Obesity

Obesity is a multifaceted health disorder that affects both adults and children. Being obese not only affects the overall persona of an individual but also increases the risk for many health concerns. An obese person is at a higher risk of developing health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, stroke, arthritis, breathing problems, and some cancers.

Statistics have revealed that obesity is a major factor contributing factor for metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) among Asian Indians. Various factors contribute towards making an individual obese. Some major factors which contribute towards obesity are environment, family history and genetics, metabolism or the way your body converts food and oxygen into energy, and individual’s lifestyle. Besides these factors certain medical conditions also leads to obesity. Scientists are also trying to understand that some chemicals in the environment may be playing in the growing obesity problem.

Recent guidelines have revealed that 10-15% of Indian population would fall under the obese category and would need appropriate management. Purpose of these guidelines on countrywide basis projects an alarming situation of T2DM and cardiovascular disease.

Some startling facts about obesity:

According to a recent survey conducted worldwide: India has second highest obese children in world.
Followed by China India ranks second in childhood obesity with the incidence of China with 15.3 million and India with 14.4 million.
According to National Family Health Survey in 2018 –In past one decade the number of obese people has doubled.
According to a latest publication in a medical journal-“The Lancet” –Currently there are 30 million obese Indians and by 2025, this number is expected to pass 70 million.
Did you know lack of sleep increases the chances of obesity- If you do not sleep enough you produce Ghrelin, a hormone that increases your appetite and hence adds extra pounds to your body.
India the third most obese country in the world – According to a study published in a medical Journal Lancet- India is just behind US and China in this global hazard list of top 10 countries with highest number of obese people.
Latest Survey reveals that technology addiction too is adding to obesity amongst young adults and children in India. Television, computers and video games at the cost of sports and physical activity, causing sedentary life style are prime causes of obesity among young ones.
Surprisingly but true-Globally, Obesity causes more deaths than malnutrition -Worldwide, obesity is one of the top five leading causes of death. It results in greater than 2.8 million deaths every year.

What is the need for new guidelines for obesity among Asian Indians?

New guidelines have been proposed in view of alarming situation of obesity among Indians. These guidelines have been prepared by 100 medical experts all across the country hailing from the backgrounds of internal medicine, diabetes, metabolism, endocrinology, nutrition, cardiology, exercise physiology, sports medicine, bariatric surgery and representing reputed medical institutions, hospitals, government funded research institutions. The very need for these guidelines has been enumerated below:

In view of increasing trend in frequency of obesity and related metabolic diseases, there is dire need of effective interventions in obesity
As Asian Indians manifest a higher risk of cardiovascular risk factors and T2DM at lower levels of obesity, the appropriate obesity diagnosis should be based on lower level of weight for height than in non-Asian Indian populations.

Current obesity international guidelines are not appropriate for Asian Indians. Moreover, WHO has authorized local governments and scientists to decide on the localized guidelines for the Asian Indians.
If appropriate diet, exercise, drug and surgery are employed at lower levels of obesity, nearly 15% of the adult population of India (nearly 5-7 crore people) will show improvement in obesity coupled with reduced risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

How obesity is diagnosed among Indians?

Three parameters which are used to measure obesity are body mass index BMI, waist circumference WC and waist-to-hip circumference ratio (WHR). The most accepted method to define thinness and fatness is BMI, a ratio of weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared (kg/m2).

What are the cut offs for BMI and WC in defining obesity among Asian Indians?

After a major consensus among scientists below table has been prepared to depict the obesity among Asian Indians:

Classification	BMI(kg/m2)
	Principal cut-off points	Cut-off pointsfor Asians
Normal range	18.5 – 24.9	18.5 – 22.9
23.0 – 24.9
Pre-obese	25.0 – 29.9	25.0 – 27.4
27.5 – 29.9
Obese (Class I)	30.0 – 34.9	30.0 – 32.4
32.5 – 34.9
Obese (Class II)	35.0 – 39.9	35.0 – 37.4
37.5 – 39.9
Obese (class III)	≥40.0	≥40.0

Source: Adapted from WHO 2004 and recent guidlines

What does recent guidelines say about WC and WHR cut offs in defining obesity?

