Glucose 6 Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD Quantitative) Tips

Diabetes - 6 Lifestyle Changes You Must Do!

Dr. Vishal Garg 90% (41 ratings)
MBBS Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery, MD - General Medicine, Certificate Course in Management of Thyroid Disorder, Post Graduate Course In Diabetology
Endocrinologist, Delhi
Diabetes - 6 Lifestyle Changes You Must Do!

Diabetes is very restrictive - living with the disease however does not imply that you stop enjoying. By bringing about certain changes in your lifestyle, you can still live your life to the fullest. For better management of your disease, these are some of the changes that you can make to improve your blood sugar levels and keep your condition under control.

1. Stay fit with physical activity: The first lifestyle change you can make is to increase your level of physical activity. This can help you in burning extra calories, thereby keeping your blood sugar levels in check. Spending 30 minutes a day exercising is ideal. If you’re not fond of exercising or don’t have the time for it, even performing simple activities like walking, vacuuming or doing your laundry can help to lower glucose levels while burning calories.

2. Maintain a healthy BMI: Likewise, try to lose those extra kilos that may be weighing you down and increasing your sugar levels. You don’t have to lose all the weight in one go, you can do so little by little. To lose weight gradually and consequently achieve a healthy BMI, you must have more of fruit and vegetables and less of sugary items and processed food along with exercising regularly.

3. Make the right food choices: When it comes to food, you should consume whole grain foods instead of refined carbohydrate alternatives. Make every meal a balanced one with starches, fats and proteins included in the right amount. Furthermore, avoid beverages that come with high sucrose or fructose content, as they don’t offer much in terms of nutrition, and instead just add to your calorie count. Some of the foods you can include in your diet are bitter gourd, cinnamon, green tea, amla, jamun etc.


4. Have a fixed quantity of food: Apart from knowing the right foods to eat and the balance that you need to maintain between the different types, it is also important to know about portion sizes and carbohydrate count. This is because among the different food classes, it’s chiefly carbohydrates that influence your blood glucose levels. So, you need to keep track of the amount of carbohydrates that you’ve consumed in order to arrive at the right insulin dosage.
In addition to keeping count of your carbohydrate consumption, understanding the right portion sizes for the different types of food is also extremely vital for better management of your ailment. Measuring cups and spoons should be employed to arrive at the right quantities of food.

5. Eat your meals at fixed timings: As a diabetic, you should not go longer than 5 hours without eating as it can cause your blood sugar levels to fall dramatically, making you feel weak and faint. Instead you should have your meals at fixed hours, spacing them out at regular intervals. This will ensure your blood sugar levels are always at an optimum point.

6. Control your stress: Stress is a risk factor for Type 2 diabetes. When you’re under stress, your body produces stress hormones (cortisol) that can cause your blood sugar levels (and even blood pressure)to rise. So, preventing or controlling stress becomes necessary to keep your diabetes under control.

2847 people found this helpful

Osteoporosis & Osteomalacia - How Distinct Are They?

Dr. Rohit Chakor 90% (10 ratings)
MBBS, DNB - Orthopedics/Orthopedic Surgery, Fellowship in Minimally Invasive Knee and Hip Replacement, Fellowship in Joint Replacement & Arthroscopy
Orthopedic Doctor, Pune
Osteoporosis & Osteomalacia - How Distinct Are They?

Osteoporosis:

Osteoporosis is a condition whereby the density of the bone decreases and the body ceases to manufacture the same quantity of bone as it did previously. Although it tends to affect both females as well as males, it is most commonly seen in women. The reason for this is the decreased production of estrogen during the menopause phase. The hormone, estrogen provides protection against osteoporosis.

When someone suffers from this condition, all their bones become weak and they become highly susceptible to fractures in the event of an accident or even a slight knock.

The word osteoporosis means porous bones. Once a person crosses the age of 35 years the rate of bone renewal or rebuilding slows down. When this happens on a prolonged basis the concerned person is highly prone to develop osteoporosis.

