Dr. Sunil Gupta explained that diabetes is common in adults over 65 years and often occurs alongside other health issues such as high blood pressure, cholesterol, heart, kidney, or eye problems. Managing diabetes in seniors typically follows a stepwise approach: diet and exercise first, followed by oral medications, and insulin if needed. Blood sugar fluctuations can be dangerous in elderly people, so regular monitoring is essential. If a meal is missed or appetite is low, blood sugar should be checked, and light food, fruits, or milk can be consumed by them.

Dr. Gupta emphasized that special care is required for those with comorbid conditions, and newer medications help control blood sugar without increasing the risk of hypoglycemia. Similarly, modern insulin formulations can lower the risk of nocturnal hypoglycemia by up to 30–40%. Foot care in elderly is critical, as poor circulation and nerve damage increase the risk of infections or amputations. Regular foot checks, proper footwear, and avoiding smoking or tobacco are essential.

He also noted that Type 1 diabetes, common in children aged 5–15, can occur at any age. Parents should attend training to manage insulin and handle emergencies at home. Regular check-ups and doctor consultations are crucial to prevent complications and maintain overall health in both seniors and children.

Expert- Dr Sunil Gupta  

Anchor- Mrs. Shraddha Bharadwaj    

Podcast: 28/06/2019   

Recorded at: Akashwani Nagpur    

Episode: 93

Dr. Sunil Gupta highlighted several key aspects of diabetes management, emphasizing the importance of balance, awareness, and regular monitoring. He explained that both glucose and fructose are simple carbohydrates, but glucose has a glycemic index of 100, while fructose is slightly lower. Eating sweets or sugary foods leads to a rapid spike in blood sugar, so it is better to avoid fruit juices and consume whole fruits instead, as their fiber helps reduce the glycemic load and glycemic index. People with controlled diabetes should choose low-sugar fruits such as apple, jamun (black plum), and papaya, while high-sugar fruits like mango, chikoo, pineapple should be taken in limited quantities—around 50 grams or two slices. Including protein and complex carbohydrates in meals helps slow sugar absorption and prevents nighttime low sugar (hypoglycemia).

Dr. Gupta further explained that swelling in the body can be due to kidney problems, heart failure, liver disease (such as Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease), or certain diabetes medications; in such cases, both salt and water intake should be limited. He stressed that about 70% of diabetic patients die from heart attacks or brain strokes, making regular heart check-ups is essential even if the ECG appears normal. Because diabetes weakens immunity, infections occur more easily, and wounds heal slowly; hence, maintaining blood sugar control is vital. To prevent hypoglycemia, one should eat something every three to four hours. Finally, he advised that diabetes screening should be done at least once a year—or earlier if symptoms like fatigue, weight loss, or frequent urination appear.

Expert- Dr Sunil Gupta  

Anchor- Mrs. Shraddha Bharadwaj    

Podcast: 24/05/2019   

Recorded at: Akashwani Nagpur    

Episode: 92

Diabetes care is not just restricted to a person but it is a social challenge, and therefore both families and society must be educated about it. Dr. Sunil Gupta explained the normal blood sugar range, the effects of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia, and how diabetes impacts digestion and metabolism.

He discussed diabetes in women, obesity, and the “fit-fat” concept, explaining that even people with normal weight can have internal fat called “visceral fat” that increases diabetes and heart attack risk. Dr. Gupta highlighted that lack of sleep, stress, and an undisciplined lifestyle are major contributors to the rise in diabetes.

He described discipline, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and an informed society as the key elements to achieving a “Diabetes Complication-Free India.” Dr. Gupta also mentioned that unexplained weight loss in diabetes could indicate thyroid disorders or other underlying conditions. He concluded with a simple yet powerful message: “Eat less, walk more, sleep well, stay stress-free, and help build an educated, healthy society.”

Expert- Dr Sunil Gupta  

Anchor- Mrs. Shraddha Bharadwaj    

Podcast: 25/01/2019   

Recorded at: Akashwani Nagpur    

Episode: 91

Dr. Sunil Gupta explained that during the summer season, people with diabetes are at higher risk of dehydration, low blood sugar, and infections, making it essential to stay well-hydrated with fluids like water and buttermilk.  

