Sri Vijaya Puram, Nov 16: Andaman Law College, in collaboration with the Directorate of Health Services (DHS), conducted an elocution competition among the students on the theme “Diabetes & Well-Being” as part of the observance of “World Diabetes Day.” The event aimed to create awareness about the growing threat of diabetes and promote the importance of holistic well-being among youth.
The jury for the competition, Director of Physical Education and Holistic Fitness Coach Dr. Rajiv Mondal, spoke about the deeper meaning of well-being in the context of diabetes. He explained that good diabetes management is not limited to medication but requires a comprehensive and sustained holistic approach. This includes Physical well-being by adopting low-intensity workouts such as slow walking and mobility exercises, etc.
To ensure emotional well-being, practicing different types of deep breathing exercises, yoga, and mindfulness meditation will help, he explained. Further, taking balanced meals, reducing high carb intake, choosing whole grain foods, and avoiding all types of refined sugar and junk foods will help the people as an effective preventive measure Dr Rajiv said. Lifestyle modification means and includes maintaining a regular routine, staying hydrated, reducing screen time, and avoiding tobacco and alcohol, he adds.
Sleep hygiene is essential to support hormonal balance and glucose control. Improper sleep or late-night sleep disrupts the circadian rhythm, which adversely affects elevated morning cortisol levels and thereby increases the chances of insulin resistance leading to diabetes.
In his opening remarks, Dr. P.V.N. Sarma, Principal, Andaman Law College, emphasized that diabetes is a lifestyle issue and is increasing at an alarming rate among adults and even among youth as well. He stressed the need for integrating health awareness programs in educational institutions so that students will know preventive healthcare and can adopt active lifestyle habits from an early age.
The event was well coordinated by Ms. Nisha Sikdar, Assistant Professor in English. In the competition, Ms. Ashlee Chacko, Mr. Sameem Gulzar, and Ms. S. Sharmila secured the first, second, and third prizes. A good number of students enthusiastically participated in the competition, making this event a success.
