Author: Diabetes Focus eMag

Safari Apple Cider Vinegar Everyday Salad Dressing

Safari Apple Cider Vinegar Everyday Salad Dressing

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This simple yet flavourful Safari Apple Cider Vinegar Everyday Salad Dressing is the perfect companion for your salads. Made with Safari Apple Cider Vinegar, this dressing offers a tangy and refreshing taste that complements a variety of greens and vegetables. 

Makes:

1 small jar

Ingredients:

6

Prep time:

5 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 tsp. Dijon mustard
  • 1 small clove garlic, grated
  • ½ tsp. sea salt
  • ⅛ tsp. freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ cup Safari Apple Cider Vinegar
  • ⅓ cup olive oil

Method

  1. Place all the ingredients in a jar with a tight fitting lid.
  2. Shake well until emulsified.
  3. Serve.

SAFARI® Apple Cider Vinegar is:

  • Naturally Fermented
  • Perfect for Salads & Sauces
  • Made from 100% Apples

Visit Safari Vinegar for more information.

Aspen

Joint forces: Aspen and SEMDSA

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Aspen and SEMDSA, together as joint forces, highlight the alarming rise of non-communicable diseases in SA and are set to change this narrative.

Aspen Pharmacare Holdings Limited, a global multinational specialty pharmaceutical company, launched an awareness campaign around the alarming rise and associated risks of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), especially diabetes, with the Society for Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes of South Africa (SEMDSA) on World Diabetes Day.

There has been a notable global increase in NCDs, which are collectively responsible for 74% of deaths worldwide and include cardiovascular diseases, chronic respiratory disease, cancer and diabetes. This trend is being mirrored in South Africa where major NCDs have increased 58,7% over the past 20 years and it is set to continue along this trajectory. Some 71% of global deaths (41 million) are attributed to NCDs with 1.5 million being for diabetes, and with 80% of NCDs being classified as premature.

Stavros Nicolaou, Aspen Group Senior Executive Strategic Trade said, “There is a strong link between obesity, diabetes, and cancer, with the former triggering what has become known as the metabolic-cardio-renal complex of diseases. If left unarrested, the economic impact of NCDs will significantly over-burden an already highly stretched healthcare system and impact lives and livelihoods. On World Diabetes Day, we strongly encourage people to learn about the risks of diabetes and assess their own risk, to understand the differences between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, and to seek appropriate support from their healthcare professional if they are concerned about their health.”

“Aspen remains committed to contributing towards the management of NCDs, as has been demonstrated by the Group’s investment of more than R10 billion in sterile manufacturing capacity. This capability has positioned Aspen as an emerging contributor in rapidly expanding the production of treatment options for diabetes.”

“Aligned to this commitment we have also noted, with concern, the increasing lack of suitably qualified medical professionals to treat NCDs, and we are pleased to announce a Fellowship to SEMDSA for medical specialisation in the field of Endocrinology.”

Dr Reyna Daya, SEMDSA President said, “Approximately 50% of South Africans with diabetes remain undiagnosed, and this NCD has reached pandemic proportions. Diabetes treatment requires multiple resources, and we are currently experiencing a shortage of healthcare professionals who can treat diabetes and its complications. Our country also needs to increase awareness and heighten discussions around this disease. These patients are at risk of developing both significant and severe cardiac and renal complications, both of which require access to special care units, which are sadly lacking across our provinces. There is already a significant economic impact to productivity with patients who are presenting diabetes and its complications. Irrespective of a patient’s position on the social ladder, once diagnosed, there is hope with treatment options, albeit that they remain costly and inaccessible to many.”

Aspen’s investment in world class pharmaceutical manufacturing in South Africa has improved supply security and infectious disease prevention in Africa, thereby assisting with the African Union’s overall objective of solving regional health issues through local capabilities. Additional investment has also targeted skills development, talent retention, and new technology, which has positioned Aspen to respond swiftly to breakout pandemics and has become a significant differentiator for the Group.

Diabetes key facts

  • Diabetes, classified as a non-communicable disease (NCD), has reached pandemic proportions.
  • At least 1 in 10 adults has diabetes, 1 in 2 is undiagnosed.
  • Type 2 diabetes is massively on the rise in children and young adults.
  • NCD-related deaths are on the rise and morbidities are becoming more complicated, including cardiovascular events and renal failure (cardio-renal- metabolic syndrome).
  • In South Africa, Type 1 diabetes accounts for 39 healthy years of life lost per person.
  • Diabetes has many hidden faces. We are now seeing a proliferation of young Type 2 diabetes patients (childhood obesity).
  • There is a significant link between diabetes and obesity – approximately 60% of women in South Africa are overweight/obese and 40% of males.
  • As South Africa, we are not doing well in managing diabetes. Left unarrested, this will overwhelm our healthcare system with significant impact on lives, livelihoods, productivity and the economy.
  • Despite multiple treatment options people with Type 2 diabetes still experiences poor glycemic control.

Global Diabetes Key Facts | World Health Organisation (WHO, 2024)

  • NCDs kill 41 million people each year, equivalent to 71% of all deaths globally.
  • Each year, more than 15 million people die from an NCD between the ages of 30 and 69 years; 85% of these “premature” deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries.
  • 77% of all NCD deaths are in low- and middle-income countries.
  • Cardiovascular diseases account for most NCD deaths, or 17.9 million people annually, followed by cancers (9.3 million), respiratory diseases (4.1 million), and diabetes (1.5 million).
  • These four groups of diseases account for over 80% of all premature NCD deaths.
  • Tobacco use, physical inactivity, the harmful use of alcohol and unhealthy diets all increase the risk of dying from a NCD.
  • Detection, screening and treatment of NCDs, as well as palliative care, are key components of the response to NCDs.

