November is here is which marks the beginning of Diabetes
Awareness Month. In the United States, diabetes is an epidemic that is growing
at an alarming rate. Do you have a hard time believing this? As the 7th
leading cause of death, the CDC estimates that 1 in 11 have diabetes and is
projected to increase to 1 in 3 by 2050 [Source: State of Obesity].
What is diabetes? Normally, the pancreas releases a hormone
called insulin to lower blood glucose (sugar) levels. A person with diabetes
cannot produce enough insulin or use insulin which causes blood sugar levels to
increase. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder where your immune system accidentally confuses pancreas cells for an infectious agent & attacks it. As
a result, the pancreas produces little or no insulin. In Type 2 Diabetes, a
person develops insulin resistance (the body is not using insulin like it
should) & overtime the pancreas doesn’t make enough insulin.
Here is the
important part: Type 2 diabetes is
preventable through exercise and a well-balanced diet!!!
Here are some tips to follow whether you have diabetes, pre-diabetes, or want to prevent diabetes.
Eat well.
Contrary to the common belief, a person with diabetes does not need to
eliminate all sweets. The key is management! Start
by planning meals in advance, researching healthier recipes, and getting advice
from a dietician. The goal is to consume less saturated fats & sugars, eat
smaller portions, & eat more fiber, beans, & dark green or orange
vegetables.
Stay active. The
National Diabetes Association suggests engaging in aerobic exercise &
strength training for 150 minutes each week. It is highly recommended to create
a plan, get support by getting the people you care about to join you, and to switch
up the routine often.
Take care of yourself. A person diagnosed with chronic disease,
like diabetes, is at high risk for depression and other complications. Try
enrolling in a support program or joining an online community. Set up
appointments with your physician to examine your mental health, foot care, and
to monitor your blood glucose levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.
While you are at it, get a flu shot. Did you know that you are 3 times
more likely to get the flu if you have diabetes? Don’t have diabetes? Protect
those around you!
How will you raise awareness about diabetes? What can you do
to take care of yourself? The Center for
Health & Counseling is available to help our students. Call 801-957-4268 to schedule an appointment to at our clinic to be examined
for risk of diabetes & managing diabetes or meet with a counselor if you
are struggling with depression. Keep an eye out for workshops
on nutrition, exercise, & other useful health information.
For more information on diabetes, visit
http://www.diabetes.org/
or call 1-800-DIABETES (1-800-342-2383)
By: Esteban Benites-Moreno