Key Points:

• Those who smoke and have a poor diet are more likely to suffer from osteoporosis.
• Osteoporosis targets areas of the body such as the hip, wrists and spine.
• Although there is no particular outward sign of osteoporosis you are likely to develop a stoop as a result of a weak spine. This will further lead to bone pain.

Osteomalacia:

Osteomalacia is a condition that is similar to osteoporosis where the bones are weakened. But what makes this condition different from osteoporosis is that in osteomalacia there is difficulty in the process of bone-building. In osteoporosis, existing bones become weak.

Reasons for Osteomalacia:

Osteomalacia occurs when there is vitamin D deficiency. As a nutrient, the benefits of vitamin D are enormous because it is instrumental for the absorption of calcium in the stomach.

Vitamin D is helpful for the maintenance of phosphate and calcium levels which is needed in the proper formation of bones. Vitamin D can be acquired from ultraviolet rays of the sun and also from food items such as fish and dairy products.

Signs of Osteomalacia:

Signs of osteomalacia are few. The most common signs include fracturing of the bones and weakening of the muscles. A person who suffers from the condition of osteomalacia has a difficult time walking and may develop abnormal gait.

Treatment of Both Osteoporosis and Osteomalacia:

When it comes to treating osteoporosis it is mainly focused on preventing the onset, maintaining healthy bone density, preventing fractures and reducing pain. This treatment is done by making adjustments to your lifestyle as we daily meal plan in addition to taking medications and health supplements.

As the first line of treatment of osteomalacia, the patient will be prescribed a number of phosphates, vitamin D, and calcium health supplements. Additionally, the patient will be asked to spend some time out in the sun for the absorption of sunlight.

3362 people found this helpful

Diabetes & Heart - How Can Former Help Latter?

MBBS
General Physician, Kolkata
Diabetes & Heart - How Can Former Help Latter?

Why should people with diabetes be extra careful of their Heart Health? What’s the connection? Diabetes is considered as one of the major controllable risk factors for cardiovascular disease

A Study conducted shows that around 65% of diabetic patients die from heart disease or stroke. The connection between diabetes and heart disease starts with high blood sugar levels. With continued high blood sugar levels i.e. high glucose in the bloodstream, the arteries gets damaged and become hard and stiff. Fatty material that builds up on the inside of these blood vessels can eventually block blood flow to the heart or brain, leading to a possible heart attack or stroke.

People with the below listed condition and lifestyle are at increased risk for developing cardiovascular disease (CVD)

  1. High blood pressure(hypertension)
  2. Abnormal cholesterol
  3. Obesity
  4. Lack of physical activity
  5. Poorly controlled blood sugars(too high) or out of normal range
  6. Regular Smoking

What is Diabetes?
It's is a disorder in which your body doesn’t produce insulin in the required quantity because of too much sugar in the blood or high blood glucose. 

Symptoms
Frequent urination, Intense thirst and hunger, Weight gain, unusual weight loss, fatigue, cuts and bruises that do not heal, male sexual dysfunction, vaginal Infection in females, numbness, tingling in hands and feet. 

Connection with Heart-related diseases i.e. What can diabetes do to the person's healthy heart?

  1. A diabetic who has had a previous heart attack has a much greater risk of having another.
  2. Diabetics develop cardiovascular disease at a much earlier age than others.
  3. Diabetics who have suffered a heart attack are more apt to die as a result. 

Prevention: More of a lifestyle change followed by medication under supervision of a doctor and a nutritionist is possible. The best way to prevent the development of cardiovascular disease is to prevent diabetes itself. General nutrition recommendations:

  1. Control your portion size
  2. Limit your consumption of saturated and trans fats and cholesterol
  3. Setting reasonable goals for your total amount of carbohydrates.

There is no certain way to avoid heart disease and circulation problems, but there are a lot of things to do to cut your risk.