References:

  • 1 Statistics SA, Report 03-08-01: Non communicable diseases: Findings from death notifications (2008-2018), published
    17 October 2023.
    2 World Health Organisation, Noncommunicable Diseases, Key Facts

References:

  • American Diabetes Association, 2022. 6. Glycemic Targets: Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes—2022. Diabetes Care, 45(Supplement_1), pp.S83-S96.
  • Goedecke, J.H., Jennings, C.L. and Lambert, E.V., 2021. Obesity in South Africa. Frontiers in Public Health, 9, p.715956. Available at: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpubh.2021.715956/full [Accessed 12
    November 2024].
  • IDF (2019) Diabetes Atlas – Ninth edition 2019, International Diabetes Federation. Available at: https://www.diabetesatlas.org/upload/resources/material/20200302_133351_IDFATL AS9e-final-web.pdf (Accessed: 12 November 2024).
  • JDRF, 2023. Type 1 Diabetes Index: South Africa. Available at:
    https://www.t1dindex.org/countries/south-africa/ [Accessed 12 November 2024].
  • Lawrence, J.M., Divers, J. and Mayer-Davis, E.J., 2023. Youth-Onset Type 2 Diabetes: The Epidemiology of an Awakening Epidemic. Diabetes Care, 46(3), pp.490-499.
  • Pappachan JM, Fernandez CJ, Ashraf AP. Rising tide: The global surge of type 2 diabetes in children and adolescents demands action now. World J Diabetes. 2024 May 15;15(5):797-809.
  • Usman MS, Khan MS, Butler J. The Interplay Between Diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease, and kidney disease. 2021 Jun. In: Chronic Kidney Disease and Type 2 Diabetes. Arlington (VA): American Diabetes Association; 2021 Jun. Available from:
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK571718/ doi: 10.2337/db20211-13
  • WHO (2024) Noncommunicable Diseases, World Health Organization. Available at: https://www.afro.who.int/health-topics/noncommunicable-diseases (Accessed: 12 November 2024).
continuous glucose monitoring

Who needs continuous glucose monitoring (CGM)?

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Dr Paula Diab shares the multiple benefits of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), highlighting that most people on the diabetic spectrum will benefit from it.

Listen to this article below or wherever you get your podcasts or visit our playlist.

Around about 10 years I attended an international congress on diabetes. To break the monotony of clinical presentations, the organisers had set up a series of debates entitled just this: “Who needs CGM?”

The debate set-up was listed as follows:

  • Children with Type 1 diabetes vs adults with Type 2 diabetes on insulin.
  • Adults on Type 2 diabetes on insulin vs adults with Type 2 diabetes NOT on insulin (oral medication only).
  • Adults with Type 2 diabetes on oral medication vs adults with pre-diabetes.

At first glance, I thought, naively, that this was going to be a complete waste of time. Why on earth would you want to know what your glucose levels were every 10 minutes of the day if you weren’t even taking insulin? What possible benefit could there be for people without diabetes and not on any medication to monitor themselves so regularly?

I was considering skipping the session and having an early lunch until a colleague dragged me in to stay. Ever since then, I have been a complete convert to CGM and it has revolutionised my practice entirely.

CGM usage has advanced tremendously within the decade it has been available and has become simpler to use, more accessible, more accurate, and the devices have many more functions. It does come at a cost which many funders do not cover but it can also be used intermittently with specific goals in mind to reduce the financial burden.

What is CGM?

A CGM device consists of a small sensor placed under the skin that measures glucose levels in the fluid between cells. It tracks glucose trends throughout the day and night, alerting users to any significant highs (hyperglycaemia) or lows (hypoglycaemia). The device sends data to a smartphone or receiver, allowing for real-time adjustments to food, activity, and medication.

Currently on the South African market there are multiple devices available, some of which link to insulin pumps and others that can be used as a stand-alone option. Application time varies from 10 – 14 days and some require a separate transmitter whilst others have a sensor and transmitter combined. It’s important to ensure you are comparing like devices when assessing costs and evaluating which device is best for your needs.

CGM vs finger pricking

I always compare the use of a CGM to watching a movie when talking with my patients. Imagine your favourite movie as only three or five still images throughout the story. It would be up to you to make up the story in between. This is exactly what happens when we do a few finger pricks during the day and try to make up the story in between.

If you test your glucose level and get a reading of 7.4 mmol/L before a meal, what does this mean? Have you been 7.4 all day long? Were you high after your last meal and then went to exercise resulting in a drop to 7.4mmol/L? Or did you drop low during the exercise and the chocolate milk that you had afterwards pick you up to 7.4mmol/L. It becomes a guessing game unless you have the ability to watch the whole movie and see the trend throughout the day.

Figure 1 below shows two fictitious patients and their glucose levels throughout the day. Patient 1 has very stable readings throughout the day whereas patient 2 seems to fluctuate throughout the day. Both patients begin the day on the same value and both have the same average which indicates the futility of a single-fasting reading every day as well as an average, such as an HbA1c test.

Figure 1: Fictional representation of glucose levels throughout the day.

Night time is another key problem in diabetes management. How often do patients say that they never have a low only to find out they spend most of the early hours of the morning hovering around 3mmol/L and then due to the natural cortisol release that occurs just before we wake up, that level picks up to around 5mmol/L on waking. No one wants to test their glucose levels throughout the night so a CGM can provide valuable information in this regard.

Who benefits from CGM?

1. Type 1 diabetes patients (children or adults)

For anyone with Type 1 diabetes, managing blood glucose can be challenging. The body’s inability to produce insulin means frequent blood glucose checks, and insulin adjustments are critical.

CGM allows you to track your glucose levels continuously without needing finger-sticks throughout the day. It helps predict hypoglycaemia before it happens, potentially preventing dangerous episodes, especially during the night.

2. Remote monitoring

CGM can also be extremely valuable for monitoring children whilst they are at school, away on outdoor excursions, playing sports, etc. All CGM systems have remote following capabilities which means that parents and caregivers can follow their child’s levels throughout the day.

Remote monitoring also becomes extremely useful for patients who are hospitalised, in a care facility, or with reduced independence so that family members, caregivers and healthcare professionals are able to continue to monitor glucose levels without disturbing the patient or relying on irregular finger pricks for information. Various alarms and alerts can be set for each member following, depending on their level of intervention.

3. Type 2 diabetes on intensive insulin therapy

Many people with Type 2 diabetes manage their condition through lifestyle changes or oral medications, but some require intensive insulin therapy. If you administer multiple daily insulin injections or use an insulin pump, you will benefit greatly from CGM. It provides immediate feedback on how insulin is affecting glucose levels, helping you optimise your doses and reduce fluctuations.

As diabetes management options become more sophisticated and our lifestyles more complicated, regular monitoring can provide extremely valuable information as to how to adjust meals, insulin doses, and various lifestyle choices.

4. People with hypoglycaemia unawareness

You may not feel the symptoms of low blood glucose (hypo), such as dizziness, confusion, or sweating. This condition, known as hypoglycaemia unawareness, can be dangerous, particularly if it leads to fainting or seizures.

CGM systems with built-in alarms can alert you when blood glucose drops below safe levels, preventing potentially life-threatening situations.

The ability to predict lows and intervene prior to them happening is of extreme value if you have hypoglycaemic unawareness. Low level alerts can be set fairly high, so that you’re able to track a descending glucose level and intervene prior to levels becoming low. Additional family members can set reminders and back-up alerts so that if you miss the alarm, they are also able to intervene.

