Dr Syed Riyaz Ahmad
As we join hands around the globe to celebrate World Diabetes Day-2023 with a theme of “Access to Diabetes Care”, it’s a moment to reflect on our health, particularly when it comes to the widespread multi dimensional challenges posed by diabetes and its sinister complications. As most of us are aware in the field of diabetology, we encounter two main types: type 1, characterized by absolute deficiency of insulin where the only option is to replace the insulin required by the body to handle the food we consume, and the more prevalent type 2, often linked to insulin resistance.
Type 2 diabetes, with its roots in lifestyle and nutrition, beckons us to consider the profound impact our choices make on our well-being. Imagine our bodies as intricate machines; just like any well-maintained device, they require the right fuel and adequate rest. The key to managing and even preventing type 2 diabetes lies in striking a delicate balance.
The Role of Balanced Nutrition
Our bodies are intricate ecosystems, finely tuned to respond to the nutrients we provide. Excessive intake, particularly of refined food grains, sugars and unhealthy fats, can lead to insulin resistance. Opting for a balanced nutritional approach, rich in whole foods, vegetables, and lean proteins, acts as a shield against the onset of diabetes. Let’s choose foods that nourish rather than burden our systems.
The Power of Rest to Digestive System
In our fast-paced lives, we often overlook the importance of allowing our digestive systems to rest. Prolonged fasting intervals and mindful eating not only assist in weight management but also play a pivotal role in reducing insulin resistance. It’s time to listen to our bodies, providing them the rest they need to function optimally.
Pharmacological Intervention
While lifestyle modifications form the foundation of diabetes prevention, pharmacological intervention becomes crucial when numbers need immediate attention. Medications can help control blood sugar levels, preventing complications and improving overall quality of life. However, let’s remember that these are tools to aid, not substitutes for an overall healthy lifestyle.
Primary Prevention
The age-old adage, “prevention is better than cure,” resonates profoundly in the realm of type 2 diabetes. Educating ourselves and our communities about the importance of a balanced lifestyle, regular exercise, and mindful eating is the cornerstone of primary prevention. Together, we can create a future where diabetes is not just managed but prevented.
As we celebrate International Diabetes Day, let’s embark on a journey of self-care and shared responsibility. Each choice we make today shapes the health of tomorrow. By embracing balance in our lives, we pave the way for a healthier, diabetes-free world.
- Author an MBBS, PH Dip, MSc Diabetes and Obesity Medicine- UK is Consultant Diabetologist at Paramount Polyclinic Alamgari Bazar Srinagar
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