Expert reveal how rising global temperatures impact human metabolic health

The connection between a warming planet and metabolic health has become increasingly evident. Rising temperatures trigger significant changes in biological and behavioural patterns, making diabetes more prevalent and harder to control.

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Ravi Kesari, a specialist in internal medicine at Apollo Spectra Hospital, Bengaluru, stated that climate change fundamentally alters how the human body functions.

Heat and the body's fuel system

Dr Ravi Kesari explained that environmental heat disrupts the body’s natural sugar management. In cooler temperatures, specific fats burn calories to produce heat, which naturally increases insulin sensitivity.

However, sustained warmth prevents this process, making blood sugar regulation far more difficult. Furthermore, extreme heat often forces individuals to remain indoors, reducing physical mobility.

Challenges for daily management

For those living with diabetes, rising heat presents several immediate daily hurdles:

• Dehydration: Sweating leads to fluid loss, which increases the concentration of sugar in the bloodstream.
• Cooling issues: Nerve and blood vessel damage from diabetes can impair sweat glands, making it harder for the body to cool itself.
• Medication issues: Excessive heat can damage insulin and other medications, rendering them ineffective.

Proactive safety measures

To remain safe, Dr Ravi Kesari suggests the following precautions:

• Stay hydrated and monitor closely: Drink water constantly to help the kidneys remove excess sugar and check glucose levels frequently.
• Keep the body cool: Reschedule exercise for early morning or late evening and wear loose-fitting clothes.
• Protect medication and supplies: Use insulated cooling pouches for travel and never leave kits in hot vehicles.

Please Note: This information is for educational purposes only and does not count as professional advice.