November is National Diabetes Month, the ideal time for you to find out if you’re at risk and how to prevent type 2 diabetes.
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What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic (long-lasting) health condition that affects how your body turns food into energy. It increases the risk of serious health problems like nerve damage, kidney failure, and heart disease and is a leading cause of disability and death in the United States. According to the Center for Disease Control, nearly 30.1 million Americans are affected by diabetes.
National Diabetes Month is a chance to bring awareness to the diabetes epidemic. For the millions who are at risk, it’s a time to get educated, find resources, and make sure all those around you are aware of their risk, too.
What to Know About Diabetes and Preventative Care
There are different stages and types of diabetes. Often, pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes can be prevented. Based on a study by the Diabetes Prevention Program, a moderate weight reduction of five percent can help reduce the development of type 2 diabetes by 58 percent!
Ways you can manage diabetes and help reduce your risk:
- Eat healthier by including a diet with lots of non-starchy vegetables; whole grain foods, lean cuts of meat, poultry, and non-fat dairy products. Include fatty fish (salmon, trout, sardines) 2-3 times per week.
- Get daily exercise by aiming for 30 minutes of moderate physical activity on most days of the week.
- Maintain or obtain a healthy weight defined as a body mass index (BMI) measurement between 18.5 – 24.9.
- Monitor blood glucose regularly. Most people with diabetes should aim for an A1C of 7 or less.
- Take medications as prescribed.
- Don’t smoke.
- Learn ways to lower your stress.
- Obtain routine care with your healthcare provider.
We’re Here to Help!
A wellness exam is a good way to make sure everything checks out. If you do not have insurance, don’t worry! Contact us and ask about the options available to you.