• Published on: Jul 31, 2021
  • 2 minute read
  • By: Endocrinologist

Superfoods Are Not The Only Healthy Option: Spinach, Kale And Cabbage Pack A Powerful Nutritional Punch

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Healthier foods are not always called superfoods. There is spinach, kale, and cabbage that have more nutrients than other greens out there. Below you will find some of the healthiest foods like green beans with less sugar content or avocado which helps to reduce cholesterol levels in your body.

  • Sunflower Seeds - Sunflower seeds are the perfect snack for on-the-go people. They're high in protein, healthy fats, and fiber while still being low-calorie. Best of all, they can be eaten whole with no preparation needed! Sunflower seeds have long been a favorite among builders because their shape makes them easy to use as fasteners, but now it's clear that these tiny nuts also make great snacks when you need something quick and nutritious at your side.
  • Unsweetened Greek Yogurt - The daily consumption of yogurt has been shown to reduce the risk for type 2 diabetes by 14%. Not only is it a healthier option than regular yogurt, but its low GI and high calcium content make it an excellent choice.
  • Flax Seeds - Flax seeds are a superfood that helps to manage diabetes. This is because of the gel-forming fiber they contain which slows digestion and releases glucose into your blood slowly so it doesn't spike in one sitting like sugar would.
  • Oranges and other Citrus Fruits - Citrus fruits such as oranges and grapefruits are great sources of fiber, which can help with blood sugar levels. However, it is always best to eat the whole fruit rather than drinking just juice. When juicing citrus fruits their GIs vary greatly, but an average size orange has a GI of 40 while an average size grapefruit has a lower GI of 25 because all its natural fibers remain intact when eaten in the whole form instead of being converted into liquid through the juicing process.
  • Chia Seeds - If you're looking for an easy way to improve your diet and manage blood sugar levels, chia seeds can be a great place to start. They are rich in antioxidants which may help reduce the risk of diabetes or any complications from it. Another superfood that can help with managing our body's response to glucose is Chia Seeds due their richness in Omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and magnesium; these nutrients have been shown by research studies as being instrumental towards reducing one’s risk of developing type 2 Diabetes mellitus (T2DM) or even its severity when diagnosed properly.
  • Quinoa - One of the healthiest grains on earth, quinoa is packed with protein and antioxidants to help you keep your blood sugar levels in check. Quinoa also has more fiber than most other grain options which will give you a feeling of fullness that lasts longer because it takes about 30 minutes for our stomachs to tell us we are hungry again after eating.
  • Berries- Berries are a great healthy option for your sweet tooth. They provide many benefits like vitamin C, K, manganese, and fiber while also being helpful with diabetes management. Whether you enjoy strawberries or blueberries; berries can satisfy any craving!
  • Tomatoes - Tomatoes are the perfect diet addition for those looking to reduce their risk of cancer and heart disease. Lycopene is a powerful substance that has been found in multiple studies to be more easily absorbed by the body when consumed as part of an already healthy diet, untouched by processed sugars or carbs. Tomatoes have a low GI ranking which means they can keep you feeling full longer even without adding extra calories from fat and sugar!
  • Beans - Beans are a great source of fiber and protein, which is equivalent to an ounce of meat. While they contain carbohydrates, all type beans will also provide you with vitamins and minerals such as magnesium or potassium in addition to the high amounts that it contains. Beans can be any color from light brown when cooked like kidney beans to black for pinto beans; no matter what your preference is there's something out there just for you!
  • Fish High in Omega-3 Fatty Acids - Fish and fish oil, which contain zero carbohydrates, are a rich source of protein that can be added to any meal for diabetes management. This is because they slowly digest due to their low carb content and release sugar into the bloodstream at an even rate. Salmon high in omega-3 fatty acids ensures this effect by balancing out your carbohydrate intake with its slow digestion time while also providing healthy fats from Omega 3s!

Diabetics must carefully measure and monitor their blood glucose levels. This is important because it can help you determine whether adjustments need to be made in your diet, medications, exercise routines, etc. It's recommended that diabetics with diabetes symptoms check their sugar twice a day with an accurate glucometer and record the numbers in a log so they can track any increase or decrease over time of these readings

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Diabetes symptoms

Diabetes Symptoms in Men: Early Warning Signs You Should Not Ignore

Diabetes is one of the fastest-growing health challenges worldwide, and men are particularly vulnerable to its long-term complications. In India, the burden of diabetes has increased sharply over the past two decades, driven by lifestyle changes, sedentary habits and dietary patterns. Despite this, many men remain unaware of early diabetes symptoms or delay medical consultation until complications develop.

Understanding diabetes symptoms in men is essential for early diagnosis, effective management and prevention of serious health consequences.

