Indian Diabetes Diet Plan in Pune - Case Study by Dietitian Ria Hawle

Written by Top Clinical Dietitian in Pune - Dt. Ria Hawle

As of writing this case study, we at Balanced Bowls, Pune are confident in saying Diabetes is one of the most common lifestyle disorders. This disease affects people of all ages including young adults, senior citizens and both male and female. 

It is important to note that, to manage diabetes properly, only following the medications is not a solution. Instead, it also needs a well balanced and customized diet plan under the supervision of any clinical dietitian or nutritionist. This is a case study report of Indian Diabetes diet plan of a patient at Balanced Bowls, Pune. 

The case was handled by our diabetes dietitian in Pune – Dt. Ria Hawle. In this case study, we’ll explore how a customized diabetes friendly diet plan helped one of her diabetic clients achieve remarkable blood sugar control, improved energy levels, and sustainable lifestyle changes. 

As a supporting proofs, we have attached various case papers screenshots, pathology lab reports of the patient with name anonymized. 

The intention of this case study is to let the audience know how a disease reversal customized diet plan works at Balanced Bowls, Pune. So, let’s get started with a introduction about our diabetes patient.

Diabetic Patient Profile

Below is the profile of our diabetic patient. Please note, the various body parameters such as BMI, weight were measured before starting the diabetes diet plan in Pune.

Patient Information

  • Name : Ravikumar T (Name changed for privacy reasons)
  • Age : 65 years
  • Hometown Place : Warje, Pune
  • City located : Pune
  • Community : Maharashtrian
    Anthropometric
  • Height : 165 cm
  • Weight : 48.6 kgs
  • IBW : 54.4 kgs
  • TBW : 51 kgs
  • BMI : 17.8 kg/m
  • Fluid Intake : 1.5 Litres per day
  • Known Allergies : None

The primary goals of this diabetic patient from our diabetes reversal Indian diet plan were to maintain optimal blood glucose levels. But in addition, he mentioned an urge to improve digestion, gut health, preserve muscles. 

Diet Goals of Diabetic Patient

If patient has to achieve optimal glucose levels, then the fasting glucose should be < 105 mg/dL and  Postprandial sugar should be < 160 mg/dL. Patient also wanted to digestion and gut health. 

Below are the notes taken by Dt. Ria Hawle.

  • Maintain blood glucose: FBG <105 mg/dL, PP <160 mg/dL.
  • Improve digestion and gut health.
  • Reverse symptoms (fatigue, cravings, low energy).
  • Prevent unintentional weight loss and preserve muscle mass.
  • Reduce risk of diabetic complications.
  • Stabilize blood pressure and avoid hypotension.
  • Enhance blood circulation and tissue oxygenation.

Medical history of the patient

Mr. Ravikumar has a long history of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. He was initially diagnosed with diabetes mellitus in year 1997–98. 

Later, he had to start with Insulin therapy to manage his diabetes since 2014–15. As a result of uncontrolled diabetes, he has developed multiple diabetes-related and systemic complications. 

This includes including coronary artery disease (CAD), peripheral neuropathy, hypothyroidism, and early diabetic retinopathy. 

The diabetic patient also faced issues such as hyperglycemia (TIA involving the MCA). He always felt as having low energy levels. 

Below are the notes taken by diabetes Dietitian Ria Hawle during her initial consultation with the patient at the start of his Indian diabetes diet plan.

Primary Diagnosis

  • Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) diagnosed in 1997–98
  • On insulin therapy since 2014–15

Cardiac history

  • Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) diagnosed in October 2017.

  • Coronary angiography (05.10.2017): Mid LAD: 80% stenosis, Mid RCA: 40% stenosis,  PTCA/S to LAD Done.

  • 2D Echo (02.10.2017):  Akinetic segment in mid and apical LAD area. Left ventricular ejection fraction (EF): 45%. Concentric left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), no PHTN.

