Ayurveda - The Perfect Diabetes Management Aid!

In Ayurveda, Diabetes is known as Madhumeha (Madhu means 'honey' and Meha means 'urine'). Medhumeha is categorized as Vataj Meha (a problem caused by the aggravation of Vata). Vata is an Ayurvedic humor symbolizing wind and dryness. Deterioration of the body is a characteristic that indicates impairment of Vata. Maximum deterioration of dhatus (body tissues) occurs in this type of disease and this is the reason why all vital organs are affected by Diabetes.

The other prime cause of Diabetes is impaired digestion. Impaired digestion leads to accumulation of specific digestive impurities (known as ama) which accumulate in the pancreatic cells and impair the production of insulin.

The treatment of Diabetes recommended in Ayurveda - as against modern medicine - is aimed at rejuvenating the body to not only balance sugar levels but also foster a positive change in the patient's life. Ayurvedic medicines work on the root cause of the disease, strengthening the patient's immunity, enhancing digestion and helping him lead an overall healthy life. Along with medication, dietary and lifestyle changes are also recommended to rejuvenate the body's cells and tissues, allowing them to produce insulin properly.

Daily Routine for a Diabetic

1. Wake up Time -

Wake up by 6 am in the morning, as you also need ample time to exercise. Have a glass of lukewarm water mixed with two teaspoonfuls of fresh lemon juice every day.

2. Exercise -

Exercise forms an important part of treatment for diabetic patients. A morning walk is the best form of exercise. Yoga and meditation can also be beneficial, especially to relieve stress and bring clarity to the mind. If your health permits, opt for exercises such as jogging, swimming, cycling, etc.

3. Breakfast -

In the morning, take two slices of wholemeal bread with butter and fresh milk (boiled and taken warm). Seasonal fresh fruits can be taken occasionally, with or without milk.

4. At Work -

If you are an office-goer, make sure you carry filling snacks with you all the time, as Diabetics are advised not to keep their stomachs empty. Instead of snacking on cheese, chips or crackers, enjoy a handful of nuts or seeds. Go for variety with sunflower, pumpkin seeds, almonds, cashews and walnuts.

5. Lunch -

For lunch, opt for steamed or lightly cooked green vegetables such as cauliflower, cabbage, tomatoes, spinach, turnip, asparagus and mushrooms. Vegetable soup or boiled vegetables can also be taken. In addition, two or three whole wheat bread (chapatis), sprouts, salad, boiled rice, lentils (daal) etc. can be taken according to appetite. A glass of buttermilk (salty lassi) is a nice drink to end the lunch. Roasted cumin seeds, black salt, grated ginger and green coriander leaves can be added to the buttermilk.

6. Daytime Sleep -

If you are a non-working Diabetic, always remember not to sleep during the daytime, as it increases Kledaka Kapha. A sub-dosha of Kapha, Kledaka Kapha governs the protective mucous lining of the digestive system, thereby facilitating proper digestion. In an increased state, it can lead to impairment of digestion, which can cause additional problems in Diabetes patients.

7. Evening Snacks -

Have a glass of fresh fruit or vegetable juice. You can also take Ayurvedic tea with roasted chickpeas.

8. Dinner -

Always remember that your dinner should be light and not have too many items. Boiled vegetables, sprouts, cottage cheese (paneer) or a bowl of salad made from fresh raw vegetables of the season. Also, make it a point to eat at least two hours before you go to bed.

9. Bedtime -

Go to sleep before 10 pm. Have a glass of fresh boiled warm milk before going off to bed.