Tamil Nadu resident R. Eswari, 54, talks about the lifestyle changes she made to keep diabetes under control.
What kind of diabetes are you suffering from?
Type 2 diabetes
When were you diagnosed?
I was then 35 years old.
Why did you get checked?
I was constantly feeling tired and had fainting episodes.
Is there a history of diabetes in your family?
Yes. My mother had Type 2 diabetes.
What is your present condition?
My diabetes is under control.
What medications are you on?
I am currently taking Metformin.
Are you suffering from any other conditions?
I have high blood pressure and increased LDL (bad cholesterol).
Please tell us what steps you took to manage diabetes.
Apart from my medication, I started walking 1-2km every day. I switched from a rice-dominated diet to eating wheat. I drink green tea instead of milk tea with sugar. I stopped eating fruits that are high in sugar. Banana used to be my favourite fruit but I don’t eat it any more.
What were some of the challenges you faced?
For me, the challenge initially was to fine-tune the dosage of my medicine. My diabetes was either high or too low. I tried different doses and checked my blood sugar weekly to arrive at the correct dosage. Now I check it once every six months.
What are the types of experts that you should be in touch with?
Diabetes expert, cardiologist and nutritionist.
Have you tried anything different from the regular treatment, say complementary medicine, like homeopathy or yoga?
I have just controlled my diet.
How have you coped emotionally?
As diabetes was already in the family, I accepted it without too much worry. For me, swallowing big medicines was a tough one.
How did the family cope and help you cope?
As it was in the family, we were familiar with it and knew what to expect.
Do you have any advice for others in a similar situation.
By making some changes to your lifestyle, you can keep blood sugar under control and lead a normal life.
