The Growing Threat of "Diabesity": How Obesity Drives the Global Diabetes Epidemic

In recent years, the world has witnessed a dramatic rise in both obesity and type 2 diabetes. These two conditions are so closely linked that experts now use the term "diabesity" to describe their dangerous combination. But what does this mean for our health, and why should we be concerned?

Obesity: The Main Driver of Type 2 Diabetes

Obesity, especially excess fat around the abdomen, is the single most significant risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes. According to the World Obesity Federation, 43% of all type 2 diabetes cases globally are directly linked to obesity . The reason lies in how our bodies handle insulin.

Insulin resistance occurs when excess body fat makes it harder for our cells to respond to insulin, the hormone that helps regulate blood sugar. Over time, this resistance can lead to higher blood sugar levels and, eventually, type 2 diabetes .

What is "Diabesity"?

"Diabesity" is a term that highlights the double threat posed by obesity and diabetes together. This combination significantly increases the risk of:

• Heart disease
• Kidney disease
• Stroke
• Premature death

When these conditions occur together, they can make each other worse, leading to more severe health complications and a lower quality of life.

The Alarming Numbers

The scale of the problem is staggering. By 2030, it is projected that 1 billion people will be living with obesity and 642 million with diabetes worldwide . These numbers are not just statistics—they represent real people facing serious health challenges.

What Can You Do?

While these figures are alarming, there’s good news: many cases of diabesity can be prevented or managed with healthy lifestyle choices. Here’s how you can protect yourself and your loved ones:

• Eat a balanced diet: Focus on whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables.
• Stay active: Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Even modest weight loss can make a big difference.
• Get regular health check-ups: Early detection is key to preventing complications.

Take Action Today

The rise of diabesity is a global health crisis, but it’s also a personal one. By making small, sustainable changes in your daily habits, you can significantly reduce your risk of both obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Your health is in your hands. Start today!

Dr Aravinda J

MD,MRCP(London),Triple FRCP(Edinburgh, London, Glasgow) National RSSDI Executive Committee Member President RSSDI Karnataka chapter ( 2018-19 ) Chairman and Chief Diabetologist Dr Aravind's Diabetes Centre Basaveshwara Nagar, Bengaluru.

1. World Obesity Federation: 2023 World Obesity Atlas

2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: The Relationship Between Obesity and Diabetes

3. International Diabetes Federation: Diabetes and Obesity

4. World Health Organization: Obesity and Overweight Factsheet

 

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The Impact of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) on Maternal and Fetal Health

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a significant complication of pregnancy, affecting up to 9% of pregnancies worldwide. Its consequences extend beyond pregnancy, impacting both maternal and fetal health in the short and long term.

Maternal Health Impacts

Short-Term Risks:

• Hypertension and Preeclampsia: GDM increases the risk of high blood pressure and preeclampsia, a potentially life-threatening condition for both mother and baby.
• Infections: Women with GDM are more prone to urinary tract and vaginal infections during pregnancy.
• Operative Delivery: There is a higher likelihood of cesarean section due to complications such as fetal macrosomia (large baby) or labor difficulties.
• Premature Delivery: GDM is associated with an increased risk of preterm birth.

Long-Term Risks:

• Type 2 Diabetes: Women with a history of GDM face a sevenfold increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, with up to 50% developing it within years after pregnancy.
• Cardiovascular Disease: GDM is linked to a higher risk of metabolic syndrome, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and cardiovascular disease later in life.
• Future GDM: There is a higher risk of developing GDM in subsequent pregnancies.

Fetal and Neonatal Health Impacts

Short-Term Risks:

• Macrosomia: Babies born to mothers with GDM are more likely to be larger than average, increasing the risk of birth trauma, shoulder dystocia, and the need for cesarean delivery.
• Neonatal Hypoglycemia: After birth, babies may experience low blood sugar due to increased insulin production in response to maternal hyperglycemia.
• Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS): Infants of mothers with GDM have a higher risk of RDS, possibly due to delayed lung maturity.
• Jaundice: There is an increased risk of neonatal jaundice due to higher bilirubin levels.
• Stillbirth and Sudden Fetal Death: Poorly controlled GDM can increase the risk of stillbirth.

