Diabetes is a clinical condition that can be controlled with proper diet, exercise and anti-diabetic drugs. Millions of individuals over the world are fighting diabetes today. Among them, is the ace fast bowler Wasim Akram.
Wasim Akram, one of the finest fast bowlers did outstanding things with the cricket ball which left us amazed. His skill with the cricket ball also helped his team win the World cup. It would be an understatement to say that Wasim was a fine cricketer. He is a legend! But legends have their share of ups and downs as well. Wasim too had his share of lows and being diagnosed with diabetes at the peak of his cricketing career was surely one of them.
It was in 1997 that Akram was first diagnosed with diabetes. The news was devastating to be diagnosed with the dreaded disease at the age of 29. Many people thought, cricket was over for him. He proved his doubters wrong and there was no stopping the international icon. Like all other people with diabetes, Wasim too had to adapt to a different lifestyle.
Motivation and discipline is what keeps one going. This is apt for diabetics as well. Wasim had to beat diabetes to continue as a top fast-bowler at the international level. He had to change his dietary habits and stick to a comprehensive exercise schedule. He cut out high carbohydrate and high fat foods from his diet. Following a strict training regimen and checking sugar levels regularly helped him be on track.
Wasim continued playing cricket for ten years after being diagnosed with diabetes, which is no easy feat. Simple lifestyle changes, motivation and mental discipline are the pillars to effective diabetes management. Wasim Akram has stuck to these principles relentlessly, day in and out and has definitely bowled out diabetes!