World Diabetes Day: The shocking state of diabetes in India
In India, nearly 70-million people (one in 19 people) have diabetes. The country is gradually inching towards becoming the diabetic capital of the world. Sedentary lifestyles and unhealthy diets triggered diabetes -the high blood glucose level disorder- spread furiously. What's more worrying is, two-thirds of children in the cities have Type-2 Diabetes and obesity. This World Diabetes Day, pledge to lead a healthy life!
What is World Diabetes Day?
World Diabetes Day is held on 14 November each year to create awareness about the harmful effects of diabetes worldwide. The World Health Organization and International Diabetes Federation launched World Diabetes Day in 1991 in response to the rising rates of diabetes globally. Every year, the day focuses on a theme related to the disease. The theme for 2017 is "Women and diabetes".
Did you know?
The day, 14 November -World Diabetes Day declared by United Nations- itself marks the birthday of scientist and Nobel laureate Frederick Banting, who co-discovered the insulin hormone that controls blood sugar levels. He discovered insulin along with Charles Best and John James Rickard Macleod.
Children in India at higher risk of diabetes
PM Narendra Modi expressed concern over the "rising occurrence" of diabetes in children and youth in his "Mann Ki Baat" radio address last month. Modi said "old age diseases" are becoming more common in children and youngsters, which calls for strict changes in lifestyle, where youngsters should incorporate more physical activities. According to a 2015 study, 97,700 children in India had Type-1 diabetes.
Common food-related myths around diabetes
Maintaining diet/lifestyle helps in managing diabetes better, but it is important to know the myths and facts. Contrary to the belief, patients should consider the glycemic index (GI) of food rather than how sweet they are. Patients are generally advised to eat digestive-biscuits or cornflakes instead of fruits to maintain blood-sugar levels. But, some of these items have GI that is higher than fruits'.
What is glycemic index?
Glycemic index (GI) is associated with the carbohydrates present in a particular food item. GI indicates the level of impact the carbohydrates have on a person's blood glucose levels. Fiber content and carbohydrates in an item determine its GI rather than its sweetness.
Can diabetic patients eat fruits?
There is a myth that diabetic patients should not eat sweet fruits like mango, grapes, cherry, etc. Contrary to this, doctors say they should have five fruits a day. But people with diabetes are advised to avoid fruit juices because of the high amount of added sugar. Eating fresh, whole fruits that have lower GI and more fiber is always the best.