Long-Term Risks:

• Childhood Obesity: Children born to mothers with GDM are at increased risk of obesity in childhood and adolescence, largely due to in-utero exposure to high glucose levels and altered fetal metabolism.
• Type 2 Diabetes and Insulin Resistance: These children have a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome later in life, as maternal hyperglycemia programs their metabolic pathways.
• Altered Growth Patterns: GDM is associated with increased fetal growth rates, particularly increased abdominal circumference, which is linked to higher weight-for-height scores in early childhood.

Mechanisms Behind the Impact

• Maternal-Fetal Glucose Transfer: In GDM, maternal blood glucose crosses the placenta, leading to fetal hyperglycemia. The fetus responds by producing more insulin, which acts as a growth hormone, resulting in increased fat deposition and organ growth (especially abdominal.
• Metabolic Programming: Exposure to high glucose in utero can alter the child's insulin sensitivity and metabolic health, increasing the risk of metabolic syndrome, hypertension, and dyslipidemia in later life.

Management and Prevention

• Lifestyle Modifications: Dietary changes, exercise, and weight management are first-line interventions to control blood glucose.
• Medication: If lifestyle changes are insufficient, insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents may be prescribed, though there are concerns about the long-term safety of some medications for both mother and child.
• Monitoring: Regular blood sugar monitoring during pregnancy and postpartum is essential to reduce risks.
• Postpartum Follow-Up: Women with GDM should be screened for type 2 diabetes after delivery and at regular intervals thereafter.

Conclusion

GDM is more than a temporary pregnancy complication—it has profound and lasting effects on both maternal and child health. Early diagnosis, effective management, and postpartum follow-up are critical to reducing the risk of adverse outcomes and breaking the cycle of metabolic disease across generations.

References

1. Maternal Weight and Gestational Diabetes Impacts on Child Health – PMC
2. Effect of Gestational Diabetes on Fetal Growth Rate and Later Overweight – JCEM
3. Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: Long-Term Consequences for the Mother and Child – PMC
4. Gestational Diabetes: Complications and Management – HealthXchange
5. A Comprehensive Review of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus – PMC
6. What Are the Complications of Gestational Diabetes? – Healthline
7. Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and Its Implications across the Life Span – Diabetes & Metabolism Journal

 

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The Link Between PCOD and Insulin Resistance

The Link Between PCOD and Insulin Resistance

Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD), also known as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), is a common endocrine disorder affecting millions of women worldwide. While many associate PCOD primarily with reproductive issues like irregular periods and infertility, its roots run much deeper—particularly into the body’s metabolic processes. One of the most significant and well-established connections is between PCOD and insulin resistance.

Understanding Insulin Resistance

Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that enables cells to absorb glucose from the bloodstream for energy. In insulin resistance, the body’s cells become less responsive to insulin, forcing the pancreas to produce more of it. Over time, this can lead to elevated insulin levels (hyperinsulinemia), higher blood sugar, and eventually type 2 diabetes.

How Insulin Resistance Drives PCOD

Insulin resistance is not just a side effect of PCOD—it’s a central driver of the condition. Studies show that:

• 70–95% of women with obese PCOD and 30–75% of those with lean PCOD have insulin resistance.
• High insulin levels stimulate the ovaries to produce more androgens (male hormones), such as testosterone, which can disrupt ovulation, cause irregular periods, acne, and excess hair growth.
• Insulin resistance is also linked to increased inflammation, weight gain, and a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

The Vicious Cycle: Obesity, Insulin, and PCOD

Obesity amplifies insulin resistance. In women with PCOD, excess adipose (fat) tissue releases substances called adipokines, which further disrupt insulin signaling and hormone balance. This can worsen both metabolic and reproductive symptoms of PCOD, creating a vicious cycle.

Testing and Diagnosis

Because insulin resistance is so common in PCOD, testing for it is often recommended. Common tests include:

• Fasting insulin
• HOMA-IR index
• 2-hour insulin glucose challenge test

These tests help distinguish PCOD from other conditions with similar symptoms and guide treatment.

Managing PCOD and Insulin Resistance

Addressing insulin resistance is a cornerstone of PCOD management:

• Lifestyle changes: Diet, exercise, and weight loss can significantly improve insulin sensitivity, reduce androgen levels, restore ovulation, and improve fertility.
• Medications: Metformin is commonly prescribed to improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar. It can also help with weight loss and reduce androgen levels.
• Other agents: Thiazolidinediones (like pioglitazone) are sometimes used but have limitations due to side effects.

