Diabetes Prevention Must Begin at the Dinner Table, Say Health Experts

KOCHI: Ahead of World Diabetes Day on November 14, healthcare experts have emphasized the urgent need for early detection and dietary intervention to mitigate rising diabetes risks across India. According to ICMR study data, India is home to approximately 101 million people living with diabetes and an additional 136 million individuals in the pre-diabetic stage. With the excessive consumption of processed foods and high sugar intake worsening the public health crisis, experts stress that preventive measures must start right at the dining table.

Incorporating nutrient-dense nuts like California almonds into daily diets has emerged as an effective dietary strategy for blood sugar management. Rich in protein (6 grams) and dietary fiber (3 grams) per serving, almonds provide essential daily nutrition. Ritika Samaddar, Regional Head of Dietetics at Max Healthcare, Delhi, noted that regular intake of almonds alongside pulses, whole grains, and leafy green vegetables helps establish a healthy lifestyle foundation. In line with the 2024 Dietary Guidelines for Indians, incorporating 40 grams of nuts daily for men and 30 grams for women as part of a balanced diet plays a critical role in long-term diabetes prevention and overall health maintenance.