Author: Diabetes Focus eMag

Visceral fat tissue

Visceral fat tissue and cardiovascular risk

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Dr Louise Johnson unpacks the different types of fat and details why visceral fat tissue increases cardiovascular risk.

Metabolic and cardiovascular diseases are increasing worldwide due to the rise in the obesity epidemic. The metabolic consequences of obesity vary by the distribution of the adipose (fat) tissue.

Obesity is defined by an excess of body fat. The most common measurements are waist circumference and BMI (body mass Index). This is calculated by weight per meter squared.

It’s important to realise that not all fats are bad. There are two types of fat:

  • Brown fat is metabolically neutral. The distribution of brown fat is usually the gluteal-femoral fat (the buttock and thigh).
  • White fat is metabolic-active, producing hormones. The distribution of this fat is intra-abdominal (tummy fat) and ectopic fat (found around the heart, kidney, liver and vascular structures).

In 1947, a French physician first described the phenomenon that obese patients with diabetes or signs of cardiovascular disease had a central distribution of body fat. These findings were viewed with scepticism, and it took more than 35 years before this observation was supported.

Measurement of obesity

There are several methods to evaluate obesity.

  1. WHR (waist hip ratio)

This measurement looks at the proportion of the stored fat around the waist and hip. It’s calculated by dividing your waist measurement by your hip measurement since the hips are the widest part of the buttocks. (W/H)

Normal value for women should be below 0.85 or less. A value of more than 0.9 or higher is a high risk for cardiovascular disease.

Normal value for a male should be 0.95 or below. A value of 1.0 and higher is at high risk for cardiovascular disease.

  1. Waist circumference

The measurement of a waist is the middle area between the lower rib and the upper crest of the hip. Normal waist circumference should be below 80cm for a female and 94cm for a male.

  1. BMI (body mass index)

This is the calculation of the length of a person times two. The weight is divided by this value (w/hx2). Normal BMI is 18-24.

  1. MRI imaging

A very effective manner to evaluate abdominal fat is via an MRI scan since all the ectopic fat areas can also be viewed. Unfortunately, this is very expensive.

Metabolic syndrome

The presence of abnormal measurements as described above is usually also associated with abnormal blood values. This is called the metabolic syndrome. It was also previously called syndrome X or insulin resistant syndrome. It constitutes the following abnormalities:

  • Abdominal obesity;
  • Increased triglycerides on a lipogram;
  • Low HDL (good cholesterol);
  • Small dense LDL increased (bad cholesterol);
  • Insulin resistance;
  • Glucose intolerance if not a diabetic yet;
  • Endothelial dysfunction (abnormal blood vessel lining);
  • Increased risk for thrombosis.

In recent large studies, such as the Framingham Heart Study and the Jackson Heart Study, convincing evidence was gathered using the above measurements to prove the association between visceral fat (fat stored deep inside the belly, wrapped around the organs, including the liver and intestines) and cardiovascular disease. This association is independent of the patient’s metabolic control.

Why is visceral fat unhealthy?

Visceral fat has more glucocorticoid (cortisone) receptors. This causes preferential fat deposits to the tummy area as well as ectopic areas. This also induces insulin resistance in the liver and skeletal muscles.

Ectopic fat deposition

An abnormal fat in the liver, around the heart, kidney, pancreas and blood vessels are called ectopic fat and is associated with visceral fat and the metabolic syndrome.

A recent study, by Britton and Fox, showed that ectopic fat can be divided in two groups:

Predominantly systemic effects of fat

  • Visceral fat
  • Liver fat
  • Skeletal muscle fat deposits

Preferential local effects of fat

  • Around blood vessels
  • Heart
  • Kidney
  • Intrathorax

The liver

Abnormal fat in the liver is called non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This is increased in uncontrolled Type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol.

NAFLD can precede diabetes and cardiovascular disease. It can be diagnosed by an ultrasound that shows the fat content. It’s also increased in obesity.

The heart

Excessive fat in visceral obesity is deposited around the heart and in the heart muscle. This can cause heart problems, such as diastolic dysfunction (difficulty in filling the heart with blood) and heart failure.

