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Search Results for: diabetes

October 4, 2022 By Geetika Patni Leave a Comment

Barley and Ragi: The Best Grains For Diabetes & Their Benefits

Best grains for diabetes If you’re diagnosed with Diabetes, white rice and anything made with white flour such as bread or pasta and other refined grains are off the table. This leaves us with little options. Out of these limited options, Barley and Ragi can work wonders if you want to stop those surges in blood sugar. Here’s why we think Barley and Ragi are the best grains for diabetes.

Why Are Barley and Ragi The Best Grains For Diabetes?

Barley is a wonder grain, not only for diabetics, but for everyone. This grain helps diabetics specifically because it is high in fiber content (soluble and insoluble) which makes it a low GI food. Consuming Barley will not raise your blood sugar levels like a piece of bread or a cup of polished white rice would.

If you’re wondering how Barley achieves that, it’s because of the Beta Glucan fibers in it. Thanks to these fibers, the release of sugars in the bloodstream is slowed and when consumed, it helps a person keep their sugar levels well within the target zones – for post prandial – that is post meal sugar, as well as the fasting sugar levels, which improve because consuming barley keeps you satiated for a longer duration, so you are less hungry and eat less frequently.

Moreover, Barley is a good source of magnesium which is very important for diabetics as deficiency of magnesium is known to cause insulin resistance, and a magnesium-rich diet helps in improving insulin sensitivity of cells which results in better blood sugar control. 1 cup of barley consumption covers 61% of your daily magnesium requirement.

What Is The Best Way To Consume Barley? 

Make sure to go for hull-less Barley which is the truly whole grain variety of Barley. More processed type is known as pearl Barley and may have less nutrient density as compared to hull-less Barley. The way to consume it is by adding it to soups, stuffing, flour, etc. or by having barley water more commonly known as ‘Jau Ka Pani’ which is prepared by soaking a cup of barley overnight. Adding Barley in a diabetic diet serves a lot of benefits!

How Does Ragi Help Manage Diabetes? 

If we speak of Ragi, it also comes from the millet family and contains higher amounts of calcium and phosphorus as compared to some other cereals and grains. Diabetics who have gluten resistance and cannot consume wheat or barley can opt for Ragi as it is gluten-free. Ragi also has very less cholesterol and very high antioxidant activity, which helps meet the overall nutritional requirement for a diabetic. 

However, it’s best to consume Ragi in moderation and rotate with other whole grains for best benefits on sugar control. For diabetics, the best approach to carbohydrate consumption is to stick to rotation of whole grain foods.

We hope this article on the best grains for diabetes helps you. For more on managing diabetes, check out Healthy Reads. 

For further guidance and motivation by certified experts, join the GOQii Diabetes Care program. It’s India’s only diabetes program that is driven by Smart Science and Personal Coaching to improve Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS), Postprandial Blood Sugar (PP), reduce HbA1c levels and let you win gold! You can subscribe here: https://store.goqii.com/diabetescare.

#BeTheForce 

August 23, 2022 By Parveen Nake 3 Comments

What Gestational Diabetes Can Do To You & Your Unborn Child

Gestational Diabetes

We all know about Diabetes Mellitus to some extent as Diabetes Mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder that prevents the body from utilising glucose completely or partially. It is characterised by raised glucose concentration in the blood and alterations in carbohydrate, protein and fat metabolism. But have you ever heard of Gestational Diabetes or Pregnancy Diabetes?

Gestational Diabetes is a high blood sugar (glucose) condition that develops during pregnancy and usually disappears after giving birth. It can happen at any stage of pregnancy, but is more common in the second or third trimester. Insulin requirements goes up one to three times in pregnancy. During normal pregnancy the level of plasma insulin is raised by the action of placental hormones thus placing a burden on the insulin secreting cells of the pancreatic islets. The pancreas may be unable to meet these demands in women genetically predisposed to develop both types of diabetes. Long term studies show that some 80% of women with gestational diabetes ultimately develop permanent clinical diabetes requiring treatment.

What Causes Gestational Diabetes?

The causes of Gestational Diabetes is not known clearly yet. Some, but not all women with gestational diabetes are found to be overweight before getting pregnant or have a family history of diabetes. It is more common in Native American, Alaskan Native, Asian and Black women, but white women may develop it due to poor lifestyle.

Are There Tests to Determine it?

Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) is a confirmatory test. The OGTT measures blood glucose after you fast for at least 8hours. Firstly, the blood sample is drawn in fasting state. Then, 75g of glucose dissolved in 250-300 ml of water is given, Lemon juice may be added for flavour and to prevent nausea. Then the blood specimens are collected every 30mins for 2-3 hours after the administration of glucose.

High blood glucose levels at any two or more blood test times – Fasting, 1 hour, 2 hours or 3 hours – mean you have Gestational diabetes.

