Introduction
Diabetes Mellitus is a chronic illness caused by either insufficient insulin production by the pancreas (type 1) or ineffective insulin utilization by the body (type 2). Insulin is a hormone that regulates the blood glucose levels.
Signs and Symptoms of Diabetes Mellitus
- Excessive thirst
- Increased urination
- Increased fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Swelling of ankle, feet, hands, or eyes
- Leg cramps
- Protein in the urine
- Shortness of breath
- Infections like thrush
- Slow healing of wounds
- Confusion
- Difficulty concentrating
Causes of Diabetes Mellitus
- Overweight
- Physical inactivity
- Insulin resistance
- Hormonal diseases
- Genes and family history
Understanding Diabetes Mellitus in Ayurveda
According to Ayurveda, diabetes mellitus is mainly caused by an imbalance in the body’s doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha). This imbalance in the doshas can occur as a result of unhealthy lifestyle, stress, and poor diet.
Treatment and Management
Lifestyle modifications (dietary changes, weight loss), medications (insulin, oral medications, injectable incretin-based therapies), continuous glucose monitoring, and evaluation of underlying condition may be recommended to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.
Palliative care provided by SGP’s PSA for diabetes mellitus disease focuses on symptom management through medications, dietary modifications, and lifestyle changes. It aims to alleviate symptoms such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, etc., improve nutritional status, and enhance overall well-being by providing emotional and psychological support.
FAQs about Diabetes Mellitus
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A fasting blood sugar level that does not exceed 100 mg/dL (5.6 mmol/L) is normal. A blood sugar level between 100 to 125 mg/dL (5.6-6.9 mmol /L) is prediabetes. If blood sugar level is more than 126 mg/dL (7mmol/L) on two separate tests, then it is considered to be diabetes.
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Diabetes is a condition in which blood sugar levels increase as a result of stress hormones being released. Stress is an adaptive mechanism in a healthy person, but in the long term, it can lead to insulin resistance and diabetes.
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Drinking water not only prevents dehydration but also aids in the elimination of excess glucose from the body. For individuals with diabetes, it is recommended to consume approximately 1.6 liter (L) of fluids per day for females; and approximately 2 L (8.5 glasses) per day for males.
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If diabetes is left untreated, it can result in serious complications, including cardiovascular disease, neurological impairment, blindness, renal failure, amputation, and in rare cases death. So, it is important to get treated for diabetes.
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For prediabetes and diabetic patients, rice can be part of their balanced diet. Eating more intact, high-fiber rice and making sure you’re eating a controlled portion can help maintain blood glucose levels within the target range.
