Jane McGroarty finds out more about anxiety disorders and how to cope with them…

Your hands get sweaty,your fingers tingle and your breathing gets shallow. You’re feeling restless, tense and jumpy. You’re struggling to concentrate and have feelings of dread. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone: anxiety affects roughly one in five people says Janine Shamos, a resilience therapist, lecturer and spokesperson for the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag).

But what is anxiety? According to Janine, ‘It’s a feeling of nervousness, fear or excessive apprehension in the absence of any real threat.’ Symptoms include feeling panicky, an increased heart rate, sweaty palms, a tingly feeling in your fingers, a feeling of nervousness or dread, shallow breathing and feeling like you’re having a heart attack. ‘If someone fears driving or speaking in public, for example, they will most likely feel that dread increasingly as the event gets closer and may feel ill or “out of sorts”,’ Janine explains.

WHAT CAUSES ANXIETY
Janine says the most common culprits include stress, excessive caffeine consumption, substance abuse, trauma and exposure to violence. But, she adds, there is a genetic component to anxiety so you may also be at risk if a family member suffers from it.

TYPES OF ANXIETY DISORDERS
• Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) is characterised by inflated tension and worry without any apparent cause, leading to inability to sleep or relax, light-headedness, short-ness of breath, nausea, trembling, muscle tension, headaches, irritability or sweating.

• Panic attacks and panic disorders are when the sufferer feels sudden and unpredictable terror, which can become problematic if it makes people avoid situations they fear may trigger an attack. Symptoms include a rapid pulse, chest pains, shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea, numbness, trembling and a fear of going crazy or dying.

• Agoraphobia is a fear of being in a place (usually a public space) where escape would be difficult. It is often accompanied by panic disorder and is one of the most disabling anxiety disorders because it causes sufferers to avoid places they fear an attack may occur. In severe cases, an agoraphobic person will become so restricted they cannot leave their home.

• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is typified by rituals, such as washing hands or compulsively and repeatedly checking things. People with OCD often have persistent and recurring thoughts, which can become obsessive.

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may occur after a particularly stressful event and often leaves sufferers plagued by frightening thoughts and memories. Symptoms include avoidance behaviours, reliving of the traumatic event and physiological manifestations such as difficulty sleeping, irritability and sometimes even violent outbursts.

• Social anxiety disorder (SAD) is also known as social phobia and is characterised by extreme anxiety about being judged by others or behaving in a way that may cause embarrassment or ridicule. It causes symptoms such as blushing, heart palpitations, light-headedness and profuse sweating.

HOW TO COPE
While anxiety disorders may not be life-threatening, they can limit a person’s social and work life if left untreated. ‘One important symptom or result of anxiety is that of avoid-ance – people start steering clear of anything and anywhere that may make them feel anxious.’

According to Janine, one of the first steps to coping with your anxiety is to admit that there is an issue and to know what situations trigger your anxiety. ‘There are treatments that are very successful, for example cognitive behavioural therapy. Also, there are changes you can make such as avoiding too much caffeine and salt, practising deep breathing and learning the triggers and first signs of a panic attack so you can stop the progression by breathing deeply and focusing on something around you,’ she says.

NOT JUST A NUMBER
According to the National Institute of Mental Health in the US, anxiety disorders affect roughly 40 million adults living there, which costs the country a whopping $42 billion (about R358 billion) every year.

Unfortunately, Sadag says there are currently no official stats on anxiety sufferers in South Africa. If you suspect you may be suffering from any form of anxiety, Janine recommends that you contact Sadag for more information or for a referral to a specialist.

Secret garden – Cast a spell with beautiful, fairy-tale hues…

Cherry blossom
These sweet shades lift and brighten any skin tone and can be dressed up or down in an instant. Wear them as subtle accents on your eyes, cheeks and lips for a rosy glow or choose a bold hue slicked on to your lips. Perfect for making a good impression on your first date.

Gold mine
A match made in heaven, the rich pairing of red and gold is the look of choice when a touch of elegance is needed. We love gilded lids with a flaming hue on the lips, but you can play it down with golden highlights on your brows and cheeks, and bright red nails.
Perfect for a heady, romantic evening sipping Champagne.

Time to sparkle
When going glitzy, remember it’s all about balance. Keep your eyes dark and smoky with winged liner and bold feathered lashes. For the rest, your skin and mouth should be flawless, played up with a natural colour to highlight your skin tone. Perfect for dancing the night away.