Complications During Pregnancy

If blood sugar is not controlled, it can lead to problems for both maternal and foetal health. Uncontrolled diabetes during the first trimester of pregnancy increases the risk of abortions and congenital malfunctions in the foetus. Some of the major consequences are:

  • High Blood Pressure (Preeclampsia): Preeclampsia is a potentially dangerous pregnancy complication characterised by high blood pressure. Due to the high blood pressure levels of the mother, the protein in urine spikes up and swelling in fingers and toes and lower body persists. High blood pressure can be harmful to both – the mother and the unborn baby. It might lead to the baby being born early and also could cause seizures or a stroke (a blood clot or a bleed in the brain that can lead to brain damage) in the woman during labour or delivery.
  • An Extra Large Baby: Uncontrolled Diabetes in the mother causes the baby’s blood sugar to be high. The baby tends to “overfeed” and grows extra-large. Besides, causing discomfort to the mother, it can lead to problems during delivery causing prolonged labour pain which might need a C-section to deliver the baby. The baby can be born with nerve damage due to pressure on the shoulder during delivery.
  • Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycaemia): People with diabetes who take insulin or other medications can develop blood sugar that is too low or hypoglycaemia. Low blood sugar can be very serious and even fatal if not treated quickly.

How to Manage Gestational Diabetes

The main modes of treatment of Gestational Diabetes include:

1. Eating a Healthy Diet: Dietary measures are an essential part of the treatment of diabetic patients whether they are on diet alone or on metformin drug or insulin. Carbohydrate restriction impairs insulin sensitivity and reversed by high carbohydrate diet but it needs to be maintained between 60-65% of total calories. So include more complex carbohydrates or polysaccharides like Multi-grain flour, Oats, Muesli, Granola, Amaranth, Bajra, Ragi, Quinoa, etc. Studies have shown that raising carbohydrates does not adversely affect the fasting blood glucose levels, glucose tolerance or insulin requirements provided that total calories are not increased.

Along with carbs, include more protein-rich foods like pulses and lentils, Rajma, Soya Bean, peas, beans, peanuts, milk and dairy products like yogurt, buttermilk, paneer, eggs, chicken, etc. to ensure weight gain and prevent osteomalacia during pregnancy. Inclusion of fibre like fruits and green leafy vegetables are must as it improves glucose metabolism without increasing insulin secretion. It increases the intestinal transit-time, delay gastric emptying slow glucose absorption.

2. Drugs or Insulin Treatment: Metformin or Insulin therapy is the accepted medical management of gestational diabetes. Insulin is the first drug of choice and metformin can be considered after 20 weeks of gestation. Insulin must be taken without delay if it is suggested by the doctor.

3. Exercise: Stay Active to help keep your blood sugar under control. Exercise regularly – before, during and after pregnancy. Moderate exercise such as brisk walking for 30mins a day for 5 times a week is a good goal to set.

4. Monitoring Blood Sugar Often: Be aware that your blood sugar can change very quickly, becoming too high or too low depending on what you eat and how much you exercise and your growing baby’s blood sugar also varies several times during the day. Check your blood sugar level as often as directed by the doctor and any time you have symptoms.

By adopting these measures one can enjoy a healthy Antenatal period. For more articles on managing Diabetes, check out Healthy Reads.

For further guidance and motivation by certified experts, join the GOQii Diabetes Care program. It’s India’s only diabetes program that is driven by Smart Science and Personal Coaching to improve Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS), Postprandial Blood Sugar (PP), reduce HbA1c levels and let you win gold! You can subscribe here: https://store.goqii.com/diabetescare.

#BeTheForce

July 27, 2022 By Dr Akshat Chadha 1 Comment

Busting Myths Related To Diabetes Reversal

diabetes reversalYou may have often come across the term ‘Diabetes Reversal’. But can the condition actually be ‘reversed’? “The word ‘reversal’ is a misnomer, as the dictionary defines it as a change in an opposite direction, position, or course of action or back to a former state. Of late, this seems to be used very loosely next to diabetes, and that’s not an accurate way to look at it.

Why is it not accurate? That is because ‘diabetes reversal’ would mean that the medicines are stopped, and the person no longer suffers from the disease. But, this scenario is seldom seen in practice for many patients. Yes, few patients — like the ones with prediabetes are able to ‘reverse’ their conditions for a longer period of time (if they are able to maintain a good lifestyle) but those with chronic, long-standing diabetes, find it difficult to even sustain the reduced medications.

The word ‘reversal’ may actually only mean better control and management to begin with, then slowly tapering off medicines, to finally try and take them off with further work aimed at a situation where you do not go back to medications. If a patient can sustain this state of no medicines with the blood reports staying within the normal limits for five years, then probably we can say that diabetes (type 2) has been reversed.