Research has revealed that abdominal obesity is associated with higher risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease when compared with generalized obesity. Cardiovascular disease is associated with increased amounts of excess abdominal adipose tissue, both intra-abdominal adipose tissue (IAT) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SCAT). In view of this a joint discussion and consensus among scientists concluded the WC cut off among Asian Indians as defined below:

Action level 1: Men: 78 cm, women: 72 cm. Any person with WC more than these levels should refrain from gaining weight and adopt healthy lifestyle to prevent the risk of any of the cardiovascular risk factor.
Action level 2: Men: 90 cm, women: 80 cm. Individuals with WC above this should seek medical help so that obesity-related risk factors could be diagnosed and handled.

What are the causes of obesity?

Obesity could be genetic, behavioral and can also result due to the hormonal changes in the body. Obesity occurs when you take in more calories than you burn through exercise and normal daily activities. Your body stores these excess calories as fat. Some medical conditions also result in obesity such as Prader-Willi syndrome, Cushing’s syndrome, and other diseases and conditions. The main reasons for obesity are either sedentary lifestyle or eating unhealthy such as junk foods at wrong intervals.

What are the risk factors that can contribute to obesity?

Obesity usually results from a combination factors, including:

Genetics. Genetics may also play a role in how efficiently your body converts food into energy and how your body burns calories during exercises.
Family lifestyle. Family members share common eating habits. Obesity runs mostly in families as common eating habits of eating fatty foods contribute to obesity.
Inactivity. If you are inactive throughout the day, you are more prone towards obesity. Certain diseases like arthritis also result in decreased mobility and hence inactivity
Diet. A diet rich in fats and less minerals and vitamins can result in obesity
Medical problems. In some people, obesity can be traced to a medical conditions like Prader-Willi syndrome, Cushing’s syndrome and other conditions. Medical problems, such as arthritis, also can lead to decreased activity, which may result in weight gain.
Medications. Some medicines such as antidepressants, anti-seizure medications, diabetes medications, antipsychotic medications, steroids and beta blockers also make the person obese
Social and economic issues. Research has shown that weight gain can be linked to social and economic factors.
Age. As we grow in age a decreased physical activity and lower metabolic rate can result in obesity.
Sleep deprivation. Not getting enough sleep or getting too much sleep can cause changes in hormones which may lead to an increase in appetite. You may also crave foods high in calories and carbohydrates, which can contribute to weight gain.

What are the complications associated with obesity?

A number of health problems arise if you are obese. Some of the diseases which you may encounter include:

High triglycerides and low high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol
Type 2 diabetes
High blood pressure
Heart disease
Stroke
Cancer
Breathing disorders, including sleep apnea, a potentially serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts
Gallbladder disease
Gynecological issues such as infertility and irregular periods
Erectile dysfunction and sexual health issues

Quality of life-If you are obese you are most likely to suffer from other issues, which can severely affect the quality of life. Some common problems which arise due to obesity include depression, disability, sexual problems, shame and guilt, social isolation, and poor performance at workplace

How can you prevent obesity?

You can take some below-mentioned steps to prevent obesity:

Exercise regularly. Exercises such a fast walking and swimming for 150 to 300 minutes in a week can prevent obesity
Eat healthily. Eat low-calorie, nutrient-dense foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Refrain from foods which are high in fat content.
Monitor your weight regularly. Keep an eye on your weight at regular intervals as it can help you to assess your weight regularly

What are the recent guidelines on physical activity?

According to joint decision among scientist below is the list of guidelines about physical activity in combating obesity and associated health concerns:

Physical inactivity should be refrained as much as possible
Pro active medical consultation is recommended for those with chronic conditions or those who are symptomatic
Inactive people must switch on to physical activity
Brisk walking (walking at an intensity wherein an individual finds speaking difficult but not impossible) should be encouraged
On an average a total of 60 minutes of physical activity like aerobic activity, work-related activity and muscle strengthening activity should be included daily
For additional and greater health benefits, adults can increase their aerobic physical activity to 300 minutes (5 hours) a week of moderate-intensity, or 150 minutes a week of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity
Yoga should be included; however, more research is needed to fully explore its benefits
Children should undertake at least 60 min of outdoor physical activity. Screen time (television/computers) should be less than 2 hrs a day.