  1. You smoke? Put a full stop.
  2. Do weight management and lose some extra pounds.
  3. Check your sugar levels regularly and keep your blood pressure in the proper range.
  4. Get regular physical activity
  5. Keep your blood fats and cholesterol levels in a healthy range.
  6. Keep your blood glucose under control live a healthy life with a healthy heart. Stay Healthy!
1637 people found this helpful

Health Tip - Gas

DHMS (Diploma in Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery)
General Physician,
Health Tip - Gas
If you have gas problem please take large quantity of water after an hour of each meal.
2 people found this helpful

Fruit for Diabetics - Is it Actually Safe to Eat?

Dt. Ms. Malika Kabra Rathi 87% (20 ratings)
Msc - Clinical Nutrition
Dietitian/Nutritionist, Mumbai
Fruit for Diabetics - Is it Actually Safe to Eat?

Can diabetes patients eat fruits?

It is a common understanding that fruits are not good for diabetic patients or they should not eat fruits, but is it really true? Almost all diabetic patients hesitate to eat fruits, as they consider them to contain sugar and since they already suffer from high sugar, they believe that eating fruits will spike it further. 

Does diabetes mean excess sugar in blood?

No, diabetes means excess glucose in blood, not sugar. So, what's the difference? The difference is that all sugars are not glucose. Glucose is just one type of sugar and the only sugar that can cause diabetes. Glucose is present in most of the foods that we eat. It is highest in white table sugar, processed & packed foods and grains like rice & wheat.

Which kind of sugar is present in fruits?

Fruits contain a type of sugar known as fructose. Fructose is a simple sugar like glucose. However, it acts very differently as compared to glucose, and it does not mix with blood, as glucose does, and is stored in the liver. Therefore, Fructose acts as stored sugar and not as instant sugar like glucose. Some fruits also contain glucose, but it is present in much lower quantity, which is not responsible for increasing the blood glucose level. Remember, glucose is the energy or fuel for the body and even diabetic patients need it. But certainly not in excess.

Fruits & diabetes

  • Fruits, having fructose, do not increase the level of blood glucose and because of this, fruits are not only safe for diabetic patients but they also help in lowering the level of glucose.
  • Fruits also come packed with so many useful vitamins and minerals, that maintain the nutritional balance of the body.
  • Moreover, fruits provide a good dose of soluble fiber helps in lowering the level of glucose in the blood.

Conclusion

Diabetic patients must not hesitate to eat fruits but they must eat 3 different types of fruits every day, including one citrus fruit like orange & sweet lime. As, glucose, is highest in white sugar and white maida and it's products, diabetic patients can safely eat 2 fruits a day, each being equally spaced and on empty stomach or near a high physical intensity workout. Best is to consult your doctor/nutritionist and decide the kind and timing of fruit as per your drugs and or insulin.

In case you have a concern or query you can always consult an expert & get answers to your questions!

4955 people found this helpful

Osteoporosis & Osteomalacia - Knowing The Difference!

Dr. Tanvir Maqbool 87% (74 ratings)
MBBS, DNB, National Board Of Examination
Orthopedic Doctor, Faridabad
Osteoporosis & Osteomalacia - Knowing The Difference!

Osteoporosis:

Osteoporosis is a condition whereby the density of the bone decreases and the body ceases to manufacture the same quantity of bone as it did previously. Although it tends to affect both females as well as males, it is most commonly seen in women. The reason for this is the decreased production of estrogen during the menopause phase. The hormone, estrogen provides protection against osteoporosis.

When someone suffers from this condition, all their bones become weak and they become highly susceptible to fractures in the event of an accident or even a slight knock.

The word osteoporosis means porous bones. Once a person crosses the age of 35 years the rate of bone renewal or rebuilding slows down. When this happens on a prolonged basis the concerned person is highly prone to develop osteoporosis.

