High blood sugar levels mark diabetes mellitus, or simply diabetes. This occurs when the body does not respond to or produce enough insulin - a hormone converting sugar into the energy we need for our daily activities. Department of Health statistics show that it affects 1 out of 25 Filipinos and is ranked as the ninth leading cause of deaths in the country.

Diabetes is a potentially life threatening condition since it is often associated with long term damage and organ failure, especially in the eyes, kidneys, nerves, heart, and blood vessels.

While it is often called the silent killer, because one can have it without knwoing it, there are some symptoms to watch out for. This include blurred vision, fatigue, frequent uriniation, excessive thirst, increased appetite, unexplained weight loss, and having a blood sugar level higher than 200mg/DL.

While the key to preventing or managing diabetes is by complying with the doctor's order - taking oral medicine or insulin shots, or both - a lifestyle change can make a difference. This includes:

• Regular monitoring of your blood sugar level
• Exercise and a healthy diet
• Saying no to cakes and chocolates
• Limiting your salt and fat intake
• Avoiding processed foods and beverages, especially those containing high fructose corn syrup, white flour or transfat
• Opting for high fiber carbohydrates, lean proteins, leafy greens, whole grains, and nuts
• Also, do not skip or delay meals to avoid fluctuations in blood sugar levels.

Reference: The Philippine Star. Monitor your blood glucose with Accu-Check. 15 Aug 2010.

Admin's Addendum:

Diabetics (whether or not undergoing medication) are advised to drink the FIRST VITA PLUS unsweetened or sugar free variant.