Live an active and healthy lifestyle

The Standerton Lions Club held a blood drive and diabetes screening at the Junxion Shopping Centre on 14 March.

A free gift was on offer for those who donated blood. Residents came out in their numbers to test their blood sugar levels. Diabetes is a condition in which the body cannot produce insulin, or use it properly and is characterised by high blood glucose levels.

There is two types of diabetes namely type 1 and type 2.

• Type 1 diabetes is generally hereditary and develops in younger people.

It occurs when the part of the pancreas which produces insulin, the Islets of Langerhans, stop working.

• Type 2 diabetes generally develops in older people and is more common in those who are overweight and inactive.

With type 2 diabetes the body does produce insulin, but either not sufficient quantities or the body is unable to utilise it correctly.

• How to manage diabetes.

The essence of controlling diabetes, whether using medication, or a combination of diet and exercise, is keeping blood sugar within certain acceptable ranges.

The aim of treatment is to restore sugar levels in the body to normal levels and prevent complications. There are four basic steps to diabetes management.

1. Eat healthily.

2. Exercise is important.

3. Medication.

4. Monitor your blood sugar.

Diabetes itself cannot be prevented or anticipated, but you can make sure that you prevent complications by managing your condition responsibly.