Diabetes and micronutrients
Vitamins and minerals are examples of micronutrients that are crucial for maintaining overall health and minimizing issues in diabetics. However, because diabetes affects the body’s metabolism, people with diabetes may be more likely to experience vitamin shortages.
For instance, those with diabetes may have reduced vitamin D levels, which can result in brittle bones and a higher risk of fractures. Additionally, they may be more susceptible to acquiring low amounts of vitamin B12, which can harm nerves. Additionally, elevated blood sugar levels have been linked to issues including diabetes retinopathy and nephropathy by harming the body’s small blood vessels, which include those in the kidneys, nerves, and eyes.
Diabetes patients frequently lack magnesium, which can lead to insulin resistance and poor blood sugar management.
To make sure they are getting the necessary micronutrients, persons with diabetes should eat a well-balanced diet with lots of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. They should also discuss any additional vitamins they might need to take with their doctor.
It’s also critical to remember that individuals with diabetes should be aware of both their carbohydrate intake and total calorie intake because too much of either can result in inadequate blood sugar regulation.
Is micronutrient deficiency a cause of diabetes?
No, a micronutrient shortage does not cause diabetes. This metabolic condition causes high blood sugar levels because the body is unable to utilise and retain glucose (a form of sugar) effectively. Type 1 and type 2 diabetes are the most prevalent varieties.
Insulin-dependent diabetes, or type 1 diabetes, is an autoimmune illness in which the body’s immune system attacks and kills the cells that make the hormone insulin, which controls blood sugar levels.
Type 2 diabetes, also known as non-insulin dependent diabetes, is a metabolic illness characterized by decreased insulin production and insulin resistance, which happens when the body’s cells do not react to insulin as they should.
Diabetes is not brought on by a shortage in any one particular vitamin, despite the fact that it might influence how numerous micronutrients are absorbed, utilized, and stored. However, because diabetes affects the body’s metabolism, people with diabetes may be more likely to experience shortages in specific micronutrients, such as vitamin D, vitamin B12, and magnesium.
Why do diabetics need to watch out for micro-nutrients ?
Different micronutrients, including vitamins and minerals, can be affected by diabetes in terms of their absorption, utilization, and storage. For instance, reduced vitamin D levels in diabetics may contribute to brittle bones. Additionally, they may be more susceptible to acquiring low amounts of vitamin B12, which can harm nerves. Additionally, elevated blood sugar levels have been linked to issues including diabetes retinopathy and nephropathy by harming the body’s small blood vessels, which include those in the kidneys, nerves, and eyes. In order to avoid these consequences, people with diabetes need to be careful about the micronutrients they consume.
Ayurvedic approach to micronutrients
Diabetes is referred to as “Madhumeha” in Ayurveda and is seen as a disease of the metabolism. It is thought to be brought on by an imbalance between the Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas, or body humors.
According to Ayurveda, diabetics should have a diet high in whole, unprocessed foods and low in sugar, refined carbs, and saturated fats. In addition, they should concentrate on consuming a variety of nutritious grains, fruits, and vegetables that are high in fibre, vitamins, and minerals.
Ayurveda also suggests a few herbs and spices for the control of diabetes. For instance, fenugreek, also known as methi, is thought to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar levels. In addition to these, turmeric (haldi) and bitter gourd (karela) are frequently used to treat diabetes.
By following a proper eating, sleeping, and exercise schedule, you can maintain good digestion and metabolism. In order to prevent and manage diabetes, Ayurveda also stresses the significance of living a healthy lifestyle, which includes practicing regular exercise and learning stress-reduction strategies.
In conclusion, Ayurveda uses a holistic approach to managing diabetes that includes dietary and lifestyle adjustments as well as the use of herbal remedies to balance the doshas and enhance digestion, metabolism, and general health.