Discussing diet, Dr. Gupta recommended moderation in mango and fruit intake, emphasizing that fruit juices should be avoided because they can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar. He also addressed the importance of caution during fasting periods, such as Ramadan or religious fasts, when there is a risk of hypoglycemia (low sugar). In such cases, he stressed that medication adjustments must be made under medical supervision. 

For those traveling or unwell, Dr. Gupta suggested following travel and sick-day guidelines—carrying two sets of medicines, a glucometer, and glucose tablets, and never discontinuing medications during illness or vomiting. He warned that dehydration can worsen diabetes control.

Concluding his advice, Dr. Gupta reminded that diabetes cannot be completely cured, but with proper lifestyle management, it can be effectively controlled for a healthy, active life. 

Expert- Dr Sunil Gupta  

Anchor- Mrs. Shraddha Bharadwaj    

Podcast: 19/04/2019   

Recorded at: Akashwani Nagpur    

Episode: 90

Dr. Sunil Gupta explained that the prevalence of diabetes in pregnancy (gestational and pre-gestational) is high and may vary from 5% to 20% in different populations in India. He said that 90% of women may not have any symptoms of diabetes, but others may experience symptoms such as frequent vaginal infections, polyuria (increased urination), polyphagia (increased hunger), polydipsia (increased thirst), unexplained weight loss, and fatigue, etc. 

Dr. Gupta said that frequent nighttime urination may be one of the symptoms of diabetes. He clarified the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, especially the causes and presentation in children. Addressing common myths, he emphasized that regular use of prescribed medication does not cause serious side effects. Answering a question on increased urinary frequency, he explained that recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) and autonomic bladder neuropathy are often overlooked complications causing such symptoms. 

He highlighted that maintaining proper blood sugar control before and during pregnancy is essential to prevent complications for both the mother and the baby. Dr. Gupta also stressed the importance of timely testing, diet management, exercise, and insulin dose adjustment during pregnancy. Concluding his session, he advised that the entire family should take collective responsibility for supporting the expectant mother, calling it a shared “pregnancy project” to ensure a safe and healthy outcome for both mother and child. 

Expert- Dr Sunil Gupta

Anchor- Mrs. Shraddha Bharadwaj   

Podcast: 22/03/2019  

Recorded at: Akashwani Nagpur   

Episode: 89

On the occasion of Women’s Day, Dr. Sunil Gupta emphasized the importance of awareness about diabetes in women, especially gestational diabetes during pregnancy. He highlighted that in India, one out of every six women may develop high blood sugar during pregnancy, making glucose testing essential in every trimester. 

Dr. Gupta explained that uncontrolled blood sugar during pregnancy can lead to low sugar (hypoglycemia) episodes in newborns at the time of birth. He also emphasized that women with diabetes, if planning for pregnancy, should first achieve proper blood sugar control to ensure a healthy outcome for both mother and child. 

Dr. Kavita Gupta discussed the vital role of balanced nutrition and lifestyle in maintaining women’s health. She advised that women with diabetes should limit oily, fried foods and fast food, while including vegetables, salads, pulses, paneer, soy, and sprouts in their diet. During pregnancy, the intake of protein and calcium should be increased for proper growth and development. She also recommended drinking adequate water, coconut water (in moderation), and consuming seasonal (as per recommendation) whole fruits during summer to stay hydrated. Addressing the issue of anemia in women, she stressed the importance of iron-rich foods and green vegetables. Her message was clear — “Every woman should maintain balance in her diet, just as she maintains balance in her home and life.” 

Expert- Dr Sunil Gupta & Dr. Kavita Gupta 

Anchor- Mrs. Shraddha Bharadwaj  

Podcast: 08/03/2019 

Recorded at: Akashwani Nagpur  

Episode: 88

In this education program through Vividh Bharati (All India Radio), Dr. Sunil Gupta explained in detail that diabetes is a multifactorial disease that can affect multiple organs including the eyes, nerves, liver, kidneys, heart, and even sexual health. He highlighted that non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), sleep disturbances, frozen shoulder, and sexual dysfunction are among the common complications associated with diabetes. 

He elaborated that diabetes medications—such as Metformin, Glitazones, and SGLT2 inhibitors—work in different ways: some drugs like sulfonylureas increase insulin secretion, others improve insulin sensitivity, while some help eliminate excess sugar through urine. Dr. Gupta clarified that starting medication does not necessarily mean lifelong dependency; if blood sugar levels remain under good control, the dosage can be reduced under dose monitoring or, in some cases, the medication can be stopped under medical supervision. 