What is the treatment of obesity?

The treatment of obesity includes a combination treatment from a dietitian, behavior counselor or an obesity specialist. Recent guidelines suggest identifying and treating the underlying cause of obesity, lifestyle modification, pharmacological treatment like ant-obesity drugs along with lifestyle modification, and if needed surgical treatment is advisable in treating obesity.

Scientists have concluded that anti-obesity drugs should be prescribed in combination with dietary and lifestyle changes as a part of comprehensive weight loss program. Also, drug treatment should be monitored on an ongoing basis for efficacy as well as safety. In general, anti-obesity drugs should be administered for BMI above 27 kg/m2 or a BMI above 25 kg/m2

Anti-obesity drugs which are recommended to treat obesity are sibutramine, orlistat should be used as a second line therapy. At times metformin and exenatide can be used under special clinical conditions.

What is the surgical treatment for obesity?

Over the past few years bariatric surgery has come out as an option for obesity reduction. Bariatric surgery involves an alteration in the digestive system by reducing the gastric volume or by changing the path of food bolus which can lead to malabsorption. According to current international guidelines below are the guidelines for bariatric surgery:

Current International Guidelines: BMI above 35 kg/m2, or BMI above 40 kg/m2.
For Asian Indians: BMI above 32.5 kg/m2

Various surgical options are available under the umbrella of surgery which includes:

Restrictive Procedures like Adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) & sleeve gastrectomy
Combined Procedures like Roux-en-Y Gastric or Bypass (RYGBP)
Malabsorptive Procedures like Bilio-pancreatic diversions (BPD)
Experimental Procedures like ileal interposition
Duodeno-jejunal bypass and other implantable pulse generators.

Pros and Cons are associated with above mentioned procedures; however, it is upon the physician to decide that which surgical treatment is best suited for the particular patient.

Having a positive attitude towards weight loss and employing various changes in lifestyle such as exercising and eating a well-balanced diet can help you to lose weight. Nevertheless, obesity remains a rampant problem even in developing nation like India. Appropriate interventions are required in a timely manner to combat this problem to prevent other major health concerns.

Obesity Support Groups

These inspiring stories of those who have overcome Diabetes will keep you motivated

I’m a borderline case, what can I expect ?

Have you been diagnosed with borderline high blood sugar levels? In your case the blood sugar levels recorded are higher than normal, but not high enough to be full-fledged Diabetes. This is referred to as the Prediabetes stage which can be reversed by following recommended guidelines.

During this phase, your pancreatic cells are still producing a little amount of insulin to convert carbohydrates into sugar, however, Insulin produced by the pancreas is not sufficient to remove sugars effectively, keeping the blood glucose level high.

It has been observed that people with Prediabetes may not take this condition seriously. However, research suggests that the sooner one begins to take precautions, the better are the chances of reversal of this condition.

