World · India Bureau
Traditional Indian diet compatible with diabetes management, expert says
A prominent physician has challenged the notion that Indians with diabetes must abandon staple foods like rice, roti and dal, arguing that these traditional items can be incorporated into a diabetes-friendly diet through mindful consumption patterns.
LSN India ·
Dr Shriram Nene has addressed a widespread concern among Indian diabetes patients regarding whether they must eliminate core elements of their traditional diet to effectively manage their condition. According to the medical expert, staple foods including rice, rotis and lentils need not be completely restricted for those living with diabetes.
The key to incorporating these foods into a diabetes management plan lies not in elimination but in portion control and preparation methods, according to health professionals. Factors such as the type of grain used, cooking techniques, and pairing with protein-rich and fiber-rich foods can significantly impact how these foods affect blood sugar levels.
India faces a substantial diabetes burden, with millions of citizens managing the condition. The dietary guidance provided by healthcare professionals aims to make diabetes management more sustainable and culturally appropriate for Indian populations, rather than enforcing restrictive eating patterns that may be difficult to maintain long-term.
Medical experts emphasize that individualized dietary approaches, developed in consultation with healthcare providers and nutritionists, remain essential for effective diabetes management. The composition and quantity of traditional foods should be tailored to each patient's specific health requirements and metabolic profile.