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Diabetes Management Tips: What Is The Role Of Nutrition In Managing Diabetic Retinopathy?

Written by Prerna Mittra | Updated : December 3, 2024 8:56 PM IST MANAGING DIABETES: Diabetes is a common and debilitating disease that happens when the body is not able to utilise the insulin that the pancreas generates, or when the pancreas is unable to create enough of it. Doctors often call this chronic health condition a global pandemic, affecting people across age groups. "Diabetes mellitus affects 77 million adults in India between the ages of 20 years and 79 years. Over the next 25 years, this figure is expected to rise," warns Dr Sudhir Baburdikar, senior retina surgeon and neuro-ophthalmologist at Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital, Aundh (Pune) . There are several consequences of diabetes, including diabetic retinopathy (DR), nephropathy, and neuropathy, he adds. Citing an early therapy diabetic retinopathy study (ETDRS), the doctor says up to 98 per cent of diabetic blindness can be avoided with appropriate therapy and routine follow-ups. "Timely screening and precise staging of retinopathy severity are essential components of routine follow-ups, as they can enable the determination of the necessity for monitoring and early treatment. According to one study, one in four Indians over the age of 40 has diabetes. High blood sugar -- or hyperglycemia -- has an impact on every part of the body, but it mostly affects the kidneys, nerves, and eyes," Dr Baburdikar states. The doctor explains that when high blood sugar levels harm blood vessels and create swelling and bleeding in the retina (the rear portion of the eye, also called the mirror of the eye), it can result in diabetic retinopathy, which is a common complication of diabetes. If left untreated, it can result in vision issues and even blindness. More News "Although medical treatments like injections or laser therapy can control the problem, food is also important . While nutrition alone cannot prevent diabetic retinopathy, it can have a big impact on blood sugar regulation and, consequently, eye health in general," says the health expert. The doctor recommends making the following changes to diet to manage diabetic retinopathy: Don’t Miss Out on the Latest Updates. Subscribe to Our Newsletter Today! Enroll for our free updates Thank You for Subscribing Thanks for Updating Your Information None

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