WORLD DIABETES DAY - 14 NOVEMBER 2023

WORLD DIABETES DAY 
14 NOVEMBER, 2023 

    World Diabetes Day is observed annually on November 14th around the world to raise awareness about diabetes and its impact on millions of people worldwide. It is also a time to unite together, to promote the prevention and management of the disease and its complications.

    The theme of World Diabetes Day 2023 is “Access to Diabetes Care”. This theme highlights of the importance of having equal access to the right information and essential care to ensure timely treatment and management. It emphasizes the importance of making healthy food choices, being physically active, and maintaining a healthy body weight.

Causes of Diabetes

    Diabetes is a chronic condition caused by the body's inability to produce enough insulin or to use insulin efficiently to regulate blood sugar levels. There are two main types of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes.

Type 1 Diabetes: It is an autoimmune disease that occurs when the immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. The exact cause of type 1 diabetes is unknown, but it is believed to be related to genetic and environmental factors.

Type 2 Diabetes: It is the most common form of diabetes that occurs when the body’s insulin is not used effectively, or the pancreas does not produce enough insulin. This type of diabetes is often related to lifestyle factors, including poor diet, lack of exercise, obesity, and family history.

Symptoms of Diabetes

    The signs and symptoms of diabetes vary depending on the type and severity of the disease. However, some common symptoms include:

• Frequent urination
• Increased thirst and hunger
• Fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Slow healing of wounds
• Tingling and numbness in the hands and feet
• Unexplained weight loss

Foods to be included and avoided in diabetes

    A healthy diet plays a vital role in managing and preventing diabetes. The following foods should be included and avoided in diabetes:

Foods to be included:

• Whole grains such as brown rice, whole-wheat, Buck wheat, Ragi, Bajra, Samai and Thinai
• Fruits and vegetables such as spinach, kale, berries, oranges, Guava, Papaya  and apples
• Lean protein sources such as fish, chicken, and tofu
• Healthy fats such as Flax seeds, Almonds, Walnuts, Avocado, Salmon, Sardine, Tuna
• Low-fat dairy products such as skim milk, Buttermilk and Paneer

Foods to be avoided:

• Sugary drinks such as sodas and sweetened juices
• Processed foods high in calories, salt, and unhealthy fats
• Fast foods, fried foods, and snacks such as chips and candy
• High-fat meat such as bacon and sausage
• High-sodium foods such as canned foods and frozen Foods

Prevention of Diabetes

    Prevention of diabetes involves adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes healthy eating habits, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy body weight, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption. Some key steps to prevent diabetes include:

• Eating a balanced and healthy diet
• Reducing the consumption of sugary and processed foods
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Regular physical activity
• Regular blood sugar and cholesterol monitoring
• Refraining from tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption

    In conclusion, World Diabetes Day 2023 will focus on promoting access to diabetes care to everyone regardless their social status. By adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes healthy eating habits and regular exercise, we can reduce the risk of developing diabetes and improve the quality of life for those who are affected by the disease. It’s essential to educate ourselves, friends, family, and community about diabetes and its impact, promote healthy eating habits and encourage regular check-ups to prevent, manage, and reduce the risk of developing this chronic disease.