Yoga for Diabetes

Diabetes is a situation that affects our growth pattern by hindering the production of energy within. Carbohydrates, as we know are the main source of energy. They won’t be able to give anything if the pancreas wouldn’t secrete the key element, insulin, which makes these carbs useful. Insulin, the sweet collector in our body gets activated the moment we gulp those tasty carbohydrates. It increases the uptake of glucose from all cells & initiates the conversion of glucose into glycogen in our liver, which behaves as the source of extra energy whenever needed.

Now imagine a condition when the pancreas (the production house for insulin) are not able to synthesize adequate quantity of insulin OR that the cells develop a resistance towards insulin, such that next time when it approaches the cells to pick up the glucose to take it to the liver, the cells just don’t give it. In either of the case, the ultimate result would be excess glucose in the blood stream.

Symptoms:

§ Sudden weight loss

§ Excessive thirst

§ Increased hunger

§ Tiredness

§ Frequent urination

§ These are the most common symptoms of Diabetes Mellitus (literally implying: sweet urine).

Who stands at risk?

§ Those with both or either diabetic parents

§ Obese individuals

§ Over – stressed

§ Women during pregnancy can also develop Gestational Diabetes.

Management:

According to Ayurveda, “Madhumeha” or Diabetes is a vattaja disorder. This implies that it is a disorder caused by inappropriate circulation.

Dietary regulations:

Diabetes has a direct relationship to the food that we eat. That is why dietary regulations is the most significant areas while treating it but diet in diabetes doesn’t have to be a punishment. If one is genetically prone to the disorder then simple steps like increased intake of fiber & decreased carbohydrate and alcohol is important, while those

Yoga asanas:

Unlike the usual other excercises, Yoga asanas are much different because each asana is performed synchronizing the body, breadth & the mind. Thus every practice leads to absolute rest & happiness. There are variety of Yoga asanas that improve the health of our pancreas & also enhance the blood circulation all over the body, thereby hitting on 2 most significant reasons of diabetes, decreased production from pancreas and decreased absorption.

Pranayama:

Breathing excercises play a crucial role in the treatment of diabetes. As the usual “fatigues” feeling pervades the body, physical practices might seem a little difficult at times but pranayamas can be done at any time & these simple practices surely help in improving the blood circulation & increasing the energy levels. Other than this practicing pranayamas will reduce stress & enhance the endocrine functions of the body.

Meditation and relaxation:

both theses aspects of yoga therapy are absolutely essential for all diabetics as it will help reducing the stress levels and harmonise the functioning of the body. It has been observed in relevant researches that regular medication can help an individual to combat the typical weakness in the body and maintain excellent state of energy all the time

The key to managing this disorder is to regularly exercise & burn those extra calories & always maintain a fiber & protein rich diet. Following the simple regime stated above would hardly take any time & maintaining this would keep diabetes at bay.