Dr. Alok Kalia speaking at the event
by Ritu Raju
HOUSTON: The Indian American Cancer Network (IACAN) presented a talk by eminent physician, author, and speaker Dr. Alok Kalia titled “The South Asian Diet, the Grandmother, and the Scientist- A Cautionary Tale.” The event, held on March 13th at India House, attracted a full auditorium; however, even the attendees standing in the rear of the hall would testify that it was worth it! Dr. Kalia is an engaging, entertaining speaker; he presented medical concepts and processes in jargon-free terms that are easy for everyone to understand. His analogies and metaphors, drawn from day-to-day life and combined with the use of easily understandable expressions and examples, made the talk accessible and informative.
Dr. Kalia presented an excellent overview of the reasons for and manifestations of increased heart disease and diabetes among the South Asian community. Ethnic South Asians run greater risk of developing heart disease and diabetes at a younger age with greater severity on account of certain factors in our genetic make-up; these include higher insulin resistance, a higher ratio of fat to BMI (body mass index), and a greater propensity to store fat around the abdomen. He explained that, contrary to popular belief, saturated fat is not the main culprit for these problems; rather, the overwhelming presence of starch (carbohydrates) in the Indian diet creates insulin resistance and “addictive hunger.”
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