Abstract: Remember the groundbreaking establishment of India’s first diabetes biobank in Chennai? Launched by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the Madras Diabetes Research Foundation (MDRF), this initiative aimed to revolutionize diabetes research in India. Now, the biobank is beginning to unveil critical insights. Recent studies utilizing its extensive collection of Bio samples have shed light on alarming dietary patterns contributing to the nation’s diabetes epidemic. Notably, a study published in Nature Medicine indicates that India’s increasing consumption of refined carbohydrates, such as white rice and added sugars, is significantly elevating the risk of type 2 diabetes and obesity. Replacing just 5% of these carbohydrates with protein sources like pulses, legumes, or dairy has been shown to reduce these risks.
These findings underscore the importance of the Chennai biobank in providing a comprehensive understanding of diabetes and its associated factors. By analyzing over 1.5 lakh biological samples from diverse regions and communities across India, researchers are gaining insights into the genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors influencing diabetes. This biobank is not just a repository of samples; it’s a beacon guiding us toward personalized treatments and preventive strategies tailored to the Indian context. As we continue to explore the data, the Chennai biobank stands as a testament to the power of collaborative research in addressing one of India’s most pressing health challenges.
Read the full article here: Is India thali driving diabetes, obesity crisis What an ideal Indian food plate should be, says ICMR INDIAB study – India Today
