Diabetes – It’s worth doing the test

Diabetes is the second leading underlying cause of death in South Africa.

It is important to know what the signs of high blood sugar are so that Diabetes can be picked up and treated early.

More importantly we should know how to prevent Diabetes. Read the tips below to help you identify signs of high blood sugar and how to decrease your risk.

Signs of high blood sugar:

• Increased thirst

• Having no energy

• Passing urine often

• Blurred vision

• Sores or wounds taking long to heal

If you experience any of these signs, go to your doctor and ask them to do a test to screen for Diabetes.

There are steps you can take to decrease your risk of being diagnosed with Diabetes.

The following are risk factors you can change to decrease your risk:

• Stop smoking

• Change your diet to one that is lower in sugar and refined carbohydrates and fat

• Lose weight

• Start exercising