📷 Consuming a high-fat diet, physical inactivity and obesity are the leading factors contributing to this epidemic. Another concerning factor seen is the incidence of diabetes in adolescents and teenagers. Diabetes can increase the risk of developing high blood pressure, high cholesterol, skin issues, vision problems, nerve or kidney damage, and amputation as well. Encouraging a fibre-rich diet, engaging in physical activity and reducing consumption of processed foods has become the need of the hour.
Diabetes is a disease characterized by an increase in blood sugar levels as a result of reduced insulin functionality, reduced insulin production or both. There are two types of diabetes. Type-1 Diabetes It is also known as juvenile diabetes as this type was frequently diagnosed in children. It is an auto-immune disease where the body’s immune cells attack pancreatic beta-cells that produce insulin. Type-2 Diabetes In this type, the beta-cells can produce insulin but the body is unable to utilize the insulin efficiently. Type-2 diabetes can be caused as a result of an inactive lifestyle, family history, genetics, obesity, and increased consumption of processed foods.
Now that you know about the types of diabetes, let us look at some of the myths surrounding diabetes. 1. Do Not Consume Sweets Consuming sweets once in a while is not a crime! Moderation and portion size control are important. You can always consume foods low in carbs or high in complex carbs or even better prepare homemade sweets once in a while to satisfy your cravings!
Fruits are a good source of vitamins and fibre. The soluble fibre present in fruits helps in lowering blood glucose levels. You can consume foods having moderate to low glycemic indexes like grapes, apples, strawberries, or oranges. Even fruits with a high glycemic index like watermelon or pineapple can be consumed but in moderation.
Just because a food product mentions itself as sugar-free doesn’t mean it has to be! Check the food labels carefully and examine the carbohydrate, fat content. Also, make sure to check the ingredients list as well.
Just because you consume diabetic medications does not mean that you can indulge yourself in unhealthy foods. Consuming unhealthy or processed foods regularly can reduce the efficiency of the medications.