WHAT IS DIBETIc?

We require energy for all thought and action--it is the essence of life. To provide us with this life-sustaining energy, the food we eat is digested, converted into glucose and enters our blood stream. But this glucose is useless to us unless it is transferred effectively to our cells. And in order to make this transfer, the Beta cells in our pancreas must produce a substance called insulin. Normally, this process happens in our bodies without our knowledge. After every meal, the pancreas produces sufficient amounts of insulin and you feel energetic and refreshed. However, if you have Type 1 Diabetes, a genetic disease, the pancreas fails to produce insulin. Type 2 diabetes however, is induced by a bad lifestyle and is a result of constant abuse. If you're overweight and unfit, you're a prime candidate. Often, we don't eat meals on time or eat the wrong kinds of foods and soon, our bodies are producing plenty of insulin but our cells are no longer responding to it. In both cases of diabetes, glucose accumulates in the blood stream and our body is left to deal with the overload by excreting it, making you officially diabetic.

HOME REMEDIES FOR DIABETICS

Just a few changes in your foot habits and you can cut the risks of diabetics to a great extent. Here are some things that you can do at home to prevent diabetes or reduce it if you already are affected by it.

Nobody likes bitter things. But isn't it better to take a fruit or a vegetable instead of medicines? Having bitter gourd juice on an empty stomach has proved to prevent diabetes. If you are too stubborn or enjoy eating bitter gourd, then you could make stuffed karela (bitter bourd) or fry them like chips and have them as a snack. This will not just bring a change in your menu and give a respite to your taste buds, but also be beneficial to your health.

Soak a few seeds (1/4 tsps) of methi in water overnight. First thing after you brush your teeth in the morning, gulp down the methi along with the water.

Jambul fruit is considered as an effective medicine for diabetes considering its effect on pancreas. The seeds too can be dried, powdered and had with water twice a day.

The guava is among those fruits that are available in most times of the year. With its vitamin C property and high fibre content, this is perhaps one fruit that diabetics can fearlessly have. However, a recent study has shown that having guava with its skin can heighten the blood sugar levels, so make sure you peel off the skin before consumption.

Gooseberry/amla juice too cuts the blood sugar levels.

If you can't do without sugar in your coffee or tea, try and substitute honey.

Studies have shown that black coffee without sugar cuts the risk of Type 2 diabetes

Among other benefits, green tea is also helpful in reducing the blood sugar and insulin levels in the body

Talk to the eldest member in your family and am sure they will come up with a number of home remedies to prevent diabetes. Besides, make regular walk and exercise part of your routine.