Long-Term Health Risks

Women with PCOD and insulin resistance face an increased risk of:

• Type 2 diabetes: More than half of women with PCOD develop it by age 402.
• Heart disease and metabolic syndrome: Due to chronic inflammation, abnormal cholesterol, and high blood pressure.
• Gestational diabetes: Higher risk during pregnancy.

Conclusion

The link between PCOD and insulin resistance is strong and multifaceted. Recognizing and addressing insulin resistance is crucial for managing PCOD symptoms, improving fertility, and reducing long-term health risks. Early intervention with lifestyle changes and, if necessary, medication can make a significant difference in outcomes for women with PCOD.

Dr. Praveen Kumar N S

MBBS, MD (Gen. Med.), DNB (Endocrinology)
Consultant Endocrinologist & Diabetologist
Dr. Praveen's Endocrine Centre
Mysuru, Karnataka. 570009.

References

1. Insulin Resistance in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome - PMC3
2. All Women With PCOS Should Be Treated For Insulin Resistance - PMC4
3. The link between PCOS and insulin resistance - HelloClue1
4. Drug Treatments for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome - AAFP5
5. Diabetes and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) - CDC

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Sleep: The Unsung Hero of Heart Health

Sleep: The Unsung Hero of Heart Health

When we think about keeping our hearts healthy, we usually talk about eating well, staying active, and not smoking. But there’s another powerful tool for a healthy heart that often gets ignored—sleep. Science is now showing us that getting enough good-quality sleep is just as important as diet and exercise for protecting your heart.

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Why Does Sleep Matter for Your Heart?

When you sleep, your body isn’t just resting. Your heart and blood vessels are getting a break, too. During deep sleep, your blood pressure drops, your heart rate slows down, and your body repairs itself. This nightly “reset” is essential for a healthy heart.

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How Much Sleep Do You Need?

Most adults need 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night. Getting less than 7 hours—or more than 9 or 10 hours—can actually raise your risk of heart disease and stroke. Here’s why:

• Too little sleep (less than 7 hours) can lead to high blood pressure, weight gain, diabetes, and heart problems.
• Too much sleep (more than 9–10 hours) may also be linked to heart issues, although sometimes this is because of other health problems.

But it’s not just about the number of hours. Quality matters, too. If you toss and turn, wake up a lot, or don’t feel rested in the morning, your heart may not be getting the benefits of sleep.

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What Happens When You Don’t Sleep Well?

Poor sleep can cause:

• High blood pressure: Your blood pressure stays higher for longer, which stresses your heart.
• Inflammation: Your body becomes more inflamed, which can damage your blood vessels.
• Weight gain: Lack of sleep makes you crave unhealthy foods and can lead to weight gain, which is bad for your heart.
• Blood sugar problems: Poor sleep can make it harder for your body to control blood sugar, raising your risk for diabetes.

Sleep problems like insomnia or sleep apnea (when you stop breathing for short periods during sleep) are especially risky for your heart. If you snore loudly, wake up gasping, or feel tired all day, talk to your doctor.

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Simple Tips for Better Sleep

• Stick to a schedule: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends.
• Create a relaxing bedtime routine: Read, listen to calm music, or take a warm bath.
• Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet.
• Avoid screens and caffeine before bed.
• Get regular exercise, but not right before bedtime.

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Takeaway: Make Sleep a Priority

Sleep isn’t just “downtime”—it’s an essential part of keeping your heart healthy. If you want to lower your risk of heart disease, make sleep a top priority, just like healthy eating and exercise.

Dr Manohar K N

MD, DNB, MNAMS,  
Triple FRCP (Edinburgh, Glasgow & London), 
FEAC - Fellow of Euro-Asian Academy of Cardiology 
Fellow of RSSDI, Fellow Diabetes India
www.drmanoharkn.com/

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References

1. American Heart Association. How Does Sleep Affect Heart Health? (2023)
2. Grandner, M.A., et al. "Sleep is Essential for Cardiovascular Health." Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine, 2023.
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Sleep and Heart Health (2024)
4. Gangwisch, J.E., et al. "Sleep Duration as a Risk Factor for Cardiovascular Disease." Sleep, 2001.

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Remember: A good night’s sleep is one of the best gifts you can give your heart!