5. Pregnant women with diabetes

Pregnancy presents unique challenges if you have pre-existing diabetes or gestational diabetes. Maintaining tight blood glucose control is essential to avoid complications for both you and your baby. CGM can provide continuous monitoring to help you and your healthcare teams adjust their treatment and keep glucose levels in check.

Recent updates to pregnancy guidelines suggest that glucose levels remain between 5.3 – 7.8mmol/L throughout the day. This is almost impossible without the use of CGM.

Additional uses of CGM with case studies

Prediabetes

Figure 2 (below) is from a patient who has not yet formally been diagnosed with diabetes. However, he has a strong genetic risk of diabetes and has been struggling to lose weight. For various reasons, he opted to try a CGM for two weeks.

Although the 4% of highs that he experienced are not high or elevated enough to diagnose diabetes, it’s clear that there is a definite rise and peak in his glucose levels after breakfast.

The band of dark and light blue shading between 6am to 10:30am also indicates the variability in his readings at this time of day. This is quite typical of mornings as many working people tend to have a smaller breakfast during the week and enjoy a more leisurely breakfast over the weekend.

A similar pattern can be seen in the evenings when various dinner choices also result in a varied response in glucose levels. Information like this can be exceptionally useful in guiding meal choices and making behavioural changes.

In addition, the results of this CGM can give valuable information if you have pre-diabetes and often helps to motivate lifestyle changes.

Figure 2: CGM download from a patient with prediabetes.

More than just an average HbA1c

Averages are exactly that – an average. As with the patients depicted in Figure 1, an HbA1c can mask many problems including variation around that average requiring a difference in medication or management.

Figure 3 (below) was taken from a patient who had an HbA1c of 7.4% which would seem to most people as perfectly acceptable. In fact, even his time in range was >70% but he was only testing his glucose levels every morning when he woke up. These readings were routinely 5 –6.5mmol/L but he was completely missing what was happening throughout the rest of the day. Fluctuations like this can lead to the development of complications of diabetes as well as affect mental and physical functioning.

Even taking random glucose levels throughout the day may have focused on pre-meal values that were also within a normal target range. The only way to “watch the entire movie” throughout the day is to see the full picture of a CGM.

Profiles such as this are worth gold to trained diabetologists and diabetes educators in terms of suggesting management changes, both to medication and lifestyle adaptations.

Figure 3: Value of CGM in monitoring variation throughout the day.

Reducing the workload of diabetes

If you know anything about diabetes, you’ll know that it is a disease that involves a great deal of hard work: checking what you eat, what activity you do, accounting for stress levels, ensuring adequate sleep, and all of this whilst juggling the many other curve balls that life throws.

Many people think that the ultimate goal in diabetes may be to get a flatline graph, but the reality is that this is generally not the norm and even a person with well-controlled diabetes will have fluctuating levels on a daily basis.

The newer integrated pump and CGM systems do a tremendous amount of modulating throughout the day as well as learning from previous outcomes and greatly reduce the impact on the person with diabetes.

Even though the average in Figure 4 (below) looks fairly stable and flat, the reality is that each day is still very variable and multiple factors influence glucose levels throughout the day. The integrated pump and CGM system are working extremely hard behind the scenes to achieve these levels and provide stability for the patient.

Figure 4: Modulations made every 5 minutes by an integrated insulin pump and CGM system.

Finding solutions to complex problems

The graph in Figure 5 (below) is what is commonly known as a spaghetti graph; the reason being that it simply looks like coloured spaghetti. It shows the variation in readings throughout each day. No day is like another.

Although this particular patient may be slightly off target, by manipulating the data on the software and focusing in on various key points, clinicians can work with patients to identify activities that have worked and others that haven’t.

Figure 5: A complex problem.

The purpose of CGM is never to find fault and blame but rather to identify areas that can be improved. To find the cause for readings that may be out of target and then implement and analyse the changes made.

Final thoughts

Whether you are caring for someone with diabetes, have a family member with diabetes, or have diabetes yourself, Type 1 or 2; young or old; on insulin or not; even if you are just at risk of developing diabetes, CGM can assist you in gaining more detailed insights into glucose patterns and improving quality of life.

Although it’s fairly costly due to the advanced technology and accuracy required to manufacture the sensors, affordable options are available, and it doesn’t need to be a 24/7/365 option. I often advise people to do a 10 – 14-day trial and then implement the learning from that time into your future behaviour. You can then continue to check-in again every month, every quarter or even just annually depending on your particular needs.

Discus your individual needs with your healthcare provider and find out if you can benefit from CGM. It has certainly revolutionised diabetes care by offering a more detailed and accurate picture of blood glucose trends and is a valuable tool for many people with diabetes.

Recent research outcomes have started to show that not only is it improving quality of life but also reducing hospital admissions, reducing complications, improving life expectancy, and the overall burden of diabetes.

Dr Paula Diab

MEET THE EXPERT

Dr Paula Diab is a diabetologist at Atrium Lifestyle Centre and is an extra-ordinary lecturer, Dept of Family Medicine, University of Pretoria.

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year-end stress

Coping with year-end stress

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We look at the importance of mental health and ways to cope with year-end stress.

How stress impacts your health

First, the good news: not all stress is bad. Short bursts of stress can improve your focus and motivate you. Studies even suggest short-term stress can increase immunity.

However, when stress lingers for too long, it can be problematic.

Chronic stress elevates cortisol levels, which keeps your body on continual alert. Over time, this can increase your risk of health issues, including anxiety, depression, digestive disorders, and heart-related illnesses, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.

Practical tips to help you handle end-of-year stress

  • Share your thoughts and feelings

Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or just plain exhausted? Chatting with a friend, family member, or professional can help you release tension and see the situation more clearly. 

  • Organise and plan ahead

The end of the year often brings a frantic rush to wrap up last-minute projects and work assignments before the holidays hit. A lack of preparation is usually a significant stress trigger, especially around the end of the year. Making to-do lists is an easy way to stay on top of tasks. Prioritise what needs to be done based on deadlines or importance. Once a task has been completed, tick it off the list and move on to the next task.

  • Draw up a budget

Buying gifts, hosting parties, and booking holiday trips can quickly add up, leaving your wallet empty and your stress levels sky-high. Maintaining a budget and monitoring your everyday expenditures can help you manage your money and reduce stress.

