Diabetes is a chronic health disorder that affects how the body converts food into energy. It is one of the most common health problems worldwide. India has 77 million diabetics, the second largest country in the world after China. Diabetes comes in two forms: type 1 and type 2, the latter being more common. Type 2 diabetes makes the body resistant to insulin and can cause complications including heart disease and stroke, nerve damage, kidney disease, blindness, leg ulcers and peripheral vascular disease , which in turn can lead to amputation of a foot or limb. Type 2 diabetes is a devastating disease, but studies show that lifestyle changes can help prevent and manage it.

Prashanth Vishwanath, Country Director, Veganuary India, says, “Plant-based diets are increasingly popular in India, adopted by people of all ages. The movement toward vegan eating is gaining momentum with the incorporation of traditional recipes into modern plant-based dishes. From improved energy levels to better moods, people who try a vegan diet report many positive health changes. This change is not just a trend but a significant shift towards healthier and more mindful living.

PREVENT AND MANAGE DIABETES WITH A PLANT-BASED DIET

Speaking on the issue, Dr Chandan Kumar Mishra, Senior Consultant, Endocrinology, Aakash Healthcare, New Delhi, said, “A plant-based diet not only helps in the prevention and management of type 2 diabetes, but also promotes general health. Plant-based diets are linked to lower body mass index (BMI) and better cholesterol. A plant-based diet for diabetes management focuses on eating unprocessed plant foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds, while limiting or eliminating animal products and processed foods.

Several studies evaluating the impact of a plant-based diet on thousands of patients with type 2 diabetes have shown remarkable results. Over time, this dietary approach has helped patients achieve significant improvements in key health markers such as body weight, blood sugar and cholesterol. “

TRY IT

Adopting a plant-based diet doesn’t mean giving up all your favorite foods overnight. A simple meal plan replacing key nutrients from animal foods with plant-based nutrients is a good place to start.

For people who like to stick to familiar foods, many Indian dishes are naturally vegan. Millet recipes are also very useful in managing diabetes due to their low glycemic index.