Neurological events

Neurological episode related to hyperglycemia > Transient ischemic attack (TIA) involving MCA – 2020

Peripheral neuropathy

  • Biothesiometry report (18.04.2017) s/o Severe peripheral sensory neuropathy.
  • Vibration perception scores ranging from 20–50 µm. Average: 34.16 µm.
  • Toenail onychomycosis with Onychogryphosis diagnosed in July 2025. 
  • Nail filer advised due to thick nail beds.

Endocrine history

  • Hypothyroidism diagnosed in 2017.
  • On Thyronorm 25 mcg, increased to 37.5 mcg recently (02.07.2025)

Ophthalmic history

  • BE Cataract surgery in 2022.
  • Early diabetic retinopathy noted.
  • Fundus exam (20.05.2025): Background Retinopathy with no Diabetic Macular Edema (BE with no DME).
  • Red blood spots noted in both eyes

Weight and Muscle status

  • Documented weight loss:
    2014: 55–60 kg
    2020: 48.6 kg
    Muscle wasting observed from 2020 onward.
  • Complaints of fatigue, low appetite, poor stamina.

Lifestyle history

  • Alcohol use since 2015. Smoking since 2020.
  • Tobacco use long term stopped in 2020.
  • Chronic work-related stress identified as primary trigger for diabetes onset.

Family history

Mother with T2DM (Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus)

Medications & Supplement History of Patient

The patient was taking comprehensive medications to address his multiple chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypothyroidism, cardiovascular disease, and peripheral neuropathy. 

The medication treatment plan was prescribed with a goal to stabilize blood glucose levels, support thyroid function, improve insulin sensitivity, protect cardiac health, and enhance nerve function. Below are the details of medicines he was taking –

  1. Thyronorm 25 mcg (OD – once daily)
     → Synthetic thyroid hormone (T4)
     → Corrects hypothyroidism, improves metabolism and energy levels.
  2. Triglimisave 1 mg (Before Breakfast)
    Combination of SGLT2 inhibitor + DPP4 inhibitor
    → Increases urinary glucose excretion and enhances insulin secretion by preserving incretin hormones.
  3. Vysor M 50/500 mg (0-1-1)
    Vildagliptin + Metformin
    → Improves insulin sensitivity and reduces liver glucose production.
  4. Ecosprin 75 mg (After lunch – 0-1-0)
    Low-dose aspirin (antiplatelet)
    → Prevents clot formation and reduces risk of cardiovascular events.
  5. Atorvastatin + Clopitab (0-0-1 – After dinner)
    Statin + Antiplatelet
    → Lowers LDL cholesterol and prevents platelet aggregation (post-angioplasty protection). Note: Discontinued due to cutaneous hemorrhages (skin bleeding over hand) suspected as side effect.
  6. Nurokind Fast Strip (At bedtime)
    Methylcobalamin + B vitamins
    → Supports nerve health and helps manage diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Note: Discontinued due to elevated serum Vitamin B12 levels.

Complaints of Patient Before Starting Diabetes Diet Plan

Before starting the Indian diabetes diet plan by Diabetes Specialist Dietitian Ria Hawle in Pune, the client was facing multiple health concerns. These issues were affecting his overall well being and daily functioning. 

The problems were mainly related to gastrointestinal issues such as constipation, bloating, gas, irregular motions, and post-meal cravings, along. 

He also had energy-related issues like fatigue, low stamina, and afternoon hunger pangs. Below full list of issues were noted down by Dt. Ria Hawle at the start of diet plan.

  • Tingling in feet (neuropathy)
  • SOB on exertion
  • Constipation – 3 to 4 days
  • Sweet cravings post-lunch
  • Fatigue, low energy throughout day
  • Hunger pangs between 4 to 6 PM
  • Nocturia – 5 to 6 times/night
  • Right shoulder pain
  • Mild bloating
  • Gases – especially after raw radish / sprouts
  • Diarrhoea, irregular motions
  • Toenail fungal infection – post fall 10 yrs back

First Assessment by Dietitian Ria Hawle

Below is the preliminary assessment noted down by Dt. Ria Hawle at the start of the diet plan of patient.