  • Find time for yourself

Self-care is essential to managing stress better. Self-care looks different for everyone. Maybe for you, it’s starting the day with a few minutes of deep breathing exercises. Or perhaps it’s taking a quiet walk during your lunch break, reading a book, or rolling out a yoga mat.

  • Stay connected with loved ones (but set boundaries)

Feeling isolated is typical this time of year, especially if you’re away from loved ones. A short phone call or video chat can improve your spirits and remind you that you are not alone.

That said, not every family gathering brings comfort. If certain relatives tend to stir up more stress than joy, saying no to an invite is okay or limiting your time with them is okay.

  • Accept that life is unpredictable

No matter how much we plan, life is unpredictable. The sooner we accept that things won’t always go as we had hoped, the less stressed we’ll be when they inevitably don’t.  

Your mental health is important

As the year winds down, prioritising your mental health is as important, if not more important, than finishing work projects or checking off holiday to-dos. Planning, managing your budget, talking about your feelings, and relaxing can help reduce end-of-year stress. For more ways to promote mental well-being, click here.  

This article is attributed to Affinity Health.

Claire Allison

Claire Allison – Looking back and seeing growth

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Claire Allison reflects and appreciates how far she has come during her Type 1 diabetes journey.

Listen to this article below or wherever you get your podcasts or visit our playlist.

Claire Allison (23) lives in Alberton, Gauteng with her parents and two sisters.

Diagnosis

Claire was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, in 2011, at the age of nine. “I was drinking excessive amount of liquids as I was continuously thirsty, which caused me to wet the bed during the night. I was always nauseous and had body flu-like symptoms, so my mom took me the doctor on numerous occasions. However, I was given antibiotics and sent away,” Claire explains.

“Closer to my diagnosis, I lost a lot of weight, struggled to eat, and got thrush. My parents were very concerned. Thankfully, my mom had read an article on Nick Jones and his journey with Type 1 diabetes, where the signs and symptoms were listed. Due to my severe weight loss in a short period of time, she took me to a pharmacy clinic, where my blood glucose was checked. It was so high that the nursing sister said we needed to go to the GP right away. My HbA1c showed that my average blood glucose was 16 mmol/L. The GP referred us a paediatric endocrinologist who practices specifically in juvenile diabetes.”

Treatment

Claire was put on insulin; a fast-acting insulin that needs to injected 15 minutes before she eats as well as a slow-acting insulin at night.

“When I was first diagnosed, the insulin was in cartridges, and I had to use syringes to extract the insulin and inject myself. A few years later they made the insulin pens, which I still use today,” she explains.

“In the beginning of my diabetes journey, I went through what is called the honeymoon period. I seemed to be back to normal and not needing much insulin. However, this period doesn’t last long and soon after my dosages needed to be increased due to high blood glucose,” Claire explains.

Throughout the years, Claire’s insulin dosages have changed, according to the insulin she was on and their effect on her blood glucose. Currently, her fast-acting dosage is 6 units and her slow-acting is 22 units.

She also started using a continuous glucose monitor sensor in 2021. “I wear a sensor on my arm, which links to my phone, using Bluetooth, and it keeps me up-to-date on my blood glucose reading. If I’m experiencing hyperglycaemia or hypoglycaemia my phone alerts me.”

Five years ago, she was prescribed cholesterol tablets as the diabetes was affecting her cholesterol. She also checks her thyroid annually.

Support

“My parents both played a major role in my diabetes journey, even to this day. For many years, they would do the majority of my injections. They still inject me occasionally. When I was diagnosed I was in Grade 4, so my teacher learnt how to read my blood glucose levels and inject me accordingly. She would look after me during the school day and on school camps. She did this until the end of Grade 5, once I had learnt to inject myself,” Claire explains.

“Most of my support comes from my diabetologist and my mom. At the age of 20, I transitioned from the paediatric endocrinologist to the diabetologist. She has been incredible and has taught me so much about diabetes that I was unaware of before becoming her patient. I stopped seeing the diabetes nurse educator as my doctor is very informative and available.”

Claire adds, “My mom has been my biggest supporter. She always tries to help me in any way that she can. She listens to me when I feel frustrated with my blood glucose levels and tries to give the best advice she can. If I need to change my eating plan, she will do it with me; this is so encouraging. My dad and twin sister also support me to the best of their ability. They inject me when I can’t inject myself and if I have low blood glucose they, including my mom, take action and help me.”

Learning what works and what doesn’t

Claire adds that throughout the years she has learnt what food works for her and incorporated them into her eating plan. “Every person with diabetes is different; different foods affect us in different ways. I have found that certain cereals, breads specifically white bread, and grapes spike my blood glucose. I’m a very simple and routine eater. I stick to the foods that I have found help me manage my diabetes and avoid food that spikes my blood glucose. However, I do have moments where I eat those foods, but I keep it to a minimum. I’m not a big sweet eater, I prefer savoury foods and snacks.”

Managing her studies

Claire says she tries to be as active as possible but due to this year being her last of university, she has been spending the majority of her time sitting behind a computer. “My aim is to do more exercise in the future.”

As part of her practical, she spent time teaching at a school and shared with the learners that she has diabetes. “This sensor is visible as I wear it on my arm and many of the students asked me about it, which led me to explain diabetes and my journey with them,” she says.

Accepting her diagnosis

Due to being diagnosed at such a young age, Claire says she really didn’t understand what it meant for her. “As I’ve gotten older, it has become part of my daily life, so I don’t dwell on it. The only time I realise I’m still processing it, is when I lose control of my blood glucose levels. There are moments when I do feel extremely frustrated with my condition and feel saddened by it. I’m a Christian, so I process my emotions of having diabetes through prayer. I like to speak out how I’m feeling and discuss what is happening with my parents, normally by discussing it I find my own solutions. These moments don’t last long, and I don’t allow myself to dwell long on these thoughts.”

Content, well-managed, and helpful tips

Claire is happy with how she is controlling her diabetes. “My blood glucose is well-managed the majority of the time. My HbA1c level sits between 6.9 and 7.9,” Claire says.

She goes on to share tips that work for her, “One of my biggest tips is have a daily routine. I’ve found that knowing when I need to inject and how much I need to inject keeps me in control of my blood glucose throughout the day. When my routine changes, I notice I struggle to control my blood glucose and have to find a way to adapt my routine accordingly.”

“Take note of food that spikes your blood glucose and try to avoid eating them or eat a minimal amount of it. Stick to food that don’t spike your blood glucose, bring down your carbohydrates, and incorporate more protein into your eating plan. Plan how much you are going to eat before you inject. Many times, I would inject myself with my usual dosage, but then would eat less and experience hypoglycaemia, especially at night.”