 

What Is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder characterised by high blood sugar levels due to:

  • insufficient insulin production
     

  • ineffective insulin action
     

  • or both
     

The most common form affecting men is type 2 diabetes, which is strongly linked to lifestyle factors.

 

Why Men Are at Higher Risk

Several factors increase diabetes risk in men:

  • higher abdominal fat accumulation
     

  • smoking and alcohol consumption
     

  • irregular eating patterns
     

  • work-related stress
     

  • lower healthcare-seeking behaviour
     

According to Indian Council of Medical Research data, a significant proportion of men remain undiagnosed until advanced stages.

 

Early Diabetes Symptoms in Men

Frequent Urination

Excess sugar in the blood causes kidneys to work harder, leading to increased urination, especially at night.

 

Excessive Thirst

Frequent urination leads to dehydration, causing constant thirst.

 

Fatigue and Weakness

Cells cannot utilise glucose efficiently, resulting in low energy levels and persistent tiredness.

 

Unexplained Weight Changes

Men may experience unexplained weight loss despite normal or increased appetite.

 

Increased Hunger

Insulin resistance prevents glucose from entering cells, triggering frequent hunger.

 

Diabetes Symptoms Unique or Commonly Seen in Men

Erectile Dysfunction

Diabetes damages blood vessels and nerves, leading to erectile dysfunction.

Studies show a strong association between diabetes and male sexual health problems.

 

Reduced Testosterone Levels

Men with diabetes often have lower testosterone, affecting libido, muscle mass and mood.

 

Decreased Muscle Strength

Poor glucose utilisation affects muscle health and physical stamina.

 

Skin and Infection-Related Symptoms

Slow-Healing Wounds

High blood sugar impairs wound healing, increasing infection risk.

 

Frequent Infections

Men with diabetes are more prone to:

  • skin infections
     

  • urinary tract infections
     

  • fungal infections
     

 

Vision and Nerve Symptoms

Blurred Vision

Fluctuating blood sugar affects eye lenses, causing blurred vision.

 

Tingling or Numbness

Nerve damage, known as diabetic neuropathy, causes tingling or numbness in hands and feet.

 

Why Diabetes Symptoms Are Often Ignored by Men

Many men dismiss symptoms as:

  • work-related fatigue
     

  • ageing
     

  • stress
     

This delay increases the risk of complications.

 

Long-Term Complications of Untreated Diabetes

If untreated, diabetes can lead to:

  • heart disease
     

  • kidney failure
     

  • nerve damage
     

  • vision loss
     

  • sexual dysfunction
     

According to WHO and Lancet studies, early detection significantly reduces complication risk.

 

Importance of Early Diagnosis

Early diagnosis allows:

  • better blood sugar control
     

  • lifestyle modification
     

  • prevention of organ damage
     

Routine screening is crucial, even in the absence of symptoms.

 

When Should Men Get Tested?

Men should consider testing if they:

  • are over 30 years old
     

  • have a family history of diabetes
     

  • are overweight
     

  • have a sedentary lifestyle
     

  • experience any warning signs
     

Annual screening is recommended for at-risk individuals.

 

Managing Diabetes After Diagnosis

Effective management includes:

  • healthy diet
     

  • regular physical activity
     

  • weight control
     

  • stress management
     

  • medical treatment as advised
     

Early management improves quality of life.

 

Role of Preventive Healthcare

Preventive healthcare focuses on:

  • early screening
     

  • lifestyle intervention
     

  • regular follow-up
     

According to NITI Aayog, preventive strategies are essential to control India’s diabetes burden.

 

Mental Health and Diabetes in Men

Diabetes can affect mental wellbeing, leading to:

  • stress
     

  • anxiety
     

  • depression
     

Addressing emotional health improves diabetes outcomes.

 

Breaking the Stigma Around Men’s Health

Men often avoid seeking help due to stigma.

Promoting awareness helps:

  • normalise health conversations
     

  • encourage timely medical care
     

  • reduce preventable complications
     

 

Conclusion

Diabetes symptoms in men often develop gradually and may go unnoticed for years. Frequent urination, fatigue, unexplained weight changes and sexual health issues should never be ignored. Early diagnosis and timely management significantly reduce the risk of serious complications and improve long-term health outcomes. Awareness, routine screening and proactive healthcare are essential steps for men to protect their health and wellbeing in an era of rising lifestyle diseases.

 

References

  • Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – Diabetes Epidemiology and Risk Studies
  • World Health Organization (WHO) – Diabetes Prevention and Management Guidelines
  • National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) – Diabetes Prevalence in Men
  • Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology – Male-Specific Diabetes Outcomes
  • NITI Aayog – Non-Communicable Disease Prevention Reports
  • Statista – Global Diabetes Trends and Gender Differences

 

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