A new CDC report tells us that the number of Americans with diabetes is projected to double or triple in the next 40 years. Diabetes increases the risk for heart disease; hypertension; stroke, kidney disease, vision loss, and other serious medical conditions.
To learn if you are at risk for diabetes, go to http://www.diabetes.org/
This month, take a few minutes to learn more about the importance of diabetes prevention:
The 3 most important lifestyle behaviors that can help reduce our risk of diabetes are
- daily moderate physical activity
- maintaining a healthy weight and waistline
- making healthy eating choices
Physical exams that include a fasting glucose test are important for early detection of abnormal blood sugar (glucose) levels in at risk individuals. If glucose levels are creeping up year after year this is a warning sign of pre-diabetes and possibly diabetes. Exercise; proper nutrition and losing just 5 to 10% of body weight can turn this trend around. For those already living with diabetes- attention to these same lifestyle behaviors can help improve their health and better manage their diabetes. Avoiding tobacco is also critical as smoking increases blood glucose levels and reduces the body’s ability to use insulin. For more prevention information: http://www.diabetes.org/
The DHHS Wellness Program promotes worksite opportunities for physical activity, healthy eating, tobacco cessation support, and weight management to help employees prevent diabetes and help those living with diabetes better manage their condition. Some employees have reported their participation in worksite wellness activities enabled them to increase their level of physical activity and lose weight and as a result their physician was able to reduce or eliminate their diabetes medication So, take a walk every day on your break or lunch time, bring healthy snacks and lunch to work, and, if you are overweight, join a weight management program.
Some Excellent Diabetes Resources:
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