Every six months Claire consults with her diabetologist but is grateful that if she needs advice or help, her doctor is just an email away.

Festive season and summer dresses

Thankfully the festive season isn’t a cause of distress for Claire. “My blood glucose levels normally remain the same even during the festive season, but if I need to, I increase my insulin dosage accordingly.”

Claire is looking forward to wearing beautiful summer dresses and most of all appreciating summer. “I love seeing and looking at the beautiful flowers, green grass, and how bright the sun is during summer, it lifts up my mood.”

Laurelle Williams is the Editor at Word for Word Media. She graduated from AFDA with a Bachelor of Arts Honours degree in Live Performance. She has a love for storytelling and sharing emotions through the power of words. Her aim is to educate, encourage and most of all show there is always hope. Feel free to email Laurelle on editor@diabetesfocus.co.za

MEET THE EDITOR

Laurelle Williams is the Editor at Word for Word Media. She graduated from AFDA with a Bachelor of Arts Honours degree in Live Performance. She has a love for storytelling and sharing emotions through the power of words. Her aim is to educate, encourage and most of all show there is always hope. Feel free to email Laurelle on editor@diabetesfocus.co.za

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Apple and Cinnamon Crumpets

Apple and Cinnamon Crumpets

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These fluffy Apple and Cinnamon Crumpets are infused with the delicate flavours of apple, cinnamon, and the sweetness of Huletts EquiSweet, creating a wholesome and delicious treat.

Servings:

20

Ingredients:

12

Prep time:

15 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 egg, lightly beaten
  • 1 Huletts EquiSweet sachet
  • 1/4 tsp. salt
  • 250 ml low-fat/fat-free milk
  • 5ml canola/sunflower oil
  • 120g cake flour, sifted
  • 60g oat flour
  • 5ml bicarbonate of soda
  • 10ml baking powder
  • 3/4 tsp. cinnamon
  • 50g oat bran
  • 80g grated apple, with the skin

Method

  1. In a medium-sized mixing bowl whisk the egg, EquiSweet sachet, and salt together for not more than one minute.
  2. Add half of the milk, and the oil. Beat for a further 30 seconds until just combined.
  3. Sift together the flour, bicarbonate of soda, cinnamon, and baking powder and stir gradually into the egg and milk mixture with a wooden spoon until smooth and lump-free.
  4. Add the rest of the milk, oat bran, oat flour and grated apple and mix gently.
  5. Set the batter aside to stand for 10 minutes.
  6. Heat a non-stick frying pan.
  7. Ladle about 4 separate tablespoons of batter into the pan and cook the crumpets over moderate to high heat until bubbly on top and light brown underneath. Turn crumpets brown on the other side.
  8. Repeat with the remaining batter.

Tips

  • Be careful not to beat the batter too much. Beating improves digestibility and thus would increase the GI of the crumpets.
  • It’s essential to add the apple, as this is the ingredient that lowers the GI of the crumpets.

Serving suggestion: There is no need to spread these crumpets with margarine or butter. Eat dry with a little marmalade, apricot jam, or low-fat cheese, if desired.

One serving of 3 crumpets is equivalent to 2 portions starch, 1 portion fat, and a little fruit.

If 30g medium-fat cheese or 1/4 cup low-fat cottage cheese is added per person, each serving then also contains 1 portion of lower fat protein.

GI (calculated) = 60 (intermediate GI). GL per serving with 30g berries/person = 17

This recipe was created by registered dietitians, Liesbet Delport and Gabi Steenkamp, and adapted by Tongaat Hulett with the consent of the authors.

NUTRITIONAL INFO (per serving)
Energy 785kJ  |  Protein 6g  |  Carbs 29,1g  |  Fat 4g  |  Fibre 3g

highs and lows

The highs and lows of diabetes

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Monique Marais outlines both the physical and emotional highs and lows of living with diabetes.

Listen to this article below or wherever you get your podcasts or visit our playlist.

Living with diabetes is a complex and multi-faceted journey marked by triumphs and tribulations. On one hand, advancements in medical care and self-management strategies enable you to navigate the condition with greater ease, allowing for moments of normalcy and resilience. The successes, whether mastering blood glucose control, completing a challenging workout, or simply enjoying a favourite meal, foster a sense of accomplishment and hope.

However, the lows can be debilitating: the relentless monitoring, the guilt and shame tied to food choices, the ever-present fear of complications, and the emotional toll of living with a chronic condition. The rollercoaster of emotions, coupled with the physical demands, can leave you feeling drained, isolated, and uncertain about their future.

It’s important to know the risks involved with hyperglycaemia and hypoglycaemia.

Hyperglycaemia

Hyperglycaemia (high blood glucose) can pose significant risks to your health, particularly if left untreated or poorly managed. Here are some potential risks:

Hypoglycaemia

On the other hand, we have hypoglycaemia (low blood glucose) which poses significant risks, especially if severe or untreated. Here are potential risks:

Emotional highs and lows

Just as you can experience highs and lows with your blood glucose levels, you can also experience highs and lows emotionally. Diabetes can significantly impact your mood, leading to emotional fluctuations and challenges.

Managing your well-being can be a continuous challenge, requiring constant vigilance in monitoring blood glucose levels, making careful dietary choices, and navigating decision fatigue.

Additionally, managing weight gain and coping with the emotional strain of maintaining control over diabetes can be overwhelming. Balancing these responsibilities often takes a toll, both physically and mentally, as you strive to manage your condition as effectively as possible.

It’s important to understand that throughout this journey, you may experience fluctuations in both your emotional well-being and blood glucose levels. However, by continually educating yourself about the condition and its management, you will be better able to recognise potential risks and concerns early. This proactive approach empowers you to take preventative actions, helping you to address issues before they escalate into crises.

Emotional coping strategies

Empower yourself by adopting effective coping strategies to manage the emotional and physiological highs and lows associated with diabetes. Some helpful techniques include:

  1. Practicing mindfulness and relaxation methods.
  2. Engaging in regular exercise and physical activity.
  3. Building and maintaining social support networks.
  4. Seeking counselling or therapy when needed.
  5. Participating in diabetes education and self-management programmes.
  6. Utilising stress management strategies, such as deep breathing exercises or yoga.
  7. Connecting with others who are living with diabetes for mutual support and shared experiences.

These strategies can help enhance resilience and improve overall well-being in managing the condition.

Commitment and vigilance

Living with diabetes is undoubtedly a lifelong journey that requires commitment and vigilance, but it’s a manageable condition. By adhering to a prescribed treatment plan, making informed lifestyle choices, and prioritising both physical and mental health, you can effectively manage your diabetes and lead a fulfilling life.

