Author: Chantelle van der MerweRegistered Dietician (SA) PG Dip Diabetes Management (UK) . Passionate about helping clients achieve type 2 diabetes remission! Are you one of the millions of people living with Type 2 Diabetes and wondering if remission is possible? Good news! You have a chance to achieve remission with the right lifestyle changes. Studies show that specific modifications to your lifestyle can put your Type 2 Diabetes "to sleep" and eliminate the need for oral anti-diabetic medications. Maintaining healthy habits can help you manage your blood sugar levels, but time is of the essence. The longer your blood glucose levels remain uncontrolled, the less likely you are to achieve remission.
There is no magic pill, and it requires dedication and effort on your part. But with a good support system in place, you can stay motivated throughout your journey. I will assist you step by step with a scientifically proven program. Several factors influence your chances of achieving Type 2 Diabetes remission, including:
It's essential to understand the difference between cure and remission when it comes to Type 2 Diabetes. Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for Type 2 Diabetes, which means it cannot be entirely eliminated from your body. However, it is possible to achieve remission by making significant healthy lifestyle changes, which can help manage your blood sugar levels for an extended period without medication. When you achieve remission, it means that your diabetes is under control, and your blood sugar levels are within a healthy range. This allows you to stop taking medication, but you must maintain healthy habits to keep your blood sugar levels in check. If you revert to old habits, your blood sugar levels will rise again, and you may need to resume medication to manage your diabetes. Achieving remission from Type 2 Diabetes is a significant accomplishment and can significantly improve your quality of life. By maintaining healthy habits such as regular exercise, healthy eating, and weight management, you can increase your chances of achieving and maintaining remission. While it may not be a complete cure, remission is an achievable and realistic goal that can help you live a healthier, happier life. Again, maintaining healthy habits can help you manage your blood sugar levels, but time is of the essence. The longer your blood glucose levels remain uncontrolled, the less likely you are to achieve remission.
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Don't fall victim: Why It's Crucial to Seek Diabetes Nutrition Advice from a Registered Dietitian4/25/2023 Author: Chantelle van der MerweRegistered Dietician (SA) PG Dip Diabetes Management (UK) . Saving those with diabetes one post at a time, from fake diabetes treatment quacks! There is nothing that infuriates me more than “hogwash, quackery” info out there given by non-registered individuals, taking advantage of vulnerable desperate persons who are trying to manage their diabetes better and who grasp at every last empty promise.
As someone living with diabetes, you are likely bombarded with various pieces of advice and recommendations for managing your condition. With the abundance of information available online and in social media, it can be challenging to determine what is legitimate and what is not. One thing that can make the situation worse is non-registered individuals peddling their own treatments and concoctions to vulnerable people. This type of misinformation and quackery can not only be frustrating, but it can also be dangerous, especially when it comes to managing a chronic condition like diabetes. That's why it's important to seek advice and guidance from registered healthcare professionals, such as registered dietitians. In South Africa, for example, dietitians must be registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) to practice legally. Being registered with a professional council means that dietitians clinical practices are regulated (like your GP) and they are required to attend continuous professional development courses every year. This ensures that they are up-to-date with the latest evidence-based practices and guidelines. As a result, they are better equipped to provide accurate and safe medical nutrition advice. What does this mean for you as a person living with diabetes? It means that you can trust the advice and recommendations provided by registered dietitians. It also means that you have recourse in case you encounter an unethical or unprofessional dietitian. If you have any concerns about the practice of a registered dietitian, you can report them to the HPCSA. The council will investigate the matter and take disciplinary action if necessary. This level of accountability and regulation is not available with non-registered individuals, meaning you’ll have a much harder time holding them liable and reporting them to a council. So, when it comes to managing your diabetes, it's crucial to seek advice from trusted healthcare professionals. Registered dietitians are one such group of professionals who can provide you with accurate and reliable medical nutrition advice. Remember to always verify the qualifications of the person providing you with advice and seek professional help when needed. Author: Chantelle van der MerweRegistered Dietician (SA) PG Dip