Your Health: Diabetes Prevention & Signs

According to the American Diabetes Association, 1.4 million Americans are diagnosed with diabetes every year, including 29.2 percent of seniors 65+.

Many people do not even realize it.

Because the signs of type 2 diabetes (the most common form) often go unnoticed; especially for those with prediabetes. The ADA estimates that 1 in 3 adults have prediabetes and are at risk for type 2 diabetes.

So what are the signs you should watch for?

• Urinating frequently

• Often very thirsty

• Often hungry, even after eating

• Extreme fatigue

• Blurry vision

• Cuts/bruises that are slow to heal

• Tingling, numbness or pain in the hands and feet

The good news is that you can prevent type 2 diabetes or even delay it in its early stages with a few simple lifestyle changes.

The most important thing people can do to prevent or delay diabetes is to learn about diabetes and your risk. The sooner you address prediabetes signs, the sooner you can start applying new healthy changes to your life, your household, and as your family.

- Elissa Caston, Diabetes Prevention Services Manager

Here are steps you can take to prevent/delay diabetes

Get screened

Talk with your health care team and get screened if you are at risk. To find out if you are at risk, take a quick online test from the ADA at diabetes.org/risk-test.

Eat more fruits and veggies

These foods are high in nutrients and in fiber, which is more filling and helps to regulate blood sugar.

Eliminate sugary drinks

Soda and other sugary drinks, including many fruit juices, are closely tied to the risk of developing diabetes. This is because they are high in sugar and have no fiber to prevent the spike of blood sugar.

Drink more water

Stay hydrated, especially with our warm temperatures, is important to help your body function its best and to flush away toxins.

Move more

Movement lowers your blood sugar, boosts insulin sensitivity and helps you lose or maintain a healthy weight. You don’t have to break a sweat. Brisk walking most days of the week can do the trick.

Not sure if you have diabetes? Talk to your doctor or schedule an appointment with a River People Health Center provider, 480.278.4101.

The HHS Diabetes Prevention Services team offers a variety of activities and classes to prevent and delay type 2 diabetes, including hands-on cooking classes. Activities and classes are held in a family friendly, supportive learning environment. The focus is on nutrition and physical activity. We also host hands on cooking classes during certain times of the year. All are welcome.

For more information contact River People Health Center, 480.278.4101