Some quick tips

Make small changes and be a winner!
- Prediabetes can eventually lead to Type 2 Diabetes; however, this development can be easily prevented. It requires small efforts and minor changes in your lifestyle. Research shows that reducing your body weight by just 5 -10 %, to begin with, makes a remarkable difference in the natural Insulin production in the body. Weight loss can also delay the onset of Type 2 Diabetes significantly.
Watch your portion sizes
- Dieticians round the globe suggest having 3 main meals and 3 mini meals to have a good control of your glucose levels.
  You may choose to use smaller plates for meals to check on serving portions to begin with. The plate method advocated by ADA is specially designed for people living with Diabetes or Prediabetes. This approach advises that you fill half of your plate with fibrous fruits and vegetables; one quarter with low carbohydrates, such as brown rice or a baked potato; and the last quarter should be lean protein, like grilled fish or chicken.
Never skip meals
- Eat regularly. It is always a good idea to follow a regular meal pattern and not skip meals. People who eat regular meals, beginning with healthy breakfast, are healthier, more energetic and weigh less than those who skip meals.
  Consume mini meals. Eating healthy mini meals and snacks such as fruits, multigrain bars and low-calorie preparations help you to not only control your blood sugar, but also hunger pangs and prevents you from overeating and binging.
Limit tobacco and alcohol consumption
- Research suggests smoking may aggravate complications from Diabetes, such as heart diseases and may lead to nerve and kidney damage. It is, therefore, highly advisable to significantly limit or give up on smoking.
  Alcohol consumption can have a strong impact on your blood sugar levels; they often spike blood glucose levels leading to poor diabetes management. It is a good idea to take your doctor’s advice on whether you can consume alcohol, and how much. In any case, please remember to always eat a snack or a meal while consuming alcohol to prevent fluctuations or spiking of blood glucose levels.
Exercise
- Exercise is integral to a healthy lifestyle. If you have been diagnosed with Prediabetes, it is even more essential for you to have a fitness routine.
  It is a good idea to check with your doctor before you starting any exercise program. However, a daily walk of 30 – 45 minutes usually makes a good starting point. You may also choose from a wide variety of exercise regimes such as Yoga, Pilates, Tai chi, Swimming, Dancing and Jogging.
Acquire as much information as you can
- It is believed an informed person can make better decisions. Hence we urge you to make an effort to learn about food and lifestyle changes that will help you manage your condition better.
Take help and support from your family
- Research suggests that it is easier to manage Diabetes more effectively with family support. Your partner, family, and friends can play a huge role in motivating you and helping you adhere to your diabetes management programme.
  It is a good idea to check with your doctor before you starting any exercise program. However, a daily walk of 30 – 45 minutes usually makes a good starting point. You may also choose from a wide variety of exercise regimes such as Yoga, Pilates, Tai chi, Swimming, Dancing and Jogging.
Last but not the least
- Always maintain a positive approach. Studies suggest that people who consider Prediabetes as a burden or stress are often unsuccessful in managing this condition. Hence, with a positive mind and attitude you can successfully control your blood glucose levels and come on top of your condition.

What I can do as family/friend of a diagnosed Prediabetes?

Studies reveal that a majority of partners and family members may be equally worried upon detection of their partner’s Prediabetes/Borderline condition. But the good news is that you and your family can play a very important role in arresting and reversing the condition. Research suggests, Partners and family members who actively take interest in managing Prediabetes/borderline condition with in their spouses have been very successful in achieving excellent results.

You may already know that Prediabetes is a warning condition, but studies are on our side saying the condition can be reversed by bringing in lifestyle changes and following low carb diets, exercise regimes and incorporating lifestyle changes.

Equip yourself first
- Reading and collecting information on diabetes yourself can be very helpful for you to understand what your partner is going through physically and emotionally. You may also choose to take guidance from a certified diabetic educator or a physician to help your partner in the best possible ways.
Support your partner mentally and emotionally
- Psychologists suggest that people living with Prediabetes/Diabetes undergo tremendous emotional turmoil. Feelings such as anxiety, fear, guilt, anger, frustration and denial are bound to be experienced. As a family member / partner you should try to be supporting and understanding of these emotional ups and downs. You are also advised to consult a certified diabetic educator to help you motivate your partner in dealing with this condition.
Participate in arresting Prediabetes/borderline condition
- It is always easier to approach a challenge as two people rather than one. By working together not only are you motivating yourself but you are also acting as a check for the other person. Planning goals together is very helpful in attaining successful results, it is a good idea to discuss and chalk out plans mutually before starting to follow any regime for management of this condition. Research suggests that partners, who ate the same food, and did combine exercises yielded better results than self-managed programmes.
  Reminding your partner to adhere to the Prediabetes management programme may help in controlling high glucose levels in people with Borderline conditions. You may also choose to follow “eating by the plate method” advocated by ADA and try various diets.
  However, it is important to beware that constant nagging, complaining or forcing may backfire in managing this condition. It’s advisable to set realistic goals, and handle situations compassionately.
Empower and replenish yourself
- Research shows family and partners undergo tremendous mental and physical fatigue. Remember to take care of yourself too, because you may also undergo mental and physical stress while looking after your companion.
  Ensure that you have time for yourself and for pursuing the interests you enjoyed before Diabetes made an appearance in your life. Pamper yourself and remain cheerful.
  It is important to strike a balance in order to manage your personal and professional life. Set realistic goals and do not give up. Eat a well-balanced healthy diet and learn different ways to cope up with stress. To know more read the below tips to manage compassion.