Consistent monitoring, healthy eating, regular exercise, and a strong support network all contribute to better health outcomes. Furthermore, taking care of your mental well-being is equally important, as stress management and emotional resilience play a significant role in overall health.

With the right approach and mindset, diabetes can be controlled, allowing you to live well and thrive. By implementing a positive outlook, and connecting with resources, we believe you will have more positive experiences than negative ones. Good luck on your journey and remember that you are not alone.

Monique Marias is a registered social worker at the ClaytonCare Group which provides in-patient care to medically complex patients on a sub-acute level. She has specialised in physical rehabilitation for in-patients for 13 years, and has a passion to assist people to understand and manage their diagnoses and the impact on their biopsychosocial well-being.

MEET THE EXPERT

Monique Marais is a registered social worker at Care@Midstream sub-acute, specialising in physical rehabilitation for the past 11 years. She has a passion for the medical field and assisting people to understand and manage their diagnoses and the impact on their bio-psychosocial well-being.

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Pleasure practices

Pleasure practices

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Ever wondered how pleasure practices could enrich your life? Veronica Tift tells us more.

Listen to this article below or wherever you get your podcasts or visit our playlist.

The phrase, “Stop and smell the roses”, is really about pleasure. What if instead of just smelling the roses, walking up to a vibrant red rose, lifting it to your nose, feeling its soft, velvety petals brush against your skin.

As you breathe in deeply, the scent unfolds slowly, like a warm invitation to stay a little longer. The smell is gentle and earthy, in this quiet moment, the rose’s scent wraps around you, grounding you in the present while carrying a soft touch of romance and remembrance. This is a moment of pleasure, that would only take you a minute.

A published study in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine concluded that olfactory stimulation (the olfactory nerve detecting an odour or being stimulated by it) by fresh rose flowers induced physiological and psychological relaxation. There are loads more studies that showed similar benefits.

Taking pleasure in stopping and smelling the roses can improve your physical and mental health. By adding this pleasure practice whether it be smelling a plant in your garden or buying a bunch of flowers and dedicating each morning to stop and smell the roses can make all the difference to your well-being.

What is pleasure?

Pleasure is not only found in doing things that you like, but in things that you do every day that maybe you don’t realise. It’s when you bring presence to them and savouring those moments.

Pleasure is not the dirty word that some have come to understand it as. With phrases like, “Chocolate is my guilty pleasure” and “Nothing will bring more pain than too much pleasure”, no wonder there are such mixed messages around pleasure.

While this might sound a little unconventional, pleasure isn’t about being indulgent. Pleasure is about really living a more meaningful life with intention and presence. When you find something that you really enjoy and then do it often, it has benefit on the physical, mental, and spiritual. In a society that often glorifies being constantly busy, prioritising pleasure can be a way to more balance and finding an appreciation in life.

Building a pleasure practice is not as hard as it sounds, even if you are new to the world of pleasure. It entails taking time for hobbies, enjoying nature or spending time with people that you really enjoy. When you actively schedule time for pleasure, you are investing in yourself and a healthier state of mind. Pleasure allows space for you to thrive and not just stay in survival.

Your pleasure practice list

Now we all have our own pleasure list, so I encourage you to sit down and write five things you can do daily that are pleasurable and then a list of five things that you can do that will bring you pleasure during the year.

Your list could look a lot like mine: morning coffee and Instagram in bed. The weekend is my best time to do this; wake up in the morning with nothing to rush to, for at least the first 30 minutes of my day, and while waiting 90 minutes before that morning caffeine, I don’t let that ruin the pleasure of my delicious coffee and uninterrupted online scrolling.

I take my time when I take a sip of my wonderful coffee. I let it linger in my mouth for a few seconds before swallowing and take a deep breath savouring the taste. When I resume my social media binge, its free from guilt. It’s about the intention, presence, and allowing the pleasure to be part of my experience.

Other examples of daily pleasure could be: your morning coffee; savouring that piece of fruit after dinner; not mindless eating in front of the TV; connecting with a friend; a reflexology or massage session; an exercise that is fun and take the time to enjoy it.

Small steps for big change can be so possible. Set a reminder on your phone, add the time for pleasure into your calendar, tell a friend what your pleasure practice will be and then do it. Talk to your partner or friends about holding each other accountable with finding a pleasure practice in the day and then spend time sharing your experience with each other.

Find out what pleasure means to you

Explore what pleasure means to you; it’s so personal. Maybe even see a coach or therapist to uncover truths around why pleasure could be hard for you. Pleasure is really each and every person’s birth right and the power in finding that pleasure in every day can really change your life.

References

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25055057/

Veronica Tift is a therapeutic reflexologist, registered with the AHPCSA, based in Benoni. She continues to grow her knowledge through attending international and local courses on various subjects related to reflexology. Veronica has a special interest in working with couples struggling with infertility.

MEET THE EXPERT

Veronica Tift is a therapeutic reflexologist and a qualified love, sex and relationship coach, based in Benoni. She continues to grow her knowledge through attending international and local courses on various subjects related to reflexology. Veronica has a special interest in working with couples struggling with infertility.

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DSA news

DSA News Summer 2024

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– DSA Head Office News –

DSA 55th Anniversary Fundraising Dinner 

Diabetes South Africa held our 55th Anniversary Fundraising Dinner on 9thNovember 2024 at the Century City Convention Centre in Cape Town.

Our MC and Keynote Speaker was Dr Michael Mol. He is a medical doctor, an executive film and TV series producer, a presenter and a health-tech entrepreneur (co-founder of South Africa’s first telehealth platform, Hello Doctor). He is also a global speaker, health consultant, and best-selling author, and a former CEO of TruthTV. Michael is an Oxford Alumni, a South African Brand ambassador and has authored his second book, on the back of his first best-seller Your Best Life. The title of his presentation was It’s your Move.

We so appreciated South African actress Sophie Ndaba’s presence as our second speaker. She played Queen Moroka in Generations and acted in many other TV shows. She has received several awards, namely Best Soap Actress in 2003; Best Comic Actor in 2009, and Woman of Inspiration Award.

Even though Sophie had broken her ankle and had to wear a foot cast, she still made the effort to fly down to Cape Town and do a talk on her experience with diabetes. If anyone can look beautiful wearing a cast it is definitely you Sophie. Thank you so much for sharing our milestone event with us.

