Diabetes is a global epidemic, effecting approximately 415 million adults and by 2040, this figure is expected to rise to 642 million. In Ireland, the total number of people living with diabetes is estimated to be 225,840.
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes, also known as diabetes mellitus, is a permanent condition caused by a lack of insulin. Insulin is a hormone made by your pancreas and is responsible for controlling blood glucose (sugar) levels. Tis occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or because the body’s cells do not respond properly to insulin (insulin resistance).
Type1: Also known as insulin dependent or early onset diabetes. It occurs when the body does not produce insulin, therefore the patient will need to take insulin injections. They must also carry out regular blood tests and follow a tailor made meal plan to ensure proper blood glucose levels.
Type2: More common than type 1, as approximately 90% of cases worldwide are type 2. It occurs due to insulin resistance or the body not producing enough insulin to function properly. Some people control their type2 diabetes through, healthy eating, exercise, losing weight and managing their blood sugar levels. However, it is a progressive disease so the patient may need insulin in the long run.
The purpose of World Diabetes Day is to create awareness and highlight the importance of screening. Screening is extremely important to adjust the course of the disease and reduce the risk of adverse complications. Screening for complications is an essential aspect of managing all types of diabetes.
“One in two people with diabetes remain undiagnosed making them more susceptible to the complications associated with the disease”
Remember – Early detection is key!
The International Diabetes Federation are urging people who may be at risk of type 2 diabetes, people living with diabetes, diabetes associations and health professionals to act now. Help identify people with undiagnosed type 2 diabetes, those at risk of developing it and ensure early diagnosis and treatment of complications.
Common symptoms to watch for include;
- Frequent urination
- Intense thirst and hunger
- Weight gain
- Unusual weight loss
- Fatigue
- Cuts and bruises that do not heal
- Numbness and tingling in hands and feet
To find out more about screening, check out the International Diabetes Federation Website
How can you prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes?
There is significant evidence that exercise, weight management and healthy eating can prevent or delay the onset of type2 diabetes.
We have made it real easy for you and put together a list of our top 8 food swaps to help you “Eat to Beat Diabetes” and reduce your overall intake of sugar.
We also have a range of healthy products suitable for diabetics, that make a great addition to meals and snacks, check out our Fresh Sprout Range, our Chilli Seed Mix, Salad Super Seeds and Omega Super Seeds. Or we have lots of healthy recipes which are also low in sugar- Green Machine Breakfast Juice, Chicken Wrap with Quinoa Sprouts, Carrot Meatball Salad, Avocado and Prawn Salad. All of our delicious recipes are available on our website.
Bye for now…
Sarah-Jayne.