What can be done about visceral or tummy fat?

  • Adjust your diet by restricting calories.
  • Exercise regularly, such as walking, cycling or swimming.

Nobody likes to talk about fat. It’s important to remember that not all fats are the same. Do the measurements discussed and a blood test fasting to check for triglycerides. This is the first step in not only preventing cardiovascular disease but also stroke and cognitive impairment in later years.

Get a good healthcare team on your side and start working.

Dr Louise Johnson

MEET THE EXPERT

Dr Louise Johnson is a specialist physician passionate about diabetes and endocrinology. She enjoys helping people with diabetes live a full life with optimal quality. She is based in Pretoria in private practice.

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pharmacy

How to get the best out of pharmacy care

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Medipost Pharmacy share an easy guide to using medicine safely and how to get the best out of pharmacy care.

Medication is a lifeline for South Africans living with chronic conditions and provides relief from illness and pain, but only when it is used safely and appropriately. Pharmacists are there to guide and advise you on all matters related to your medicine and your health. Make the most of their expertise with these simple tips.

“Medication can do more harm than good if it isn’t used correctly, and so it’s really important that everyone understands the basics of responsible medicine use, and pharmacy teams are ideally positioned to support patients,” says pharmacist Joy Steenkamp of Medipost Pharmacy, South Africa’s first national courier pharmacy.

 What you need to tell your pharmacist

  1. All your allergies
  2. Your existing health conditions
  3. All the medicines you are using, including prescription, over-the-counter and traditional medicines
  4. Report any bad reactions to medication
  5. If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant

 What you should ask your pharmacist

  1. What is the medication prescribed for?
  2. How much and when to take your medicine?
  3. Are there side effects to be aware of?
  4. Is there anything you need to avoid while taking the medication?
  5. Advice for managing symptoms of common or short-term ailments

Five things you should know

  1. Keep medicines safely out of harm’s way in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
  2. If antibiotics are prescribed, complete the course.
  3. Always check expiry dates and package inserts.
  4. Often, child and adult doses vary; be sure not to exceed the recommended dose.
  5. If anything to do with medicine is unclear, check with your pharmacist.

Five golden rules of pharmacy

  1. Never share your prescribed medication with someone else.
  2. Do not stockpile medicines.
  3. Medication abuse is dangerous, talk to your pharmacist if you are using more than you should.
  4. Don’t throw away or flush medicines; hand in expired or unneeded medications to Medipost’s courier drivers or at any healthcare facility with a pharmacy.
  5. You can tell a pharmacist anything without feeling embarrassed. As the most accessible healthcare professionals, they can offer guidance and advice when you need to see a doctor.

“Make sure you understand everything your doctor or pharmacist tells you about how to take your medication, and feel free to ask as many questions as you need to; it’s your health at stake. It can be very helpful to speak to a pharmacy professional in your home language to ensure you get the most out of these interactions,” Steenkamp says.

Apart from the convenience and safety of the free delivery of chronic medications, including treatment for high cholesterol, diabetes, and many other conditions, to any address in South Africa, Medipost Pharmacy also offers all registered patients access to telephonic clinical pharmacy advice in all official South African languages. Self-care medication is also available via the online shop.

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myths

Debunking five common myths about diabetes

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We learn about five common myths about diabetes and how they are debunked.

With millions affected worldwide, diabetes remains one of the leading health concerns of our era. However, alongside genuine information, a great deal of misconceptions surrounds this condition.

Over the past decade, South Africa has seen diabetes cases double, reaching 4.2 million, which equates to one in nine adults. Shockingly, 45% remain undiagnosed. As per the International Diabetes Federation’s latest data, it’s now the leading cause of death among South African women and the second highest for both genders.

Understanding diabetes

Diabetes is a complex condition arising from multiple causes. At its core, it’s characterised by the body’s inability to produce or effectively use insulin, a hormone essential for regulating blood sugar.

Type 1 diabetes, often diagnosed in childhood, is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-producing cells. Its exact cause is unclear but is believed to involve genetic, environmental, and possibly viral factors.

