Diabetes

Diabetes, both Type 1 diabetes and Type 2 diabetes, affects about 1.8 million Australians. 

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition that leads to the immune system destroying cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. The cause of Type 1 diabetes is not entirely known, and it is not linked with any modifiable risk factors. People usually develop Type 1 diabetes very suddenly and when they are children. It is managed by insulin injections or an insulin pump, and careful dietary choices. 

Type 2 diabetes is a condition that develops when the body becomes resistant to the normal effects of insulin, and the pancreas gradually releases less insulin. Type 2 diabetes is strongly linked to genetics risk factors and modifiable lifestyle risk factors including dietary patterns and physical activity. When someone develops Type 2 diabetes, their blood sugar levels will be above the healthy range, and they may be prescribed medication or insulin and recommended to make dietary changes to manage this. If Type 2 diabetes is not managed carefully and progresses, it can cause irreversible damage to your hands and feet, eyes and kidneys. The progression of Type 2 diabetes can be slowed or even completely halted with changes to diet and physical activity. In some cases, people can reverse their diabetes diagnoses through these changes. 

Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes require dietary management, and dietitians are qualified to provide this individualised support. At Mind Mode Psychology & Wellness in Wollongong, 

Denelle is able to provide nutrition counselling to people diagnosed with both forms of diabetes. Denelle can support you to make the dietary changes needed to manage your diabetes in a sustainable and personalised way