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A report by the Public Health Foundation of India found that 25% of people with diabetes in India have a higher risk of heart diseases.
The festival time has started. Along with joyous celebrations, this season can present challenges for managing blood sugar levels and maintaining heart health. Overeating, unhealthy lifestyle and irregular sleep patterns can increase these risks.
A report by the Public Health Foundation of India found that 25% of people with diabetes in India have a higher risk of heart diseases. The Global Burden of Disease Study 2024 reports that heart disease is one of the leading causes of mortality in India.
What is the connection between heart disease and diabetes? How do you manage both during the festive feast? This informative article will provide practical tips for managing diabetes and heart risks during the festive season, ensuring you enjoy the festivities without compromising your health.
Diabetes and cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are closely associated with an increased risk of CVD in people with high blood sugar levels. A study by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) in 2024 found that 101 million people in India had diabetes, making India the diabetes capital of the world and helping lower mortality rates.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and high blood sugar levels significantly contribute to increased risks of heart disease. People with diabetes may experience inflammation, increased cholesterol accumulation and high blood pressure that impede adequate oxygen flow, which can lead to heart disease.
Dr Gitanjali Gupta, director of technical operations and quality assurance at Radcliffe Labs, says cardiovascular health is a growing concern in India, and the risk is higher after excessive exertion, diets with high oil and sugar content, lack of sleep and celebrations. Exercise. It is highly recommended that people start taking proactive measures to protect their health with preventive health checkups to monitor their vital functioning and consuming a balanced diet.
For healthy and happy celebrations, some common changes in eating habits are discussed further in the article:
- Conscious Portion Control:During festivals we often develop the habit of overeating. However, portion control is the key to managing diabetes and heart risks. Opt for smaller portions with a balance of vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins.
- choose healthy optionsThe National Diabetes and Diabetic Retinopathy Survey 2024 conducted by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has revealed that about 11.5% of India's adult population is pre-diabetic. Sweets are common during festival times, which can increase your sugar levels and risk of heart diseases. It is better to cook healthy options at home instead of market sweets.
- Keep track of your hydration levelsIt's important to stay hydrated, especially when you're surrounded by heavy meals. Drink water before and after meals to aid digestion. Making sure to avoid or limit alcohol consumption to maintain and manage blood sugar levels and prevent CVD risk. A study conducted from 2008 to 2020 found that 14% of self-reported diabetes cases in rural India consumed alcohol. Therefore, it is necessary to take the right decision for your better health.
- limit carbohydrate intakeFestivals often include carb-heavy foods like rice, sweets, pakodas and bread. These complex carbohydrates have a direct effect on sugar levels, making it essential to monitor your intake. Therefore, regardless of the occasion, it is essential to balance your meals with the right proportion of carbohydrates, proteins, vegetables and fruits to stabilize your blood sugar levels.
- take care of your mental healthChronic stress can lead to unhealthy habits like overeating, lack of sleep, lack of physical activity, anxiety and depression.
In a 2020 study in The Lancet, people who managed stress were 24% less likely to experience heart disease than those with chronic anxiety. According to expert professionals, practicing yoga, mindfulness or meditation can relax your mind. Get proper sleep and set realistic goals while prioritizing self-care to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
- regular health checkupIn 2017, the Indian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism highlighted that people with diabetes who underwent regular health checkups were 35% more likely to control their blood sugar levels and develop heart disease than those who did not. were 25% less likely than those who did not attend any health checkups.
Pre-festival health checkup or, if could not be taken due to busy schedule, post-festival checkup as per your individual health conditions by understanding your blood sugar levels, cholesterol, blood pressure and other vitals to ensure that your Health is good.
To maintain your health, it is advisable to undergo tests like HbA1c test, glucose fasting test or full body test. Taking care of your health, you can enjoy the festive season with your entire family without any worries. Besides, a preventive checkup is a savior for your time, health and pocket. Treating diseases beyond the symptoms is emotionally, physically, mentally and financially exhausting.