The famed American activist and author Michael Pollan termed obesity as an epidemic.

With close to 400 million people having diabetes in the world, are we not losing this battle?

Closer home, it is estimated that India has 67 million diabetic patients. Add to it, another 30 million in the pre-diabetes group (blood sugar level is higher than normal, but still not as high to be classified as Type 2 Diabetes), we are staring at a dark future. If media reports are to be believed, India will overtake China and become the diabetes Capital of the world by 2030.

You can still go on with your life

A diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes brings in a wave of panic. What to do and what not to do and what to eat and still worse, what not to eat – the list of instructions handed over by our well-wishers seem to be a long one. General Physicians are of the view that a mere diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes should not make you stop enjoying your life.

However, doctors give the following set of advice for diabetic patients to lead a healthy life.

Walk the path

Nothing can beat the benefits of daily physical activity. The fact that you are diabetic should make you more enthusiastic about your daily dose of exercise. Incorporate simple physical activities like walking, swimming, jogging or running in your daily routine.

Cut the flab out

Most of the Type 2 diabetic patients are obese too. So, it assumes utmost importance that you keep a close check on your body weight. Doctors say that even losing a few kilos work wonders for your body.

Savour that bar of chocolate

The old timers may say that a diabetes patient should stay away from sweets and chocolates. However, this is not true. The key is to eat in moderation which applies to non-diabetic patients as well. A diabetic patient should concentrate more on eating healthy and nutritious food.

Here are few things a Type 2 Diabetes patient should keep in mind regarding healthy eating:

  • Evenly space your meals in a day
  • Never ever skip your breakfast (Foregoing breakfast can increase blood glucose levels)
  • Have more of whole grains, fruits and non-fat dairy foods
  • Don’t overeat.

Do pop-in those pills

If you are diabetic, never neglect your medication, irrespective of whether they are insulin injections or oral medications. And remember, medicines will have to be supported by your lifestyle changes too, like adequate exercise and healthy eating habits.

Observe it

Doctors advise diabetic patients to monitor their blood glucose level at regular intervals. When to do it and how frequently should it be done depends on your previous blood glucose readings and your general health. Usually, the blood glucose levels are checked before you have a meal or a couple of hours after you have had a full meal.

Do check with your physician as to how frequently your blood glucose readings have to be taken and do follow it without fail. In case, you see abnormal readings, do not hesitate to seek professional help.

Kick the butt

Smoking increases blood sugar levels and leads to insulin resistance, things a diabetic patient should be wary of. Doctors say that individuals who gave up smoking have been found to have increased insulin sensitivity.

Do you smoke? If so, cut down on your smoking and still better, give it up.

My diabetes is such a central part of my life. It did teach me discipline, it also taught me about moderation. I’ve trained myself to be super vigilant, because I feel better when I am in control – Sonia Sotomayor, Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States of America.

Take control of your life and in turn, stop diabetes in its track.