The diabetes menace

Bad news … any fasting glucose level above 7mmol probably means diabetes

DIABETES or diabetes mellitus is a chronic disorder of glucose (sugar) metabolism caused by inadequate production or use of insulin, a hormone produced in specialised cells (beta cells in the islets of Langerhans) in the pancreas that allows the body to use and store glucose.

The lack of insulin results in an inability to metabolise glucose, and this results in elevated sugar levels in the urine and blood, increased urination, thirst, hunger, weakness and weight loss.

Pre-diabetes
“Pre-diabetes” is a condition in which blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not yet diabetic. People with pre-diabetes have impaired fasting glucose (6.1 to less than 7mmol/l). Diabetics have fasting blood glucose levels of more than 7mmol/L.

Recent research has shown that some long-term damage to the body, especially to the heart and circulatory system, may already be occurring during the pre-diabetes stage. Most individuals may not be aware that they are pre-diabetics; more often than not, such damage is not extensive enough for one to notice or experience.

How diabetes is linked to cardiovascular disease (CVD)
CVD is a major complication and the leading cause of premature death among people with diabetes – at least 65% of people with diabetes die from heart disease or stroke1. Adults with diabetes are two to four times more likely to have heart disease or suffer a stroke than people without diabetes.

Lifestyle changes in diabetes
· Wholesome healthy diet
The key to a healthy diet is to consume plenty of fresh fibre-rich fruits and vegetables daily. Try going for a variety of fruits and vegetables. The more colours on your plate, the better. Limit your rice intake and eat brown rice rather than white whenever possible. Choose wholegrain bread over white.

· Regular exercise
The recently completed Diabetes Prevention Programme study by ADA (American Diabetes Association) conclusively shows that pre-diabetics can prevent the development of type 2 diabetes by increasing their level of physical activity. They may even be able to return their blood glucose levels to the normal range.

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