Type 2 diabetes is more common in adults and is caused by insulin resistance and insufficient insulin production. It’s linked to genetics, obesity, poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, and age.

Gestational diabetes affects pregnant women and may increase the risk of Type 2 later in life.

Signs and symptoms

The warning signs of diabetes can be so mild that they go unnoticed. Some common symptoms include:

Increased thirst and urination: High blood glucose levels cause the kidneys to work harder to filter and absorb excess sugar, leading to frequent urination. This can result in dehydration and a consequent increase in thirst.

Unexplained weight loss: Despite eating more, rapid weight loss can occur as the body uses muscle and fat for energy because it can’t use sugar effectively.

Hunger: Fluctuating blood glucose can increase appetite, even after meals.

Fatigue: Insufficient glucose in the cells can cause tiredness and lack of energy.

Blurred vision: High blood glucose levels can lead to fluid being pulled from the eyes’ lenses, affecting the ability to focus.

Slow healing: Sores, cuts, and bruises may take longer.

Tingling or numbness: High blood glucose can cause diabetic neuropathy, leading to tingling or numbness in the extremities, especially feet and hands.

Darkened skin patches: Areas of darkened skin, called acanthosis nigricans, can appear, particularly in the neck and armpits.

Debunking the myths

         Myth: Overeating sugar causes diabetes.

Reality: The causes of diabetes are multi-factorial. While consuming too much sugar, especially in drinks that contain added sucrose and fructose, such as sodas, is linked to an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes, eating moderate amounts of sugar in isolation does not trigger diabetes.

Myth: Only overweight individuals get diabetes.

Reality: While obesity is a significant risk factor for Type 2 diabetes, accounting for 80 – 85% of the risk, many overweight people never develop the condition. Conversely, a fair number of those with average weight can become diabetic. Factors like family history, age, and ethnicity also influence risk.

Myth: People with diabetes should avoid all carbohydrates.

Reality: Carbohydrates are essential to a healthy diet, even for those with diabetes. The key is to opt for complex carbohydrates like whole grains, vegetables, and fruits, which have a lower glycemic index and are processed more slowly by the body.

Myth: Diabetes is not a severe disease.

Reality: If not managed well, diabetes can lead to chronic health complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, and vision problems. Effective control of blood glucose levels and regular check-ups are paramount to prevent complications.

Myth: Once you start insulin, your condition has worsened.

Reality: Insulin is a standard treatment for people with Type 1 diabetes and can be prescribed for Type 2 diabetes if other methods don’t control blood glucose adequately. It’s a crucial step in the treatment process, not an indication of disease progression.

*This article is attributed to Affinity Health. 

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Medical insurance

Medical aid vs medical insurance

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There is misunderstanding when it comes to medical aid versus medical insurance, and where hospital plans fit in. Reo Botes explains the differences to clear up any confusion.

The reality is that medical aid, medical insurance, and hospital plans are not the same, and you can’t actually compare them, as they offer completely different benefits and serve different purposes. In fact, many people choose to have both, to cover all eventualities. It all comes down to affordability and personal needs, but understanding what each offer, and talking to a financial advisor or broker, can help you to make an informed decision.

Demystifying the difference

Part of the confusion that comes in around the various healthcare products is the naming of them. Medical aids are also known as medical schemes, and medical insurance is also called health insurance. In addition, and to add to the complexity, there are hospital plans, which can fall under medical schemes or medical insurance products, but the benefits they offer will also differ slightly.

The most basic difference comes down to the way they are regulated. Medical schemes fall under the Council for Medical Schemes, while medical or health insurance is offered by insurance companies and is regulated by the Financial Services Conduct Authority. But what does this mean for you?

The Council for Medical Schemes regulates the pricing of medical schemes and mandates that all medical schemes must provide cover for a list of 271 Prescribed Minimum Benefits (PMB), which must be factored into the cost of premiums.

