The sweet ‘truth’ of Gujarat – Gujarati diet & lifestyle and diabetogenesis

Abstract Gujarat is a state in Western part of India. It is well known for its cuisine which is predominantly lacto-vegetarian and has characteristic ‘sweet tinge’ in all the food items. The occupation and lifestyle of Gujarati people is mainly sedentary and participation in sports and other physical activities is limited. In this article we have explored the components and characteristics of Gujarati diet and lifestyle in relation to the risk of diabetes. Though prima facie the Gujarati diet and lifestyle may seem more diabetogenic compared to the cuisine of other states of India, there is very little objective evidence to suggest the same. Infact, the prevalence of diabetes in the state of Gujarat is lower compared to other states with equivalent GDP. In this is article we have also tried to find possible explanations of this paradoxical observation.