Concluding his address, he emphasized that “the true treatment of diabetes is not just controlling blood sugar but taking care of the whole body through a disciplined and healthy lifestyle.” 

Expert- Dr Sunil Gupta 

Anchor- Mrs. Shraddha Bharadwaj 

Podcast: 22/02/2019 

Recorded at: Akashwani Nagpur 

Episode: 87

Dr. Sunil Gupta explained that Type 2 Diabetes is a multifactorial disorder, influenced by several interconnected factors such as genetics, obesity, physical inactivity, unhealthy diet, and stress. He highlighted that even people who appear lean or fit can develop diabetes due to visceral fat—the hidden fat that accumulates around internal organs and disrupts metabolism.

Dr. Gupta elaborated that unexplained weight loss in diabetes often occurs when insulin deficiency causes glucose to be excreted through urine. However, he cautioned that persistent or sudden weight loss may sometimes signal other underlying conditions such as tuberculosis or cancer and should not be ignored.

He also discussed sarcopenia—the loss of muscle mass commonly seen in people with diabetes—and emphasized the importance of sufficient protein intake, muscle-building resistance exercise, regular physical activity, and a well-balanced diet in preserving muscle strength and metabolic health. Proper exercise, he noted, improves insulin sensitivity and overall blood sugar control. Concluding his address, Dr. Gupta warned that individuals whose blood sugar levels remain above 180 mg/dL (HbA1c > 7%) for long periods are at higher risk of weight loss and other severe complications. He urged everyone to adopt a proactive lifestyle with mindful eating, exercise, and regular medical check-ups for long-term diabetes management.

Expert- Dr Sunil Gupta

Anchor- Mrs.Kalyani Gokhale

Podcast: 3/10/2025

Recorded at: Akashwani Nagpur

Episode: 86

In the All India Radio (Vividh Bharati) program, Dr. Sunil Gupta emphasized that effective diabetes management extends beyond medication and relies equally on mental peace, emotional balance, and a positive outlook—what he calls “glycemic happiness.” Stress, anxiety, and depression, he explained, can disrupt blood sugar control and heighten the risk of complications, making emotional well-being a key component of diabetes care. He urged individuals to focus on early detection of prediabetes and to adopt timely lifestyle modifications to delay or even prevent the progression of the disease. Balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and consistent monitoring, he said, form the foundation of long-term diabetes control.

Dr. Gupta also highlighted the worrying trend of diabetes affecting younger age groups, often due to sedentary routines, poor dietary habits, and increasing stress levels. He advised maintaining a positive mindset, staying active, and adhering to regular medical check-ups and prescribed therapy. Awareness and education, he stressed, are vital to empowering individuals to take control of their health.

Concluding his message, Dr. Gupta warned that diabetes is a “sweet killer”—a silent condition that can cause serious harm if ignored but can be effectively prevented and managed through awareness, timely intervention, and adopting a disciplined, healthy lifestyle.

Expert- Dr Sunil Gupta

Anchor- Mrs. Manjusha Ambulkar

Podcast: 1/10/2025

Recorded at: Akashwani Nagpur

Episode: 85

Dr. Sunil Gupta began his address by extending warm greetings for Navratri and emphasized the importance of maintaining moderation and dietary discipline during festivals. He explained that “low blood sugar” (hypoglycemia) can be more dangerous in elderly individuals and that diabetes management goals should be personalized according to a person’s age and associated health conditions.

He elaborated on the concepts of “Thrifty Genotype” and “Thrifty Phenotype,” explaining that both our genetic makeup and poor nutrition during pregnancy contribute to the rising burden of diabetes. Addressing the younger generation, he advised adopting a healthy lifestyle, regular physical activity, and effective stress management to reduce the genetic risk. He stated “Genes are the loaded guns, It’s the environment which pulls the trigger.”

Responding to audience questions, Dr. Gupta provided simple and practical insights on topics such as hypoglycemia, liver and kidney health, and managing low blood sugar. He concluded by stating that awareness, regular check-ups, and a balanced lifestyle are the most effective keys to keeping diabetes under control.

Expert- Dr Sunil Gupta

Anchor- Mrs.Kalyani Gokhale

Podcast: 26/09/2025

Recorded at: Akashwani Nagpur

Episode: 84