  

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ಡಯಾಬಿಟೀಸ್‌ಗೆ ಹೃದಯ ಆರೋಗ್ಯಕ್ಕಾಗಿ 5 ಸರಳ ಆಹಾರ ಸಲಹೆಗಳು

ಡಯಾಬಿಟೀಸ್ ಇರುವವರಿಗೆ ಹೃದಯ ಆರೋಗ್ಯವನ್ನು ಕಾಪಾಡಿಕೊಳ್ಳುವುದು ಅತ್ಯಂತ ಮುಖ್ಯ. ಸರಿಯಾದ ಆಹಾರ ಕ್ರಮವು ರಕ್ತದ ಸಕ್ಕರೆ ಮಟ್ಟವನ್ನು ನಿಯಂತ್ರಿಸಲು ಮತ್ತು ಹೃದಯದ ಆರೋಗ್ಯವನ್ನು ಸುಧಾರಿಸಲು ಸಹಾಯ ಮಾಡುತ್ತದೆ. ಈ ಲೇಖನದಲ್ಲಿ, ಡಯಾಬಿಟೀಸ್‌ಗೆ ಹೃದಯ ಆರೋಗ್ಯಕ್ಕಾಗಿ 5 ಸರಳ ಆಹಾರ ಸಲಹೆಗಳನ್ನು ನೀಡಲಾಗಿದೆ.

1. ಫೈಬರ್ ಸಮೃದ್ಧ ಆಹಾರವನ್ನು ಸೇವಿಸಿ

ಫೈಬರ್ ರಕ್ತದ ಸಕ್ಕರೆಯನ್ನು ನಿಯಂತ್ರಿಸಲು ಮತ್ತು ಕೊಲೆಸ್ಟ್ರಾಲ್ ಮಟ್ಟವನ್ನು ಕಡಿಮೆ ಮಾಡಲು ಸಹಾಯ ಮಾಡುತ್ತದೆ. ಓಟ್ಸ್, ಇಡೀ ಧಾನ್ಯಗಳು, ತರಕಾರಿಗಳು, ಹಣ್ಣುಗಳು ಮತ್ತು ಕಾಳುಗಳಂತಹ ಫೈಬರ್ ಸಮೃದ್ಧ ಆಹಾರಗಳನ್ನು ಆಯ್ಕೆ ಮಾಡಿ. ಉದಾಹರಣೆಗೆ, ರ *: ರಾಗಿ, ಗೋಧಿ, ತರಕಾರಿಗಳಾದ ಬೀನ್ಸ್, ಕ್ಯಾರೆಟ್, ಮತ್ತು ಹಣ್ಣುಗಳಾದ ಸೇಬು, ದಾಳಿಂಬೆ ಉತ್ತಮ ಆಯ್ಕೆಗಳು.

2. ಒಮೆಗಾ-3 ಕೊಬ್ಬಿನಾಮ್ಲಗಳನ್ನು ಸೇರಿಸಿಕೊಳ್ಳಿ

ಒಮೆಗಾ-3 ಕೊಬ್ಬಿನಾಮ್ಲಗಳು ಹೃದಯದ ಆರೋಗ್ಯಕ್ಕೆ ಒಳ್ಳೆಯದು. ಮೀನು (ಸಾಲ್ಮನ್, ಮ್ಯಾಕರೆಲ್), ಅಗಸೆ ಬೀಜ, ಚಿಯಾ ಬೀಜ, ಮತ್ತು ವಾಲ್‌ನಟ್‌ಗಳಂತಹ ಆಹಾರಗಳು ಒಮೆಗಾ-3 ಸಮೃದ್ಧವಾಗಿವೆ. ವಾರಕ್ಕೆ 2-3 ಬಾರಿ ಮೀನು ಸೇವನೆಯಿಂದ ಹೃದಯದ ಆರೋಗ್ಯವನ್ನು ಸುಧಾರಿಸಬಹುದು. ಶಾಕಾಹಾರಿಗಳಿಗೆ, ಅಗಸೆ ಬೀಜವನ್ನು ದಿನನಿತ್ಯದ ಆಹಾರದಲ್ಲಿ ಸೇರಿಸಿಕೊಳ್ಳಬಹುದು.