To read more on Diabetes, click on the link below.

Diabetes

Understanding Diabetes

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is an endocrine disorder that elevates your blood sugar levels over a prolonged period of time. It is caused by the malfunctioning of the pancreatic cells, which produce insufficient or no Insulin.

Why is Insulin so vital ?

Insulin is the hormone that is responsible for the process that converts carbohydrates into sugar; which is then stored it in the body for future use. Insufficient or no secretion of insulin from our pancreas leads to an imbalance in the body, causing liver cells to convert glycogen to glucose and accumulate in the blood stream.

Indications of Diabetes

Some of the most common symptoms suggesting the onset of diabetes are frequent urination, frequent thirst, frequent hunger (even after full meals), unexplained burning, itching or rash in the body, specially the foot, bruising easily, slow healing of wounds or clotting of blood when the skin is broken/cut, tingling or numbness sensation in the extremities of the feet and hands as also extremely low energy levels. However, often these symptoms could go unnoticed leading to undetected diabetes. Hence, it is always a good idea to get yourself regularly checked by a doctor for preventive healthcare.

Why did I get Diabetes?

Leading Endocrinologist Dr Sanjay Kalra from Bharti Hospital, Karnal shares his perspective on why diabetes is spreading like an epidemic. Nearly 70 million Indians are living with diabetes today. This is not a small number. Our genetic make-up is tuned such as to store fat reserves in the body in order to survive severe weather conditons such as famine. In ancient times, these stored food reserves or lipids were converted into energy in the bodies of our ancestors, so that they could survive the harsh living conditions. Cut to the present generations, lifestyle, stress levels, sedentary life, lack of physical activity, unhealthy diets, all contribute to surplus reserves for the body. As a result, the pancreas gets overworked and starts malfunctioning.

Am I at Risk?

There are several factors which may cause diabetes but medical science is yet to ascertain the main cause responsible for a specific person. However research indicates that the following conditions make people twice more likely to get diabetes than those without these conditions.

It could be genetic, family history has a strong role. Other factors such as obesity, high blood pressure high triglyceride levels, presence of diabetes autoantibodies, substance abuse, or excessive consumption of alcohol and tobacco.

Diabetes Ranges

Age 20 and above amounts shown as mg/dL
Fasting	Less than 100
Before Meal	70-130
After Meal (1–2 hrs)	Less than 180
Before Exercise	If taking insulin at least, 100
Bed time	100-140
HbA1c	Less than or around 7.0 %

SOURCES: American Diabetes Association. “Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes—2014,” Diabetes Care, January 2014.

Shown above are blood glucose ranges defined by American Diabetes Association. You’re kindly advised to refer to a doctor as the values may differ slightly with different age & gender.

What is Prediabetes?

When the blood glucose levels are borderline or higher than what they should be. But not as high as people with diabetes is known as Prediabetes. This condition is a “whistle blower” and indicates that you may proceed towards diabetes type 2, if you do not make the necessary changes in your lifestyle.

What are the Types of Diabetes?

You may have already undergone tests and your doctor may have already explained if you have Diabetes, and if so, the specific type you are living with. As a general understanding, the following classifications should give a sense of various types of diabetes:

Type 1 Diabetes:
- Type 1 diabetes is when there is insufficient or no production of insulin in the pancreas. This condition requires external insulin to help your body convert sugars to energy.
Type 2 Diabetes:
- Type 2 diabetes is when the pancreatic cells, become insulin resistant due to a defective response in the receptor cells in the body. This is the most commonly found type worldwide.
Gestational Diabetes:
- Gestational diabetes is when blood sugar levels are raised during the time of pregnancy. This is most likely a temporary condition, in which blood sugar levels are often likely to come back to normal after the delivery.
Latent autoimmune diabetes in adults:
- LADA is when autosomal alterations can lead to defective BETA cell function, resulting in Type 1 diabetes. LADA is often misdiagnosed as Type 2 diabetes in India.

