Type 1 Diabetes is a clinically debilitating disease that strikes across the socio-economic spectrum. It severely affects quality of life and can be associated with disabilities ranging from blindness to amputation. Even with excellent blood glucose control, patients have significantly lower life expectancy compared to the general population. Economic factors can increase risks too. Many patients drop out of treatment due to the high costs of insulin and the frequent diagnostic tests necessary for managing T1D.
Even with a strict regimen, patients of T1D may still experience dangerously high or low blood glucose levels that can be life-threatening. Every person with T1D needs to become actively involved in managing their disease. While insulin therapy is critical to keeping blood glucose levels within the recommended range, it is not a cure.
Excessive Thirst & Dry Mouth
Sudden
Weight Loss
Frequent
Urination
Fatigue
Constant
Hunger
Blurred Vision
Bedwetting
Persistent
Infection
Viral infections
Race/Ethnicity
Family history
An early diet of consuming cow's milk can increase the risk
Other autoimmune conditions like Graves's disease
Presence of certain genes
However, researchers are still working to identify the specific genes and environmental risk factors to stop the autoimmune process that destroys the pancreatic beta cells.
Diet is an essential aspect in the treatment of diabetes. The best meal plan is one that aligns with the daily food patterns and preferences of the patient and their family. Here are some food guidelines shared by our partners at Dr Mohan’s Diabetes Specialities Clinic, Chennai.
These foods should be included generously in the diet:
Whole-grain cereals, vegetables and vegetable proteins like dals, pulses and legumes; protein-rich and fibre-rich foods like Bengal gram, black gram, green gram, green leafy vegetables and mushrooms.
These foods can be eaten in moderation:
Carrot, beetroot, peas and double beans. And if your sugar levels are in a healthy range, you can also enjoy fruits like apple, orange, sweet lime, papaya, guava, pear, muskmelon and watermelon. Nuts like almonds, groundnuts, walnuts, cashewnuts and pistas are rich in fat but free from cholesterol, so they can be taken in limited quantities replacing fat calories.
These are foods to be avoided or indulged as a special treat:
Sugar, honey, glucose, jam, jaggery, sweets, cakes, pastries, tender coconut water, coconut, soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, health drinks, dry fruits like dates, figs and raisins, and fruits like bananas, mangoes, jackfruit, sapota, custard apples and grapes. Avoid potatoes, yam, colocasia and tapioca.
It helps to control weight, cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and keeps the heart strong. Our partners at KEM Hospital, Pune share some great fitness tutorials for the body and mind too.