Andrea Ketteringham has a few ways to make healthy living a family affair

It’s hard enough giving your diet a complete overhaul and hitting the gym more frequently. So imagine dragging a reluctant spouse, a sulky toddler or a grumpy teen along – finding the motivation may be a bit of a challenge. But implementing and maintaining a wholesome lifestyle doesn’t have to be an uphill battle, and you don’t need expensive gym memberships or extravagant workout equipment at home either. Try these five tips to improve your family’s quality of life.

DO AN ASSESSMENT
If you are serious about adjusting your lifestyle, you’ll need to get every member of the family on board and ready for the change. Explain to them that this is something that has been on your mind and you would like to discuss it together as a unit. Ask everyone to offer a few ideas on why health is important and what they think you’re collectively doing right and what could be improved. Making sure everyone feels involved in this process is critical – if you don’t do this, children may feel resentful of sudden changes imposed on them.

CREATE AN IDENTITY
Many of us observe some inherited traditions, such as Saturday braais or Sunday lunches. ‘These create a family identity and provide a sense of security,’ says wellness consultant and parent coach Stephanie Maurel. But you don’t have to carry on the traditions inherited from your parents, particularly if these are unhealthy. ‘Introduce new ideas such as ‘‘meat-free Mondays’’ or Saturday morning hikes,’ suggests Stephanie. At least one TV-free night a week is another good idea: instead of all staring at the screen, play a family game, do something creative or use the time to chat. If your kids are not too keen on these ideas, involve them by asking for other suggestions.

SWEAT TOGETHER
Regular workouts are a vital part of healthy living and it’s important to set an example that will help your kids see exercise as something to be enjoyed. Set aside at least half an hour on most days of the week for something active – whether it’s encouraging your children to do school sports while you go for a jog or kicking a soccer ball around the garden.

BUILD THE PYRAMID
In its simplest terms, a nutritious diet is based on the food pyramid. Your children may hear about this at school, but it won’t be meaningful to them unless their meals at home are structured around this too. This is what you need:

• 6–11 servings of carbohydrates (bread, rice, cereal, pasta)
• 3–5 servings of vegetables
• 2–4 servings of fruit
• 2–3 servings of protein (meat, poultry, fish, beans, eggs, nuts)
• 2–3 servings of dairy (milk, yoghurt, cheese)
• Sparing amounts of fat (one serving = 50–80g).

START GARDENING
There’s nothing more satisfying than eating the fresh produce that you’ve just pulled out of the soil, and it’s also a great way to teach your children how to grow their own vegetables. Fresh herbs, spinach, lettuce, carrots and tomatoes are all easy to keep in your garden and can be added to almost any meal.

DON’T FORGET MENTAL HEALTH
Wholesome living is about more than the physical aspects – emotional resilience and self-confidence are also important. These underpin everything we do in life and play a critical role in achieving our goals. ‘Make sure affection, appreciation, commitment to one another and positive communication are priorities in your household,’ says Stephanie. Nurture a collective value system and encourage each other’s interests, strengths and talents.

All together now

• Play soccer or cricket in your garden or nearest park – invite your neighbours for some added competition.
• Set up a regular games night and give each family member a turn to choose the activity.
• Have a movie night at home with popcorn or fruit smoothies for a special treat.
• Cook dinner together. Try out home-made burgers, where everyone can add their own favourite toppings, or Mexican food such as nachos, tortillas or burritos.
• Go camping and tell stories about your childhood round the fire – your children will enjoy hearing about the mischief you got up to as a child.

Did you know?
The Club has medical professionals available to assist with any medical queries you may have, free of charge. Call 0861 424 789.
Club members outside South Africa should dial +27 11 991 8330.

If you’re going to show a little skin this summer, here’s our guide to a perfect complexion. By Juana Parathyras
Quench the thirst
Balanced and hydrated skin equals happy skin. But how do you know which product you should be using? Jody Hyam, group communications executive for Clarins, recommends choosing a moisturiser that’s suited to both your skin type and age. You also have to consider what skin con- cerns, for example pigmentation, acne or wrinkles, you would like to address and factor that into your decision. Ultimately, you would need a product that will hydrate, but also protect your skin from external factors such as pollution.  If you have oily or combination skin… Jody suggests opting for a moisturiser with a light formulation that will give your skin with a all-day matt appearance.

Try these

• Clarins HydraQuench lotion SPF 15 (R495) tightens pores and limits oil production. It contains katafray bark, which hydrates deep into the skin and makes it smoother and plumper.
• Clarins Ultra-Matte lotion (R330) is a great option for very oily skin. The formula refines the texture of your skin and gives it a matt finish.