  • Patient presents with multiple chronic symptoms which suggest that patient has developed diabetic complications and metabolic imbalance. 
  • Tingling in feet indicates peripheral neuropathy. Shortness of breath on exertion may reflect reduced cardiovascular or muscular endurance. 
  • GI symptoms including bloating, gas, constipation (3–4 days), and irregular motions suggest sluggish digestion and possible gut dysbiosis.
  • Sweet cravings post-lunch, afternoon hunger pangs (4–6 PM), and persistent fatigue reflect unstable glucose-insulin dynamics, possibly insulin-induced dips. 
  • Nocturia (5–6 times/night) is likely due to poor glycemic control and may be disrupting sleep and recovery. Right shoulder pain could be linked to frozen shoulder or diabetic musculoskeletal stiffness. 
  • Fungal toenail infection (post trauma, 10 years back) remains unresolved, potentially worsened by peripheral circulation issues.

Mental Health Assessment by Dt. Ria Hawle

Stress level: 2 / 5 (Less)

Behavioural Assessment by Dt. Ria Hawle

  • Prefers to eat alone or when no one is around
  • Has a strong preference for sweets
  • Unable to control cravings – behavioral root trigger
  • Tendency to hide eating patterns and overeat in solitude
  • Skip medicines [Ecosprin skipped before stroke]

Physical Activity Assessment by Dt. Ria Hawle

  • Current status: 10k steps Daily from 6 am to 7 am
  • The patient reports engaging in a daily brisk walk covering ~10,000 steps, typically scheduled between 6:00 AM  to 7:00 AM. 
  • This reflects a consistent routine with moderate-intensity aerobic activity, which is beneficial for cardiovascular health, glycemic control, and mood regulation. 
  • No current strength training or flexibility-focused activity reported.

Salt Intake Assessment by Dt. Ria Hawle

  • Patient reports food is prepared with less salt but tends to add extra salt at the table.
  • This happens especially during meals.
  • Estimated additional salt added: ½ – 1 tsp/day = ~2.5 – 5 g sodium/day
  • Estimated total salt intake may range between 7–9 g/day, which is above the WHO recommended limit of <5 g/day. 
  • Long-term excess intake may contribute to hypertension, fluid retention, and kidney stress, especially in diabetic cases

Oil Intake Assessment by Dt. Ria Hawle

  • Household uses 1 litre of cold-pressed groundnut/safflower oil every 2 months
  • Household size: 2 members
  • Per person usage = 500 ml in 2 months = 250 ml/month = ~8–9 ml/day

Dietary Assessment by Dt. Ria Hawle

Below points were noted by Dt. Ria Hawle –

  • The current dietary pattern is heavily carb-dominant and lacks adequate protein, fiber, and meal spacing.
  • This is likely contributing to his gastric issues (acidity, gas, constipation), blood sugar fluctuations (sweet cravings, afternoon slump), and disturbed sleep (nocturia, low energy on waking).
  • Irregular timing, poor breakfast composition, and a high-carb dinner without snacks in between are key metabolic disruptors.
  • These choices are not aligned with his gut sensitivity, energy regulation, or recovery needs.

As you can see in the above assessment process, we have ensured that we have understood the patient condition properly before we craft the right diet for him. So, its not guesswork, it’s science backed diet plans by clinical dietitians.

Diabetes Diet Chart Planning by Dietitian Ria Hawle

Below planning was done by Dt. Ria Hawle for crafting the customized Indian diabetes reversal diet plan in Pune for the diabetic patient. As you can see, Dietitian Ria has considered all vital nutrients in her diet planning which includes Calories, protein, good fats and fiber intake.

Parameter Target Range Clinical Reasoning
Calories 1800 kcal/day Slightly below estimated TDEE (~1850 kcal) to help control blood glucose while avoiding further unintentional weight loss.
Protein 65–70 g/day (1.3–1.5 g/kg) Higher protein to support nerve repair, preserve lean muscle mass, and reduce risk of sarcopenia in a geriatric patient.
Carbohydrates 200–210 g/day (~45–50%) Complex, low-GI carbohydrates spaced across meals and snacks to stabilize postprandial glucose and reduce hypoglycemia risk.
Fat 50–55 g/day (~25–30%) Emphasis on unsaturated fats from nuts, seeds, and cold-pressed oils; small amount of ghee for satiety and nutrient absorption—heart-protective choices given CAD history.
Fiber 30–35 g/day Combination of soluble and insoluble fiber to improve glycemic response, support gut motility (relieve constipation), and foster healthy microbiome.

