GETTING A GRIP ON DIABETES

Currently, at least 4.5-million adults in SA are diabetic, and by 2030 another million will follow. The good news is that with better education and healthy lifestyle changes, about 90% of diabetes could be prevented and treated.

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There’s no sugar-coating it: every five seconds, someone dies of diabetes. One in 10 adults has diabetes, but almost half of them don’t even know it. Diabetes is ‘spiraling out of control’, according to the International Diabetes Federation, which expects Africa to have the highest worldwide increase in cases by 2045. Currently, at least 4.5-million adults in SA are diabetic, and by 2030 another million will follow. The good news is that with better education and healthy lifestyle changes, about 90% of diabetes could be prevented and treated.

“Insulin resistance is becoming more common among black South Africans – contributing factors are lack of exercise and poor dietary choices”

WHAT IS DIABETES?
Diabetes means your body can’t properly control the sugar (glucose) levels in your blood, leaving them constantly too high. This happens when the pancreas (an organ behind your stomach) no longer produces insulin (the hormone that regulates blood sugar), or when your body can’t use the insulin effectively.

Symptoms include feeling thirsty, tired, losing weight unintentionally, blurred vision and having to pee frequently. People with diabetes are more likely to have a heart attack or stroke, lose their eyesight, have gum disease, kidney failure or nerve damage that may lead to the amputation of a toe or foot.
There are three main types of diabetes:

• Type 1 most often develops at a young age and requires daily insulin treatment for life.
• Type 2 accounts for 90% of all diabetes, and is known as the ‘silent killer’. It’s commonly found in adults and develops gradually, usually as a result of obesity.
• Gestational diabetes refers to high blood sugar during pregnancy, with high risks for both mother and baby.

HELP! WHAT TO DO?
KayaFM’s Pitso Molemane was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at age nine. To raise awareness, he writes in SowetanLive: “Having this disease was a taboo in my community. Today, I’m a survivor and activist helping others to live with the condition. I had eye and gum problems, and experienced harrowing health complications, including hospitalisation in ICU for seizures and a stroke.” He advises others to take their diabetes medication diligently and consistently (in his case: two insulin injections every day). He also eats a healthy diet with lots of veg and keeps active, with exercise and simple hacks like walking to the shops instead of driving.

“The disease, especially Type 2, is becoming more common among black South Africans,” says Pitso. “Some of the contributing factors are lack of exercise and poor dietary choices leading to insulin resistance – this means that the cells in your muscles, fat and liver no longer respond well to insulin and can’t easily take up glucose from your blood.”

CHECK YOURSELF
Diabetics have to self-monitor their blood sugar levels. Some use portable devices, such as continuous glucose monitors and insulin pumps. There are also digital apps linked to a sensor worn on the skin that doesn’t require pricking your finger to check your blood.

Over time and through experience, you’ll learn how the foods you eat affect your blood glucose levels, says non-profit Diabetes SA. Eating regular meals and making wise food choices will help to make your blood glucose levels more predictable and control your diabetes better. For Type 2 diabetes, the best weapon against developing it (or for treating it) is a healthy lifestyle – move your body, get enough sleep and watch your diet.

Reduce your intake of sugar, ultra-processed foods and refined carbohydrates (such as white bread, pasta and flour), and instead choose a high-fibre diet (wholegrain bread, fruit and veg). It’s not always easy to change your habits but it could save your life.
NEED HELP?
Diabetes SA Helpline
WhatsApp: 081 578 6636
Email: support@diabetessa.org.za for a reply during office hours
(For emergencies visit the nearest clinic or call an ambulance.)

Words by: Silke Colquhoun
Photographs and illustration: Gallo/Getty Images, Pexels