If you have pigmentation or uneven skin tone… Choose products containing brightening ingredients and a built-in SPF. They prevent dark spots from becoming even darker when you step into the sun.

Try these

• Clarins Bright Plus Brightening day lotion SPF 20 (R550) has a ‘lock-around system’ that helps to minimise the production of dark pigmentation, resulting in even-toned skin.

All-rounder… Don’t make the mistake of focusing only on your face – invest in a good body lotion too.

Try these

• For everyday, try Clarins Satin-Smooth body lotion (R365). The lightweight texture is easily absorbed and non-greasy. For dry skin, Jody recommends Clarins Moisture-Rich body lotion (R365). It will deeply nourish your skin while stimulating cell renewal for overall improved tone and texture.

Scrub down We’ve said it before and we’re going to say it again: the benefits of exfoliation are numerous. ‘Applied twice a week, an exfoliator removes dead skin cells, smooths skin tone and texture, and stimulates and encourages penetration of the products you use afterwards,’ says Jody.

Here are three of our favourites:

• Clarins Gentle PeelingSmoothing Away cream (R330). Make sure your skin is clean and your hands are dry before applying the product. Smooth it on to your skin in an even layer and allow to dry, then use your fingers to roll the cream away. It’s ideal even for sensitive skin.
• Clarins Gentle ExfoliatorBrightening toner (R340). Put a few drops on a cotton pad and wipe across your face to dissolve dead skin cells. It’s an instant exfoliation when you don’t have the time to scrub. Use two to three times a week.
• Clarins Smoothing body scrub (R385). Apply to damp skin in circular movements, working up towards the heart to improve circulation, says Jody. It will refine and soften your skin by removing impurities and dead surface cells. The bamboo powder will exfoliate, while the liquorice extract softens.

TIP
Concentrate on rough areas, such as the elbows, back of the arms, knees, thighs and feet.

Fake it
The sun is your skin’s number-one enemy, but what do you do if you’re desperate for a bit of colour on your pins? Self tan doesn’t have to be scary – the streaks and uneven colour can be avoided.

For your face
Applied with a cotton pad on to moisturised skin, Clarins Liquid Bronze Self Tanning (R310) will give you a perfectly even result. It’s suitable for all skin tones and you can control how dark you would like your ‘tan’ to be. Jody suggests allowing the colour to develop fully (wait around three to four hours) before applying another layer – but that’s only if you want to go darker.

TIP
Self tan wears off gradually, so it’s best to apply the product every few days to keep your colour vibrant and consistent.

For your body
To ensure you don’t end up looking like a zebra, you need to start with a good product. And remember to exfoliate before applying! Jody recommends trying Clarins Delicious Self Tanning cream (R355). This quick-dry cream glides on and the star ingredient, cocoa, will even soothe and protect your skin.

TIP
Because self tan is easily absorbed into the hands and nails, make sure you give them a scrub immediately after application to avoid discolouration

CHOOSE YOUR GIFT
Get to your nearest The Foschini Group store from 23 January to 5 February 2012 and receive a stylish Clarins cosmetics bag when purchasing any two Clarins products, one of which must be a moisturiser or serum. Then you can choose four free travel-sized products to fill it!(While stocks last – one collection per customer).

Every year on 1 December, the international community observes World Aids Day. Cindy Tilney asks experts in the field about the status of the disease in our country.
As a nation, we have come a long way since our president denied the existence of HIV/Aids and the only antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) available were privately or internationally funded. We now have a government that’s committed to engaging with this problem, new infection rates are lower than they were in the late 1990s and ARVs have been freely available to the public sector since 2004.

These developments, together with medical advances and early intervention, have made it possible to deliver HIV-negative babies from HIV-positive mothers, and for HIV-positive babies to grow into healthy teenagers. On the face of things, the situation has vastly improved. But those working on the front line say SA still has major challenges to overcome in the struggle against HIV.

THE STATE OF AFFAIRS
In a statement made at the end of August this year, Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe said there are still approximately 5.38 million people in the country living with Aids – one of the highest rates in the world. ‘The spread of new infections continues to outpace our prevention efforts, and so prevention programmes will be prioritised in the new national strategic plan, which is currently being developed for the term 2012 to 2016,’ he added.‘ARVs saves lives – that’s a fact,’ says Treatment Action Campaign (TAC) volunteer Monde Hobongwana. But, he says, there still needs to be more research into drug resistance and side effects, easier access to drugs and healthcare services, and more local funding channels need to be tapped into in order to decrease our dependence on international aid.

