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Diabetes is the 10th leading cause of death in Singapore

It has been one of the fastest growing health challenges of this century; Singapore estimated to have (13.7%) 606,000 people with diabetes currently. By 2030, the number of people residing in Singapore who are 40 years old and above with diabetes is projected to increase by another 200,000 from about 400,000 today. As there is no cure for diabetes, keeping it under control is crucial.

The number of adults estimated to be living with diabetes has nearly quadrupled over 35 years, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has said, warning that it has increased drastically because of “the way people eat, move and live”.

Generally, diabetes begins when there’s too much sugar in your blood. Type 1 diabetic is when the pancreas innately cannot produce insulin to regulate the blood sugar levels. This Type is hereditary and unpreventable, unlike Type 2 diabetes, which occurs due to weight issues. It is usually caused by lifestyle factors like drinking alcohol and not exercising regularly.

Treating diabetes

“There is no cure for diabetes, which is a lifelong disease,” according to doctors at the Singapore General Hospital (SGH). It can be controlled through various means such as a healthy diet, regular work out, oral medication to balance blood glucose, insulin injections, and regular monitoring and control of blood sugar.

Tips for a healthy diet when you have diabetes

1. Don’t forget your grains

Unlike refined grain foods like white rice and plain bread, whole grains are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, fibre and protective plant chemicals called phytochemicals.

2. Pick food rich in proteins

Select protein-rich foods which are lesser in fat and cholesterol such as lean meat, fish, yogurt, legumes and nuts.

3. Eat your fruit and veggies

Fruit and vegetables are naturally minimal in fat and rich in vitamins, minerals and ​fibre.

4. Cut the oil, fat, salt and sugar

Choose healthier foods which are lower in salt, added sugar and fat. Control frequent alcohol consumption.

Sources: The Straits Times, Singapore Health, Health Promotion Board, The Online Citizen