Dispelling the Myth: The Truth About Reversing Type 1 Diabetes

In an interview with NT NETWORK, Dr. Rahul Baxi, a diabetologist at Bombay Hospital, Mumbai, sheds light on the factors contributing to diabetes onset. He also dispels common myths and offers simplified precautionary measures for managing the condition.

India, known as the diabetes capital of the world, harbors over 100 million diabetic individuals, comprising approximately 11.4% of the population. However, these figures merely represent those who have been tested, with the undiagnosed cases remaining unquantifiable.

Excerpts from the interview:

Sugar is commonly believed to be the primary cause of diabetes. However, some individuals who abstain from sugar still develop diabetes. What other factors contribute to this condition?

Dr. Baxi explains that diabetes can be broadly categorized into two types: type 1 and type 2. Type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune disorder, results from antibodies in the blood attacking insulin function. Conversely, type 2 diabetes, more prevalent and influenced by lifestyle, can be attributed to factors such as diet, exercise, sleep, pollution, and stress. Recent studies highlight the significance of adequate sleep, with insufficient sleep correlating to increased diabetes risk by up to 44%.

Regarding sugar's role, Dr. Baxi emphasizes that sugar is a form of carbohydrates, alongside starch and fiber. Thus, merely avoiding sugar does not ensure a healthy diet, as other sources like bread, chapatis, and rice contain carbohydrates. Even purportedly sugar-free snacks may contain carbohydrates, necessitating caution, especially for those with diabetes or predisposition to it. Dr. Baxi recommends increasing protein intake and reducing carbohydrate consumption for balanced nutrition.

The interview delves into regional disparities in diabetes prevalence, notably highlighting Goa's high incidence. Dr. Baxi attributes this to robust healthcare infrastructure, facilitating early detection compared to other regions.

Additionally, Dr. Baxi addresses the hereditary aspect of diabetes, outlining the varying risks associated with parental history for type 1 and type 2 diabetes. He underscores the importance of early detection, as diabetes often remains asymptomatic until advanced stages, advocating vigilance for common symptoms such as thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and slow wound healing.

Regarding dietary choices for diabetics, Dr. Baxi recommends moderation and portion control, acknowledging the cultural diversity of Indian diets. He advises reducing rice intake, especially in regions where it is a staple, while emphasizing the importance of incorporating proteins like dals, vegetables, fish, and eggs.

The interview explores the multifactorial nature of diabetes risk, emphasizing the interconnectedness of diet, exercise, stress, sleep, and overall lifestyle. Dr. Baxi underscores the challenge of pinpointing a single dominant factor, illustrating the complex interplay among these variables.

Furthermore, Dr. Baxi discusses the alarming trend of type 2 diabetes among teenagers, attributing it to factors like physical inactivity, obesity, increased screen time, and dietary habits influenced by online food ordering platforms. He highlights the evolving landscape of diabetes onset, making age-based categorization increasingly challenging.

Dr. Baxi elucidates the concept of prediabetes and its progression to full-blown diabetes, emphasizing the importance of regular monitoring and early intervention. He discusses diagnostic tests like fasting glucose levels, postprandial glucose levels, and HbA1c, underscoring the need for comprehensive evaluation to mitigate risks.

The interview concludes with insights into gestational diabetes, its screening protocols, and implications for maternal and fetal health. Dr. Baxi also addresses the possibility of remission in type 2 diabetes through lifestyle modifications, cautioning against unfounded claims of reversing type 1 diabetes.

Overall, Dr. Baxi's interview offers valuable insights into diabetes management, emphasizing the importance of holistic approaches and personalized interventions in combating this pervasive health issue.