Diabetes Management (UK) . Prevention is better than cure Have you taken the IDF Diabetes online risk assessment? If not, it might be worth considering taking it. It's a quick and easy way to determine your risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the next 10 years. The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) developed the IDF type 2 diabetes online diabetes risk assessment, which uses the Finnish Diabetes Risk Score. It asks you a few questions about your age, sex, family history of diabetes, physical activity level, diet, and other lifestyle factors to determine your risk. The good news is that taking the test is simple and straightforward. FIND OUT YOUR RISK: You can find a link to the IDF online risk assessment below. Once you click on the link, you will be taken to a webpage where you can fill out the questionnaire. It only takes a few minutes to complete, and you'll get your results right away. So, what's your score? Don't worry, there's no judgment here! It's important to know your risk so you can take steps to reduce it. If your results indicate that you're at high risk for developing type 2 diabetes, it's important to speak with your doctor to develop a plan to reduce your risk. Some simple lifestyle changes can make a big difference in reducing your risk. For example, maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can help prevent type 2 diabetes. Additionally, reducing your intake of processed foods and sugar-sweetened beverages can also lower your risk. Remember, taking the IDF Diabetes online risk assessment is just the first step in managing your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. By making positive changes to your lifestyle, you can reduce your risk and improve your overall health and well-being. So, take the test, and let us know your results in the comments below. We're here to help! Author: Chantelle van der MerweRegistered Dietitian (SA) PG Dip Diabetes Management (UK) . Saving those with diabetes one post at a time, from fake diabetes treatment quacks! Did you know that certain risk factors can increase your chances of developing type 2 diabetes? It's important to be aware of these risk factors so you can take proactive steps to minimize your risk. Here are some of the most common risk factors:
While having these risk factors doesn't guarantee that you'll develop type 2 diabetes, it's important to be proactive about managing your health. You can minimize your risk by adopting a healthy lifestyle, which includes regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and eating a balanced diet. Additionally, if you have any of the pre-existing conditions listed above, it's important to work with your healthcare provider to manage them effectively and reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Don't wait until it's too late - take control of your health and be proactive about reducing your risk for type 2 diabetes. Author: Chantelle van der MerweRegistered Dietitian (SA) PG Dip Diabetes Management (UK) . Saving those with diabetes one post at a time, from fake diabetes treatment quacks! Are you concerned about your risk for Type 2 Diabetes? Perhaps you’ve heard someone say, “I don’t eat sugar, so I can’t have diabetes, right?” Unfortunately, that’s not entirely true. While sugary foods do contribute to high blood sugar levels, it’s not just the sweet stuff that can wreak havoc on your body. Savoury carbohydrates and sugary carbohydrates, consumed in excess are not great for managing your blood sugar levels.
But don't panic - this doesn't mean you have to eliminate all carbohydrates from your diet. In fact, whole grain carbohydrates have a place in a healthy balanced diet. The key is to control your portion sizes and consult with a registered dietitian to help you create a meal plan that meets your individual needs. It's important to remember that an unhealthy diet is one of the major contributing factors to the development of Type 2 Diabetes. This means it's not just about avoiding refined and processed carbohydrates, but also about incorporating minimally processed foods and consuming adequate amounts of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and heart-healthy fats. Aside from diet, several other factors also increase your risk for developing Type 2 Diabetes. These include physical inactivity, being overweight, and smoking. It’s important to take a holistic approach to diabetes prevention and management, addressing all of these factors in your lifestyle. So, if you're concerned about your own risk for diabetes, it’s important to make an appointment with a healthcare professional and registered dietitian to discuss your options for a healthy lifestyle. With the right tools and support, you can take control of your health and prevent diabetes from taking hold. Don't wait until it's too late - take action now to protect your health and wellbeing. Author: Chantelle van der MerweRegistered Dietitian (SA) PG Dip Diabetes Management (UK) . Saving those with diabetes one post at a time, from fake diabetes treatment quacks! Are you struggling to keep your blood sugar levels in check? One of the most effective ways to manage diabetes is to watch what you eat. While carbohydrates are part of a healthy diet, it's important to choose wisely and avoid those that can sabotage your efforts.