Health insurance has different regulatory requirements, but they do not have to cover PMB, some do cover chronic diseases, which in turn means they are able to offer significantly reduced premiums and have more leeway in choosing the way certain chronic conditions are covered.

Health insurance is typically aimed at day-to-day medical expenses such as visits to GPs, dentistry and optometry. Hospital plans offer cover for in-hospital procedures, but under a medical scheme will still offer cover for PMB. However, under medical insurance, this is not the case, some do offer very specific cover for chronic diseases and the management thereof. Medical schemes will not have an overall limit for hospital procedures and will cover elective procedures, while medical insurance will have set limits on the amount of hospital cover and typically will not cover elective procedures.

Cost versus benefits

The most significant difference at face value is the price. While medical aids run into thousands a month, medical insurance is significantly less expensive, which makes it an attractive option. However, it’s vital to weigh up the pros and cons and the differences in coverage before making any decisions that could potentially be life-altering.

Health insurance and medical aid serve different needs, often to different markets. Health insurance is a more affordable option and gives more people access to quality private healthcare, but there are limitations. Medical insurers will work with networks of preferred suppliers, especially for dentistry and optometry, and will not cover hospitalisation unless a hospital plan add-on is selected. This hospital cover will not be the same as a hospital plan offered by a medical aid scheme.

Access to the best private healthcare you can afford

It all comes down to affordability and personal needs. Some people choose to have a basic hospital plan through medical aid and top it up with health insurance to cover day-to-day medical expenses in a more cost-effective way than having comprehensive medical aid, but for others, this is still not an option.

The reality is that there are no perfect solutions, and you need to align with your own unique needs, personal health challenges and goals, especially when it comes to affordability.

Reviewing the various products that are on the market can be a confusing exercise so it’s always a good idea to chat with a financial advisor or a broker to help you get the best fit for your budget and circumstances.

Reo Botes is the managing executive at Essential Employee Benefits.

MEET THE EXPERT

Reo Botes is the managing executive at Essential Employee Benefits.
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Harvesting seaweed to treat diabetes and obesity

Harvesting seaweed to treat diabetes and obesity

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S’thandiwe Magwaza received her Master’s in Biochemistry cum laude for her research on the use of seaweed to treat diabetes and obesity.

S’thandiwe Magwaza’s dissertation titled: Studies on the antioxidative, anti-diabetic and anti-obesogenic potentials of some marine macroalgae or seaweeds collected from the Southern and Western coastlines of South Africa, was supervised by Professor Shahidul Islam (University of KwaZulu-Natal).

She explained that obesity and Type 2 diabetes (T2D) have become significant global health concerns in recent years. “These conditions are associated with a range of serious health complications, including heart disease, stroke, kidney disease and certain types of cancer,” she said. “Understanding their causes, risk factors and management is crucial to improve public health and reduce the burden of chronic diseases.”

The prevalence of obesity and T2D has continued to rise in recent decades and is expected to triple in the next 30 years. They are not only a health problem, but they also impose an economic burden. These conditions are often linked as obesity is a major risk factor for the development of T2D. The pharmacological treatments have side effects and are expensive.

“There is great demand for natural anti-obesity and anti-T2D remedies owing to the fact that they cost less and have fewer to no side effects,’ said S’thandiwe. “A number of seaweeds go to waste although many medicinal plant extracts and their isolated compounds have been scientifically proven to possess anti-obesity and anti-T2D properties.”

23 types of seaweed collected

Her research evaluated the anti-obesity, anti-diabetic and antioxidant potentials of 23 types of seaweed collected on South Africa’s southern and western coastlines. They were evaluated using in vitro and ex vivo experimental models.

Seaweeds have been used to treat various ailments in East Asian countries for centuries. Yet the health benefits of seaweeds from South African coastlines are not well-explored. Seaweeds are rich in bioactive compounds including polysaccharides, polyphenols and peptides, which have demonstrated potential health benefits. Investigating these natural sources for their anti-obesity and anti-diabetic properties can lead to the development of safer and more sustainable therapeutic options.

