10 Clear Observations About Diabetes Everyone Should Know

Most people measure sugar levels but do not understand the disease.

So let's clarify 10 basic facts about Diabetes first.

1. Diabetes does not happen just because of eating sweets. Blood sugar rises because insulin stays in the body for a longer time in higher amounts. Insulin is the hormone that pushes sugar into cells. When it stays high continuously, the body reduces its response to it.

2. Sugar is not a disease, it is a signal. The sugar seen in reports is a result. The real problem is insulin resistance (meaning the body listens less to insulin).

3. Eating small amounts throughout the day tires the body. Each snack increases insulin. If we keep eating all day, the body does not get metabolic rest.

4. When you eat is also important in Diabetes. Late dinner slows metabolism at night, so morning sugar appears high. The body clock affects sugar control.

5. Eating low-fat does not cure Diabetes. The problem is not fat. The problem is: • refined flour • bakery items • sweetened drinks • processed snacks

6. There is no need to completely cut carbs. The quality of carbs is important. ✔ Bhakri ✔ Lentils ✔ Vegetables These provide energy slowly. But ❌ Refined flour ❌ Biscuits ❌ Sugary drinks These increase sugar quickly.

7. Fasting does not mean starving. Fasting means an opportunity for insulin to decrease. Then the body starts using stored energy.

8. Exercise is not just to burn sugar. The main benefit of exercise is that the body starts responding to insulin again. Movement is medicine for metabolism.

9. Diabetes is not always a progressively worsening disease. If routine changes, the trajectory can change. Many patients show improved control.

10. Medicines are necessary but not sufficient alone. Sugar control greatly depends on: • Meal timing • Walking • Sleep • Weight and muscle

We often ask, “What is my sugar level?” But we should really ask, “When does my body get rest from insulin?”

Understanding this question is the start of understanding Diabetes.

Before talking about Diabetes, having a clear basic understanding is very important.

Dr Ravindra L Kulkarni MD, DNB, FSCAI (Cardiology) Just For Hearts