American Diabetes Association Alert Day March 22 Importance of Type 2 Diabetes Testing

Health

Health and wellness are very important issues. And while there is a growing trend for people to get their healthy on, there are still people who do not stop and take the time to take care of themselves. 

We all lead very busy lives. In today’s technology age you can multitask and do a million things at once. But even still, people are not taking the time for a quick check up with the doc. 86 million American adults (more than 1 in 3) have prediabetes and are at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes, a serious health condition that can lead to heart attack and stroke. 

If you are thinking that is not you, think again. Surprisingly, nearly 90% of those with prediabetes don’t even know that they have it. And maybe you don’t. Maybe you know that you are super healthy – if so, that is amazing, keep it up! But many people out there have no idea they could be at risk.

Part of taking care of yourself is being conscious of what you are eating and making sure that you mobilize yourself. We are not saying get up and run a marathon right this second – although, that is a great way to stay healthy! Eat right and move your body – two simple things that could decrease your risk for diabetes. If you think you or a loved one might be at risk, take this simple test.

• Believe it or not, salads CAN be delicious. Look up interesting ways to prepare them and other vegetables, and aim to eat at least one at dinner every night.
• Low-fat doesn’t have to be low on flavor. So try to cook in these ways: roast, broil, grill, steam or bake — instead of deep-frying or pan-frying.
• Reading food labels is so important. The more you know about what goes into your food, the better decisions you’ll be able to make. Also, try and cut down on foods with saturated fat or trans-fat, and hydrogenated fat or partially hydrogenated fat. Check labels to help you make healthy choices.
• Choose foods with less sodium than your usual choices.

If you can keep track of your family’s crazy schedule, keeping track of your daily fat grams and calorie intake should be a breeze! Here’s a handy tracker you can download, print and share, and will help you make eating healthier a regular thing. 

March 22^nd is Diabetes Alert Day. We need to communicate a sense of urgency; this is a serious and important message. – it’s time to take action and what better day to spread the message than on Diabetes Alert Day! Take a moment to share this message with your friends, family and co-workers!

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