Why does obesity cause diabetes? How to treat it Naturally?
by Dr Vaid Ji on Aug 09, 2024
Obesity is a significant risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes, primarily due to how excess body fat affects the body's ability to manage blood sugar (glucose) levels. Here's how obesity can lead to diabetes and how it might be treated naturally:
How Obesity Causes Diabetes:
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Insulin Resistance:
- Mechanism: Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps cells absorb glucose from the blood. In obesity, particularly when there is excess fat around the abdomen, the body’s cells can become resistant to insulin. This means that the cells don't respond effectively to insulin, leading to higher blood sugar levels.
- Result: To compensate, the pancreas produces more insulin, but over time, it can't keep up, leading to elevated blood sugar levels and eventually type 2 diabetes.
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Inflammation:
- Mechanism: Excess fat, especially visceral fat (fat around internal organs), can cause chronic low-grade inflammation. This inflammation can interfere with insulin signaling pathways, contributing to insulin resistance.
- Result: This inflammation further disrupts the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar, increasing the risk of developing diabetes.
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Fatty Liver:
- Mechanism: Obesity can lead to the accumulation of fat in the liver (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease). This condition is associated with insulin resistance.
- Result: A fatty liver can disrupt the way the liver processes glucose, contributing to higher blood sugar levels.
Natural Ways to Treat or Manage Obesity and Diabetes:
DrVaid Ji Right shape kadha is purely herbal and ayurvedic formulation. It balances all the three doshas of your body and thus removes all kinds of toxins from your body which further help you to reduce weight by increasing your metabolism. It contains various herbs like amla, saunf, ajwain, haldi, dalchini, harar, bahera and shahjeera etc. All these herbs act as good antioxidant and detoxify your whole body. It improves blood circulation to all body organs thus maintain healthy tissues and organs. Right shape kadha helps to remove extra fat from your body and thus help you to maintain a good shape.
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Dietary Changes:
- Whole Foods: Focus on a diet rich in whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. These foods are low in calories and high in nutrients, helping with weight management.
- Reduce Sugar Intake: Limiting refined sugars and simple carbohydrates can help stabilize blood sugar levels.
- Fiber: Eating high-fiber foods like legumes, vegetables, and whole grains can slow the absorption of sugar and improve blood sugar control.
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Regular Physical Activity:
- Exercise: Regular physical activity, such as walking, cycling, swimming, or strength training, helps the body use insulin more efficiently, which can lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.
- Weight Loss: Even a modest weight loss (5-10% of body weight) can significantly improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of developing diabetes.
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Stress Management:
- Mindfulness and Relaxation: Practices like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can help manage stress, which can affect blood sugar levels.
- Sleep: Ensure adequate sleep, as poor sleep can contribute to weight gain and insulin resistance.
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Hydration:
- Water Intake: Drinking plenty of water helps maintain hydration, supports metabolism, and can help reduce hunger, contributing to weight loss.
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Natural Supplements:
- Cinnamon: Some studies suggest that cinnamon may improve insulin sensitivity.
- Berberine: A compound found in several plants, berberine has been shown to help regulate blood sugar levels.
- Fenugreek: This herb has been used traditionally to improve blood sugar control.
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Healthy Gut Microbiome:
- Probiotics and Prebiotics: A healthy gut microbiome can influence weight and metabolism. Eating fermented foods (like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut) and high-fiber foods can support gut health.
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Portion Control:
- Mindful Eating: Paying attention to portion sizes and eating slowly can help prevent overeating and support weight management.
It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet or exercise routine, especially if you have diabetes or are at risk for it. They can provide personalized guidance and monitor your progress.