3. ಕಡಿಮೆ ಗ್ಲೈಸೆಮಿಕ್ ಇಂಡೆಕ್ಸ್ (GI) ಆಹಾರಗಳನ್ನು ಆಯ್ಕೆ ಮಾಡಿ

ಕಡಿಮೆ GI ಆಹಾರಗಳು ರಕ್ತದ ಸಕ್ಕರೆಯನ್ನು ತ್ವರಿತವಾಗಿ ಏರಿಕೆಯಾಗದಂತೆ ತಡೆಯುತ್ತವೆ. ರಾಗಿ, ಜೋಳ, ಕಂದು ಅಕ್ಕಿ, ಕ್ವಿನೋವಾ, ಮತ್ತು ತರಕಾರಿಗಳಾದ ಬ್ರಾಕೋಲಿ, ಶತಾವರಿ ಒಳ್ಳೆಯ ಆಯ್ಕೆಗಳು. ಇವು ರಕ್ತದ ಸಕ್ಕರೆಯನ್ನು ಸ್ಥಿರವಾಗಿಡಲು ಸಹಾಯ ಮಾಡುತ್ತವೆ ಮತ್ತು ಹೃದಯದ ಮೇಲಿನ ಒತ್ತಡವನ್ನು ಕಡಿಮೆ ಮಾಡುತ್ತವೆ.

4. ಉಪ್ಪಿನ ಸೇವನೆಯನ್ನು ಕಡಿಮೆ ಮಾಡಿ

ಅತಿಯಾದ ಉಪ್ಪಿನ ಸೇವನೆಯು ರಕ್ತದೊತ್ತಡವನ್ನು ಹೆಚ್ಚಿಸಿ, ಹೃದಯದ ಮೇಲೆ ಒತ್ತಡ ಹೇರಬಹುದು. ದಿನಕ್ಕೆ 5-6 ಗ್ರಾಂಗಿಂತ ಕಡಿಮೆ ಉಪ್ಪನ್ನು ಸೇವಿಸಿ. ತಾಜಾ ಗಿಡಮೂಲಿಕೆಗಳು, ಮಸಾಲೆಗಳು, ಮತ್ತು ನಿಂಬೆ ರಸವನ್ನು ಬಳಸಿ ಆಹಾರಕ್ಕೆ ರುಚಿಯನ್ನು ಸೇರಿಸಿ. ಪ್ಯಾಕ್ ಮಾಡಿದ ಆಹಾರಗಳು ಮತ್ತು ತಿಂಡಿಗಳನ್ನು ತಪ್ಪಿಸಿ, ಏಕೆಂದರೆ ಇವು ಸಾಮಾನ್ಯವಾಗಿ ಹೆಚ್ಚಿನ ಉಪ್ಪನ್ನು ಹೊಂದಿರುತ್ತವೆ.

5. ಸಂಸ್ಕರಿತ ಆಹಾರಗಳು ಮತ್ತು ಸಕ್ಕರೆಯನ್ನು ತಪ್ಪಿಸಿ

ಕೇಕ್, ಕುಕೀಸ್, ಸಕ್ಕರೆಯಿಂದ ಕೂಡಿದ ಪಾನೀಯಗಳು, ಮತ್ತು ಸಂಸ್ಕರಿತ ಆಹಾರಗಳು ರಕ್ತದ ಸಕ್ಕರೆಯನ್ನು ಏರಿಕೆ ಮಾಡುವುದರ ಜೊತೆಗೆ ಕೊಲೆಸ್ಟ್ರಾಲ್ ಮಟ್ಟವನ್ನೂ ಹೆಚ್ಚಿಸಬಹುದು. ಬದಲಿಗೆ, ತಾಜಾ ಹಣ್ಣುಗಳು, ಬೀಜಗಳು, ಮತ್ತು ತರಕಾರಿಗಳಿಂದ ತಯಾರಿಸಿದ ತಿಂಡಿಗಳನ್ನು ಆಯ್ಕೆ ಮಾಡಿ. ಉದಾಹರಣೆಗೆ, ಬಾದಾಮಿ, ವಾಲ್‌ನಟ್‌ಗಳು, ಅಥವಾ ಗುವಾವಾದಂತಹ ಹಣ್ಣುಗಳು ಆರೋಗ್ಯಕರ ಆಯ್ಕೆಗಳು.