Common Myths Surrounding Diabetes Reversal 

Myth #1: Type 2 diabetes reversal is easy and can be achieved in 6-8 weeks by joining a program.

Fact: This one is actually a pretty funny and dangerous myth. I would think it’s impossible to believe something like this. But, people do believe it as they tend to get desperate to get rid of the condition and hence, go to any extent where they see a ray of hope, which makes it dangerous. Fad diets or even strict diets can show the blood reports getting better along with a reduction in weight (4-5 kgs every month). But, this drastic change can cause other issues later in life including chronic deficiencies.

While on the program, the patients are also taken off the medicines (since the blood reports look better) but once the program ends, and those who aren’t able to sustain the changes, the sugar starts to increase and this time with a vengeance. Some even end up rushing back to their original doctors who understandably get upset as they fear the damage caused and invariably have to increase medication. Thus, the patient suffers the most at multiple levels and what starts as a ray of hope for the patient ends up being a ray of destruction.

Myth #2: Cut out carbs, fruits and sugar and you will reverse type 2 diabetes

no sugar diabetes reversal

Fact: The patient will definitely get the numbers down initially, at least on paper. But, apart from the nutritional benefits that they will miss out on, it’s very unlikely that diabetes reversal will be achieved.

I want to help you all understand that the major source of the problem such as inflammation or insulin resistance is the refined carbohydrates and sugar that are present in cakes, pastries, sodas and even packaged foods. Grains and fruits can increase the sugars but it varies from person to person. If they are balanced with fiber, proteins and fats, then you will be surprised to know how well the sugars are regulated. We have a tendency of eating 5-6 chapatis or a big portion of rice with just a touch of vegetables (sometimes the quantity is even lesser than pickle) and sometimes no dals or beans or even curd. So, instead of going extreme and cutting down everything (which again becomes difficult to sustain), look at including a balanced meal as you will not only have better blood sugar but also improve your overall health.

Myth #3: Do fasting and you will reverse diabetes

Fact: This one is really doing the rounds. This might not be a myth but rather an exaggeration. It makes sense to fast as you will end up consuming lesser food (>12hrs – you mostly will end up missing one major meal). Initially, one will witness weight loss and the gut along with the pancreas will get some relaxation during the fasting period. Fasting is an age-old practice and does have benefits if done the ‘right way’. It’s however important to know what’s the right way to fast.

The answer to this question is that it varies from diabetic to diabetic and also depends on the co-morbid conditions, current medications, insulin and how much the blood sugar fluctuates. Of course, eating 2kg of fruits or eating “anything and everything” during the eating window isn’t going to work, so such behaviour is not encouraged. Also, if you are continuously fasting for weeks or months together, then be careful about muscle health, gut health and even your metabolism as all of these can take a slight dip. Fasting when used as one of the tools for better diabetes management under the right guidance should help in the overall improvement of the patient’s health.

Myth #4: I will not be able to reduce medicines or get off them because I have a family history of diabetes.

family history diabetes reversalFact: Family history, especially if both parents have diabetes, does play a big role in making a person predisposed to diabetes. But it’s not the only factor that triggers diabetes. It’s, in fact, your lifestyle, your daily habits repeated over a period of time that finally leads you to diabetes. So, in the same way, you might have to be more particular and take better care of yourself. If done consistently, one can hope to see the medicines reduced, in spite of the family history.

Of course, prevention or postponement is better than reversal so if people can start following a healthier sustainable lifestyle then they can keep diabetes away for a longer time or even if they get it, they can manage it with minimum medicines. Better control can also help to reduce chances of the complications.

Myth #5: If I start medicines or insulin, I will never be able to reverse the diabetes

Fact: I feel this is one myth that should be broken as soon as possible. Many times starting medication or insulin earlier can actually help you conserve the beta-cell function (cells in the pancreas that produce insulin), further increasing your chances of getting off the medicine sooner provided you have made the lifestyle changes simultaneously. If the patient refuses to make basic changes like eating better, getting regular exercise, sleeping and managing stress better, then the medicine will also not get the desired support and that can further lead to an increase in the medicines.

So it’s time the diabetics reset their mindset. Stop doubting every doctor or medicine and take responsibility for your health by making the right changes so that diabetes reversal can become an easier reality in the coming years.

Myth #6: Type 1 diabetes can be reversed

Fact: Simply put, not yet. If anyone at this point is claiming or promising reversal of Type 1 diabetes, then that’s far from the truth. There’s a lot of work and research going on in this field but nothing conclusive has been shown. I do feel and hope that it’s a matter of time and in this interim, we all need to build up our patience and instead work on the information that we have and at least better manage type 1 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes doesn’t stop a patient from doing anything or living a good life, so if you have that worry or fear, it’s a good time to start changing it.

