Diabetes Buddies
This project's parent organization is Women for Peace
It operates in South Africa
It uses Indigenous games and Athletics
Entered the Sport for Health Award
More about Diabetes Buddies
Diabetes is a critical public health concern in our communities, but resources for preventing and managing the conditions are scarce. A lack of education and understanding prevails around the disease. There is a high incidence of diabetes in the local communities due in part to the prevalence of unhealthy eating and lifestyle habits. When someone is diagnosed with diabetes critical lifestyle changes, dietary amendments and the administration become necessary.
Managing the disease is expensive. Women for Peace’s research within the community confirmed the need for diabetes support groups. Cost effective ways were introduced to the group on how to control diabetes: a) Physical exercises which improve blood circulation, cut changes or having stroke or heart attack and moreover, burn fats. b) Participants receive a pedometer at the start of the programme in order to measure their physical activity levels and to promote an active lifestyle c) Other physical activities for the participants are push-ups, sit ups, dancing and dig gardens. Any physical activity of the daily life can help against feeling discouraged, stressful or even depressed by having a chronic disease as the activities can produce feel good chemicals (e.g. Endorphins) in brain.