Hello Diabetes

Dr. Sunil Gupta

A series of diabetes awareness programs covering the prevention and management of Diabetes in Hindi & Marathi with the multi-award-winning, internationally acclaimed, leading diabetologist of India - Dr. Sunil Gupta.

  1. 5d ago

    Diabetes Is a Journey: Walk It with Awareness, Manage It with Confidence, and Live It with Happiness

    In this episode of Hello Doctor, Dr. Sunil Gupta and Dr. Kavita Gupta explained that diabetes is a lifelong metabolic condition that can affect every organ if left uncontrolled, but its complications are largely preventable with timely care. They emphasized the importance of annual diabetes screening from the age of 30 for individuals with a family history of diabetes and from 35 years onward for everyone else, as the disease often remains symptomless in its early stages. Dr. Sunil Gupta encouraged patients to take "ownership" of their diabetes by maintaining target HbA1c, blood pressure, cholesterol, a healthy diet, regular exercise, frequent glucose monitoring, diabetes education, and a positive mindset. He also highlighted the Legacy Phenomenon, explaining that achieving good glucose control soon after diagnosis can significantly reduce the risk of long-term complications affecting the heart, kidneys, eyes, nerves, and blood vessels. Dr. Kavita Gupta focused on the practical aspects of diabetes nutrition and lifestyle management. She explained that while intermittent fasting may benefit some individuals with prediabetes or obesity, it should only be practiced under medical supervision, particularly by those taking insulin or sulfonylureas, due to the risk of hypoglycemia. She emphasized portion control, a balanced diet rich in vegetables, whole grains, fruits, proteins, nuts, and dairy, while limiting sugars, excess salt, processed foods, and unhealthy fats. She also discussed dietary modifications for people living with diabetes alongside hypertension or thyroid disorders. The programme further highlighted the importance of regular monitoring of blood glucose, HbA1c, blood pressure, cholesterol, and lipid levels, while emphasizing the harmful effects of alcohol and tobacco on metabolic health. The central message was that informed self-care, early screening, personalized nutrition, regular monitoring, and sustained healthy lifestyle habits are the keys to preventing diabetes-related complications and living a long, healthy life with diabetes. Expert- Dr Sunil Gupta & Dr Kavita Gupta Anchor- Pranjali Baviskar Podcast: 22/05/2026 Recorded at: Akashwani Nagpur

  2. Aug 8

    Diabetes Often Remains Silent for Years: Early Screening Can Save Lives

    During the live phone-in programme “Hello Doctor” organized by the Diabetes Care Foundation of India, Dr. Sunil Gupta and Dr. Shlok Gupta discussed the growing burden of diabetes and the importance of early detection. They highlighted that nearly one in four adults may have either diabetes or prediabetes, making regular screening essential. The experts emphasized that diabetes often remains undiagnosed for several years because many individuals do not experience symptoms in the early stages. It was advised that everyone above 35 years of age, and those with a family history of diabetes from 30 years onward, to undergo annual blood sugar testing. The discussion explained the role of HbA1c, fasting blood sugar, and oral glucose tolerance tests in diagnosing diabetes and prediabetes. Special situations such as sickle cell disease, thalassemia, anemia, and pregnancy, where HbA1c may not be reliable, were also discussed. Dr. Shlok Gupta explained that very high blood sugar levels can temporarily exhaust insulin-producing beta cells, and short-term insulin therapy may help restore their function. The experts stressed the importance of individualized treatment, avoiding self-medication, preserving beta-cell function, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and using modern technologies such as Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) for better diabetes management. Expert- Dr Sunil Gupta & Dr Shlok Gupta Podcast: 11/05/2026 Anchor- Pranjali Baviskar Recorded at: Akashwani Nagpur

  3. Jun 26

    Take Ownership of Diabetes for a Better Future

    During the live phone-in programme “Hello Doctor” organized by the Diabetes Care Foundation of India, Dr. Sunil Gupta discussed the growing burden of diabetes and emphasized that the disease often remains silent for years without noticeable symptoms. He explained that in India, diabetes is typically detected approximately 3–7 years later than its actual onset. Many patients are diagnosed only after complications affecting the heart, kidneys, eyes, nerves, or blood vessels have already developed. He further asked, “Do you think these chronic complications occur within days or weeks? No. It takes years of uncontrolled diabetes for such damage to develop.” Dr. Gupta stressed the importance of regular screening, monitoring, and a holistic approach to diabetes management rather than focusing only on blood sugar levels. He emphasized the need for patients to take “ownership” of their diabetes by following treatment plans, undergoing routine check-ups, and adopting healthy lifestyle habits. The discussion also covered topics such as hypoglycemia, insulin therapy, Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM), diabetes-related complications, alcohol-related risks, travel precautions for people with diabetes, and the importance of carrying a diabetes identification card. Special attention was given to the increasing incidence of diabetes among younger adults and the need for early diagnosis and preventive care. The key message was that awareness, timely testing, regular monitoring, and active patient and family participation are essential to prevent complications and achieve better long-term diabetes outcomes. Expert- Dr Sunil Gupta Anchor- Purva Kulkarni Podcast: 08/05/2026 Recorded at: Akashwani Nagpur

