Even though November is American Diabetes Awareness Month, it is important to remember throughout the year how to lower your risk. Diabetes is one of the leading causes of disability and even in some cases death in Americans. Diabetes can cause blindness, renal failure and even kidney disease if not properly treated.
According to the CDC in 2014
29.1 million people or 9.3% of the population have diabetes
8.1 million people or 27.8% of people with diabetes are undiagnosed
There are two different types of diabetes, type 1 and type 2. The good news is people who are at high risk for type 2, can lower their risk significantly by making healthy lifestyle changes.
Having a proper diet, tobacco cessation, increasing daily physical activity, and losing weight can help lower your risk factor by 50 percent. Some people may ask “how can I get started on making these lifestyle changes?” It’s easy! Take the stairs next time instead of the elevator, make healthy lunches ahead of time for the work week.
It is easier to resist temptation when you already have a meal plan in place so make a staple shopping list of healthy foods that you like
The American Heart Association recommends at least 30 minutes of a moderate-intensity aerobic activity 5 days per week. This could actually be accomplished with a brisk walk during your lunch time or when you get home in the evenings. Walking is actually a great time to solve your problems and everyone else’s problems. So, take a walk, clear your mind, and get healthier.