THE CATCH-22
There is good news: the number of people on effective treatment and living longer lives is steadily increasing. However, the need for these people to be adequately treated has left a gaping hole in the medical system. There’s a drastic shortage of healthcare workers, doctors in day clinics are overloaded with work and rarely see the same patient twice, and counsellors often aren’t trained or emotionally equip-ped to deal with the psychological aspects of HIV and the related stress.

‘With improved healthcare and reduced mother-to-child transmission, things have changed drastically from the ’90s, when half the hospital beds in the country were taken up by HIV positive children,’ says Dr Paul Roux, head of paediatrics at Cape Town’s Groote Schuur Hospital and one of the founders of the non-profit organisation Kidzpositive.
‘Today I worry more about the psychosocial challenges than the physical and medical issues. This is the first generation of HIV-positive children making it to adolescence, along with all the complexities accompanying that stage of life, so there’s a need for psychosocial services, especially skilled youth counsellors.’

‘The problem is much more than just medical,’ agrees psychologist Jenny Gray, who counsels HIV-positive children and their parents. She points out that in SA, the vast majority of children born into HIV-positive families have to deal with much more than the impact of the disease itself.

Typically, they’re also exposed to a range of other issues: poverty, domestic violence, poor or non-existent parenting, dysfunctional relationships and lack of education. Many have lost one or both parents to the disease and have grown up in children’s homes. Often one partner leaves when they find out the other is positive, leaving a disempowered caregiver to look after a sick child. Intensifying HIV’s psychosocial impact is the disease’s ability to affect the brain. ‘Many people don’t know this, but in the same way Aids affects other organs, it can cause neurological damage that ranges from mild disorders to severe HIV dementia,’ says Hetta Gouse, project manager of UCT’s HIV Neuropsychology Programme.

‘What we need is an awareness of the psychological and cognitive effects of the disease. Aids really is manageable and we have a good future ahead, but people need to understand that without mental health, there’s no health at all. So the sooner cerebral disorders are identified, the better the chance the patient will receive the treat-ment they need.’It’s a considerable challenge to address the increased healthcare needs adequately, says researcher Dr David Coetzee of UCT’s Infectious Disease Epidemiology Unit. The one concept is to create community-based outpatient ‘clubs’ that work as support systems and medical intervention centres. These would help to weigh and assess patients, distribute ARVs and provide proper counselling services.

‘Stigma is unfortunately still rife and drug adherence is a major problem,’ he says. ‘Some don’t take their drugs because they are in denial; others because of practical reasons linked to poverty and lack of education. It’s important for people to accept and acknowledge their status, and to sign up for taking their medication every day and to nurture themselves properly instead of escaping into drugs and alcohol.’

MAN TO MAN
‘We do need to move towards a situation where family presence is a priority,’ says Vaughan Stannard of Beautiful Gate children’s hospice. He believes men in particular need to move to a place where they take responsibility for themselves and their families.

‘I can count on one hand the number of fathers I see at our clinic. The parenting courses we run are attended almost exclusively by women. Fathers are having kids, but not taking responsibility for them. Where is the husband/father/man taking the role to prevent the spread of HIV or support those affected by it? Where are the real men? Until they stand up, the problems are not going to disappear. The solution has to start with them,’ says Vaughan.

Part of the issue, he says, is that there are not many organisations and resources directed at men – the majority of funding is channelled into working with women and children.

‘More women are diagnosed and treated for Aids, and many men are in denial about their status. But the healthcare system is women-friendly and there hasn’t been much attempt to include men,’ adds Dr Coetzee.

‘Hospitals are staffed primarily by women nurses and counsellors, and antenatal clinics provide a safe, easy way for women to be tested. We need to find ways of encouraging men to be tested and to know their status.’

ATTITUDE ADJUSTMENT
When Monde was diagnosed HIV positive in 2008 at the age of 34, it came as a huge shock. ‘There are a lot of perceptions about the disease and I was worried about the stigma associated with it. But I have since accepted my status and I wear my HIV-positive T-shirts openly around the community. It wasn’t easy in the beginning – some people stared at me; others turned away and wouldn’t look at me. The more I speak about HIV, people see I’m happy and lively, and accept it.’

Not all HIV-positive people are so accepting of their status though, says Monde. Some blame themselves for the illness, are overwhelmed by fear and stress and resort to alcohol or drugs to ease the pain. It’s this self-stigmatisation that can do more harm to individuals than anything else, says Dr Roux. ‘It results in shame, hiding, trying to appear normal, all of which take a lot of energy.’