  4. May 22

    Why Diabetes Needs Early Diagnosis and Prevention

    The live phone-in programme “Hello Doctor” by the Diabetes Care Foundation of India featured expert guidance from Dr. Sunil Gupta and Dr. Shlok Gupta on diabetes awareness, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment. During the discussion, Dr. Sunil Gupta highlighted the alarming rise of diabetes and prediabetes in India. Referring to recent health data, he explained that nearly every fourth adult above 18 years of age is affected by either diabetes or prediabetes. He emphasized that many people remain undiagnosed for years because diabetes often develops without noticeable symptoms. The experts stressed the importance of regular health check-ups, especially after the age of 35, or earlier in people with a family history of diabetes. They explained the role of HbA1c testing, fasting blood sugar, and oral glucose tolerance tests in diagnosing diabetes and prediabetes. Dr. Gupta also discussed how obesity, genetics, sedentary lifestyle, and poor eating habits increase diabetes risk. He warned against self-medication and explained that diabetes treatment must be individualized based on factors such as body weight, insulin production, and insulin resistance. Dr. Shlok Gupta explained that very high blood sugar levels can temporarily exhaust insulin-producing beta cells. In such cases, short-term insulin therapy may help the pancreas recover before shifting patients back to oral medicines. The programme also highlighted modern diabetes technologies such as Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) systems and insulin pumps, which help patients monitor and control blood sugar more effectively. Expert- Dr Sunil Gupta & Dr Shlok Gupta Anchor- Purva Kulkarni Podcast: 24/04/2026 Recorded at: Akashwani Nagpur

  5. May 1

    Diabetes, Obesity, and Insulin Resistance

    During the live phone-in programme “Hello Doctor” on Akashvani, the discussion highlighted the strong link between obesity, diabetes, and insulin resistance, etc. emphasizing that diabetes management should go beyond just controlling blood sugar. Experts stressed that focusing only on glucose levels (a “glucocentric approach”) is not enough; instead, a holistic approach is essential, including weight control, lifestyle changes, and overall metabolic health. It was explained that obesity—especially central or abdominal obesity (visceral fat)—plays a major role in increasing insulin resistance. Fat accumulation around vital organs such as the liver, pancreas, kidneys, and heart leads to chronic inflammation, which is the root cause of many complications including heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, neuropathy, and gangrene etc. Even individuals with normal weight but increased waist circumference are at higher risk. The session also highlighted that increasing body fat reduces the effectiveness of insulin, leading to higher insulin levels (hyperinsulinemia) and eventually exhausting insulin-producing beta cells. This contributes to the development and progression of Type 2 diabetes. Clear targets for blood sugar control were discussed for different age groups, along with the importance of avoiding hypoglycemia, especially in elderly individuals. The role of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and “time in range” was also explained as a modern approach to diabetes care. The key message was: control weight, reduce abdominal fat, follow regular meal timing, stay active, and adopt preventive healthcare practices to effectively manage and prevent diabetes and its complications. Expert: Dr Sunil Gupta Anchor: Purva Kulkari Podcast : 27/03/2026 Recorded at: Akashwani Nagpur

  6. Mar 20

    Diabetes and Neuropathy: Understanding Nerve Damage and Its Prevention

    During the live phone-in programme “Hello Doctor” on Akashvani, Dr. Sunil Gupta explained that diabetes can affect many organs of the body when blood sugar remains uncontrolled for a long time. One of the most common complications is diabetic neuropathy, a condition in which nerves are gradually damaged due to prolonged high blood glucose levels. This complication usually develops over several years and most often begins in the nerves of the feet and hands. Dr. Sunil Gupta stated that common symptoms of neuropathy include burning sensation, tingling, numbness, reduced sensation, and pain in the feet. Many patients may not notice minor injuries or wounds because of decreased sensitivity. Sometimes, even slippers may slip off while walking without the person realizing it. Due to this loss of sensation, the condition is often referred to as a “high-risk foot” situation. He further explained that if nerve damage is combined with poor blood circulation (neuro-ischemic foot), wound healing becomes slow and difficult. In severe cases, untreated wounds may lead to serious complications such as infection or gangrene, making it at high risk for amputation. Dr. Sunil Gupta also highlighted that diabetes affects both small blood vessels (microvascular disease) and large blood vessels (macrovascular disease), which can impact important organs such as the heart, kidneys, eyes, and feet. He emphasized that maintaining proper blood sugar control, regular medical check-ups, foot care, and early detection of complications are essential for preventing long-term damage and improving quality of life for people living with diabetes. Expert- Dr Sunil Gupta Anchor- Swati Huddar Podcast: 27/02/2026 Recorded at: Akashwani Nagpur

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A series of diabetes awareness programs covering the prevention and management of Diabetes in Hindi & Marathi with the multi-award-winning, internationally acclaimed, leading diabetologist of India - Dr. Sunil Gupta.