Primary 7 have been learning about Type 1 diabetes.
World Diabetes Day is on 14th November each year. A blue circle is the symbol for the occasion which is used to raise awareness.
Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood sugar by allowing glucose to enter the body’s cells for energy. If you have diabetes the immune system gets confused so attacks the pancreas. Due to this the pancreas stops making insulin and the blood sugar stays in the blood. This makes the person feel very unwell if they are not given the right amount of care.
Glucose is a type of sugar and a primary source of energy for your body’s cells.
We did an experiment with glucose test strips to see how many mg/l are in different types of food. We had two different types of the same food but one was “low sugar” and one was “high sugar” separated in two pots (we did not know which was which). Then we dipped in the test strips and had to find out which one had more sugar. There was a colour chart and we had to figure out approximately how much sugar was in it.
Before we carried out the investigation, our hypothesis was that the regular Cola would contain the most sugar.
The results surprised us! The darkest colour, which was black, had so much sugar it wasn’t even on the chart! That means the food sample is exceedingly unhealthy and has loads of sugar. That food was a Frube and I think it is safe to say that our parents are never going to let us have them again! The Greek yoghurt was the lightest and was a healthier option compared to the Frube.
It is important that people with Type 1 chose low sugar options when possible to help keep their glucose levels more stable. Also, it it’s important for everyone to know about sugar levels in everyday food and drinks so they can make good choices.
Overall, it was an interesting week learning about diabetes and we all learned a lot more about it.
By Saoirse
