Diabetes Centre

Diabetes is a disease that affects the way the body uses food. It is caused by a lack of insulin, which is a hormone made in the pancreas that helps the body’s cells use sugar (glucose) for energy. Insulin is necessary for the body to process nutrients (carbohydrates, fats and proteins), and its absence causes high sugar (glucose) levels in the blood.

There are two types of diabetes, namely:

Type 1 diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes
Type 2 diabetes or non-insulin-dependent diabetes

Common diabetes concerns

Even with diligent diabetes management, it is still possible for your blood glucose to occasionally drop too low, or spike too high. Very high or very low blood sugar levels [...]

Are you at risk for diabetes?

These questions will give you an indication if you are at risk for diabetes and will help you decide if you should be tested for diabetes. Questions to determine your [...]

Glycaemic index and diabetes

The Glycaemic Index or GI is an important tool in the dietary treatment of diabetes. It is not a fashion diet or fad that will be replaced by another soon [...]

Have insulin, will travel

We live in a global village. To travel from one continent to another has become commonplace. Follow these tips for a safe and healthy journey when you travel, whether by [...]

Your diabetes team

People who are diagnosed with a chronic disease often feel very alone. However, there is a team of people and specialists who can help you manage your diabetes. These people [...]

Pros and cons of an insulin pump

For many diabetics a new era has dawned since the insulin pump became available. Others, on the other hand, aren't so enthusiastic. An insulin pump is a small, computerised device [...]

Diabetes and your teenager

The teenage years can be a difficult time for both teens and their parents. On the one hand, parents would like their teen to take responsibility for his or her [...]

Diabetics can eat well

Living with diabetes doesn't have to mean feeling deprived. The key is to focus on a tasty, balanced diet that will also boost your energy and improve your mood. There [...]

Diabetes – knowledge is power

On 7 April the world observes World Health Day. The theme for 2016 is BEAT DIABETES. This is your chance to test your knowledge about this crippling disease. Complete this [...]

FAQs about diabetes

These are the most frequently asked questions about diabetes. Question: What is diabetes? Answer: When the body is unable to produce or properly store and use glucose, a condition named [...]

What men need to know about diabetes

Men are notoriously uncomfortable about discussing their health issues, particularly conditions such as diabetes, depression or sexual dysfunction. This has contributed in shorter and less healthy lives for men compared [...]

Influence of diabetes on the male physique

The symptoms of diabetes in men and women are generally similar. However, there are also exceptions. One of the most common but least talked about is male impotence and how [...]

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