Also known as Madhumeha or Prameha, ayurvedic management of diabetes is a holistic as well as tailored approach that combines diet, which is known as Ahara, herbal medicines, which are known as Aushadha, lifestyle, which is known as Vihara and detoxification therapies, which are known as Shodhana. All these are integrated to stabilise the metabolic balance, in the first place by addressing various imbalances in the Kapha dosha.  As we are all aware, diabetes can not be cured. But we can prevent and manage diabetes to live a healthy and long life. Just as in the Autumn season, the leaves change their colour, similarly, the changes in the management of diabetes in Autumn are prepared below for your empowerment to navigate the season with full confidence and control.  

Core elements: the Autumn Action Plan for diabetes management

  • It is essential that you navigate the festivals prudently. For that, you ought to plan for the festive meals. You can opt for baked snacks, rather than the fried ones. Also, it would be better if you controlled the portion sizes of a variety of sweets. The most important thing is to always keep yourself hydrated. 
  • It would be beneficial for you to embrace seasonal foods. You can include autumn vegetables and fruits like guava, spinach and pumpkin into your diabetic diet chart for better glycemic control. 
  • You must adapt your exercise. You can practise various exercises at home like yoga, indoor aerobics and bodyweight strength training. 
  • You ought to increase the number of blood sugar monitoring. Emphasise foot care and also get annual flu shots in order to prevent complications. 
Ayurvedic management of diabetes during the autumn season emphasises stabilising the Vata and Pitta doshas. These doshas are likely to get aggravated during the autumn season. At the same time, resuming to manage the underlying Kapha doshas imbalances the characteristics of the disease. The perspective focuses on a comprehensive plan which involves diet, herbal remedies, detox therapies and lifestyle adjustments. 

Seasonal adjustments in relation to the diet

Autumn — the period of transition, which is characterised by light, dry and cool qualities. The diet for diabetes as per Ayurveda ought to neutralise the above-mentioned qualities at the same time remaining low-glycemic. 
  • Favourable foods 
  1. Bitter, astringent and pungent tastes are favourable because they aid in diminishing Kapha, thereby improving metabolism. 
  2. Foods like whole grains (millets and barley), pulses, leafy greens and vegetables, which are non-starchy, should be preferred. 
  3. Vegetables like bitter gourd, drumstick leaves and fenugreek leaves are the most recommended ones. 
  4. Drinking plenty of water, especially warm water, throughout the day can help with easy digestion and flushing out the excess toxins. 
  • Foods to take in moderation and foods to avoid 
  1. The individuals with diabetes must diminish their intake of sweet, cold, heavy and oily foods, which include excessive dairy products and processed foods like paneer and cheese, as well as refined sugars. 
  2. Several fruits need to be avoided, such as bananas, mangoes and grapes, as these are high in simple sugars. You can opt instead for fruits which are low-glycemic, such as guavas, apples and oranges. 

Conclusion

It would be better if a diabetic person chooses to opt for a healthy lifestyle. One must maintain a disciplined schedule for one’s sleep, which ought to target at least 7 to 8 hours of quality sleep every night, hence, avoiding sleep during daytime in order to avoid Kapha dosha. One must ensure to take morning sunlight in order to maintain the levels of Vitamin D. Ayurveda helps the best in taking care of your health. You can visit Ananta Ayurveda for your ayurvedic plans regarding diabetic management.