Complications

Diabetes is called as a silent killer because many people remain undetected till such time as the consistently high blood glucose levels start affecting other organs such as the heart, the kidney and the liver – referred to as Macro-vascular complications and the nervous system resulting in foot, gum or vision problems called Micro-vascular complications.

Check for other important co-morbid conditions:

Diabetic Retinopathy
Kidney Disorders
Diabetic Neuropathy
Chronic Vascular Disease
Liver Disorders
Erectile Dysfunction
Polycystic Ovarian Disease

What else do I need to know ?

Often many people remain undetected till such time that consistently high blood glucose levels have already started affecting other organs such as your heart, kidney, liver – referred to as Macro-vascular complications, and your nervous system resulting in foot, gum or vision problems called Micro-vascular complications.
If you are “suffering” from any other life style conditions, “co-morbid conditons” consult your endocrinologist/ diabetologist. Your doctor will prescribe specific medications and solutions to manage this or any other complication.

To read more on Diabetes, click on the link below.

Diabetes food

Diabetes excercise

Diabetes helpful tips – A caregivers guide

Diabetes is a chronic medical condition, which can severely affect the physical and emotional condition of a patient. Family/partners of people living with diabetes may sometimes find caregiving an overwhelming experience, because of the exhaustive demands in diabetes management. They often undergo emotional, mental and physical stress.

Read on to find out what you can do & how you can cope.

Enlighten yourself:

According to ADA, partners/caregivers who do their own little research in diabetes are more equipped and apt in managing diabetes well. Knowing a various aspects of diabetes like what food can be consumed and what self measures one can take to prevent diabetes. Studies reveal books, medical online sites, diabetes communities can be of great help in enlightening about diabetes. Caregivers may also consult a certified diabetes educator to educate themselves about the Do, s and Don’ts of caregiving for people with diabetes.

Avoid “miscarried helping”:

Research suggests, too much nagging can back fire in diabetes management. Psychologist Gerald Straus, calls too much nagging “miscarried helping”.You may be having every intention to help your partner/ patient but studies reveal, miscarried helping may lead your loved ones runningin just the opposite direction”, leading to very poor diabetes management.

Kindness matters:

Research suggests imposing rules and executing doctor’s instructions in the wrong tone or dialect may rub the patient/partner in all the wrong ways. Studies reveal explaining things compassionately, like what you would appreciate your partner/patient to do, and what may disappoint you, can get you better results in treatment compliance. Dr Strauss, ADA suggests, you can take additional help from expert diabetes educators to ensure your approach is well received and followed.

On the other hand, with children, and adolescents one has to supervise, and sometimes might have to be a little strict to ensure treatment compliance..

Bring in changes together:

Research suggests bringing in necessary lifestyle changes in your life too can help enormously to motivate your partner/patient living with diabetes. By adopting healthy changes together, like eating the same diet, one can manage the conditions better, because people living with diabetes will have company, in making efforts to lead a healthy lifestyle. You may choose to make a few sacrifices to let the patient/spouse you are caring for, know that you are fully committed to the diabetes management programme. A caregiver’s role is one of the most important aspects in diabetes management. A compassionate and well understanding partner can help in addressing the diabetes issues more effectively.

Share your feelings:

We understand that caregiving can be stressful at times. Research suggests, caregivers may often suffer from compassion fatigue and burnout. Compassion fatigue is a common condition observed in medical professionals, nurses, and caregivers.

Dr Charles Figley Professor from New Orleans LA defines, compassion fatigue as a state experienced by caregivers, who are preoccupied in constantly caring for patients, which leads to a degree of self-distress, creating a secondary traumatic condition in the caregiver/helper. Hence, it is most important for a caregiver to stay calm, stress free during the diabetes care for the partner.

Feel free to share your feelings with your spouse/patients/doctors whenever you feel absolutely exhausted. Speaking your heart out can be a very good way to lighten up yourself. There are several ways of coping up with compassion fatigue such as taking up recreational activities, outings with the patient/family, yoga & meditation. You may also choose to seek medical advice if you are completely undergoing burn out.

