📷 Diabetes, especially type II diabetes or Diabetes Mellitus (DM), is one of the most common medical conditions across the globe. And is forever on the rise. There are various factors that cause diabetes. But did you know that stress can be one of the factors that can contribute to this medical condition? On Stress Awareness Month (April), The Channel 46 has collaborated with Dr Anjali Kumar, MBBS, MD & Former CEO at Just Diabetes, who advises you on the relationship between stress and diabetes, and lists 16 ways to keep stress-induced diabetes under control.
According to medical experts, stress has a deep impact on metabolic activity. The primary result of the fight or flight response is energy mobilisation. Stress is responsible for stimulating the release of a host of hormones, which can lead to a rise in blood glucose levels. Due to the relative or absolute lack of insulin in an individual with diabetes, an increase in glucose levels as a result of stress cannot be effectively metabolised. Not just that, it may be abnormal to regulate these stress hormones in diabetes.
Stress is an integral part of life. It is often a challenge to remove stress completely. However, you can definitely make a consistent and conscious effort to keep it under control. Here are 7 ways to manage stress better by keeping a close eye on your blood sugar levels. 1. Eat right 2. Follow a regular fitness routine 3. Check blood sugar regularly 4. Keep a positive attitude at all times 5. Don’t try to change what you cannot change 6. Be nice to yourself 7. Discuss your stressors with near and dear ones, or seek professional help
Apart from a regular exercise regimen, try yoga and meditation. Using essential oils like rose, lavender, and frankincense, to name a few relieves stress. This proves to be helpful for those with stress-induced diabetes and those with insulin resistance.
Taking rest is essential for leading a healthy life. Hence, ensure that you get at least 8 hours of sleep every day. This is because lack of sleep raises the risk of various health conditions, including stress-related diabetes. Apart from increasing stress, lack of sleep can also raise appetite hormones like ghrelin and cortisol, which induces hunger, thus, making you crave unhealthy sugary snacks, caffeine, and refined grain foods.
Healthy Fats – Extra virgin olive oil – Virgin coconut oil – MCT oil – Ghee – Nuts and seeds like chia, almonds, flax, hemp, etc. – Avocado – Grass-fed Butter