When Aishwarya Sakhuja was first diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in 2018, she thought that would impact her life and come in the way of her work and day-to-day activities. However, with time, the actress has realised that with proper care, it can be kept under control. On World Diabetes Day, she shares her experiences.

Aishwarya says, “I had to take some medication a few years ago, which affected my pancreas and resulted in diabetes. Initially, I was upset and kept wondering how to reverse it. However, I realized that it wasn’t possible and learnt how to cope with it.”

She adds, “Once I accepted the fact that I had to live with this, I started making certain lifestyle changes. From having my meals at a fixed time to understanding my body a little more, within a year and a half, I got things under control. Today, I’m healthier than a lot of people.”

The Saas Bina Sasural and Main Naa Bhoolungi actress says diet plays a huge role in managing diabetes. She shares, “It’s important to eat right. There are so many healthy options available like millet, almond flour and cauliflower rice. All these food replacements are a blessing to a diabetic.”

Aishwarya recounts how when she was first diagnosed, she was busy working on a daily soap. She says, “I used to shoot in Naigaon for 15 to 16 hours a day. Luckily, my health condition did not get in the way of my career.”

Elaborating on the need for regular exercise, she says, “Physical activity is essential. It could be a long walk, simple exercises or working out in the gym, but regular movement plays an important role. Along with this, one should focus on their mental wellness and stay positive and happy, which can also help. I had a lot of misconceptions about diabetes when I was first diagnosed, but awareness helps a person cope with it and manage it well.”