Diabetes Prevention Month
Did you know that more than 24 million Americans have diabetes and at least 6 million aren’t aware they have the disease? Diabetes falls into three types: Type 1, Type 2 and gestational diabetes. The focus of this article is on Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 diabetes is usually diagnosed in children and young adults. Type 1 occurs in only about 5 percent of the cases, and when a person is affected by the disease, his body no longer produces insulin, a hormone needed to convert sugar to energy. Type 2 diabetes is the most common. In Type 2 the body does not use insulin properly. At first the pancreas makes extra insulin to compensate but eventually can’t make enough to keep up.
Most of us have heard of diabetes or know of someone living with the disease. Sometimes diabetes is passed on through our genetics. But did you know there are several ways you can lower your risk of getting diabetes just by changing a few things in your lifestyle?
- Healthy eating: Plan your weekly meals. Eat lean meats, lots of fruits and vegetables and include whole grains. Cut out soda. Decrease the amount of sweets or other snack foods.
- Weight: Being overweight increases your risk. Losing even 10-15 pounds can make a difference.
- Smoking: Stop smoking!
- Blood pressure: Two out of three people with diabetes have high blood pressure. Get it treated! When your blood pressure is high, your heart works harder, putting you at risk for heart disease or stroke.
- Exercise: It helps lower your blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol. Walking 30 minutes a day is a great way to start.
The first step in prevention of diabetes is to understand your risk. For more information, please visit the American Diabetes Association website, Diabetes.org, or talk with your health care provider.
Melanie Yunger is a local wife, mother and nurse practitioner.
As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.