Dr Zane Stevens, an endocrinologist, was our third speaker. He has a Fellowship in Endocrinology and Metabolism and is a current SEMDSA EXCO member. Currently he is in endocrine private practice at Christiaan Barnard Memorial Hospital in Cape Town. He has a specific interest in diabetes, thyroid disease and osteoporosis. He spoke about The Highs and Lows of Living with Diabetes, highlighting advances in treatment, current burdens of people living with diabetes, and the hopes for the future.

We were delighted when Jazzart Dance Theatre gave us a 10-minute preview of their forthcoming production at Artscape Theatre. Their performance was amazing. We are sure that your production at will be a huge success.

Thank you to all our wonderful speakers. We received many compliments on our milestone event – saying the speeches were life changing. Attendees said that diabetes is a great cause and DSA should be supported much more than it currently is.

A great big shout out to our speakers, sponsors, exhibitors, volunteers, staff, and attendees for all your amazing support and contributions to our 55th anniversary event.

– DSA Western Cape News –

DSA Rugby World Cup Camp

DSA Western Cape Branch held a camp for children with Type 1 diabetes from 13 – 15th September at Cape Times Fresh Air Camp in Simon’s Town. The theme was Rugby World Cup Camp.

The children were visited by Ivan Solomons (International Rugby Board Educator, UCT coach and Director of Women’s Rugby); Natasha Hofmeester (SA rugby player and coach); Adanan Adams (coach) and Mika-Eel Stemmet (SA rugby player).

The children were taught exercises that the rugby players do at practise and also enjoyed playing rugby with them.

The camp was a great success, the weather was good, and the children got to spend time on the beach. All the children said that the food served was delicious; thanks to our volunteer cooks, Brenda Schippers and her sister, Colleen Johnson.

Sponsors were the Lions Clubs of District 410W, Shoprite/Checkers, Jonathan Ball Publishers, Delite Foods, Futurelife, aQuellé, Caring Candies, Diabetic Accessories, Mrs Rawoot for Fruit and Veg, Dr A Mia, A1 Chicken Hyper, and parents donated towards the camp.

Diabetes Awareness Day in Mitchells Plain

Carol Hendricks, who runs a DSA diabetes support group in Mitchells Plain, handed out water and diabetes literature to the Mitchells Plain community to create more diabetes awareness.

– DSA Port Elizabeth News –

Latest activities

Since October DSA Port Elizabeth branch has been busy with various diabetes awareness campaigns. Each photo is summary of our activities.

We wish all a safe and enjoyable holiday season and may 2025 be filled with good health, joy and peace from all of us at DSA PE branch.

World Diabetes Federation Global Diabetes Walk

The World Diabetes Foundation (WDF) has a global diabetes awareness campaign annually in November. Since 2004, more than 5 million people joined the Global Diabetes Walk to support the prevention of diabetes, one of the largest global public health concerns.

In Port Elizabeth, we held our first Diabetes Walk on 13 November 2010. Michael Zoetmulder and his remarkable team from Zsports Events SA helped us with that first walk and every Global Diabetes Walk since then.

This year Michael battled to find sponsors and a suitable venue, and we only knew on 5 November 2024 that we were having a walk on 16 November. Great excitement as we promoted it as much as we could.

On the day of the walk, the weather was beautiful, the participants ready to do their best and to enjoy the fellowship, exercise, and fresh sea air. Michael and his wife, Sandy, surprised us as they also participated in walking for diabetes this year.

aQuellé was our generous hydration sponsor of water along the way and at the finish line, as well as sponsoring many lucky draw gifts.

DJ Tubz kept us moving to the beats with music from start to finish that kept us energised and hyped as we walked for a world without diabetes.

We are now looking forward to next year’s Global Diabetes Walk.

– DSA Pretoria News –

Call for a volunteer treasurer

Diabetes South Africa Pretoria Wellness Support Group is looking for a volunteer for a position of a treasurer. The responsibilities are:

  1. To approve transactions submitted on bank account.
  2. Draw monthly statements of bank account.
  3. ⁠Reconcile bank account monthly.
  4. ⁠Do entries from bank account to applicable accounts on Excel spreadsheet.
  5. ⁠After monthly support meeting, reconcile petty cash account and do necessary entries.
  6. ⁠Do monthly finance report and distribute to board members.
  7. ⁠Compile necessary reports to finalise annual financial reports.
  8. ⁠Submit AFS as well as supporting documents to external auditors.
  9. ⁠Submit final AFS to secretary to submit her required reports.
  10. ⁠Attend monthly board meetings (normally online).

For further enquiries, contact:

  • Frans  +27 81 354 4900
  • Brian +27 82 496 1030

Volunteering is a wonderful way to give back to the community, gain new experiences and develop valuable skills.

Benefits of volunteering

  1. Makes a positive impact on your community.
  2. Enhances your resume and career prospects.
  3. Develops new skills and experiences.
  4. Expands your professional and social network.
  5. Improves mental and physical health.

Remember, volunteering is a great way to make a difference while gaining valuable experiences and skills. Start small, be open-minded, and have fun.

World Diabetes Day

DSA Pretoria supported and provided brochures and booklets to the Arwyp Medical Centre in Kempton Park to create awareness and dissemination of information on diabetes, on World Diabetes Day, 14 November. The event was successful; blood glucose testing and blood pressure was done.

September Wellness Support Group meeting

People living with diabetes and who have uncontrollable blood glucose levels are susceptible to wounds that take long to heal or are difficult to treat.

It’s against this background that the guest presenter, Sarita Van Wyk, a representative from Trifectiv Plus, was invited on 7 September to enlighten all the members on the benefits and effectiveness of a wound and burn care product.

Trifectiv Plus Wound and Burn Care is produced by Trifectiv Pty Ltd in an internationally certified facility. The wound spray can be used to treat a broad range of wounds, burns, and skin conditions. The product has been on the market for several years, and is backed by numerous studies proving its efficacy. Trifectiv Plus is endorsed by Diabetes SA.  

Trifectiv Plus is safe for all ages, simple to use, heals fast with minimal scarring. It’s also pet friendly.

October Wellness Support Group meeting

A special thanks to the members of the Pretoria Diabetes support group who attended a session on understanding diabetes 5 October.

This session was different from the normal meetings in the sense that people living with diabetes openly shared their journey and experiences. The discussions highlighted the impact of support which is based on the fact that those who live with chronic illnesses can learn and share experiences amongst themselves. Experiences ranged from being first diagnosed, diet, reactions to medication, admission in hospital, low and high blood glucose levels.

Also discussed was neuropathy, diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) which is a life-threatening problem that affects people with diabetes, where the body produces excess blood acids (ketones).