To summarize, diabetes reversal (the real one as I have mentioned above) is possible if the question on reversal is generic. But, we now need to ask the question differently – can I reverse my diabetes? If not then can I live healthy, fearlessly with diabetes – and the answer will always be a big yes!

We hope this article helps you! For more on Diabetes, check out Healthy Reads.

For further guidance and motivation by certified experts, join the GOQii Diabetes Care program. It’s India’s only diabetes program that is driven by Smart Science and Personal Coaching to improve Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS), Postprandial Blood Sugar (PP), reduce HbA1c levels and let you win gold! You can subscribe here: https://store.goqii.com/diabetescare.

#BeTheForce 

July 13, 2022 By GOQii 4 Comments

9 Diabetes Friendly Grains Beyond Brown Rice

diabetes friendly grainsDiabetes is one of the most prevalent conditions throughout the world. Be it Type 1, Type 2 or Gestational. As soon as we realize that we have Diabetes, we immediately start controlling our sweet tooth in order to keep our sugar consumption under control. But apart from cutting down on sweets and adding less sugar to your tea/coffee, it is also extremely important to understand that we have to limit our calorie intake and add foods which have a low glycemic index to our diet.

Low Glycemic Index foods are those which take a longer time to get digested and therefore, release the sugars in our blood at a slow pace. This, in turn, prevents sudden spikes in blood sugar levels. So if you’ve been replacing your white rice, which has a high glycemic index, with brown rice, there are some other diabetes friendly grains you can explore.

9 Diabetes Friendly Grains You Can Consume

  1. Amarnath: Gluten free, high protein (15-18%), a great source of calcium, fiber, iron, potassium, and many other vitamins and minerals.
    How to cook: Add 2 cups water to 1 cup amaranth grain, bring to a boil, and then simmer for 15-20 minutes.
  2. Foxtail millet: Gluten-free, high in dietary fiber, Low Glycemic index, reduces the levels of triglycerides, LDL and VLDL, magnesium present in millets is a co-factor in various enzymes involved in the secretion of insulin and metabolism of glucose in the body
    How to cook:  Pressure cook 1 cup of foxtail millet with 2.5 cups water and 1/2 tsp salt for three whistles. Turn off the flame.
  3. Quinoa: Highest protein content, gluten-free, rich in fiber, iron, and magnesium. It is easy to cook as well.
    How to cook: Pressure cook 1 cup of quinoa with 2.5 cups water for three whistles. Simmer for 5 minutes and turn off the flame.
  4. Kodo Millet: High fiber and energy content and tastes like rice. Kodo Millet contains Copper, deficiency of which impairs sugar tolerance. Research has identified anti-diabetic compounds i.e. Quercetin and Phenolic acids which are present in Kodo Millet.
    How to cook:  Pressure cook 1 cup of Kodo Millet with 2.5 cups water and 1/2 tsp salt for two whistles. Turn off the flame.
  5. Buckwheat: High in magnesium, phytonutrients, and dietary fiber and is gluten-free as well.
    How to cook: Add 2 cups water to 1 cup buckwheat grain, bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes.
  6. Little Millet: Low cholesterol, gluten-free, high in protein and dietary fiber.
    How to cook: Pressure cook 1 cup of little millet with 2.5 cups water and 1/2 tsp salt for two whistles. Turn off the flame.
  7. Barnyard Millet: Gluten-free,  has the highest fiber and iron content of all the millets.
    How to cook: Pressure cook 1 cup of Barnyard Millet with 2.5 cups water and 1/2 tsp salt for two whistles. Turn off the flame.
  8. Barley: High in soluble fiber which prevents the carbohydrates from getting absorbed too quickly and raising blood sugar levels. Low glycemic index and high in magnesium as well.
    How to cook: Pressure cook 1 cup of Barley with 3 cups water for about 25 minutes after the first whistle.
  9. Rye: A very good source of dietary fiber, phosphorus, magnesium, and vitamin B1. It’s a rich source of magnesium too.
    How to cook: Soak 1 cup of rye grain for about 2 hours. Combine the grains with 4 cups of water in a pan, bring to a boil, simmer, close with a lid and cook for about 45 minutes.

There you have it! 9 diabetes friendly grains that are great alternatives to white rice or in case you want to switch from brown rice. Before making any dietary changes, consult a doctor or your nutritionist for further guidance and in case you have any allergies.

We hope this article helps you! Do leave your thoughts in the comments below. For more on managing diabetes, check out Healthy Reads.

For further guidance and motivation by certified experts, join the GOQii Diabetes Care program. It’s India’s only diabetes program that is driven by Smart Science and Personal Coaching to improve Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS), Postprandial Blood Sugar (PP), reduce HbA1c levels and let you win gold! You can subscribe here: https://store.goqii.com/diabetescare.

Let’s #DefeatDiabetes and #BeTheForce 

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