How a 67-Year-Old Yoga Enthusiast Reduced His HbA1c from 7.3 to 5.7 and Cleared GTT
Mr. Chandrakant Gaikwad, 67, became medication-free, cleared GTT and achieved 108 Surya Namaskars with FFD.
- Name - Mr. Chandrakant Nivrutti Gaikwad
- Age -67 Years Young
- Profession - Rtd. Assistant Chemical Analyser, Forensic Science Laboratory
- Place - Pune , Maharashtra
Keytakeaways
- HbA1c: 7.3 to 5.7 at the time of GTT
- From 2 diabetes tablets a day to medication-free
- Successfully cleared GTT
- Weight: 56.4 kg to 55 kg
- Practises 108 Surya Namaskars regularly
Namaste.
At 67, staying active has always been important to me.
However, when I was diagnosed with diabetes, I wanted to understand how I could manage my health better and reduce my dependence on medication.
My search led me to Freedom From Diabetes.
With the right guidance and lifestyle changes, I was able to stop taking my diabetes medication under medical supervision and successfully clear my GTT.
Today, my routine includes yoga, 108 Surya Namaskars, walking and trekking. I feel energetic and confident about managing my health.
My Diabetes Story
I discovered that I had diabetes in 2018 when I visited a dentist to have some teeth removed.
Before the procedure, the dentist advised me to get my blood sugar checked. My reading was 398, and a subsequent HbA1c test showed a high reading.
I did not have any family history of diabetes. Around that time, I also experienced tiredness and some memory-related difficulties.
I started taking diabetes medication, one tablet in the morning and another in the evening.
Although I was taking the medicines, I wanted to understand how I could improve my health through lifestyle changes. I was also concerned about eventually needing insulin.
I did not want to depend only on medication. I wanted to take a more active role in managing my health.
How I Found Freedom From Diabetes
I first came across Freedom From Diabetes on Instagram.
My niece, who is my sister's daughter, also suggested that I watch its videos.
I started watching the videos on YouTube and liked the programme's approach.
I wanted to learn more about managing diabetes through changes in diet, exercise and other aspects of daily life.
That is what encouraged me to join FFD on 15 January.
Mr. Chandrakant Nivrutti Gaikwad
My Reversal Journey
When I joined FFD, my HbA1c was 7.3. I was taking two diabetes tablets every day.
Within six to seven days of joining, I started feeling dizzy. I checked my blood sugar and consulted my diabetes doctor.
On the doctor's advice, I stopped taking the morning tablet. I began feeling normal, and my blood sugar readings remained under control.
Over the next 15 days, my doctor advised me to stop the second tablet as well.
By the end of January, I had stopped taking both tablets under medical supervision.
Later, when I underwent the GTT, my HbA1c was 5.7, and I successfully cleared the test.
My weight also changed during this period. My target was 58.5 kg.
Within three months, I reached 56.4 kg, and eventually, my weight came down to 55 kg.
My doctor and dietitian then advised me to focus on building muscle and increase my food intake.
I followed their guidance, and my weight gradually increased to around 58 kg.
One of the biggest changes I noticed was in my energy levels. I no longer felt tired the way I used to. I felt fresh and energetic throughout the day.
Athletic Identity
I have always considered myself a yogi rather than an athlete. Yoga has been an important part of my life, and I enjoy staying physically active.
My current routine includes:
- Yoga: I practise yoga for about an hour every morning.
- Surya Namaskar: I regularly complete 108 Surya Namaskars without difficulty.
- Walking: I walk around 6,000–7,000 steps every day.
- Trekking: I go trekking once a week.
- Cycling: I cycle whenever I have free time.
- Gym: I have recently joined a gym and have started enjoying it.
I like keeping myself active and trying different forms of exercise. At this stage of life, I feel good about being able to maintain such a routine.
Inner Transformation
Along with physical health, I have also given attention to my mental well-being. I have attended FFD's online group sessions focused on mental health.
I also meditate for around 15–20 minutes every day. Meditation has become a part of my daily routine, just like yoga and exercise.
I believe that taking care of health involves more than just physical activity. It is important to pay attention to the mind as well.
Current Lifestyle & Reflection
My experience with Freedom From Diabetes has been very good.
Before joining the programme, I had heard that once a person starts taking diabetes tablets, the medication may keep increasing and they might eventually need insulin.
Even while taking medication, I was not fully satisfied with how I was managing my diabetes.
FFD helped me understand how to make better food choices and follow a consistent lifestyle.
I have also learnt what to do if my blood sugar rises on a particular day. Earlier, I would worry about such changes.
Now, I understand that I need to look at the bigger picture rather than become anxious about one day's reading.
Today, I feel more confident about managing my health. I continue to practise yoga, complete my Surya Namaskars and make time for walking and other activities.
I am also enjoying my new gym routine.
The biggest change for me has been the confidence to manage my health and continue doing the things I enjoy.
