Did you know that nearly 11% of the world’s population is dealing with diabetes?
Although it is challenging to manage, it is not impossible. Hyperglycemia also known as High Blood Sugar is commonly associated with Diabetes. The human body produces a hormone that allows your cells to use the circulating sugar in your blood called Insulin.
Each individual is described by Ayurveda as a unique blend and combination of three Doshas; Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Vata and Pitta are dry and airy, while Kapha is cold and heavy. Diabetes occurs when Kapha’s dominance is not countered with a balanced lifestyle.
The principles of Ayurveda are in alignment with the human body’s anatomy and design. The focus is on correcting imbalances caused primarily by lifestyle and poor habits. Ayurveda identifies 20 types of diabetes – 4 due to Vata, 6 results from Pitta, and 10 are caused by Kapha.
To manage diabetes with Ayurveda, one must eat fruits and vegetables rich in fibre, spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cardamom, eat small meals throughout the day, and consume herbs such as Gymnema for controlling sugar cravings, Fenugreek for controlling blood sugar levels, and neem for insulin regulation. Apart from these, Ayurveda also provides an extensive programme called Panchakarma.
Detoxification:
The main Ayurvedic treatment for diabetes is panchakarma, which is a purification and detoxification procedure.
The panchakarma procedure purifies and naturally detoxifies the body. Among the Ayurvedic treatments for diabetes are Abhyangam, Swedanam, Vasti, and Virechanam. In addition to correcting insulin production and absorption in the body, it helps find the root cause, cleans the toxins, and aids in the proper functioning of the pancreas.
Abhyanga Therapy can be highly beneficial to diabetic patients since it involves massages utilising pre-medicated herbal oils. It also reduces muscle stress simultaneously to create a sense of well-being. Swedana is a traditional steam bath that opens the pores to allow the body to expel toxins and cleanse itself through sweat.
Diet:
Ayurveda’s diabetic diet plan is a simplified diet to minimise sugar in the body to reduce blood glucose levels. The diet consists of barley, light and bitter vegetables, ghee, herbs, and any other appropriate food based on the person’s constituent nature. Honey balances Kapha and can benefit some people.
Since there are 20 different types of diabetes, it is better to consult an ayurvedic doctor about eating foods that are appropriate for the type and composition of diabetes. The effectiveness of Ayurveda lies in the application of diet and programmes based on each individual’s constitution and current imbalances.
The Dharana’s Food Philosophy is designed in accordance with today’s health-conscious mindset, with a focus on long-term energy, providing nourishing & easily digestible meals.
Personalised meal programmes are tailored to meet the needs of each individual, based on nutritional history questionnaires, biometric measurements, physical examinations revealing nutritional deficiencies, as well as a comprehensive examination of body composition, hydration, and health status.
Experience optimal health & strong connection with the body at Dharana Shillim and begin a holistic healing journey with age-old Ayurvedic traditions.