The rainy season brings a lot of challenges for diabetics. According to experts, the hot and humid weather causes a number of health problems – causing a significant increase in blood sugar levels and making it difficult to control them. You may also be at an increased risk of suffering from heat exhaustion.

So, when the weather gets warmer — mainly due to the humidity in the air — it’s important to keep a close eye on your blood sugar levels and look for any potential symptoms that your body isn’t handling the heat well.

According to Dr Mayank Lodha Seth, Chief Pathologist, Radcliffe Labs, weather fluctuations also lead to junk food cravings, which is a major risk in diabetes. “Seasonal changes can be especially difficult for diabetics. While summers bring respite from the scorching heat, for diabetics, the increased humidity, temperature fluctuations and increased cravings for fried and junk food can increase blood sugar levels to a great extent,” Dr Seth told Times Now.

What effect does humidity have on diabetics?,

Humidity can make you tired and sluggish and can compound the negative effects your diabetes has on your body. People with diabetes tend to get dehydrated more quickly than others. Some of the signs are:

• Tiredness
• Decreased urination
• Increased thirst
• Dizziness
• Headache
• dry mouth and eyes
• low blood pressure
• fast heart rate

According to doctors, dehydration causes blood sugar levels to rise, which makes you urinate more often, worsening your health problems. Plus, you’re also more susceptible to heat exhaustion because diabetes can damage your blood vessels and nerves, including the nerves in your sweat glands, so you’re not able to cool your body as efficiently as it needs to.

Your sweat doesn’t evaporate as well as it would in dry conditions, making it much harder to stay cool – which leads to increased blood sugar levels.

Ways to control diabetes in monsoon

According to Dr. Seth, even though managing diabetes during the rainy season may seem daunting, “it is quite simple,” he said. “With a little awareness, some necessary precautions, timely care and regular exercise, you can face this season with confidence,” he added.

Here are some essential care tips during the monsoon season:

maintain your hydration levels

Changes in temperature can significantly reduce water consumption, and excessive sweating due to increased humidity affects blood sugar control. Therefore, setting a reminder and drinking at least 3-4 liters of water per day is important for your health.

Eat low glycemic foods

Dr. Seth said, “It is always necessary to monitor your diet, regardless of the season, to ensure that your blood sugar level is within the required range.” Seasonal fruits, vegetables and bajra roti have a low glycemic index and are a good guide for your health.

Take special care of your feet

Waterlogging, puddles and wet surfaces can make you prone to foot infections. Hence, it is important to check your feet, keep them dry and wear monsoon-friendly footwear to avoid any risk of worsening your health condition.

Say ‘no’ to street food

Cravings and monsoon complement each other, but when combined with unhealthy street food, they become even worse. The use of substandard oil, excess calories and lack of hygiene are bad for your health. “Instead, it would be beneficial if you make the same dishes at home with better hygiene and low-calorie options to satisfy your cravings,” said Dr Seth.

remain active

This is very important, especially during the rainy season. Rains don’t have to make you adopt a sedentary lifestyle; instead, prepare for your indoor workout routine in advance. Staying active is the key to ensuring overall health.

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