Diabetes: How do i know if i have it, and how can I prevent it?

Diabetes is a very common condition, affecting an estimated 8-10% of the South African population. It is a chronic condition, which if not controlled well, will lead to complications. There is a worldwide increase in the incidence of Diabetes due to the increase in obesity, mainly due to our poor eating habits and inactive lifestyles.

So you ask: 'Well, if it is so prevalent, how will I know if I have it?'

There are two types of Diabetes, namely Type1 and Type 2.

Type 1 occurs mainly in younger patients(under the age of 30), although it can occur at any age. Type 1 is due to a total lack of your own insulin and presents with the classic symptoms of excessive thirst, excessive urination and weight loss.

Type 2 Diabetes occurs typically in the slightly older patient, although it can occur in obese adolescents too. The great problem with this type is that it often goes unnoticed, even for up to 10 yrs, before you present with any symptoms! Type 2 patients have some degree of their own insulin, and so they don't present with the classic symptoms mentioned earlier, which only occur when their blood sugar levels are already at consistently very high values. Complications are often already present at the time of their diagnosis.

The risk factors for developing Diabetes Type 2 are obesity(or even just being overweight), a family history of Diabetes(especially your father, mother, brother or sister), having high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or previously raised blood sugar values.

So because 50% of Type 2 Diabetics are unaware of having the condition, it is advisable to have your blood sugar levels monitored regularly by your doctor, especially if you are in the above high risk group.

And how can I prevent it?

Preventing it lies solely in your hands, by making the necessary lifestyle changes. Weight loss induced by a healthier kilojoule-reduced diet and regular exercise can make a substantial difference in preventing Diabetes.

Your diet should include greater amounts of fruit and vegetables, and lesser amounts of starches, fats and fatty proteins. But don't let that put you off! Speak to a dietician or doctor to help you with a  suitable eating plan which suits you. And about 45 minutes of exercise, five times a week, is shown to be very effective. The best type being a program of mixed cardiovascular and resistance training. But make a start with brisk walking for half an hour every day if you are not quite the gym type.

Even if you already have Diabetes, remember that it is possible that you, together with your doctor, can control your condition very well, with little or no complications.