Thankful for support

S’thandiwe has registered for a PhD and is currently continuing her research under Islam’s supervision. She thanked him for his academic guidance and paid tribute to colleagues at the Biomedical Research Laboratory for their contributions and assistance. She also acknowledged the National Research Foundation for financial support throughout her postgraduate studies.

S’thandiwe thanked her mother, Ntombenhle Ngcobo Magwaza, for her love, support, encouragement and prayers and for the sacrifices she made to ensure she had the opportunities she needed. She paid tribute to her late grandfather who ignited her love for education, noting that it was the one thing no one could ever take from her.

“I always use my breaks to spend time with my family as they are important for my mental and emotional well-being,” said S’thandiwe. “The memories we create together and the emotional connection I have with them serve as a source of comfort during challenging times.”

Sthandiwe Magwaza

MEET THE EXPERT

S’thandiwe Magwaza received her Master’s in Biochemistry cum laude for her research on the use of seaweed to treat diabetes and obesity.

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Huletts Xylitol Cheesecake

Huletts Xylitol Cheesecake

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This delicious Huletts Xylitol Cheesecake is the perfect dessert choice for family gatherings over the festive season. It’s covered with fresh strawberries and blueberries and has a creamy blueberry filling. The added bonus is that the recipe is approved by the GI Foundation of SA and Diabetes SA.

Serving: 16 (1 x 23cm cheesecake)

INGREDIENTS

Crust

  • 200g sugar-free digestive biscuits (1 packet)
  • 60ml (1/4 cup) soft tubs margarine, light, melted

Filling

  • 750g (3 tubs) smooth low-fat cottage cheese
  • 250ml (1 cup) blueberries
  • 45ml (3 Tbsp.) corn flour
  • 15ml (1 Tbsp.) vanilla essence
  • 60ml (1/4 cup) Huletts EquiSweet Xylitol

Topping

  • 15ml (1 Tbsp.) Huletts EquiSweet Xylitol
  • 125ml (1/2 cup or tub) low-fat cottage cheese
  • ½ cup fresh strawberries
  • ½ cup fresh blueberries

METHOD

Crust

  1. Preheat the oven to 160⁰. Grease a 23cm springform tin.
  2. Place the biscuits in a food processor and blend to make crumbs. Mix with the melted margarine.
  3. Press the crumb mix into the base of the tin and place in the refrigerator for 20 minutes.

Filling

  1. Place the low-fat cottage cheese, blueberries, corn flour, vanilla essence and Huletts EquiSweet Xylitol into a food processor and blend together until well combined.
  2. Pour over the base of the chilled crust and bake for 45 minutes or until set.
  3. Remove from the oven and leave to cool completely before placing in the refrigerator for two hours. Gently loosen the tin and remove the cake.

Topping

    1. Carefully stir the Huletts EquiSweet Xylitol into the low-fat cottage cheese and gently spread over the top of the cheesecake.
    2. Decorate the cheesecake with the berries before serving.

NUTRITIONAL INFO (per serving)

Nutrients per serving: One serving or 1/16th of the cheesecake is equivalent to: 1/2 portion starch + ½ portion fruit + 1 portion low-fat dairy/protein.

Energy Protein Carbohydrates Fat Fibre
Per serving   598 kJ  6.9 g 14.2 g 6.2 g 30.7 g
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The perfect low-kilojoule squash for your lifestyle this summer

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Today we share the story of why Low-Cal is the perfect beverage for you and your lifestyle. Read below and find out what makes this beverage the best healthier alternative for you. 

Taste Life with Brookes Low-Cal Squashes.

Since the late 18th century, Charles Brookes started delighting South African’s and quenching our thirsts with a range of fruity squashes, including the iconic and South Africa’s most loved squash brand Oros.

Later on, in Brookes’ illustrious history, they identified the need for a beverage that caters to those seeking a healthier alternative without compromising on flavour, enter Brookes Low-Cal.