Key Points:

• Those who smoke and have a poor diet are more likely to suffer from osteoporosis.
• Osteoporosis targets areas of the body such as the hip, wrists and spine.
• Although there is no particular outward sign of osteoporosis you are likely to develop a stoop as a result of a weak spine. This will further lead to bone pain.

Osteomalacia:

Osteomalacia is a condition that is similar to osteoporosis where the bones are weakened. But what makes this condition different from osteoporosis is that in osteomalacia there is difficulty in the process of bone-building. In osteoporosis, existing bones become weak.

Reasons for Osteomalacia:

Osteomalacia occurs when there is vitamin D deficiency. As a nutrient, the benefits of vitamin D are enormous because it is instrumental for the absorption of calcium in the stomach.

Vitamin D is helpful for the maintenance of phosphate and calcium levels which is needed in the proper formation of bones. Vitamin D can be acquired from ultraviolet rays of the sun and also from food items such as fish and dairy products.

Signs of Osteomalacia:

Signs of osteomalacia are few. The most common signs include fracturing of the bones and weakening of the muscles. A person who suffers from the condition of osteomalacia has a difficult time walking and may develop abnormal gait.

Treatment of Both Osteoporosis and Osteomalacia:

When it comes to the treating osteoporosis it is mainly focussed on preventing the onset, maintaining healthy bone density, preventing fractures and reducing pain. This treatment is done by making adjustments to your lifestyle as we daily meal plan in addition to taking medications and health supplements.

As the first line of treatment of osteomalacia, the patient will be prescribed a number phosphate, vitamin D and calcium health supplements. Additionally, the patient will be asked to spend some time out in the sun for absorption of sunlight.

1369 people found this helpful

Why Diabetes & Fruits Go Hand-in-Hand?

Dt. Nidhi Chandra 88% (72 ratings)
Certified Diabetes Educator, Diploma In Sports Nutrition, Diploma in Yoga, IDEEL
Dietitian/Nutritionist, Delhi
Why Diabetes & Fruits Go Hand-in-Hand?

Can diabetes patients eat fruits?

It is a common understanding that fruits are not good for diabetic patients or they should not eat fruits, but is it really true? Almost all diabetic patients hesitate to eat fruits, as they consider them to contain sugar and since they already suffer from high sugar, they believe that eating fruits will spike it further. 

Does diabetes mean excess sugar in blood?

No, diabetes means excess glucose in blood, not sugar. So, what's the difference? The difference is that all sugars are not glucose. Glucose is just one type of sugar and the only sugar that can cause diabetes. Glucose is present in most of the foods that we eat. It is highest in white table sugar, processed & packed foods and grains like rice & wheat.

Which kind of sugar is present in fruits?

Fruits contain a type of sugar known as fructose. Fructose is a simple sugar like glucose. However, it acts very differently as compared to glucose, and it does not mix with blood, as glucose does, and is stored in the liver. Therefore, Fructose acts as stored sugar and not as instant sugar like glucose. Some fruits also contain glucose, but it is present in much lower quantity, which is not responsible for increasing the blood glucose level. Remember, glucose is the energy or fuel for the body and even diabetic patients need it. But certainly not in excess.

Fruits & diabetes

  • Fruits, having fructose, do not increase the level of blood glucose and because of this, fruits are not only safe for diabetic patients but they also help in lowering the level of glucose.
  • Fruits also come packed with so many useful vitamins and minerals, that maintain the nutritional balance of the body.
  • Moreover, fruits provide a good dose of soluble fiber helps in lowering the level of glucose in the blood.

Conclusion

Diabetic patients must not hesitate to eat fruits but they must eat 3 different types of fruits every day, including one citrus fruit like orange & sweet lime.

In case you have a concern or query you can always consult an expert & get answers to your questions!