The sharing was reflective of the trust built over time knowing that members of the support group have first-hand understanding of the diabetic condition.

Being part of the community and collectively dealing with challenges is encouraging, gives all of us strength, value, and a greater sense of belonging. We all learnt from each other.

55-year history

55-year history of Diabetes South Africa

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This year Diabetes South Africa celebrated their 55th anniversary; with that we get a rundown of their 55-year history.

Diabetes South Africa was formed in 1969 to be a source of education, information, and support for people living with diabetes throughout South Africa.

At the time, there was very little assistance for those with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. There was a desperate need for information in order for patients to manage their diabetes and avoid the long-term complications if not well-managed.

Initially called SA Diabetes Association, but with the advent of the internet and search engines, the name was changed to Diabetes South Africa, in 2002, for easier access.

DSA joined the International Diabetes Federation in 1976 and were founding members of the SA Non-Communicable Disease Alliance along with two other national organisations in 2006. The purpose was to advocate for vitally needed attention and resources to NCDs.

Over the years, DSA have worked on several diabetes projects with the Medical Research Council and University of Western Cape as well as two European universities.

DSA branches

Various branches were established in Pretoria, Pietermaritzburg, Durban, Port Elizabeth, and the Western Cape. The purpose is to support people with diabetes in the surrounding communities with workshops, diabetes wellness groups, and events.

Youth Type 1 warriors

Since DSA started, one of our passions has been to help and support children and teens with the very challenging and life-threatening Type 1 diabetes.

For nearly 50 years, DSA has been holding annual and bi-annual camps for children with Type 1 to provide them with advice and education on diabetes management. We always work closely with hospitals, clinics, children’s homes, and doctors around South Africa.  Many assist with volunteering at the camps.

The aim of the camps is for the children to realise they are not alone and help and support is available. We teach and encourage them to manage their diabetes so that they can thrive and achieve their goals in life with assistance and a positive attitude.

The Youth Type 1 camps have benefited 1000s of children and teens from all over South Africa but can only be held if we receive sponsorship and donations to cover costs.  The children have a lot of fun and have fond memories of attending our camps growing up.  Several of them have joined our volunteer camp team to pay it forward and help us organise and run camps.

Camp 2011
Camp 2018
Camp Leaders 2019
Camp 2023

Including the whole family

DSA also reach out to parents and caregivers by hosting family camps, picnics, day workshops and events where the whole family can come and receive support and vital information to help them and their child/children with diabetes.

Diabetes Community Wellness Groups

In 1991, DSA reached out for volunteers through our newsletter. The newsletters were typed on a small portable typewriter and delivered by post. We had the idea of starting Diabetes Community Wellness Groups to assist people in their own communities with regular meetings which we would be able to support. This concept has had such success that we have started and assisted groups around SA, with many running for 30 years and more.

They are all run by volunteers who generously give their time and energy to help people with diabetes. We continue to keep close ties and assist where we can with literature, guidelines, and visits when we can. The groups and facilitators we assist have drawn attention from local and overseas media, BBC, the Guardian, International Diabetes Federation to name a few.

This is an ongoing programme and we continue to work on starting these groups and work with them in order to help those with diabetes in their communities.

See our Support Group Network.

Athlone group
Bergville Group KZN
Mitchells Plain Group

Diabetes training of home-based carers

DSA developed a five-day course, approved by the Department of Health for home-based carers. From 2011 to 2014, DSA ran the diabetes courses in the Khayelitsha area and trained over 400 carers in the management of diabetes.

DSA product endorsements

When you are diagnosed with diabetes, the first thing you are faced with is “What am I allowed to eat which will not push my blood glucose levels up too high?”

In the early 2000s, DSA partnered with the GI Foundation of SA and Department of Health to approve products which are suitable for those with diabetes. Our aim is to assist patients in making the right choices. This project is still ongoing with many products listed.

Diabetes community screening

DSA has spent 55 years doing ongoing community and corporate screening programmes aimed at educating and informing the people of SA about diabetes and assisting with diagnosing those who may already have diabetes and are not aware they have it.

We give out literature, information, and advice to prevent the devastating complications which can arise from undiagnosed or unmanaged diabetes.

Diabetes South Africa website

Our website was established in 2000 and has been an ongoing source of information, education. and support for all people with diabetes and those wanting to find out more about issues relating to diabetes.

Diabetes Focus magazine

In March 1995, Rupert and Sue Leaner launched our national magazine Diabetes Focus with an excellent response. It was published, printed, and distributed to pharmaceutical companies, pharmacies, clinics, dietitians, doctors, and patients every quarter.

In 2014, the last print issue was produced. Due to the high costs, we decided to make it available to everyone on our national website.

Our Diabetes and You booklet was launched in 2000 with 127 000 copies. It’s available in five languages: English, Afrikaans, Xhosa, Zulu, and Sesotho, and explains diabetes in comic book style with lots of graphics and pictures. Our booklet won an international prize for excellence in educating people with diabetes.

Agents for Change

Agents for Change Rural Outreach Project was launched in 1999 and diabetes nurse educators, Buyelwa Majikela-Dlangamandla and Noy Pullen, travelled to the deeply rural and disadvantaged communities in South Africa for 21 years.

This project was funded by the World Diabetes Foundation to enable the two-day interactive learning experience for doctors, nurses, traditional healers, and patients throughout the rural areas in South Africa.

Global Diabetes Run/Walks

DSA Western Cape Branch started doing run/walk events every year from 2000 to 2006. In 2007, the Global Diabetes Run/Walk was launched and so DSA joined and received an award for our participation.

The rest of the branches followed suit and began doing their own Global Diabetes Run/Walk events which are still being done today. During these events, various screenings take place: blood pressure, blood glucose screening, foot examinations, eye screenings, and much more.

Warm up at 2013 Run:Walk
Runners and walkers along Sea Point Prominade

We have done many other events such as workshops, awareness, seminars, fundraising train trips, visits to clinics, and screenings.

DSA visiting Bonteheuwel CHC
DSA visiting Deft CHC
DSA in Humansdorp giving to patients
DSA with aQuellé at Makro Milnerton

DSA membership

A membership outreach was started early in DSA’s history and had been ongoing. Members can receive a free blood glucose meter, booklets, recipes, newsletters, discounts on products, free samples, discounted strip prices and much more, for a very small annual fee or a monthly debit order.

DSA is small with a huge challenge and has little financial support. As a result, we have had to think out of the box to provide services to the nearly five million people with diabetes in South Africa.

We would like to continue to help patients with diabetes.

Please help us to continue to save lives by supporting us. Every little bit helps!