Says Mumbai-based Pradeep , 59, who gave up sweets and took up yoga to keep his diabetes under control.
Q. What kind of diabetes are you suffering from?
Type 2 diabetes
Q. When were you diagnosed?
1994
Q. Early symptoms?
I had pain in my legs and general lethargy.
Q. Is there diabetes in the family?
No
Q. Did you start managing it immediately or was there another trigger point?
I started managing immediately.
Q. What is your present condition?
Diabetes is fully under control.
Q. What medications are you taking?
Insulin 50:50 Mixtard twice a day, i.e. before breakfast and before dinner.
Q. Have there been any side effects?
Kidney has been slightly affected and my digestive system has weakened.
Q. What were some of the challenges you faced and what is your advice to patients who face these challenges?
I am managing diabetes by exercise and diet control. And that is my advice - focus on exercise and diet control. Try to minimise oil in food items and say “No” to deep fried stuff. Yoga is an effective tool to control diabetes with asanas like pranayama (kapalbhati).
Q. What kind of alterations have you made to your lifestyle?
I monitor my food intake carefully. Instead of having 3 large meals, I go for 6 small portions every 2-3 hours daily, which help to regulate my blood sugar level. I have been practising yoga, especially asanas like pranayama and kapalbhati which, I believe, helps to cut down on the medicines I have to take.
Q. How have you coped emotionally?
My challenge was my sweet tooth. Initially it was difficult to control my diet as as I craved desserts. However, over time, I controlled my diet by sheer will power.
Q. Any advice for others in a similar situation?
- Exercise is the best option for controlling diabetes, whether it is brisk walking, swimming or yoga.
- Eating 6 small meals throughout the day after every 2-3 hours will take care of your blood sugar level.
- It’s equally important to check your blood sugar level 2-3 times daily as it will help you in planning your diet and medicine intake.