Community attitudes seem to have improved immensely and the majority of HIV-positive people don’t feel compelled to hide their status any more. But the stigma persists, particularly in cultural and religious arenas, says Monde. ‘The perception of HIV-positive men and women as “sinners” still needs to change.’

WHY THERE’S HOPE
Experts aren’t disheartened by the future of the situation – the depth of need only makes them passionate to do more. ‘Working in this field, you need to look big to overcome the challenges, but to find hope, you need to look small,’ says Vaughan.
‘We have to look at it on a micro- scale,’ agrees Jenny. ‘If we dwell on the macro, it’s easy to feel powerless and overwhelmed, but the microcosm is filled with beauty and wonder.

‘People often aren’t aware of the impact a single effort can have, but it can spark a chain reaction. There’s so much good happening – people are talking to each other, laughing and crying together. Doing this work has been an amazingly humbling experience and has generated a strong belief in the resilience of the human spirit.’

It’s not a dark picture, says Mary-Jane Matsolo of the TAC. ‘There’s effort and research going into it every day. We’re constantly finding ways to improve treatment and prolong the lives of HIV-positive people. If we all work together – the government and the public and private sectors – we can beat this.’

Useful contacts

• Aids National Helpline   0800 012 322   www.aidshelpline.org.za
• Beautiful Gate   021 370 2500   www.beautifulgate.org
• Kidzpositive   021 686 9710   www.kidzpositive.org
• Lifeline   www.lifeline.org.za
• Treatment Action Campaign   www.tac.org.za

This time of year is about relaxation, fun and maybe a little overindulgence. Here’s how to keep a healthy balance.  By Jane McGroartyLazy lunches with friends, suppers with the extended family, desserts, drinks … it’s no wonder we tend to pick up a few extra kilos over the festive season. You may be enjoying time off, but that doesn’t mean your exercise routine and healthy eating habits should be too.

EVERYTHING IN MODERATION
Banish the thinking that you need to steer clear of certain foods, says Kim Hofmann, a Cape Town-based dietitian. Her secret: only ‘taste’ the high-fat treats and then fill up on the healthier, lower-fat foods. To make sure you don’t deprive yourself of any tasty goodies, control your portion sizes so you can eat a little bit of everything without too many negative consequences.

Kim suggests the following tips to keep your portions in control.• Eat often. Consume small snacks between your meals to keep you satiated and prevent overeating.

• Eat ‘consciously’. Be mindful of what you’re putting in your mouth and test yourself by recalling everything you’ve eaten at the end of each day.
• Listen to your body.  Stop eating when you feel satisfied, not stuffed.
• Be aware of sneaky extras. A lot of kilojoules come in the form of drinks, so go for sparkling water or diet cooldrinks.

KEEP MOVING
If you’re hoping to avoid the post-holiday battle with the bulge, try keeping as active as possible to burn off the extra kilojoules you’re consuming. ‘Choose an activity you know you’ll enjoy. Something realistic, but challenging enough to work up a sweat and get your heart pumping,’ says personal trainer Dave Giloi.

If you’re going away, most places should have areas where you can run or walk. Dave suggests making sure you have the right shoes in your suitcase, as well as mapping out a safe route when you get there. If your holiday plans don’t allow for any outdoor exercise, Dave suggests getting a plan from either a personal trainer or the internet.

‘Be proactive about your fitness. Don’t just sit back and accept that  you may pick up weight over the holidays. It can take time to get back on track after an indulgent month or two, so by maintaining your fitness, you save yourself a lot of wasted time in the future,’ he says.

GET ENOUGH REST
What you eat and how you exercise is one thing, but don’t forget about rest. ‘Sleep is important for our bodies to function at optimum levels and it’s well known that when we don’t get enough shut-eye, we struggle to shed any excess weight,’ explains Kim.

If you battle to wind down after a busy day, Kim advises having a glass of warm low-fat milk with a teaspoon of hot chocolate or a drop of honey before bed as dairy has been shown to improve the quality of sleep.

According to Dave, appropriate exercise can induce deep sleep and lead to a less fatigued feeling during the day. ‘A workout will improve your sleeping patterns and help you feel more energised,’ he says.

PADKOS
Pack these healthy snacks and you’ll be less tempted to rip open a packet of chips or tuck into a slab of chocolate.

