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Diabetes mellitus, commonly known as Madhumeha is a condition in which the body’s ability to produce or respond to the hormone insulin is impaired, resulting in abnormal metabolism of carbohydrates and elevated levels of glucose in the blood, also termed as “Hyperglycaemia”. During this condition the body can't use glucose (a type of sugar) that is the main source of energy for the body's cells.

Though the fall Season is considered enjoyable for the holidays, but since it comes with Chill & cold weather, it may have a negative impact on those living with Diabetes. As excessive cold leads to stress and strain in the body and this stress often causes the body to go into a flight-or-fight mode, releasing hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol and these survival hormones cause the liver to release more glucose for energy, which can result in higher-than-normal blood sugar levels.

Therefore, for diabetics it's advised that they remain indoors during the most part of the day and monitor blood glucose closely for changes when temperatures start to dip. Blood sugar levels are dependent on factors besides the temperature, such as hydration, exercise, and the food you eat, but hydration is probably the single most important element to help us stay healthy outdoors. As Anyone with diabetes is especially prone to dehydration, which can become dangerous if left unchecked because it can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis. At the same time, dehydration can cause confusion, which may make a person unaware of low blood sugar. For that reason, carrying clear fluids such as water are considered best or another electrolyte-containing beverage especially if you are sweating excessively.

Diabetes may reduce circulation to feet, leaving them less able to keep warm in cold weather as a consequence winter may increase your chances of infection and pain in your feet.

Therefore, wear the warmest socks and well-fitting shoes or waterproof boots can get you to better health. Diabetics should also keep in mind that their risk of injury is higher if they stay out for long in cold weather, especially if they have any cardiac issue or neuropathy. Similarly, the cold weather can make blood thicker and more prone to clotting which can pose dangers due to high probability of cardiopathy in diabetics.

Broadly, there are four Tips for effective Diabetes management:

  • Avoid exposure to cold as lower temperature can increase HbA1C
  • Keep your food at right temperature.
  • Avoid stressful conditions
  • Take your medicine on time and monitor blood glucose regularly.

The natural way of healing – Ayurveda has mentioned various herbs which helps in the management of diabetes, herbs like Daruharidra (Berberis aristata) acts as natural DPP-4 inhibitor to effectively manage diabetes, improves glucose tolerance, reduces raised blood glucose level effectively along with cardiac protection. Another herbs like Gudmar (Gymnema sylvestre) & Vijaysaar (Pterocarpus marsupium) help modulates insulin release, helps in repair & revival of Beta cells of pancreas and increases glucose mediated insulin release. Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia) tends support cardiac protective, generally requires in diabetics in cold weather, being reported activities which show that it acts as potent antioxidant, diuretic, calcium channel blocker, antiplatelet, antidiabetic, anti-stress, immune-modulator etc. which can play an important role to detoxify ischemia induced free radical generation. Diuretic activity of Manjistha could be an alternative therapy in the management of congestive heart failure (CHF) for rapid mobilization of edema fluid. anti-stress, diuretic and vaso-dilating properties of Manjistha can play an important role in the management of hypertension. Rubia cordifolia inhibits platelet aggregation induced by PAF (Platelet Activating Factor) potentiate its therapeutic role in coronary artery disease. Anti-hyperglycemic and anti-hyperlipidemia effects of Manjistha direct its medicinal role in diabetic cardiomyopathy & diabetic microvascular disease and promotes peripheral utilization of Glucose. Rubia cordifolia exhibits spasmolytic activity similar to that of verapamil suggestive of presence of calcium channel blocker(s) like constituents in this plant and therefore, indicates its possibility to treat arrhythmias result from calcium overload in ischemia-reperfusion condition.

All these herbs are present in BGR – 34 which is a composite mix of herbal extractives, BGR-34 was co- developed by two national government-owned laboratories, National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI) and Central Institute for Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CIMAP) under the patronage of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). The formulation was launched commercially by AIMIL Pharmaceuticals (AIMIL) in June 2016. Answering to a question in Parliament recently, Union Minister of Ayush, Shripad Naik said BGR-34, an anti-diabetes herbal drug developed by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has been found to have therapeutic efficacy for treating newly diagnosed Type 2 diabetes. This has been shown by an independent clinical trials conducted in Varanasi-based Banaras Hindu. The unique herbs of Diabetic care products, not only take care blood sugar levels, but also relieves the associated problems like weakness, fatigue, excessive urination, excessive hunger, weight loss etc. They also nourishes & strengthens the vital organs by supplementing essential micro-nutrients, anti- oxidants and immuno-modulators.

In conclusion, the most important pieces of advice for diabetics is to stay protected from cold/chill during the winter session and second is to monitor blood glucose more frequently and manage euglycemia by regularly taking the prescribed OHG’s and opting for BGR-34 to effectively manage diabetes. If one keeps these tips in mind before going out in the cold this winter session, he or she can stay safe and enjoy this winter season.

Information on this website is provided for informational purposes and is not meant to substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professionals. This website is meant for use by Indian residents only.