Type 2 Diabetes

Hello, I am Ekampreet Kaur, an undergraduate at UC Berkeley studying Molecular and Cellular Biology. In this blog post, I will discuss diabetes, a significant health issue in the Punjabi community, with some solutions to manage it.

Understanding Diabetes in the Punjabi Community

Diabetes is a common health concern in Punjabi communities. Many studies show that people are more likely to develop Type 2 diabetes at a younger age, putting our community at risk for long-term health complications, considering how traditional Punjabi diets are high in carbohydrates and sugar. There are various aspects that we should consider when discussing diabetes prevention and management.

Why is Diabetes Prevalent?
Because of a combination of genetics, cultural lifestyle, and dietary habits, Punjabi communities are more susceptible to diabetes. Our staple foods, such as white rice, roti, and sweets are high in carbs. And, with a lack of regular physical activity, this diet increases our risk of developing insulin resistance.

Recognizing Symptoms Early
Symptoms like constant thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and blurred vision are early indicators. However, many ignore these signs, thinking it is due to aging or stress. Recognizing and addressing these symptoms early can prevent serious complications, including heart disease.

Why Regular Check-Ups Matter
Regular health screenings can detect prediabetes or diabetes early, meaning there is a chance to manage the condition effectively. It’s essential to spread awareness about these screenings, as many Punjabi families may not prioritize routine check-ups due to time or financial constraints. And, if one detects the condition early enough, they can make the ideal lifestyle changes with correct medications and avoid further complications.

 Management Tips
Small changes can make a big difference. These small changes involve changing white rice with brown rice or quinoa, and limiting sugar in dishes, adding more vegetables and proteins like lentils and chickpeas, and more physical exercise which can be as simple as walking a few times a week.

By raising awareness and making adjustments to our lifestyle, we can help protect our community from diabetes and its complications. With our strong family ties, the journey to better health can be a collective one.