• Nuts and dried fruit. Keep a small packet of dried fruit and nuts in your bag – they are the perfect afternoon fix if you are out all day.
• Smoothies. Make these with fruit, low-fat yoghurt and ice for breakfast or as a snack.
• Chips and dips. Serve healthy dips such as yoghurt or hummus with wholegrain baked pita chips or tortilla chips.
• Popcorn. Curb the afternoon munchies with a few handfuls of air-popped popcorn.
• Home-made muffins. Satisfy your sweet tooth by baking your own bran muffins. Toss in some grated apple, carrot  or dates to add to the flavour and goodness.

Did you know?
The Club has medical professionals available to assist with any medical queries you may have, free of charge. Call 0861 424 789. Club members outside South Africa should dial +27 11 991 8330.

Just like a great handbag shows  off your flirty LBD, the right make-up can act as the perfect accessory While some have been thinking about the best bikinis and heels for the summer, we have been looking for the hottest warm-weather  make-up trends. And it all comes down to two words: statement lips. Bright lipstick hues, such as coral and hot pink, teamed with bold nails in a different shade and vivid accessories is all you need.

You can afford to be fashionably late with these stylish watches
From top Guess sunglasses R999, Matrix; watch R299,watch R599 and watch R299, all The Foschini Group Colour in Matching your eyeshadow to your outfit is usually a no-no, but there’s nothing wrong with selecting a shade in your outfit or jewellery, and following it through to your make-up.

Here’s how: smudge green (or any colour that works) eyeliner on the top of your lids to reflect the tones in your earrings.

Coral fever
When wearing coral lipstick, look out for shades that have a slightly blue undertone. This way they won’t bring out any yellow in your smile.

Scared you’ll get it wrong?
Play it safe and pop the colour on your fingers or toes.1 Bangles R85, The Foschini Group 2 Heels R280, The Foschini Group3 Ray-Ban sunglasses R1 399, Matrix 4 Earrings R50, The Foschini Group 5 Wedges R360, The Foschini Group 6 Handbag R180, The Foschini Group L’Oréal Colour Riche in Intense Fuchsia, R129.95Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Ultra lipstick in Coral Vibrations, R155L’Oréal Colour Riche Boosting Serum lipstick in Radiant Rose, R139.95

Think pink
Let your lips do the talking with bold fuchsia hues. Just remember, if you’re going to wear bright lipstick, opt for a neutral eyeshadow – you don’t want your lips and eyes competing for attention! Sleek kohl pencil in Green Ivy, R42.95 Hat R150 and dress, price on request, both The Foschini Group

A staggering four to six million people in this country have diabetes. Jane McGroarty chats to a strong woman who notonly lives with the disease, but has embraced it.A shocking number of South Africans are unaware they have diabetes. It occurs when your body has too little insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas to control blood sugar. As a result, any glucose found in food is not absorbed into your system and used by your body. As November is Diabetes Awareness Month, it’s time to get to know this disease. There are three types of diabetes: Type 1, Type 2 and gestational. Type 1 occurs when your body produces very little or no insulin, while Type 2 is caused by an insufficient amount or the insulin produced is ineffective. This is the most common and makes up around 85–90% of the cases. Even more scary is that most people who live with Type 2 diabetes are unaware they have it. The last type of diabetes, gestational, is temporary and brought on by pregnancy. Treatment depends on the type: regular insulin injections, a balanced diet and exercise is prescribed for those suffering with Type 1, and Type 2 patients need medication, healthy eating patterns and regular exercise. Even though the treatment for Type 2 is less serious, Diabetes SA says it can be more dangerous because the onset is gradual and quite hard to detect, putting the sufferer at risk of causing irreparable damage before it’s diagnosed. Bridget McNulty, a 29-year-old writer from Cape Town, has Type 1, but she has managed to develop a refreshing outlook on living with the disease.

THE DIAGNOSIS‘
I had all the classic symptoms, but unfortunately I was diagnosed late because I didn’t know them. By the time that happened, I had lost 10 kg, was constantly hungry, always thirsty, had to urinate all the time (especially at night), had leg cramps, exhaustion and a fuzzy head,’ she says.

DAY TO DAY
Not one to let the disease get the best of her, Bridget found reasons to be grateful for the condition. ‘It has forced me to slow down, look after myself, eat really well and exercise often. It has made me find a good balance between work and rest, food and insulin, exercise and my blood sugar levels,’ she says.

