‘Balik kampung’ advice for diabetics
MALAYSIANS are now travelling back to their hometowns to visit family and friends and lipsmacking food would be one of the highlights of the trip.
However, for people with diabetes, this experience of travelling and feasting needs to be approached with caution.
Universiti Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC) clinical dietitian Poh Kai Ling advises diabetics to consume healthy, balanced meals consisting of a variety of food while practising portion control according to the Malaysian Healthy Plate.
Moderation and portion size are key factors, she explains. Sources of carbohydrates should ideally be whole grains.
“But eating in moderation and portion size is crucial, no matter what type of carbohydrate is consumed,” says Poh.
It’s also important to not skip meals, get enough sleep and check your blood sugar levels regularly.
According to the National Health and Morbidity Survey 2019, one in five Malaysians is living with diabetes.
MANAGING WEIGHT
UMMC consultant endocrinologist and head of endocrinology Associate Professor Dr Jeyakantha Ratnasingam says increased physical activity and weight reduction are crucial for people with diabetes.
However, the type and duration of physical activity or exercise should be individualised and best incorporated into daily life as much as possible.
He adds that most Malaysians who are diabetic or have pre-diabetes do not even know it and think they are healthy because the disease is often asymptomatic.
It is, therefore, crucial to get screened. It is the best way to prevent diabetes and its complications.