Nature can play a significant role in preventing diabetes and managing its other risk factors, it can regulate the body's internal clock, or circadian rhythm which can keep diabetes at bay.

Here are several ways in which nature and natural elements can contribute to prevent diabetes.

 

1. Physical Activity:

• Outdoor activities: Nature provides ample opportunities for physical activity through activities such as walking, hiking, biking, jogging, swimming, gardening or even hugging a tree. Studies show that people who hug trees report feelings of calmness, happiness, and positivity. It has been reported that hugging trees has been shown to increase the levels of the hormone oxytocin, which is the hormone that plays a multifaceted role in human physiology and behavior, influencing various aspects of social bonding, reproduction, stress regulation, and emotional well-being.
• Fresh Air and Sunlight: Walking or Exercising outdoors exposes individuals to fresh air and natural sunlight, which can boost mood, energy levels, and overall well-being.

2. Healthy Eating:

• Access to Fresh Produce: Nature offers a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds that are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, promoting a healthy diet.
• Gardening: Growing your fruits and vegetables through gardening encourages the consumption of nutritious foods and promoting a connection with nature,  will help you in long run.

3. Stress Reduction:

Stress can indirectly contribute to the development of diabetes, particularly type 2 diabetes, through its impact on various physiological and behavioral factors.

• Nature Therapy: Spending time in natural environments, such as parks, forests, or gardens, can reduce stress levels, lower cortisol levels, and improve mental health. This can help eliminate the risk of developing diabetes, as chronic stress is a contributing factor. Position seating areas near windows or glass doors to enjoy natural views while indoors.
• Green Spaces: Research suggests that spending time in green spaces, such as parks or forests, is associated with improved sleep quality and better circadian rhythm regulation.
• Mindfulness Practices: Practicing mindfulness or meditation in natural settings enhances relaxation and stress management, which can positively impact blood sugar levels and overall health.

4. Sleep Quality:

• Natural Sleep Patterns: Exposure to natural light during the day and darkness at night helps regulate the body's circadian rhythm, promoting better sleep quality. Adequate sleep is essential for metabolic health and diabetes prevention.

5. Community Support:

• Outdoor Activities with Others: Participating in group exercises, yoga or nature-based group programs fosters social connections, support networks, and accountability, which can promote healthy lifestyle habits and diabetes prevention.

6. Environmental Sustainability:

• Promoting Environmental Health: Protecting natural environments, Saving the earth, and supporting sustainable practices contribute to overall community health and well-being which indirectly influences diabetes prevention by ensuring access to clean air, water, nutritious food, etc.

7. Mental Health:

• Therapeutic Benefits: Nature-based therapies, such as ecotherapy or wilderness therapy, have been shown to improve mental health outcomes, gradually reducing the symptoms of depression and anxiety, thereby promoting overall psychological well-being, which can indirectly contribute to diabetes prevention.

Hence, efforts to save nature and protect the environment can indirectly lead to better health outcomes, including the prevention and management of diabetes.  Incorporating nature into daily routines, whether through outdoor physical activities, spending time in green spaces, or cultivating a connection with the natural world, can complement traditional approaches to diabetes prevention and promote holistic well-being.