Indian Diabetes Diet Plan - Session 1 - 09 July 2025 - 19 July 2025

The glucose chart dated 24 April 2025 shows severe hyperglycemia throughout the day (319–362 mg/dL), indicating poor glycemic control and insulin–carb mismatch. 

On 08th July 2025, the patient was initiated on a structured medical nutrition therapy comprising 1800–1900 kcal/day with a targeted carbohydrate intake of ~200 grams, aligned with the ongoing insulin regimen (11 units before breakfast, 8 units before dinner). 

The carbohydrate distribution was planned as follows: 60 g at breakfast, 15 g mid-morning, 60 g at lunch, 15 g in the evening, and 50 g at dinner. 

The diet emphasized low fat and high fiber content to support glycemic control, improve satiety, and prevent postprandial excursions, particularly addressing the insulin–carbohydrate mismatch noted in earlier glucose charting.

Vitals on 18th July 2025 checked by Patient with his Personal Doctor

  • Blood Pressure: 166/92 mmHg (post stair climbing) – elevated, consistent with Stage II Hypertension.

  • Pulse Rate: 100 bpm – may indicate autonomic dysfunction or medication-related effect.

  • Weight: 49.2 kg – showing improvement from 47.9 kg (09 July 2025) to 49.2 kg (18 July 2025).

  • BMI: ~18.9 kg/m² – within lower normal range.

  • Clinical Insight: The 1.3 kg weight gain suggests improved dietary intake and better glycemic control under the current nutrition plan.

Interim Change Made: We initiated follow ups every 10 days instead of 15 days. 

Indian Diabetes Diet Plan - Further Sessions

Multiple diet sessions were conducted later by Dt. Ria Hawle with the patient. Below are the timelines –

  • Diet Session 2 – 23rd July 2025
  • Diet Session 3 – 2nd Aug 2025
  • Diet Session 4 – 25th Aug 2025
  • Diet Session 4 – 10th Sep 2025

The Final Diet Session 6 - 26th September 2025

Observations

  • Glycemia: Stable 15 days; mild hypo 63–80 mg/dl; no hyperglycemia/Somogyi.
  • Symptoms: No neuropathy pain; good energy; normal bowel habits; weight stable with continued abdominal fat loss.
  • Medications: Insulin regimen unchanged (review due 3 Oct 2025); Duloxetine stopped.

Action Plan After Diet Session 6

  • Continue current diet & bedtime fiber-protein snack, regular SMBG.
  • Repeat HbA1c/FBG/PPG, ECG, 2-D Echo.
  • Reassess insulin dose at next visit.

Clinical Events Timeline

Date Event
30 Sep 2025 FBG – 121 mg/dL, Post-breakfast (PPBF) – 130 mg/dL, Pre-lunch (PREL) – 154 mg/dL, Post-lunch (PPL) – 152 mg/dL
02 Oct 2025 Routine check-up; ECG showed abnormal rhythms.
03 Oct 2025 Treadmill Test (TMT) – Positive for exercise-induced ischemia. Echocardiography: mild concentric LVH, limited posterior subendocardial injury, Grade I LV diastolic dysfunction; LVEF 60%.
06 Oct 2025 Coronary angiography revealed 95% stenosis; PTCA performed successfully.
08 Oct 2025 Discharged from hospital; post-PTCA recovery uneventful.
15 Oct 2025 Follow-up review for nutrition and metabolic stability.