ACCEPTING CHANGE
Bridget’s attitude was so positive, it sent her life on a totally different path. She soon found herself jet-setting around the world spreading awareness about the disease. She spent six months documenting the challenges of travelling as a diabetic, and then launched Sweet Life, a magazine and organisation for people living with diabetes. ‘One of the biggest problems is lack of knowledge and awareness about the symptoms,’ says Bridget.

HEALTH KICK
The key to avoiding diabetes, and of course also to managing it, lies in leading a healthy lifestyle. And no one is a better example of this than Bridget, who feels healthier than before she was diagnosed.‘A balanced lifestyle is vital – when you’re making wholesome choices, you feel so much better. I eat lots of wholegrains, low-fat food with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, although I do believe in everything in moderation. ‘Keeping active is so important and it’s amazing what a difference moving makes to my blood sugar,’ says Bridget. Even walking can make a massive impact.‘Everyone has a different version of what a healthy lifestyle is, but mine is definitely all about sunshine, fresh air, water, good food and rest.’

Useful clicks
www.diabetessa.co.za
www.sweetlifemag.co.za

Did you know?
The Club has medical professionals available to assist with any medical queries you may have, free of charge. Call 0861 424 789.
Club members outside South Africa should dial +27 11 991 8330.

Shiny hair, sparkly eyes … these are great, but what do you really notice about a person first? Their skin. So make sure yours is looking its best, says Juana Parathyras.

Spot quiz
IS YOUR SKIN SHOWING SIGNS OF DAMAGE FROM BAD HABITS, THE WRONG PRODUCTS OR UNHEALTHY FOOD CHOICES? ANSWER THESE QUESTIONS TO FIND OUT IF YOU ARE YOUR SKIN’S FRIEND OR FOE.

1. How often do you wash your face?
a) Morning and night
b) In the evening
c) Only occasionally

2. How well do you handle stress?
a) My friends say I’m a rock.
b) I feel frazzled on busy days, but otherwise I’m on an even keel.
c) Not well – I always seem to be worried about something.

3. When did you change your skincare routine?
a) About six months ago
b) I can’t remember
c) Routine? Who has time for that?

4. Do you use a skin product that contains retinol or another wrinkle-busting ingredient?
a) Yes, every night
b) Only when I remember
c) Never

5. How do you protect your skin from the sun?
a) I wear a moisturiser with built-in SPF 30 or sunscreen.
b) There’s an SPF 15 in my day cream.
c) I save sunscreen for summertime trips to the beach so I don’t burn.

6. How often do you eat nuts, seeds and avocados?
a) At least three times a week
b) Not that often
c) Never

7. You exercise…
a) At least three to four times a week.
b) Whenever I can squeeze in a 30-minute session.
c) I avoid all forms of exercise.

How did you score?

Mostly As
You clearly understand your skin’s needs and what it means to take proper care of it. You manage to keep a good balance between food, exercise and your daily skin-care regime. Keep it up and you will be rewarded with smooth, radiant skin.

Mostly Bs
You need to spend a bit more time getting to grips with what it takes to maintain healthy skin. You have the basics down, but now is the time to up your game. Look at your skincare regime and pinpoint where you can improve. Increase your intake of omega 3 and make time for a sweating session or two – you’ll soon notice a difference.

Mostly Cs
There are serious changes to be made. You may not be seeing it now, but the damage you are doing can leave you with long-term effects that, in many cases, cannot be reversed. Ditch the bad habits, get into the daily routine of cleansing, toning and moisturising – and don’t forget the sunscreen! Making smart food choices will also give your body the nutrients it needs to support healthy skin.

Pro tipDermatologists may prescribe a topical lightener such as hydro-quinone for dark marks or, in more severe cases, laser treatment may deliver the best results.
Dr Brandt Pores No More pore refiner, R498Dr Brandt Microdermabrasion exfoliating face cream, R850Dr Brandt Time Arrest Crème de Luxe, R2 250Dr Brandt Blemishes No More Intensolution, R495

Ask the pros
DARK SPOTS, WRINKLES, ROSY CHEEKS – THERE’S SO MUCH INFORMATION ON BEAUTY TOPICS IT CAN MAKE YOUR HEAD SPIN. SO WE HAVE FOUND A FEW CRUCIAL QUESTIONS, AND ANSWERED THEM WITH PRACTICAL ADVICE.

Q. Over the past few years, I’ve noticed dark patches developing on my face and hands. Are there products that can lighten them?
A. According to Dr Fredrick S Brandt, dermatologist to the stars, age spots are primarily caused by direct and prolonged exposure to the sun. And when it comes to this skin menace, it’s all about prevention. Sunscreen is the best remedy and using skincare products that contain antioxidants will also have a positive result. When addressing any existing age spots, look for brightening products that contain glucosamine or vitamin C.