Make feasible plans

According to the American diabetes association-Setting up realistic goals and taking a step-by-step approach is the easiest and the best way to incorporate lifestyle changes. For example, doing small things at first, like including a 45 minute walking regime daily, may lower your partner/patient blood sugar levels, which can motivate your partner/patient to embrace further inclusions of the diabetes programme. A daily regular regimen followed can help in alleviating the much caused anxiety and helps in keeping a check on the spiked glucose levels.

Make meals interesting:

Studies reveal that meals have been always an area of interest for people with diabetes. Nothing should come your way in serving tasty food, keeping diabetes in mind. Stock your kitchen with healthy fruits and vegetables, so that you can always quickly prepare an interesting snack or meal for frequent munching.

You may want to check out our diabetes friendly recipes, before you step out to shop for grocery for yourself and your partner. We recommend you to have a look at the section-Food as Medicine where our expert Dr. Mona Johar speaks about the right food that can be to prevent and control diabetes.

Have fun while caregiving:

Off-Key Singing

Did you know that you can have fun while caregiving too? Experts say, freestyle singing or off key singing such as singing a parody or making up your own lyrics can be great fun for both the patient & the caregiver. This simple activity can minimize stress. Stress plays a vital role in getting diabetic and controlling when the levels are raised.

Silly Dancing

Taking a break? You may choose to silly dance and request your partner/patient to join you. This is a great stress buster and can bring smiles to the both of you.

Most Important- Take care of yourself:

Studies reveal caregivers often put themselves at last, in terms of caring for themselves. This can really take a toll on both their physical and mental health. Joan Lunden’s “Camp Reveille” exclusively for caregivers suggests that, caregivers must take out time to nourish their soul, mind and body.

The following are the few activities for thecaregiver’s, listed as the caregivers“favourites” that can easily be done in the comfort of their homes.

Meditation – meditation can be done, anywhere, anytime. It delivers a sense of calm and peace, making it an excellent stress and tension reliever. If one can spare 10 minutes or 20 at the beginning or end of your day, it can help ease tension and allow you to gain a new perspective on a stressful situation. There are many forms of meditation, so try a few to find the one that works best for you.

Morning and Evening Stretches – Beginning and ending your day with some gentle stretching can relax and release tired muscles, improving circulation and range of motion. Just a few minutes each morning and evening can make an impact on your day.

Tai Chi – Tai Chi is a Chinese form of workout, which involves a series of slow, graceful movements accompanied by gentle deep breathing. Some describe Tai Chi as “meditation in motion.” It’s an excellent, low-impact exercise that reduces stress and anxiety while getting your energy flowing.

Yoga – Yoga basicallyfocuses on the synchronization of movement and breathing, yoga builds strength, stamina, balance and flexibility. It can help reduce stress and lower blood pressure, while improving your overall fitness. Along with meditation, there are a variety of yoga forms. You may also choose to enrol in a yoga centre.

Pilates – This popular form which focuses on building core strength and torso stability, which improves levels of strength, balance, flexibility, muscle tone, stamina, and general well-being. Pilates is an excellent option for any age or fitness level as the exercises can be done on a floor mat or Pilates equipment at home.

Conclusion- Though diabetes is a chronic disease but managing diabetes can be achieved with the help of lifestyle changes. It is vital for the caregiver and patient to stay happy and cheerful during the journey of diabetes management. Right modalities opted can help manage diabetes and can make the journey comfortable both for the patient and caregiver.

Citations

American diabetes association

www.diabetes.org

www.diabetes.org/food-and-fitness/food/what-can-i-eat/food-tips/quick-meal-ideas

www.joanlunden.com

www.aplaceformom.com

www.everydayhealth.com

Famhealth – About Us

about famhealth

Famhealth derived from the term Family Health is a healthcare venture in bringing people with common health conditions and concerns together.

Patients and their caregivers have questions that remain unanswered. We plug this information gap by aggregating; curating and disseminating evidence-based information through various media platforms.

We strive to help the patient and ‘family health guardians’ navigate through various issues related to their health by Informing, Inspiring and Empowering them. In short, equipping families to take informed, thought-through decisions.