Brookes Low-Cal

Brookes Low-Cal is not just another drink; it’s a commitment to your well-being. With low kilojoules and minimal sugar content (ranging from 0.0 – 0.7g per 100ml, compared to the average 4g per 100ml), this fruity squash is the go-to choice for anyone conscious of their diet, especially those living with diabetes. And here’s the icing on the cake, it proudly carries the endorsements of both Diabetes South Africa and The Heart and Stroke Foundation, assuring you that it’s not just delicious, but also a healthy choice.

Each 1L bottle of Brookes Low-Cal dilutes into four litres of delightfully fruity refreshment. With a variety of flavours: Orange, Grapefruit, Mango & Orange, Lemon & Lime, and Passion Fruit. Brookes ensures that you’re never short of a diabetes-friendly option to tantalise your taste buds and quench your thirst.

But Brookes Low-Cal is not just about a satisfying sip. It’s about bringing families with a focus on a healthier lifestyle together, promoting health-conscious choices, and making every moment special. It’s a drink that fits seamlessly into a diabetic or low-calorie diet while offering the goodness of a deliciously guilt-free beverage.

Brookes Low-Cal Skinny Lemon Lime Mocktail

Why not make extraordinary family moments with Brookes Low-Cal Skinny Lemon Lime Mocktail? 

Brookes Low-Cal is available at all leading supermarkets.

Follow us on IG for more exciting recipes and updates: @lowcal_sa

Brookes Low-Cal Skinny Lemon Lime Mocktail

Brookes Low-Cal Skinny Lemon Lime Mocktail

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How do you make your ordinary family moments into extraordinary moments? With a Brookes Low-Cal Skinny Lemon Lime Mocktail, of course. Imagine the burst of lemon flavour combined with the refreshing zing of lime and the coolness of mint, all without the worry of excess calories or sugar.

INGREDIENTS (per serving)

  • 2 shots of Brookes Low-Cal Lemon Lime
  • 3 fresh lime wedges
  • 4 mint sprigs
  • 1 can/200ml of Roses Soda Water (per serving)
  • Ice

METHOD

  1. Add all the ingredients (except soda water) into a highball glass or a jam jar with ice. Tip: If you’re using jam jars, pop them in the freezer for 15 minutes beforehand to ensure a cooler, more refreshing mocktail or to prevent your ice from melting rapidly on hot days.
  2. Top up the ingredients with the soda water and give it a gentle stir.
  3. Garnish with a slice of lime and a mint sprig for that extra touch of elegance.

There you have it, a tantalising Brookes Low-Cal Skinny Lemon Lime Mocktail that not only tastes divine but also aligns with your health-conscious choices. Serve it and watch as your family enjoys every sip.

So, why settle for ordinary when you can elevate your refreshment game with Brookes Low-Cal? Indulge in the flavours, embrace the health-conscious lifestyle, and make every sip a celebration. Cheers to good taste, good health, and the good times with Brookes Low-Cal, because you deserve nothing less!

Brookes Low-Cal is not just another squash drink; it’s a commitment to your well-being, making it the go-to choice for those living with diabetes or looking to manage their weight. 

Read about how this low-kilojoule drink is perfect for a diabetic-friendly eating plan.

Brookes Low-Cal is available at all leading supermarkets.

Follow us on IG for more exciting recipes and updates: @lowcal_sa

NUTRITIONAL INFO (per serving)

Energy Sugars Fat Salt Saturates
Per  100ml serving <14 kJ <0.2  g <0.1 g <0.1 g <0.1 g
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Huletts Peach & Berry Breakfast Slice

Huletts Peach & Berry Breakfast Slice

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This Huletts Peach & Berry Breakfast Slice is a delicious way to start your day. It’s made with fresh peaches, frozen berries, and oats, and is sweetened with Huletts EquiSweet. This breakfast option is also a good source of fibre and protein, which will help you feel full and satisfied until lunchtime. Plus, the recipe has been approved by the GI Foundation of SA and Diabetes SA.

