INTEGRATING AYURVEDIC DIETARY RECOMMENDATIONS WITH MODERN NUTRITIONAL SCIENCE: EVIDENCE-BASED VALIDATION FOR DIABETES MANAGEMENT

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is projected to affect approximately 98 million individuals in India by 2030, highlighting the urgent need for effective management strategies that incorporate diet and physical activity. Ayurveda has recognized Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, or Madhumeha, and provided comprehensive guidelines for its management. This study reviews classical Indian dietary interventions and evaluates their contemporary relevance for T2DM management. A comprehensive analysis of thirty traditional dietary items, assessed for their nutritional content and glycemic impact, highlights the alignment of ancient recommendations with modern scientific evidence. Key dietary strategies include incorporating low-glycemic index cereals, pulses, fruits, and vegetables while avoiding high-glycemic and processed foods. The study combines traditional Ayurvedic insights with current dietary guidelines, highlighting that integrating a balanced diet, regular exercise, and lifestyle changes is essential for effective T2DM management and improved patient outcomes.