ತೀರ್ಮಾನ

ಡಯಾಬಿಟೀಸ್‌ನೊಂದಿಗೆ ಹೃದಯ ಆರೋಗ್ಯವನ್ನು ಕಾಪಾಡಿಕೊಳ್ಳಲು ಸರಿಯಾದ ಆಹಾರ ಕ್ರಮವು ಕೀಲಿಯಾಗಿದೆ. ಮೇಲಿನ ಸಲಹೆಗಳನ್ನು ಅನುಸರಿಸುವುದರ ಜೊತೆಗೆ, ನಿಯಮಿತ ವೈದ್ಯಕೀಯ ತಪಾಸಣೆ, ವ್ಯಾಯಾಮ, ಮತ್ತು ಒತ್ತಡ ನಿರ್ವಹಣೆಯು ಒಟ್ಟಾರೆ ಆರೋಗ್ಯಕ್ಕೆ ಸಹಾಯ ಮಾಡುತ್ತದೆ. ಯಾವುದೇ ಹೊಸ ಆಹಾರ ಕ್ರಮವನ್ನು ಆರಂಭಿಸುವ ಮೊದಲು ವೈದ್ಯರ ಸಲಹೆಯನ್ನು ಪಡೆಯಿರಿ.

ಡಾ ಪ್ರಶಾಂತ್ ಜಿ

ಮಧುಮೇಹ ತಜ್ಞ
ಚಿತ್ರದುರ್ಗ ಮಧುಮೇಹ ಕೇಂದ್ರ
ಚಿತ್ರದುರ್ಗ

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How Many Eggs Per Day Are Good for Health? An Evidence-Based Guide

 

How Many Eggs Per Day Are Good for Health? An Evidence-Based Guide

Eggs have long been a staple in diets worldwide, celebrated for their versatility, affordability, and nutritional richness. Yet, questions persist: How many eggs per day are truly healthy? Does frequent egg consumption raise the risk of heart disease or diabetes? Let’s dive into what the latest research says.

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The Nutritional Power of Eggs

Eggs are nutritional powerhouses, providing high-quality protein, essential vitamins (B12, D, A, E, K), minerals (selenium, iodine), and unique nutrients like choline and lutein. Choline, for instance, is vital for brain health and cell membrane function, and eggs are among the best dietary sources. For older adults, eggs are especially valuable, offering accessible protein that supports muscle maintenance and overall health5.

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What Do Studies Say About Egg Consumption and Health?

Cardiovascular Health

• General Population:
  Multiple large studies and meta-analyses show that eating up to one egg per day does not increase the risk of heart disease in healthy individuals. Some research even suggests a modest reduction in stroke risk for those consuming eggs daily compared to those who eat fewer than two eggs per week. A recent study found that regular egg consumption (1–6 eggs per week) was associated with a 29% lower risk of cardiovascular disease-related death in healthy older adults.
• Cholesterol Concerns:
  While eggs are high in dietary cholesterol, current evidence indicates that for most people, cholesterol in food has a smaller effect on blood cholesterol than previously believed. The mix of fats in the diet and overall lifestyle play a far bigger role in heart health.
• Diabetes and Heart Disease:
  For individuals with diabetes or existing heart disease, the picture is more nuanced. Some studies show an increased risk of cardiovascular events with higher egg consumption in these groups, while others find no significant effect. As a precaution, experts recommend limiting intake to no more than three egg yolks per week for people with diabetes or heart disease.

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Other Health Benefits

• Weight Management & Satiety:
  Eggs are filling and can promote satiety, which may help with weight management and lower overall calorie intake.
• Muscle Health:
  Eggs support muscle protein synthesis and may help maintain optimal body composition, especially important for older adults.
• Blood Pressure:
  Some studies suggest that higher egg consumption may be linked to a lower risk of hypertension.
• Metabolic Health:
  Egg consumption may boost HDL (“good”) cholesterol and reduce inflammation, potentially protecting against metabolic syndrome.

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How Many Eggs Per Day Are Safe?

Healthy Adults

• Most research supports that up to one egg per day (about 7 per week) is safe for healthy adults and does not increase the risk of heart disease or stroke.
• Some guidelines, such as those from the American Heart Association, allow up to two eggs per day for older adults with normal cholesterol levels.

People with Diabetes or Heart Disease

• Limit egg yolk consumption to no more than three per week.
• Consider using egg whites, which are cholesterol-free, to increase protein intake without extra cholesterol.

Older Adults

• Regular intake of up to 6 eggs per week is associated with lower risk of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality.
• Eggs are a preferred protein source, especially for those experiencing age-related decline.

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Practical Tips

• Preparation Matters:
  Pair eggs with vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats rather than processed meats and refined carbs for the best health outcomes.
• Balance is Key:
  Eggs can be part of a heart-healthy diet when consumed in moderation and as part of an overall nutritious eating pattern.