In this blog post, we'll focus on the worst offenders - refined and processed carbohydrates. These culprits are often found in pre-packaged foods, foods come in "pakkies" , "sakkies" and "boksies" :) These are the foods that are typically low in fiber and high in hidden sugars. This is why it's crucial to read labels and be aware of what you're buying. Don't rely on gimmicky words like "vegan," "gluten-free," or "organic" to determine if a food is healthy or sugar-free. Chips, crisps, and "simbas" are just some of the common culprits. They may be tempting, but they are loaded with unhealthy fats and high in calories. Similarly, sugary drinks like soda and fruit juice can quickly raise your blood sugar levels and contribute to unhealthy weight gain. Other processed foods to watch out for include sugary snacks, white bread, shop-bought sauces, and flavored yogurts. Be mindful of what you're consuming and to opt for whole, unprocessed foods as often as possible. By doing so, you can help regulate your blood sugar levels and improve your overall health. It's easy to be tricked by marketing buzzwords, but remember that you have the power to make informed choices about what you eat. By minimizing your intake of refined, processed carbohydrates, you'll be well on your way to better managing your diabetes and living a healthier life. TOP TIP: Make sure most of your shopping cart is filled with less processed foods, such as vegetables, fruits, dairy products (including eggs), lean meats and whole grain breads. The less processed foods are typically found on the outer perimeter of the grocery store. Reduce your shopping cart content from being filled with convenience, processed foods generally found in the isles in the middle of the store. Have you ever been surprised by the amount of added sugars in a food? Let us know in the comments below. And don't forget to share this post with anyone who could benefit from these tips! Author: Chantelle van der MerweRegistered Dietitian (SA) PG Dip Diabetes Management (UK) . Passionate about practical and individualized nutrition therapy solutions Are your snacks possibly causing havoc and making it difficult to manage your blood sugar levels? You're not alone! Finding the right snacks can be a challenge, but it's important to remember that not all snacks are created equal. In fact, some snacks can actually help regulate your blood sugar levels and keep you feeling full and satisfied.
So, what are the best snacks for blood sugar regulation? The answer is simple: foods high in fiber, protein, and heart-healthy fats. These nutrients work together to slow down the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates, leading to a more stable blood sugar response. Let's break it down further. When it comes to protein-rich snacks, there are plenty of options to choose from. Lean biltong, boiled eggs, nuts, and cottage cheese with low-carb veggies like cucumber are all great choices. These snacks not only provide protein, but they also offer additional nutrients like vitamins and minerals that can help keep your body functioning at its best. In addition to protein, heart-healthy fats are also important for regulating blood sugar levels. Snacks like guacamole with baby carrots or nut butter (or a small handful of mixed nuts) with apple slices are great examples of snacks that contain healthy fats. These fats not only help slow down digestion and absorption, but they also provide other health benefits like reducing inflammation and improving heart health. It's important to remember that managing blood sugar levels isn't just about what you eat, but also how much you eat. Portion control is key when it comes to carbohydrate-containing snacks. By combining a small amount of carbs with a protein or healthy fat, you can help slow down the rise in blood glucose levels. TOP TIP: Choosing low carbohydrate containing snacks between meals will makes blood sugar regulation much easier. If you're on an insulin regimen to help control your blood sugar levels, it means that you most likely need to use short acting insulin for carbohydrate containing snacks as well, to prevent blood sugars from rising above desired target values. I get it, you don't want to test your blood sugar and inject insulin a million times a day, therefore if you are craving a snack opt for protein based options such as a small hand full nuts, a boiled egg, biltong, some cold meat such as beef silver side slices or pastrami, a small piece of cheese. Better yet! , combine these protein snacks with a lower carb veggie such as some cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices or bell pepper slices. So, the next time you're looking for a snack, remember to choose foods high in fiber, protein, and heart-healthy fats. And don't forget to manage your portions! What are your favorite blood sugar-friendly snacks? Let us know in the comments below! Author: Chantelle van der MerweRegistered Dietician (SA) PG Dip Diabetes Management (UK) . Prevention is better than cure! Do you know the warning signs of possible diabetes? It's important to recognize the symptoms, especially if you have other risk factors for developing this condition. Here are the top 3 warning signs to watch out for:
It's important to note that type 2 diabetes may not always present with obvious symptoms, and as many as one-third to one-half of people with this condition may be undiagnosed. That's why it's important to contact a doctor for an evaluation if you experience any possible signs or symptoms of diabetes, especially if you have other risk factors. Early detection and treatment of type 2 diabetes can improve your quality of life and reduce the risk of severe complications. Don't wait until it's too late - be proactive about your health and get tested for diabetes if you suspect you may be at risk. Author: Chantelle van der MerweRegistered Dietician (SA) PG Dip Diabetes Management (UK) . Prevention is better than cure Are you at risk for type 2 diabetes? The answer may surprise you. Even if you feel healthy and have no symptoms, you could be at risk.
