Dear Komal,
I have been recently told I have diabetes type 2 in the 250 range.
Can you please guide me on the way forward so I can take care of my health and reduce diabetes?
I am male, 41 years old, heavy and normal walking (not walking for exercise).
I drink on occasion, eat out once a week. We are non-vegetarian.
Thank you,
Sudesh

Ans:

Type 2 diabetes can occur due to a number of reasons like obesity, lifestyle habits, hormonal imbalance, genetic factors, etc.

Depending on your current weight, BMI and calorie intake, you will need to identify your nutritional requirements and follow a low carbohydrate, high fibre diet with essential antioxidants.

Protein is an essential nutrient as it is the building block of our body.

An adequate protein intake combined with an exercise regimen that focuses on strengthening and cardio exercises will help in building lean mass and lower your body fat percentage.

Include salads, vegetables and fruits in your diet.

Avoid high carb and fat foods like chocolates, pastries, sweets, desserts, fast foods, aerated water, etc.

Drink plenty of water and maintain regular eating habits. This will help in lowering your glycaemic index and help reverse diabetes.

Ans: Given your age and current ailments it is not safe to change diet pattern without a proper history and monitoring of sugar levels for at least 1-2 weeks. You can visit a diabetes specialist or a naturopath for the same and then draw out your diet plan accordingly. Since diabetics are also prone to easy muscle loss, your plan should be a combination of diet and right exercises.

Ans: Blood sugar levels can be lowered gradually by lifestyle modifications. Ensure your diet consists of more complex carbohydrates like whole grains, fruits, vegetables, etc., low fat foods, good protein sources like low fat dairy products, eggs, lean meat, pulses and legumes, etc. Avoid sweets, bakery products, chocolates, savories, carbonated beverages, alcohol, etc. These will spike your blood sugar levels. Focus on portion control and follow a regular exercise regimen.

Ans: High blood sugar levels can cause serious health problems, including heart disease, kidney disease, and nerve damage. But with treatment and lifestyle changes, you can control your blood glucose levels. You need to review the basal and bolus Insulin dosage to get blood sugar levels controlled. The main factors to remember for dietary modifications are to focus on complex carbohydrates and fiber from foods like whole grains, vegetables, fruits, beans, etc. Eat foods with a low glycemic index and a low glycemic load. Have adequate protein in every meal and avoid sugary and concentrated sugar foods like sweets, chocolate cakes, pastries, ice creams and fried foods should be avoided. Adopt a regular exercise schedule including aerobic and strengthening exercises.