Q. Is it true that the younger you start with anti-ageing products, the less wrinkles you’ll have when you’re older?
A. The best defence against fine lines and wrinkles is preventative care in your 20s and 30s, and then treating them in your 40s. During the day, be diligent about applying and re-applying sunscreen if necessary. You want products that are packed with antioxidants and will help to prevent the breakdown of collagen in your skin. At night, use a rich cream with peptides and retinol to boost the collagen production and assist in the regeneration of skin cells.
Pro tip Retinoids such as Retin-A will reduce the look of fine lines, but deep wrinkles are best treated by injectables. Expression lines can be softened with products such as Botox – these paralyse the muscles that create wrinkles. (Then again, those lines reflect a life well lived!)

Q. I suffer from flushes, where my skin turns a bright red and it looks like I’m permanently blushing. What causesit and what can I do to prevent it?
A. Rosacea is a common skin problem that affects mostly women in their 20s and 30s. The cause isn’t clear, but Dr Brandt advises avoiding spicy food and alcohol, which causes the blood vessels to dilate. And when choosing products, stay away from ingredients that contain the word ‘acid’, and look for soothing soybean, pumpkin seed or liquorice extracts.

Pro tip If the redness persists, make an appointment with a dermatologist. Your skin may be very sensitive and in need of prescription care or you may have broken blood vessels that can be removed with laser treatment.

Q. I have large, visible pores, and I’m worried that make-up and grime will collect in them and cause breakouts. I’ve tried everything to shrink them, but nothing works. Help!
A. Pores can’t change size, but they can look bigger if you have oily skin. Your best bet is to ensure you have a good cleanser that will clean out your pores and help reduce oil. Try products containing retinol to refine your pores and creams with light-reflecting particles that will help to disguise and camouflage large pores.
Pro tip According to Dr Brandt, inadequate cleansing and ageing can cause pores to appear larger than they really are. Exfoliating twice a week is an important step that will not only remove dead cells, but also give your skin a refined appearance.

Q. My skin has a rough, uneven texture. Should I exfoliate more often?
A. Years of sun damage can cause skin to thicken and create small patches of dead cells. Products containing retinol will increase cell turnover. Follow that by exfoliating two to three times a week with a micro-dermabrasion polish. Creams with lipids will also assist in keeping the top layer of your skin smooth, so keep an eye out for products that contain ceramides.

Dr Brandt Lineless Lines No More filler and volumiser, R598 Dr Brandt Flaws No More r3p Eye Triple Peptide cream, R895
Pro tip Persistent rough, dry patches can be a sign of precancerous cells, says Dr Brandt. It’s always a good idea to have these looked at by a derma-tologist. Most other texture problems can be solved with a one-off peel done by a professional.

As October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, we decided to examine this potentially deadly disease – its risks, symptoms and the importance of early detection. By Jane McGroarty

The facts and figures are alarming. According to the National Cancer Registry, one in 29 women in SA is diagnosed with breast cancer, which kills more than 3 000 women every year.

Lucy Balona, executive manager of marketing and communication at the Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa), says the disease is a unique experience for everyone and no two people will travel the same journey. Everyone copes differently with the diagnosis and treatment. However, there is one common denominator: the need for a good support system.

WHAT IS IT?
Breast cancer is a malignant tumour that starts from cells of the breast. Any damage to the DNA of these cells can result in uncontrolled cell division and growth, which may lead to a cancerous lump.

There are many factors that can cause these cells to grow abnormally, and knowing what they are is vital as early detection could ultimately save your life.

AM I AT RISK?
There are certain lifestyle factors that can increase your chances of getting breast cancer. These include poor diet, smoking and excessive drinking. Early detection increases survival by up to 95%, so knowing your risk profile and detecting any changes early is very important.

Other factors that put you at greater risk of the disease are:

• Your family history
• Your age
• Age of menstruation
• Obesity
• Physical inactivity
• Hormone replacement therapy
• Whether or not you have children
• The chemicals you’ve been exposed to.

TAKE ACTION
Regular breast self-examinations, done at least once a month during ovulation, is your best bet for noticing any changes in your breasts. Cansa advises that you check your breasts at the same time each month and have a mammogram at least every three years after the age of 40.

A healthy, balanced diet with a low alcohol intake, no smoking and regular exercise will also reduce your risk and keep you healthy.