Change the future of diabetes -

change the future of diabetes

Take a risk assessment free of diabetes

November is National Diabetes Month, created by the American diabetes Association (ADA) with the goal of creating a life free of diabetes. Unfortunately, this can be very difficult to achieve. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) projects as much as 1-3 American adults will have diabetes by 2050. This projection can become a reality if we do not take action to make positive changes in our daily habits health.

Diabetes is characterized by high levels of blood glucose, or sugar. There are three main types of diabetes; Type 1, Type 2 and gestational diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is the most common. In type 2 diabetes, either the body does not produce enough insulin or the cells are not responsive to the insulin produced. This is called insulin resistance and can lead to fatigue, thirst, weight loss, blurred vision and / or frequent urination. People diagnosed with diabetes must closely manage glucose levels in the blood.

If diabetes is not managed, it can lead to life threatening complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, blindness, nerve damage and amputation. With regular checks, complications can be avoided. If you or a loved one is at risk for diabetes, visit your doctor for a consultation.

Did you know?

• Over the last 30 years, the number of people in the US with diabetes has more than tripled (CDC).
• According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), 8.3% of the population (nearly 26 million children and adults) in the United States has diabetes. [Alone
• sugary drinks are to blame for about 1.8 million cases of type 2 diabetes in the United States (BMJ).

Tips for managing diabetes

1. regular exercise is very beneficial and may lower blood sugar in the short term. Learn how to start safely
2. Eat a variety of foods: vegetables, whole grains, fruits, non-fat dairy products, beans, lean meats, poultry and fish. It can be useful to create a daily meal plan with your doctor.
3. Some people with type 2 diabetes can manage their diabetes with a healthy diet and exercise. However, your doctor may need to also prescribe oral medications (pills) and / or insulin to help you reach your target blood glucose levels.
4. Know the types of health care professionals who are available to you and their expertise

learn more about your options

Sources: . American Diabetes Association, British Medical Journal, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, US Department of Health & Human Services, National Institutes of Health, LifeWork strategies and Adventist HealthCare. The Health Council of the week is for educational purposes. For medical advice, consult your doctor. Feel free to copy and distribute this health resource.

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