Are you aware 25.8 million children and adults in the United States – 8.3% of the population – have diabetes?
And that estimates put those with prediabetes at 79 million? And the numbers are on the rise. By 2030, diabetics are expected to number around 552 million worldwide. It’s a staggering problem, and its complications as staggering: vision loss, heart and kidney impairment – even your gums aren’t spared – and, that means the potential for lost teeth. So what can you do to protect yourself from an illness many aren’t even aware they have before it’s symptomatic?
Diabetes is a disease with tentacles
Its impact on a person’s health can be widespread, so it’s important to be proactive in avoiding the disease. Here are three things you can do today to keep Diabetes from your frequent vernacular.
- Remain active: Moving your body is one of the best things you can do to help stave off diabetes. Doing so helps you maintain a healthy weight – perhaps the single most important cause of Type II Diabetes.
- If your dietary habits allow for it, amp up the fiber: Research suggests increased fiber intake in the form of fruits, vegetables and whole grains helps improve blood sugar control. These types of foods are also good for you for so many other reasons as well, so eat up!
- Hit the weights!: Even those already diagnosed with Diabetes can benefit from doing some form of weight bearing exercise. More muscle mass helps your body respond better to insulin, AND it makes you look better as well. Open that jar of peanut butter! Switch that baby from the right to the left arm with no hassle! Even pushups count, so don’t be afraid to get down and give yourself 20!
Diabetes is a serious illness, and thankfully, one that can be prevented.
If you already have the disease, it can also be controlled by following the advice of your doctor and your dentist. Be sure to make all of your health care team members aware of your disease so you can best stay on top of it. There is nothing worse than the awareness that you could have saved yourself from risky complications through better self-care. And there is nothing better than knowing that you did save yourself from additional illness by doing the right thing. So be proactive, and be healthy!
© Copyright 2015 PatientConnect365