Final Follow-up with Client on 1-11-2025

Observations

1 Hypoglycemic episode – 30th October, 2025 [BSL – 51 mg/dl] + 1 Hypoglycemic episode – 71 mg/dl.

Medication Changes

  • Medications same no change. 
  • Added post PTCA –  Novastat 20 mg 0-0-1 [for 2  months].
  • Rx Jarrow Formula’s Red Yeast Rice + Coq10 1200/100 mg [once a day post Fat meal – Lunch or Dinner]. Syp. 
  • Lactulose [1 tsp HS] for first 15 days > After 15 days natural castor oil therapy + ½ tsp ghee.

Improvements Seen

  • No constipation, good energy levels, no tingling feet at night, gases passed only twice – thrice, foul smelling [Trigger – mix sprouts + yogurt]
  • No anxiety issues.

Before & After Results of Indian Diabetes Diet Plan

Below are results of Indian diabetes diet plan designed by Diabetes specialist dietitian in Pune, India – Dt. Ria Hawle.

Biochemical Parameters Before & After Diet Plan
Biochemical Parameters Before (29 June 2025) After (01 October 2025)
HbA1c11.40%7.40%
FBG189–200 mg/dL110–145 mg/dL
PP250–270 mg/dL156 mg/dL
Triglycerides (TG)183 mg/dL89 mg/dL
HDL31.8 mg/dL45 mg/dL
LDL86.9 mg/dL70.3 mg/dL
Total Cholesterol / HDL Ratio (TC/HDL)4.122.96
Vitamin D30.8 ng/mL26.3 ng/mL
Vitamin B121472 pg/mL954 pg/mL
TSH6.99 µIU/mL7.94 µIU/mL
TT396.40 ng/dL102 ng/dL
TT47.16 ng/dL9.0 ng/dL
Ferritin91 ng/mL30.1 ng/mL
Iron Saturation25.35%15.53%
CBCHb 11.9, WBC 6.1, Platelets 217Hb 14.6, WBC 7.3, Platelets 241
Urine Routine (URM)Glucose +Clear
Diabetes Medicines Comparison Before & After Diet Plan
Medication Name Dosage Before Diet Dosage After Diet Time Period
Insulin (Huminsulin 30/70) 11 + 8 Units 10 + 6 Units Reduced within 15 days
Gliclazide MR 80 mg (1–0–0) 30 mg (1–0–0) 50 mg Dose reduced
Imezemic 500 mg (1–0–0) Stopped Stopped within 15 days
Duloxetine 20 mg (0–0–1) Stopped Stopped within 2 months
Thyronorm 37.5 µg 62.5 µg Increased
Empagliflozin + Sitagliptin 10/100 mg (0–1–0) Continued
Ecosprin 75 mg 0–1–0 Continued
Brillinta 90 mg Added after breakfast Newly added
Vitals Before [July 2025] After [Nov 2025]
BP 166/92 mmHg 110/52 mmHg
SPO₂ 100% 100%
Pulse Rate 86 bpm 83 bpm
LVEF 45% (post PTCA) 60% (post PTCA)

Conclusion - Indian Diabetes Diet Plan Case Study

This case study demonstrates how a personalized Indian diabetes diet plan crafted by specialist clinical dietitian in Pune can help reverse diabetes symptoms. 

The diet changes when combined with medical supervision and consistent monitoring will significantly improve both metabolic and overall health outcomes. As we have seen, within just a few months, the patient achieved a good glycemic control. 

His HbA1c levels dropped from 11.4% to 7.4%. The patient has seen very good improvements in lipid profile, energy levels, digestion, and sleep quality. The need for insulin therapy and oral hypoglycemic agents was reduced, and symptoms like neuropathy, bloating, constipation, acidity, and fatigue showed notable recovery.

Under the expert guidance of top clinical dietitian in Pune, Dt. Ria Hawle, the integration of medical nutrition therapy, lifestyle modification, and supplement optimization has not only stabilized diabetes but also enhanced the patient’s quality of life.

About Author

Dt. Ria Hawle - Best Clinical Dietitian in Pune

Dt. Ria Hawle – a best dietitian in Pune is the driving force behind Balanced Bowls, brings a wealth of expertise and compassion to her practice.

Low FODMAP Diet Specialization from Monash University Australia
Low FODMAP Diet Specialization from Monash University Australia

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