4719 people found this helpful

Diabetes - 5 Ways It Can Be Treated

Dr. Prabhakar Laxman Jathar 92% (20239 ratings)
MBBS, CCEBDM, Diploma in Diabetology, Diploma in Clinical Nutrition & Dietetics, Cetificate Course In Thyroid Disorders Management (CCMTD)
Endocrinologist, Dharwad
Diabetes - 5 Ways It Can Be Treated

Diabetes or diabetes mellitus is a collection of disorders that affect the way blood sugar is used by your body. A healthy blood sugar level is very important as it provides energy for the necessary bodily functions. Diabetes results in increased glucose levels in the blood. Diabetes is classified into two types:

  1. Type 1 Diabetes: In this type, the immune system of the body destroys cells that produce insulin, thus resulting in lesser insulin production.

  2. Type 2 Diabetes: In Type 2 diabetes, the body is not able to use the insulin as a result of increased resistance to insulin and definite deficiency in insulin, thus resulting in high blood glucose levels.

Symptoms

The symptoms of diabetes are:

  1. Rapid weight loss.

  2. You may feel thirsty frequently.

  3. Excessive and frequent bouts of hunger.

  4. Presence of ketones (byproduct of muscle and fat breakdown) in the urine.

  5. Vision problems.

  6. Constant fatigue.

  7. Sores take a longer time to heal.

  8. You become vulnerable to various infections because of the weakening of the immune system.

Causes

The causes for Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are different. In case of type 1 diabetes, the immune system of the body kills cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. This results in shortage of insulin in the body, resulting in high blood sugar levels.

In Type 2 Diabetes, the cells in the body turn resistant to insulin. The exact cause of this is not known, but genetic factors, being overweight, inactivite and other environmental factors can trigger this disorder.

Treatments

The treatment options for diabetes are:

  1. Exercise: Exercise is an effective remedy to lower your blood sugar levels as it helps in transporting sugar into the cells for energy. You can include cardiovascular activities such as running and swimming in your workout regimen.

  2. Insulin Therapy: Insulin therapy involves injecting insulin into the body to reduce blood sugar levels. It can be injected by using an insulin pen or an insulin pump.

  3. Oral Medications: Oral medications may be prescribed to stimulate the pancreas to boost insulin production. Certain medications can also inhibit excess glucose release from the liver.

  4. Pancreas Transplant: In some cases, pancreas transplant is advised to replace the faulty pancreas with a good one that produces insulin in sufficient quantity. Although, it's a rare possibility and does not correct already caused damage to eyes, kidney or nerves.

  5. Diet: Diet is another important aspect of the treatment plan that plays an important role in controlling diabetes. Avoid foods that contain simple sugars as they tend to raise your blood sugar levels. Rather, include complex carbohydrates in your diet such as beans, vegetables and whole grains. Special emphasis should be put on green vegetables. If you wish to discuss about any specific problem, you can consult an endocrinologist.
2365 people found this helpful

Vitamin H - How Vital Is It?

Dt. Manpreet Kalra 89% (42 ratings)
MSc - Food and Applied Nutrition, Post Graduate in Diabetes Education
Dietitian/Nutritionist, Ludhiana
Vitamin H - How Vital Is It?

Vitamins are literally translated to vita and amins, which are important ingredients for overall good health. They are required in minor quantities and are therefore part of the list of micronutrients. Vitamin H is actually a part of the vitamin B complex and is also the vitamin B7. It is known as vitamin H given the German word for Haar and Haut, which stands for hair and skin. In fact, this vitamin is most beneficial for the good health of hair and skin. Read on to know more about its functions, benefits, and sources.

Functions:

  1. It is manufactured by gut bacteria and is essential for normal body growth and development
  2. Required for good hair and skin. Reduced amounts can lead to hair loss/thinning, and dermatitis
  3. Essential for metabolism and converts the protein, carbohydrates, and fat into energy that can be used by the body
  4. Carries carbon dioxide through the body
  5. Required for good functioning of sweat glands, bone marrow, and nervous system

Benefits:

  • Helps in maintaining optimal blood sugar levels, by converting the carbohydrates in the food. Diabetics can take supplements to maintain optimal sugar levels at all times. Taken with chromium, it stimulates glycemic control and improves glucose tolerance
  • It is a great antioxidant and is known as the nourishing vitamin. It removes cellular waste and gets rid of toxins formed in the body, leading to overall health.
  • Biotin, as it is also called, also is important for good skin. It promotes the growth of nails and skin. Most skin products used to treat conditions like acne, psoriasis, dermatitis, etc., contain biotin
  • It is known to improve wrinkles as it improves cellular fibre activity, reduces breakage of collagen, and improved protein formation in the skin.
  • It boosts the growth of new hair follicles and is very vital for the health of hair. It is very useful in treating hair thinning, and brittle hair. Hair oils contain vitamin H which provides nutrition
  • Vitamin H is also given as a supplement during pregnancy for the health of the mother and the baby

Sources:

  1. Vitamin H is naturally formed in the body by the gut bacteria
  2. Additionally, foods also contain it. Non-vegetarian sources include organ meat including chicken and fish
  3. Dairy products such as cheese, milk, etc.
  4. Eggs and yeast are also good sources
1506 people found this helpful

Vitamin H - Did You Know How Important It Is?

Dt. Vishal Saini 89% (5111 ratings)
Doctor of Naturopathy & Natural Medicines, Certified Diabetic Educator, Diploma in Nutrition & Health Education (DNHE), Certificate in food Nutrition (CFN), Bachelor of Education, Bachelor of Arts (Physical Education)
Dietitian/Nutritionist, Agra
Vitamin H - Did You Know How Important It Is?

Vitamins are literally translated to vita and amins, which are important ingredients for overall good health. They are required in minor quantities and are therefore part of the list of micronutrients. Vitamin H is actually a part of the vitamin B complex, and is also the vitamin B7. It is known as vitamin H given the German word for Haar and Haut, which stands for hair and skin. In fact, this vitamin is most beneficial for the good health of hair and skin. Read on to know more about its functions, benefits, and sources.

Functions:

  1. It is manufactured by the gut bacteria and is essential for normal body growth and development.
  2. Required for good hair and skin. Reduced amounts can lead to hair loss/thinning, and dermatitis
  3. Essential for metabolism and converts the protein, carbohydrates, and fat into energy that can be used by the body
  4. Carries carbon dioxide through the body
  5. Required for good functioning of sweat glands, bone marrow, and nervous system

Benefits:

  1. Increases the speed of metabolism and converting food into energy. This can be used for weight loss, as it helps in quickly breaking down food into energy.
  2. It helps lower levels of LDL in the body, which is the bad cholesterol. It, therefore, reduces the incidence of heart attack and the stroke.
  3. Helps in maintaining optimal blood sugar levels, by converting the carbohydrates in the food. Diabetics can take supplements to maintain optimal sugar levels at all times. Taken with chromium, it stimulates glycemic control and improves glucose tolerance.
  4. It is a great antioxidant and is known as the nourishing vitamin. It removes cellular waste and gets rid of toxins formed in the body, leading to overall health.
  5. Biotin, as it is also called, also is important for good skin. It promotes growth of nails and skin. Most skin products used to treat conditions like acne, psoriasis, dermatitis, etc., contain biotin.
  6. It is known to improve wrinkles as it improves cellular fibre activity, reduces breakage of collagen, and improved protein formation in the skin.
  7. It boosts the growth of new hair follicles and and is very vital for the health of hair. It is very useful in treating hair thinning, and brittle hair. Hair oils contain vitamin H which provides nutrition.
  8. Vitamin H is also given as a supplement during pregnancy for health of the mother and the baby

Sources:

  1. Vitamin H is naturally formed in the body by the gut bacteria
  2. Additionally, foods also contain it. Non vegetarian sources include organ meat including chicken and fish.
  3. Dairy products such as cheese, milk, etc.
  4. Eggs and yeast are also good sources. If you wish to discuss about any specific problem, you can consult a Dietitian/Nutritionist.
7428 people found this helpful