They say that what we eat and how we live while we’re young can have major consequences as we grow older – this is especially true for diabetes. Some develop it early in life, while for others, it sneaks up later or only becomes noticeable when it’s harder to control.
Known as the “silent killer”, diabetes often has no symptoms in its early stages, but it can cause serious complications without warning. Instead of waiting for symptoms, regular screenings are key to catching it early and staying on top of your health.
There are ways to protect yourself and lower the risk: eat a balanced diet, stay active, quit smoking, maintain a healthy weight, limit alcohol, and get quality sleep.
Health For Mzansi shares life stories, advice and maintaining a healthy lifestyle to combat diabetes.
Diabetes doesn’t have to be a death sentence
Diabetes occurs when there are elevated levels of glucose in a person’s blood because the body cannot produce enough insulin or cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. However, there are medications available to help the body produce insulin. These treatments can be accessed by visiting a clinic, where people can receive both awareness and proper care.
John Fagan, general manager and head of human pharmaceuticals at Boehringer Ingelheim in South Africa says, “Yet, millions of South Africans live with diabetes every day. Their daily reality – how they feel and what happens to their blood sugar levels – depends on many factors, including what they eat, whether they are physically active, do they smoke. And as we hear from Ken, Karen, Pieter and Gert, a strong positive attitude can make all the difference.”
Dietitian gets to the bottom of diabetes
There is a misconception when it comes to people living with diabetes about what they can eat and how. These street theories often do more harm than good. That’s why it’s always recommended to consult with healthcare professionals to stay on the safe side.
Sometimes, these misconceptions can lead to people avoiding foods that are actually beneficial for them, out of fear that they’re not healthy for their condition. This can result in a lack of essential nutrients needed for the body.
Some misconceptions mentioned by a KZN-based dietitian, Amanda Josephson, include:
- A lot of people think that people with diabetes should not eat any carbohydrates. Carbohydrates can and should be included as part of a healthy, balanced diet for people with diabetes. A dietitian can suggest the right types of carbohydrates and suitable portion sizes.
- Diabetes is only caused by eating too much sugar. While it may be a contributing factor, the major causes of diabetes include genetics, a sedentary lifestyle, obesity, a high waist circumference, insulin resistance, and endocrine disorders. A dietitian can advise on a suitable diet to reduce risk factors such as obesity, high waist circumference, and insulin resistance.
Empower poor communities to tackle diabetes and live healthy
There’s still a common belief that carbohydrates should take up most of the plate compared to isishebo (side dishes) like meat and vegetables. But we’re learning that protein should actually be the main portion on your plate, followed by vegetables, with just a small amount of carbs.
This balance applies when cooking umngqusho too – keeping the beans equal to the samp helps ensure a good nutrient balance. In some communities, a lack of education on healthy eating continues to put both the young and the elderly at risk of developing diabetes.
Podcast: How to navigate nutrition for kids with diabetes
Whatever we expose our kids to has consequences, including the lifestyle we introduce them to. Living with diabetes is challenging for adults, so imagine how difficult it can be for a child. Between playing and exploring, they’d face restrictions – what a nightmare! But with some knowledge, these situations can often be prevented.
Teaching kids early on that certain foods, even if they’re cheap and tasty, can be harmful is key. Encouraging them to stay active and participate in sports at school and in the community creates a win-win, helping protect them from this silent killer.
Wellington Mokoeana, a dietitian from Polokwane says when diagnosing a child with diabetes, there are multiple symptoms to look out for, namely:
- An increase in water consumption as a result of an intense thirst.
- Frequent urination.
- Due to nutrients not reaching the body cells, most children will experience weight loss.
Mokoena emphasises that a balanced diet is essential when it comes to diabetic children’s health.
Mahlatse shares what it’s like to live with type 1 diabetes
At just 13, Mahlatse Madubanya had to face the realities of life much sooner than expected. Diabetes didn’t wait for her to grow older; it arrived early and became part of her daily life, showing just how serious this condition can be.
With a caring heart, she quickly began raising awareness, hoping to prevent other children from experiencing what she went through. Over the years, support groups have been essential, helping her accept her condition and understand what it means for her health.
When journalist Candice Khumalo asked her what encouraged her to start a support group to assist young people with diabetes, she said:
“The lack of knowledge I noticed people had about sugar diabetes and the challenges I encountered motivated me to start the support group. In the group, we share all of the problems we come across and how we overcome them. We would meet up, do activities, give each other advice, help each other with the struggles of being a young person with diabetes, and give tips on how we handle certain challenges, especially for those who cannot afford professional advice like from dieticians, etc.”
Get the Health For Mzansi newsletter: Your bi-weekly dose of kasi health, wellness and self-care inspiration.
