This month we have turned our attention to diabetes, to try and bring as much awareness as possible to do it. 34.2 million people, or 10.5% of the U.S. population, have diabetes. An estimated 26.8 million people - or 10.2% of the population - had been diagnosed with diabetes. Approximately 7.3 million people have diabetes but have not yet been diagnosed. More than 88 million adults in the United States have prediabetes - and 84% aren’t even aware that they have it. Prediabetes is a serious health condition. Thankfully, with some lifestyle changes, prediabetes can be reversed. Educate yourself on the symptoms and causes of diabetes so you can better recognize the signs of the disease and protect your health!
There are two types of diabetes:
Type 1 Diabetes – The body does not produce insulin to break down the blood sugar produced or consumed. There is currently no known way to prevent type 1 diabetes.
Type 2 Diabetes – This is a more common form, and it means the body does not use insulin properly.
Did you know more than 34 million Americans (about 1 in 10) have type 2 diabetes? Type 2 diabetes most often develops in people over age 45, but more and more children, teens, and young adults are also developing it. Type 1 diabetes is less common than type 2 - approximately 5-10% of people with diabetes have type 1. Common diabetes symptoms include feeling very thirsty and hungry, extreme fatigue, cuts of bruises slow to heal, blurry vision, urinating often, weight loss (if you have Type 1), tingling, and numbness in the hands/feet (if you have Type 2). The good news is that by making small healthy lifestyle changes, it is possible to prevent type 2 diabetes and even reverse your prediabetes. Be mindful and make changes as necessary.
Follow these essential tips to manage and prevent diabetes:
Take small steps in lifestyle changes
Maintain regular contact with your healthcare provider
Pick foods high in fiber and low in fat and sugar, eat more fruits and vegetables
Make water your primary beverage and drink lots of it
Try to get at least 30 minutes of physical activity 5 days a week
Strive to maintain a healthy weight within the range of your weight and age
If you have diabetes, follow your diabetes care plan from your health care provider. It will help you to achieve your diabetes goals. The goal of the plan is to help keep your blood sugar levels in a healthy range.
There are four parts to a diabetes care plan:
Checking blood sugar levels, as and when needed according to your diabetes type.
Taking insulin and/ oral medication
Eating a healthy, balanced diet. With/ without counting carbohydrates
Get regular physical activity and movement that you enjoy!
For more information about diabetes prevention, please call AMA Medical Center at (781) 581-6181 or contact us online. Schedule your consultation with the best doctors in Lynn, MA!
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