03/11/2025
November is Diabetes Awareness Month!
What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a condition where the body doesn't produce enough insulin or can't use it properly, leading to high blood sugar levels. There are many types but most predominant is Type 1 (affects children and adolescents) and Type 2 (mainly affecting adults).
In South Africa, it is estimated that 3.85 million South Africans suffer from diabetes, with many remaining undiagnosed.
What are the common symptoms?
Increased thirst: Feeling unusually thirsty is a common sign.
Frequent urination: You may find yourself needing to urinate more often, including at night.
Increased hunger: You may feel very hungry even if you have been eating regularly.
Extreme fatigue: Feeling unusually tired and lacking energy can be a symptom.
Blurred vision: High blood sugar can cause the lenses in your eyes to swell, leading to blurred vision.
Other symptoms
Unintentional weight loss: Losing weight without trying can occur, particularly in type 1 diabetes.
Slow-healing sores: Cuts and bruises may take longer to heal.
Frequent infections: This can include infections of the gums, skin, and urinary tract, or yeast infections.
Tingling or numbness: Some people experience a tingling, "pins and needles," or painful sensation in their hands or feet, a condition known as neuropathy.
Itchy skin: Dry, itchy skin is a common symptom, particularly around the groin or vaginal area.
Newly diagnosed or already a diabetic?
Heres some tips to control blood sugar levels:
Lifestyle and diet
Eat a healthy, balanced diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains while limiting saturated and trans fats, sodium, and added sugars.
Stay active: Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity on most days of the week. Include both aerobic exercise and strength training, and avoid prolonged sitting by taking short breaks to move every 30 minutes.
Maintain a healthy weight: Losing even 5-7% of your body weight can significantly improve blood sugar control.
Get enough sleep: Aim for 7 to 8 hours of quality sleep per night, as sleep deprivation can affect blood sugar management.
Quit smoking and limit alcohol: To***co use increases risks for diabetes complications, and alcohol can cause blood sugar to fluctuate.
Medical management
Monitor blood sugar: Regularly check your blood sugar to see how food, exercise, and medication affect your levels.
Take medications as directed: Follow your healthcare provider's instructions for taking any prescribed medications.
Attend regular checkups: Get yearly physicals and eye exams, as well as other recommended screenings, like kidney function tests.
Stay up to date on vaccinations: High blood sugar can weaken your immune system, so get your annual flu shot and other recommended vaccines.
Additional tips
Protect your feet: Wash and check your feet daily, and wear well-fitting shoes.
Practice good oral hygiene: Diabetes increases the risk of gum disease, so brush and floss regularly.
Manage stress: Find ways to manage stress, as it can impact your blood sugar.
