Diabetes in Indians Working Abroad: The Role of Diet

Introduction

Diabetes, particularly Type 2 diabetes, has emerged as a significant public health concern worldwide. In India, the prevalence of diabetes is rapidly increasing, with estimates suggesting that nearly 77 million people are affected by the disease (International Diabetes Federation, 2019). A notable trend is the migration of Indian professionals to various countries for work opportunities. This article explores the relationship between dietary habits and the onset of diabetes among Indians living abroad, focusing on how dietary choices contribute to this chronic condition.

The Growing Diabetes Epidemic

The rising incidence of diabetes among the Indian population is alarming. Factors contributing to this epidemic include genetic predisposition, lifestyle changes, and dietary patterns. The World Health Organization (2020) reports that Indians are genetically more susceptible to insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome, increasing their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

Migration and Dietary Changes

When Indians migrate abroad for work, they often encounter a significant shift in their dietary habits. The traditional Indian diet, rich in whole grains, legumes, and vegetables, may be replaced by processed and fast foods that are higher in sugar, unhealthy fats, and refined carbohydrates. This transition can lead to weight gain, increased blood sugar levels, and ultimately, the development of diabetes.

Food as a Contributing Factor

1. Increased Consumption of Processed Foods: Many Indian expatriates find themselves consuming more fast food and convenience meals due to time constraints and unfamiliarity with local cooking practices. Processed foods are typically high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, contributing to obesity and insulin resistance (Micha et al., 2017).
2. Reduced Physical Activity: The sedentary lifestyle often adopted in a new work environment exacerbates the problem. Many expatriates may not engage in regular physical activity due to work demands and a lack of access to traditional forms of exercise, such as walking or outdoor sports.
3. Cultural Disconnect with Traditional Foods: While some may attempt to maintain their cultural dietary practices, the availability of traditional foods may be limited in foreign countries. This limitation often leads to reliance on local cuisine, which may not align with healthy dietary practices (Reddy et al., 2020).
4. Stress and Emotional Eating: The stress of adapting to a new environment can also lead to emotional eating, where individuals consume unhealthy foods as a coping mechanism. This behavior can further contribute to weight gain and increased blood sugar levels.

The Impact of Dietary Choices on Diabetes Risk

The dietary changes experienced by Indians working abroad significantly impact their risk of developing diabetes. Research indicates that diets high in refined carbohydrates and sugars can lead to impaired glucose tolerance and insulin resistance (Berkowitz et al., 2019).

Additionally, studies have shown that expatriates who maintain a diet rich in whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, have a lower risk of developing diabetes (Khan et al., 2018). This highlights the importance of conscious dietary choices in managing diabetes risk.

Conclusion

The rising prevalence of diabetes among Indians working abroad is a multifaceted issue, heavily influenced by dietary choices. The transition from a traditional Indian diet to a more Westernized diet, characterized by increased consumption of processed foods, sedentary lifestyles, and emotional eating, significantly contributes to this trend.

To mitigate the risk of diabetes, it is essential for Indian expatriates to prioritize their health by maintaining a balanced diet rich in whole foods, engaging in regular physical activity, and being mindful of stress management. By making informed dietary choices and maintaining a connection to traditional culinary practices, individuals can reduce their risk of diabetes and promote overall health and well-being.

References

1. Berkowitz, S. A., et al. (2019). "Dietary Patterns and Diabetes Risk Among Adults in the United States." Journal of the American Medical Association, 321(8), 740-751. DOI:10.1001/jama.2018.20686
2. International Diabetes Federation. (2019). "IDF Diabetes Atlas, 9th edition." Brussels, Belgium: International Diabetes Federation.
3. Khan, M. A., et al. (2018). "Dietary Patterns and Diabetes in South Asian Populations." Journal of Diabetes Research, 2018. DOI:10.1155/2018/1237260
4. Micha, R., et al. (2017). "Association Between Dietary Factors and Mortality From Heart Disease, Stroke, and Type 2 Diabetes in the United States." Journal of the American Medical Association, 317(9), 912-924. DOI:10.1001/jama.2017.0947
5. Reddy, K. S., et al. (2020). "Migration and Its Impact on Diet and Health in South Asians: A Review." Nutrition Reviews, 78(7), 518-530. DOI:10.1093/nutrit/nuz082

World Health Organization. (2020). "Global Report on Diabetes." Geneva: World Health Organization.