Eating too much of what you love could catch up with you in the form of type 2 diabetes.
Diabetes can increase your chances of a heart attack, stroke and blindness, damage your kidneys, teeth and gums, stomach, bowels and bladder and lead to the loss of limbs.
Early detection is vital
but with few indicators in the early stages a test is essential.
For early detection the First Aid ambulance will be in town offering free tests one day this week.
A free morning clinic is also open at the Waihi Medical Centre this Friday, November 12.
Bookings are required.
The centre also offer a diabetes test to all patients over the age of 55, as part of a general consultation.
Type 2 diabetes occurs when there is too much glucose (sugar) in the blood after too many carbohydrates, sweet foods and drinks are consumed.
If the body cannot produce enough insulin to keep blood glucose levels in the normal range, or can't make enough insulin, diabetes can result.
People who are overweight, have high blood pressure or raised cholesterol levels, have had a heart attack or stroke, are of Maori or Pacific Island decent or are over the age of 40 can be more at risk.
Ian "found out by mistake" he had diabetes.
"The doctor was testing for something else. He said 'well I've got some good news and some bad news'. "
He says a dramatic change in lifestyle has helped him manage, along with three tests and five insulin jabs every day.
"You have to plan your day ahead so you don't get caught out and let your insulin get too low."
Nowadays he stays away from one of his bigger temptations.
"I just don't even go in the pubs anymore."
John also came across his diabetes "while being tested for something else, and it took some coming to terms with."
He says while he has cut back on the things he loves, and watches his carbohydrate intake with every meal, "you do it automatically.
"I watch what I eat and drink but otherwise I live a normal life." Both men are in the process of getting a Medic Alert bracelet.
World Diabetes day is on Sunday November 14 and Diabetics Awareness Week follows.
