By – Dr Polisetty
On World Diabetes Day, the pioneer of Poly Scientific Ayurveda advocates for safer approaches, highlights Ayurvedic practices to help reduce overdependence on allopathic drugs
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 77 million people above the age of 18 in India are suffering from Type 2 diabetes, with nearly 25 million undiagnosed. The WHO reports that more than 50% of people are unaware of their diabetic status, which can lead to health complications if not detected and treated early.
Usually, blood sugar levels typically range from 70 to 99 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) in healthy individuals. However, in Type 2 diabetes (T2D), blood sugar levels can rise to 126 mg/dL or higher. T2D occurs when the pancreas either doesn’t produce enough insulin or the body becomes resistant to insulin, or both. This differs from Type 1 diabetes, where an autoimmune response destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
Adults with diabetes face a two- to three-fold increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Uncontrolled blood sugar levels can also affect ocular health and the nervous system, and lead to complications such as foot ulcers and kidney damage. It also restricts dietary choices, significantly impacting a person’s quality of life.
“It is this intriguing connection between quality of life and overarching wellness markers that makes the Ayurvedic approach relevant in diabetes treatment. Unlike allopathy, which often focuses on symptomatic relief, Ayurveda emphasises holistic healing, offering significant benefits to diabetic patients,” says Dr Ravishankar Polisetty, the pioneer of Poly Scientific Ayurveda.
Recently, there has been an increased use of semaglutide drugs, which primarily function as glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) agonists. These drugs stimulate insulin release and reduce glucagon secretion, helping to control blood sugar levels. Further, anti-diabetic medications like Ozempic have gained attention, particularly in the media, for being recommended by some social media influencers, as an easy option for drastic weight loss.
“Though widely used by many, allopathic drugs like Ozempic come with their share of side effects. This is where Ayurvedic practices become increasingly relevant. Free of side effects, they focus on a balanced diet, exercise, detoxification, and targeted medications to support the reversal of the diabetic condition and prevent further complications,” adds Dr Polisetty.
According to Poly Scientific Ayurveda, an individual’s health depends on maintaining a perfect balance between the three doshas-Vata, Pitta and Kapha (VPK). “In Ayurveda, metabolic disorders (Pramehas) refer to conditions where blood glucose levels rise to meet the body’s metabolic needs, particularly in the Vata and Pitta types. In Pitta types, glucose is burned faster, necessitating higher levels of sustained energy. For Vata types, which have hyper-excitable tissues that rapidly use energy, the body also requires elevated blood glucose levels,” explains Dr Polisetty.
After understanding the doshic imbalances related to diabetes, Poly Scientific Ayurveda offers valuable insights into dietary and lifestyle modifications to restore balance. It harnesses the power of herbs and spices known for their anti-diabetic properties and recommends activities that align with a specific body type and personal preferences. Stress management techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga, along with a customized diet, can effectively support blood sugar control and improve overall health.
Regarding the use of Ozempic for weight loss, he states that from an Ayurvedic perspective, these drugs can slow down digestion by delaying the time food takes to leave the stomach, potentially impacting Agni. “This drug might weaken Jatharagni, leading to incomplete digestion and the formation of Ama (toxins). If digestion is impaired, it affects Rasa Dhatu (plasma) and disrupts Pachaka Pitta, which manages digestion. This imbalance can also impact Ranjaka Pitta, affecting blood formation and nutrient processing. Slowing down the digestive fire can lead to a sluggish metabolism and disrupt other metabolic pathways, potentially causing side effects,” he concludes.