Thiruvananthapuram: Around 25% of Kerala’s population now lives with a diabetes diagnosis, a figure experts link to lifestyle choices and an increasing neglect of preventive measures. On World Diabetes Day, Dr. Maya P S, Medical Officer at the Jeevani Project, Government Ayurveda Hospital, Neyyattinkara, spoke to Mathrubhumi about the dangers of this lifestyle disease. She observed that many people under 30 believe diabetes primarily affects older adults, leading them to continue unhealthy lifestyle habits without considering the risks. “Many of our patients are in their early 30s,” she noted. “It’s crucial for individuals to start regular health checkups once they reach 30.”
In response to this rising trend, we are trying our best to create awareness campaigns and promote preventive measures. This year’s theme, “Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps,” highlights efforts to reduce diabetes risks while ensuring that those diagnosed have equitable access to affordable, high-quality care. In a bid to reach younger audiences, Dr Maya mentions that an awareness camp has been scheduled at a nearby school to educate teachers, who play a vital role in shaping the future generation.
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Jeevani project: Addressing diabetes through a combined medical approach
Initiated by the Indian Systems of Medicine in June 2013, the Jeevani Project focuses on preventing and managing diabetes—a rapidly escalating lifestyle disorder. This project is now active in district hospitals across Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Ernakulam, and Kannur, where 100-150 patients are selected through initial screenings. The patients are enrolled based on their current health condition. Each patient receives a free monthly blood test and a 20-day supply of prescribed medicine, allowing medical staff to track their health and adjust treatment plans as needed.
Dr Maya says the project categorises patients into four groups, each representing a unique approach to treatment. Some patients are newly diagnosed and have not yet started any allopathic medications (G1). Another group relies solely on ayurvedic treatments (G2). Some patients gradually transition to allopathic care alone (G3), while others follow both ayurvedic and allopathic treatments (G4). By closely monitoring and adjusting medications, the Jeevani Project provides a flexible and comprehensive approach that caters to each patient’s needs.
Understanding prediabetes: An early warning stage
Before diabetes fully develops, many individuals enter a state known as prediabetes. In this stage, blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be classified as diabetes. Without lifestyle changes, prediabetes can progress to type 2 diabetes, increasing risks of severe health complications. However, with timely intervention, prediabetes can often be managed, providing an opportunity to prevent the onset of diabetes and maintain overall health.
Recognising symptoms of prediabetes
For those at risk but not yet diagnosed with diabetes, identifying early symptoms of prediabetes can prevent progression. Some key warning signs include:
Increased Thirst: Persistent thirst may indicate the body’s struggle to manage blood sugar levels. High blood sugar levels can lead to dehydration as the kidneys work harder to filter out excess glucose, leading to frequent urination and heightened thirst.
Frequent Urination: When blood sugar levels rise, the kidneys excrete excess glucose through urine. This leads to more frequent urination, creating a cycle of increased thirst and fluid loss, which can become uncomfortable.
Fatigue: Prediabetes can lead to frequent fatigue as the body struggles to convert glucose into energy effectively. Poor sleep quality, often linked with prediabetes symptoms, can worsen fatigue, leaving individuals feeling persistently tired.
Skin Rashes or Itching: Sometimes, skin conditions, such as rashes or itching, are an early indication of prediabetes.
Other symptoms to watch for include unintended weight loss, increased hunger, and a higher risk for those with diabetic parents. Dr Maya emphasises that regular testing is essential, especially after age 30, to catch prediabetes early and take preventive steps.
Treatment approaches for managing prediabetes
Taking preventive action is crucial for those with prediabetes and those already diagnosed. Dr Maya outlines four key areas that can help manage and control diabetes effectively:
Balanced Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains significantly reduces the risk of prediabetes. Incorporating fiber-rich foods helps slow down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, helping maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Regular Physical Activity: Exercise plays a major role in managing diabetes. It helps with weight control, uses up sugar for energy, and makes the body more sensitive to insulin. Walking is especially beneficial, but if that’s not possible, consulting a yoga instructor for suitable exercises can also provide the necessary physical activity.
Consistent Monitoring: Many people overlook the importance of regular health monitoring. Frequent checks, including fasting blood sugar and HbA1c tests, are vital for prediabetics. The HbA1c test measures average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months, providing a clearer picture of long-term blood sugar control. These tests help track blood sugar levels and provide early warnings, enabling timely lifestyle adjustments or treatments.
Scheduled Meal Times: Eating meals at regular intervals helps stabilize blood sugar. Instead of three large meals, five smaller meals spread throughout the day are recommended. For breakfast, small portions of nutrient-rich foods should be consumed by 8:30 am. Mid-morning snacks, like eggs, salads, or sprouts, should be taken around 11:30 am, followed by a balanced lunch with reduced rice and more vegetables around 1:00 pm. Evening snacks can include ragi, and an early dinner (ideally around 7:00 to 8:00 pm) with foods like millets, which have a low glycemic index, is highly beneficial.
Understanding the glycemic index for blood sugar control
The glycemic index (GI) ranks foods based on how quickly they raise blood sugar levels. Foods with a low GI are preferable as they cause a gradual increase in blood sugar, while high-GI foods lead to quick spikes. Here are examples of some low-GI foods that manage diabetes or prediabetes:
Low GI Foods: Soybeans (GI 15), cauliflower (GI 10), cabbage (GI 0-10), carrots (GI 16), almonds (GI 0), buttermilk (GI 20), pomegranate (GI 18), apple (GI 36), and oranges (GI 43).
With diabetes cases on the rise in Kerala, health experts urge residents to take preventive measures and stay informed about the symptoms and treatments. Dr Maya stresses that simple lifestyle changes, regular monitoring, and awareness can make a significant difference.