Type 2 diabetes is a prevalent disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a chronic condition that can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to manage your health and reduce your risk of developing diabetes. One of those steps is getting tested for diabetes. But who should get tested? Let's explore the answer to that question and learn more about diabetes testing. According to the Society of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes of South Africa and the American Diabetes Association, there are two instances when testing is recommended. The first is if you're over the age of 45. As we age, our risk for diabetes increases. The second instance is for all adults, regardless of age, who are overweight with a BMI greater than 25 kg/m2 (or greater than 23 kg/m2 for Asians) and have one or more additional risk factors. What are those additional risk factors? They include physical inactivity, hypertension (blood pressure greater than or equal to 140/90 mmHg) or treatment for hypertension, having a first-degree relative with diabetes, dyslipidemia (low HDL cholesterol or high triglycerides), polycystic ovarian syndrome, high-risk race/ethnicity (such as Asian, Indian or Coloured), history of cardiovascular disease, gestational diabetes, weighing more than 4 kg at birth, previous impaired fasting glucose or impaired glucose tolerance, and other conditions associated with insulin resistance such as severe obesity or acanthosis nigricans (a skin condition charactertised by dark, velvety patches in body folds and creases. If you fall into any of these categories, it's important to get tested. The good news is that testing is easy and can be done in your doctor's office. A simple blood test can measure your blood glucose levels and determine if you have diabetes or are at risk for developing it. It's also important to note that if your test results are normal, you should still be screened again every three years. If you develop symptoms of diabetes, such as increased thirst, frequent urination, or blurred vision, you should be screened again sooner. Remember, prevention is always better than cure. By getting tested for diabetes, you can take steps to manage your health and reduce your risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Author: Chantelle van der MerweRegistered Dietician (SA) PG Dip Diabetes Management (UK) . Saving those with diabetes one post at a time, from fake diabetes treatment quacks! Are you someone living with diabetes or insulin resistance who's been told to avoid fruit at all costs? If so, we have some good news for you: that advice is outdated and just plain wrong. In fact, fruit is an essential part of a healthy diet, providing the body with vital vitamins and minerals that can help you maintain overall health and wellbeing.
But here's the catch: it's not about avoiding fruit altogether. It's about controlling your portions and frequency of consumption. And these factors can vary from person to person, so it's important to monitor your blood sugar levels and work with your registered dietitian to develop a plan that's right for you. When it comes to portion sizes, a general rule of thumb is to aim for a cup-sized (250ml) portion of fruit per serving. And if you pair your fruit with a protein and/or a healthy fat, it can help reduce sugar spikes and keep your blood sugar levels steady. For example, try apple slices with a dollop of peanut butter, or whip up a smoothie with one fruit portion, some yogurt, and 2-3 tablespoons of mixed nuts and seeds. You can even enjoy a small cup portion of fruit after a meal that contained protein and fiber-rich veggies like broccoli or cabbage. But it's not just about portion sizes. Frequency of consumption is important too. Be mindful of not "double-dipping" on carbohydrate containing foods at meals. For instance, pairing a healthy seeded bread sandwich (carbohydrate source) with an additional fruit (also a carbohydrate source) may be too much. Instead, opt for a protein-based salad with lots of green veggies (high fiber source), drizzled with heart-healthy oil and a small portion of fruit such apple or pineapple in chicken salad. Or have the sandwich with a side of cherry tomatoes and cucumber slices (a lower-carb , high fiber option). When it comes to fruit juice, it's best to eat your fruit rather than drink it. And be wary of tinned fruits in sugary syrup and dried fruits, which can be easy to overdo. In conclusion, fruit is an important part of a healthy diet, even if you have diabetes or insulin resistance. By controlling your portions and frequency of consumption, and pairing your fruit with protein and/or healthy fats, you can enjoy the many health benefits that fruit has to offer without compromising your blood sugar levels. |
Chantelle vd Merwe RD (SA)
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