South Australia, like many regions across the world, is witnessing a surge in Type Diabetes. Factors like minimal physical activity, food patterns low in nutritionally dense foods, high stress levels and sub-optimal sleep patterns are contributing to this concerning trend. According to recent statistics, approximately one in ten adults in South Australia are living with diabetes, predominantly Type 2 Diabetes.
Risk Factors for Developing Type 2 Diabetes
- People aged over 40 who living in larger bodies or impaired fasting glucose or impaired glucose tolerance
- History of cardiovascular events,
- Pacific Islander, Indian Subcontinent, Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait ethnicity
- Women with history of polycystic ovary syndrome or gestational diabetes
Anyone over 40 years of age is recommended to have a AUSDRISK assessment which will assess your risk factors for Type 2 Diabetes.
First Signs and Symptoms
- Lethargy
- Excessive urination and thirst
- Frequent fungal or bacterial infections
- Blurred vision
- Loss of sensation (ie touch, vibration, cold)
- Poor wound healing
- Unintentional weight loss
If the above sound familiar, at your appointment your GP may order either a random blood glucose test or a fasting blood glucose test. If you are told to take the latter, then you will need to fast (consume no food or drink except water) 8 hours prior to your blood test. Once the GP has the blood test results, they will be able to determine if you meet the requirements for pre- diabetes or Type 2 Diabetes.
If you have none of the symptoms previously mentioned, you could be “asymptomatic”. The GP may refer you for a second blood test at a later date.
Alternatively, the Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) is the gold standard for diagnosing Type 2 Diabetes. Please request this test to your GP if you are concerned about diabetes.
What to do next?
Identifying diabetes in its early stages provides you an opportunity to improve your glucose levels through a better exercise régime, eating routine and lifestyle measures like stress and sleep. At Nourish, we would love to help you make simple tweaks to your nutrition for sustainable health and reach diabetes remission. If this sounds like you — enquire here or book an appointment
