama (Ways of breathing) in one’s daily regimen is a boon for keeping diabetes in control since the mental and emotional status of the person influences a lot on the metabolism.Avoiding stress is one of the important task to prevent the commencing complications of diabetes. To attain the same one can indulge in meditation, music therapy, aroma therapy and various relaxation techniques which is practiced in the holy Ayurveda science.

Exercises like stretching, aerobics helps a lot in diabetic patient. Even simple Surya Namaskara plays a an important role in controlling the diabetes when practiced regularly for prescribed duration.Maintaining hygiene is also important in diabetic patient wherein the infections are very much common if blood sugar is not controlled. Always care should be taken to avoid injuries to extremities i.e. hands and legs since the wound healing in these regions are relatively slow and can lead to multiple sores and ulcers which can even lead to a complication called as diabetic foot and can end up in amputation of the same. Oral and Genital health is also important to prevent the fungal and other infections in the same which is cozy for treatment.Overall the ultimate mantra of all the diabetics should be a healthy lifestyle along with healthy mind. The combined effect of physical, mental and spiritual wellness is very

About the Author

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Dr. Rajani Hegde is a Consulting physician at one of the branches of B V Pundit's Traditional & Herbal Healthcare retail outlet & clinics in Bangalore. She is a practioner of Ayurvedic Medicine System and has a Degree (BAMS) and is specializing in Panchakarma at the GAMC.

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