We have a wide network of experienced super-specialists who advise us and our medical content is created by an unbiased team of professionals with a cumulative experience of more than 100 years and who come from various backgrounds – medical, media, advertising, digital, and academics… mostly humanitarian. We are proud to offer India a platform dedicated to healthcare people can trust.

You can also catch us on TV with our distribution partners, Tata Sky on “Tata Sky Family Health”

our core team

asha kapoor, MD

Close to 30 years work ex in advertising and marketing. Began her career in account management at Lintas (Delhi and Mumbai) and McCann Erickson (Delhi and Mumbai) as also by working on iconic brands like Dettol; Disprin, Stayfree; J&J Baby products. L’Oreal etc.

A stint at McCann Erickson New York (Consumer Health) followed by setting up new ventures:

McCann Healthcare India, one of the first specialist agencies in this domain.
As an Executive Director & President a Sudler & Hennessey India & Singapore, a high-end specialist niche communications company (a WPP/ Rediffusion Y&R company. This encompassed setting up a series of disciplines ranging from consumer advertising (OTC businesses), direct marketing, BTB marketing, loyalty programs, a medical knowledge bank and PR not just for India, but Singapore too.

Worked as Director Marketing at Ozone Ayurvedics, and as Director, Business with Tag Worldwide.

vibha paul rishi, investor, chief whip & advisor

Vibha holds a BA (hon) degree in economics from Delhi University and a Master of Business Administration degree from the Faculty of Management Studies, New Delhi. Vibha Paul Rishi is an experienced marketing professional with stints in Indian and international markets, coupled with an abiding passion for people.

Her last role was as the executive director, brand and human capital of Max India Limited. Prior to this, she was the director, marketing and customer strategy at the Future Group. She served PepsiCo for 17 years in leadership roles in marketing and innovation in India, US and UK. She was one of the founding team of PepsiCo and Titan watches when they started up in India.

She serves on the boards of several reputed companies such as Asian Paints, Indian Hotels, Tata Chemicals etc. She is also on the board of Pratham, an NGO that works to provide education to underprivileged children in India . Recently she was appointed to the Faculty Board of her alma mater FMS , Delhi University.

maulshree joshi, content & strategy director

Ex National Director Group M’s Motivator, Maulshree Is a seasoned advertising and content professional with over 15 years of cross functional experience in the Industry.

She was with GroupM for about 10 years, where she had stints at various GroupM agencies including ESP, Mindshare and Motivator. She worked extensively on creating branded content across brands at GroupM and created India’s first Cookery based reality which ran for multiple seasons on Colors. She also conceptualized the first ever Virtual Reality show on Doordarshan for Perfetti besides many other award winning content projects.

In addition, she launched RadioM, India’s first ‘only Radio content’ agency to harness the power of radio for brands working with Pepsico, Hero Moto Corp, Tata Tea, GSK and many others. Earlier in her career she worked with agencies like Mudra, Lowe and RKSwamy BBDO.

nitin kapoor, founder director and head operations

Over 35 years of diverse experience across industries from the Merchant Navy, Software & Solutions Sales, International trading, Project Management and as an Entrepreneur. Served as an integral member of the NIIT software team in its formative years.

His experience ranges from spearheading and management of operations, key client relationship building, business development (domestic and global), managing liaisons and all that needs in running your own business.

note

Each one of us is different and react to things differently. Please remember that while many ideas will be shared and discussed on this platform, some of these may not be applicable/suitable for some of us. Hence we urge you to check with your doctor if they are appropriate for you. Also, we neither encourage nor subscribe to any discussions on a specific doctor, hospital or treatments on this platform.

how we help

inform

We provide your family and you relevant medical information, latest scientific and medical updates and professional suggestions to help you understand your condition better

inspire

We provide a safe place to hear about the journey of other people who have successfully navigated through the same health issues and what helped them overcome their challenges.

empower

We provide as many solutions as we possibly can to help you and your family make better informed decisions to effectively manage your loved one’s health concern.

Tag: Health education

obesity

It’s Reasons and Prevention