Junk food, canned juices major cause of diabetes among youth

[Naveed Yaseen]

Junk food and canned juices are two of the most common causes leading to the development of diabetes in young people. Parents must exercise a certain level of restraint over consumption of these food items by their children, and try to inculcate in them, healthy life-style related changes.

This was one of the key messages delivered by speakers addressing a seminar organized by Shifa International in connection with World Diabetes Day here on Saturday. The seminar was addressed by consultant endocrinologist Dr.Usama, ophthalmologist Dr. Nadia K Waheed, dietician Salma Javed Jarral, and consultant cardiac surgeon Dr. Javed Hayat.

“Today’s younger generation is crazy about junk food and canned juices, but these lead to obesity. Since there is no cure for diabetes, it is better to prevent it. However, a patient suffering from the disease can control it through changes in lifestyle and food habits,” said Dr. Usama. He informed that the incidence of diabetes in Pakistan, as elsewhere around the world, is constantly on the rise. “This disease can harm every part of the body including the eyes, kidneys and heart so by controlling diabetes, one can save oneself from many other diseases as well,” he stated.

Dr. Nadia apprised the audience about when to schedule an eye examination. She was speaking in the context of the effect of diabetes on the eyes. “If you were 30 years old or younger when your diabetes was first detected, you should have your first eye exam within five years after that diagnosis. If you were 30 years old or older, your first exam should be within a few months of the diabetes diagnosis. If you are pregnant, you should have an exam within the first trimester. If you already have experienced a high-risk condition, such as kidney failure or amputation related to diabetes, schedule an eye examination immediately,” she guided.

Salma Javed offered valuable guidelines for diabetics to make healthy food choice. She called for a change in eating habits to prevent complications of diabetes by keeping control over blood glucose, cholesterol, and blood pressure. “You can lower your blood pressure by eating less salt and losing a modest amount of weight. Successful weight loss usually requires a structured weight loss programme, education, reduced fat and calories, regular physical activity, and frequent follow-up,” Salma said. She further informed that a small amount of weight loss can improve insulin resistance; lower blood glucose; improve blood cholesterol; and reduce blood pressure.

Dr. Hayat highlighted the effects of diabetes on the heart. He particularly warned diabetic patients to keep a close watch on their weight, diet, and level of physical activity. “Thirty minutes of brisk walk, consumption of fibrous foods, and those with less sugar and salt can do wonders for them,” he stated.

Anyone experiencing frequent urination, more thrust, unusual weight loss or weakness must get their blood sugar checked to prevent complications,” the speakers advised.

A large number of people from all walks of life attended the seminar. A camp for free testing of blood sugar and HbA1C was also set up on the occasion.

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