World Diabetes Day, observed every year on November 14, aims to raise awareness about diabetes and the importance of accessible care for all.
This year’s theme, “Diabetes in the Workplace,” encourages employers and employees alike to understand diabetes better and create supportive environments for effective management at work.
In today’s fast-paced world, diets often lean heavily on processed foods rich in refined carbohydrates and sugars, contributing to the growing diabetes issue. India, often referred to as the “Diabetes Capital of the World,” faces a significant challenge.
A recent study by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) revealed 101 million Indians have diabetes, while another 136 million are pre-diabetic.
A balanced diet plays a crucial role in maintaining blood sugar levels, and starting the day with nutrient-dense foods can make a difference. Starting your day with almonds, which are rich in 15 essential nutrients, including protein, unsaturated fats, and dietary fibre, can help support healthy blood sugar regulation.
Research indicates that almonds can help maintain healthy blood sugar, improve glucose control in people with type 2 diabetes, and reduce the blood sugar impact of carbohydrate-heavy meals. They also have anti-inflammatory benefits, especially in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
A recent study led by Dr. Anoop Misra, Professor and Chairman at the Fortis-C-DOC Center of Excellence for Diabetes, Metabolic Diseases, and Endocrinology in New Delhi, found that almond consumption before meals significantly improved blood sugar control in Asian Indians with prediabetes and obesity.
With their nutrient density and versatility, almonds are an easy addition to everyday meals and snacks, helping support overall metabolic health.
Nutrition and Wellness Consultant, Sheela Krishnaswamy, said, “Diabetes is one of the most widespread non-communicable diseases in India, and is largely driven by poor dietary habits and sedentary lifestyles.
This World Diabetes Day, I encourage everyone to make mindful dietary choices. Including nutrient-rich foods such as almonds, vegetables, sprouts, fresh fruits, etc, in your daily routine can help manage blood sugar levels better. Almonds are rich in protein, unsaturated fats, and dietary fibre and have a low glycemic index, meaning they don’t cause a spike in blood sugar levels.
Even starting your day with a handful of almonds can help improve energy levels, support satiety, and reduce dependence on processed foods.”
Ritika Samaddar, Regional Head – Dietetics, Max Healthcare, Delhi, said, “Lifestyle and food choices are major contributors to diabetes. A balanced diet rich in pulses, nuts like California Almonds, green leafy vegetables, and whole grains can help prevent sugar spikes.
Almonds, in particular, are known to have various nutrients and are a source of protein and high in dietary fibre.
They can help in maintaining healthy blood sugar levels, may improve blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes, and help lower the blood sugar impact of carbohydrate foods, which affects fasting insulin levels. I often recommend beginning the day with a handful of almonds to set a healthy tone for the rest of the day.”
