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2 hours ago

Dear Namrata, Thank you for the question

Increased blood sugar levels is termed as Diabetes mellitus which is a chronic metabolic disorder that prevents the body to utilise glucose completely or partially. It is characterised by raised glucose concentration in blood and alterations in carbohydrates, protein & fat metabolism. Various factors like genetics, sedentary lifestyle, acute stress etc., can cause diabetes. 

• A fasting blood sugar level of <110 mg/dL is considered normal.
• ≥110 to <126 mg/dL indicates you have impaired fasting glucose.
• ≥126 mg/dL indicates you have diabetes.

Management of any type of diabetes requires diagnosis and further assistance

 For guidance on medications and specific health needs please contact a specialised health care professional such as a diabetologist for further assistance and management.

Here are a few tips to help manage Diabetes

• It is recommended to have low GI (Glycaemic index) foods. Simple sugars should be restricted since they are easily absorbed and have high glycaemic index. Some of the Low GI foods include green leafy vegetables, green beans, apples, orange, pear, wheat, millets, pulses, lentils etc.
• High protein intake helps to increase insulin production & promote satiety. Pulses, lentils, eggs, lean meat, paneer etc., are a good source of protein.
• Combination of oils is preferrable. Include monounsaturated (MUFA) & Polyunsaturated (PUFA) containing oils like sunflower oil, ground nut oil, Gingelly oils.
• Increase intake of whole grains and legumes and limiting the intake of saturated fats helps in improving insulin sensitivity and reduces the risk of diabetes independent of weight loss.

Thyroid disorders including hyper or hypothyroidism requires further diagnosis from specific medical experts. It is suggested to contact your health care professional for further assistance and management for thyroid disorders.

Here are few tips to manage Hypothyroidism 

• Iodised salt, seafood (such as fish and prawns), grains and breads are common dietary sources of iodine. Include iodized salt in your diet and food preparation.
• Try to limit the intake of Cruciferous vegetables like kale, turnips, cabbage, cauliflower etc., as they are known as goitrogens which can inhibit the synthesis of thyroid hormones.
• Limit the intake of soy products as they contain Goitrogens. They may also be found in soy products like soy chunks, soy granules, tofu, etc.

• Along with iodine, Selenium also helps in improving the thyroid functioning. Seafood, organ meats, cereals, poultry, red meat, and eggs are a good source of selenium. Include these foods in your daily balanced diet. 

Hyperthyroidism is a pathological disorder in which excess thyroid hormone is synthesised and secreted by the thyroid gland. It is characterised by normal or high thyroid radioactive iodine uptake (thyrotoxicosis with hyperthyroidism or true hyperthyroidism). It is usually associated with weight loss and underweight.

Here are a few tips to help manage Hyperthyroidism

• limited intake of iodised salt is recommended.
• Avoid consuming large amounts of soy and cruciferous vegetables such as cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, brussels sprouts, turnips etc. Include them as a part of your daily balanced diet in limited amounts.

Maintain an ideal body weight as hyperthyroidism can lead to underweight.

During pregnancy there are many physical and physiological changes that occur due to which your body demands for more nutrients in order to function efficiently, lack of one or more nutrient can lead to macronutrient or micronutrient deficiency and malnourishment. The mother’s nutritional requirements should meet her own daily needs, provide enough nutrient for growing foetus, and furnish the energy for child birth and lactation.

It is recommended to consume 2000+kcal with 46g (in 1^st Trimester) 55.5g (in 2nd trimester) and 68g (in the 3rd trimester) of protein per day and 1000mg of calcium per day

Some micronutrients are specially required in extra amounts during these physiological periods. Folic acid, taken throughout the pregnancy, reduces the risk of congenital malformations and increases the birth weight. Similarly, iodine intake ensures proper mental health of the growing fetus and infant. Calcium is also essential for optimum formation of bones and teeth.

Consume a diversified balanced diet including all food groups ensure good intake nutrients such as protein, calcium, iron, dietary fibre, Folate etc. Maintain hydration and good quality sleep regimen.

Here are few guidelines for healthy balanced diet that can be considered:

• Have a Diversified Balanced Diet that includes all the food groups in the right quantity which thereby provides you with all the essential macro and micro nutrients that your body requires daily for proper functioning.
• Try to incorporate the My plate Concept by dividing your plate into 4 quadrants, fill half of your plate with fruits and vegetables, the other two quadrants with cereals and protein. A small quantity of dairy intake is recommendable.
• Begin your day with a well-balanced breakfast as it is an important meal of the day.
• Avoid skipping meals. Also, try to avoid fasting and feasting too often.
• Consume minimum 5 servings of vegetables and 1 serving of fruit as they are rich in Fiber, essential minerals & Vitamins as well as they give you a feeling of satiety.
• Maintain a positive energy balance where the calorie intake should be more than the energy expenditure.
• Include energy dense foods, keeping in mind the daily needs. Some of the energy dense   foods include Whole wheat, multigrain millets, dairy products, nuts, colocasia leaves, banana, raisins, pulses/lentils etc.
• Some of the good sources of protein include pulses, lentils, milk, paneer, soybean, eggs, lean meat, nuts & seeds, etc.  
• Three major meals a day with healthy nutritious snacks in between is preferred.
• Include good amount of fiber in your daily balanced, some of the god sources of fiber include whole grain, multigrain, millets, fruits and vegetables, nuts etc.
• Try to increase the serving size and portion size gradually and systematically
• Include healthy fats from nuts and seeds.
• Limit intake of deep-fried foods. Method of cooking like baking, grilling, boiling, steaming is preferable over deep frying with excess fat/ oil.
• Have your last meal at least 2-3 hours before sleep time.
• Drink adequate amount of water (minimum 8 glasses) of water daily to keep yourself well hydrated
• Try and follow a good sleep regimen in terms of both quantity and Quality.

For a customised and personalised meal plan for specific conditions, please contact your Health care professional.

Hope we have answered your query.

Wishing you a great day ahead

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