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Conclusion

Eggs are a nutrient-dense food that can be safely enjoyed daily by most healthy adults. For those with diabetes or heart disease, moderation is advised. As always, individual dietary needs may vary, so consult with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized advice.

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Prof(Dr)Tirthankar Mukherjee

MBBS, MD (Internal Medicine), DNB ( Internal Medicine) , 
MRCP ( UK) , MRCP ( Edinburgh), MRCEM ( London), FRCP (Edinburgh)
Member of National Academy of Medical Sciences New Delhi( MNAMS)
Professor & Senior Consultant KIMS Bengaluru.

References

1. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10304460/
2. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7723562/
3. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/proven-health-benefits-of-eggs
4. https://nutritionsource.hsph.harvard.edu/food-features/eggs/
5. https://www.monash.edu/news/articles/regularly-eating-eggs-supports-a-lower-risk-of-cardiovascular-disease-related-death
6. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0939475325000031
7. https://today.uconn.edu/2023/10/a-comprehensive-picture-of-health-benefits-of-eggs/
8. https://ift.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/1750-3841.15892

 

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When Should You Visit an Endocrinologist?

 

When Should You Visit an Endocrinologist?

By Dr. Praveen Kumar N S (Mysore) & Dr. Shyam Sundar C M (Bangalore)

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Introduction: Why See an Endocrinologist?

Dr. Praveen Kumar N S

Have you ever wondered why you feel tired all the time, struggle with unexplained weight changes, or have symptoms that just don’t add up? Many of these issues may be linked to your hormones. As an endocrinologist, I see patients every day whose lives change for the better once their hormonal problems are identified and treated. Understanding when to seek help from a hormone specialist can make a huge difference in your health and quality of life.

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Understanding the Endocrine System

Dr. Shyam Sundar C M

Your endocrine system is a network of glands that produce hormones—chemical messengers that regulate everything from metabolism and growth to mood and reproduction. When these glands don’t work properly, it can lead to a wide range of health issues. Endocrinologists are specially trained to diagnose and manage these complex conditions.

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Common Reasons to Visit an Endocrinologist

Dr. Praveen Kumar N S

You should consider seeing an endocrinologist if you have:

• Diabetes: Struggling to control blood sugar, frequent highs/lows, or complications.
• Thyroid Disorders: Unexplained fatigue, weight changes, neck swelling, or abnormal thyroid tests.
• Unexplained Weight Changes: Sudden gain or loss without changes in diet or activity.
• Persistent Fatigue: Feeling tired despite adequate rest.
• Irregular Periods or Infertility: For women, irregular cycles or trouble conceiving; for men, low testosterone or fertility issues.
• Osteoporosis: Weak or brittle bones, frequent fractures.
• Growth Issues in Children: Short stature or abnormal growth patterns.
• Family History: Close relatives with diabetes, thyroid disease, or other hormone disorders.

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Symptoms That Should Not Be Ignored

Dr. Shyam Sundar C M

Some symptoms may seem minor but can indicate serious hormonal problems:

• Excessive thirst and urination
• Unexplained mood changes
• Hair loss or unusual hair growth
• Hot flashes or night sweats
• Difficulty concentrating
• Dry skin, brittle hair, or nails
• Bone or joint pain

If you notice any of these, especially if they persist, it’s wise to consult an endocrinologist.

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What to Expect During Your Visit

Dr. Praveen Kumar N S

Your first appointment will include:

• A detailed discussion of your symptoms and medical history
• Physical examination
• Blood tests or imaging to check hormone levels and gland function
• A personalized treatment plan, which may involve medication, lifestyle changes, or further tests

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The Importance of Early Diagnosis

Dr. Shyam Sundar C M

Early diagnosis and treatment of hormonal disorders can prevent complications and improve your quality of life. Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. If you have persistent, unexplained symptoms or a family history of endocrine problems, schedule a consultation with an endocrinologist.

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Final Thoughts: Take Charge of Your Health

Both Doctors

Hormonal imbalances can affect anyone, at any age. If you’re struggling with unexplained symptoms or have concerns about your hormonal health, don’t hesitate to seek expert advice. Early intervention can make all the difference.

Your health is your greatest asset—take care of it!

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Dr. Praveen Kumar N S, Mysore & Dr. Shyam Sundar C M, Bangalore

 

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