Serving: 20 x slices

Time: 1 ½ hours

INGREDIENTS

  • 1 Tbsp. baking powder
  • 250ml (1 cup) rolled oats (180g)
  • 125ml (1/2 cup) cake flour (70g)
  • 1 tsp. cinnamon
  • 60ml (1/4cup) soft tubs margarine, light (57.5g)
  • 10 Huletts EquiSweet Classic sachets
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • 185ml (3/4 cup) low-fat yoghurt/cottage cheese
  • 1 Tbsp. vanilla essence
  • 100g frozen berries (just over ½ cup or 125ml)
  • 1 large peach or nectarine, thinly sliced
  • Optional: extra grilled low-GI fruit for garnishing

METHOD

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C. Line and grease a 20cm x 25cm baking tray.
  2. Combine the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, EquiSweet and oats in a mixing bowl and make a well in the centre.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, yoghurt, vanilla essence and melted margarine until well combined.
  4. Pour the whisked egg and yoghurt mixture into the well in the centre of the dry ingredients and mix into a batter.
  5. Spoon the batter into the greased baking tray, and smooth out into an even layer.
  6. Lay the berries and peach slices on top of the batter.
  7. Bake for 45 minutes.
  8. Cool in the tin for 10 minutes, garnish, slice and enjoy.

NOTES: Can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.

Huletts EquiSweet Classic sachets are ideal for use in hot and cold beverages, cereals or porridge, and for sprinkling over fruit and yoghurt. 1 sachet of Huletts EquiSweet Classic is equivalent in sweetness to 2 teaspoons of sugar, yet contains only 16 kJ, compared to 2 level teaspoons of standard sugar (10g) which contains 170 kJ.

NUTRITIONAL INFO (per slice)

Nutrients per serving: One Huletts Peach & Berry Breakfast Slice slice is equivalent to: 1/2 portion starch and ½ portion fat. GL per serving = 7. GI (calculated) = 54 (low-GI, if a bit of extra low-GI fruit like berries or peach is used for garnishing).

Energy Protein Carbohydrates Fat Fibre
Per serving   288 kJ  2.3 g 7.8 g 2.8 g 0.8 g
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Huletts Strawberry Ginger Fizz

Huletts Strawberry Ginger Fizz

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This Huletts Strawberry Ginger Fizz is the perfect non-alcoholic cocktail. It’s made with fresh strawberries, ginger and Huletts Equisweet Classic Sweetener. The result is sweet and a zesty ginger kick. Plus, the recipe has been approved by the GI Foundation of SA and Diabetes SA.

Serves: 6

Time: 45 minutes

INGREDIENTS

  • 2 sprigs fresh mint
  • 24 (2 cups) fresh medium size strawberries, quartered
  • 6 x Huletts EquiSweet Classic sachets
  • 2 thumb-sized pieces of fresh ginger, peeled and finely grated
  • 500ml water
  • 500ml soda water
  • 2 cups crushed ice
  • 1 fresh lime, sliced

METHOD

  1. Place the Huletts Equisweet, half of the fresh chopped strawberries and 500ml water into a pot on the stove and bring to boil.
  2. Reduce the heat and take the grated ginger and squeeze the juice into the pot. Discard the pith.
  3. Let the strawberry ginger cordial bubble for 10 minutes, stir in the lemon juice.
  4. Remove from the heat and cool. Place in the fridge or freezer to speed up cooling time.
  5. Prepare a jug or pitcher with two cups crushed ice, fresh mint leaves, fresh lime and the remaining fresh strawberries.
  6. Muddle the ice and fresh ingredients together.
  7. Pour in the cooled cordial, top up with soda and serve.

Huletts EquiSweet Classic sachets are ideal for use in hot and cold beverages, cereals or porridge, and for sprinkling over fruit and yoghurt. 1 sachet of Huletts EquiSweet Classic is equivalent in sweetness to 2 teaspoons of sugar, yet contains only 16 kJ, compared to 2 level teaspoons of standard sugar (10g) which contains 170 kJ.

NUTRITIONAL INFO (per glass)

Nutrients per serving: One serving of 310ml (one Willy glass) is equivalent to: ½ portion fruit. GI = 34 (low GI). GL per serving = 1.4.

Energy Protein Carbohydrates Fat
Per serving   105 KJ  0.5 g 4.1 g 0.2 g
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