National Diabetes Awareness Month: It Could Happen to You
According to Diabetes.org, diabetes is a disease which affects 1 in 4 Americans, many who do not know that they have the disease. This makes National Diabetes Month, which happens every November, a particularly important month.
Throughout the month, marathons, rallies, walks, and other events are held, aimed at raising awareness about diabetes prevention, detection, and management. How much do you know about diabetes, and do you know how to take precautions so that the disease doesn’t worsen if you have it?
Keep reading to learn more:
Managing Your Diabetes
If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes, it may feel like your world is ending, but that’s not the case at all. In fact, with a little careful management many diabetes patients live completely normal lives.
Some things you can do to manage your diabetes are:
● Drink lots of water. Staying properly hydrated helps your body function properly, and can help curb cravings for snacks.
● Exercise. Type 2 diabetes is often caused by excessive weight gain, so try to get out and go for a walk, play catch, or swim at your local pool a few times a week.
● Get lots of sleep. Being properly rested will help you make better food choices and will ensure that you have enough energy to exercise.
● Eat healthy. Diet is critical for being healthy, especially when you have diabetes, so make sure to include lots of fruits and vegetables in every meal.
Find Support Systems
Being diagnosed with a disease is never an easy time for anyone, and if you’re struggling with feelings of frustration, hopelessness, or isolation, make a point to reach out and find support within your community. There are lots of support groups, meet ups, and other regular events which are aimed at supporting people with diabetes.
Work to Prevent Complications
If you’re not careful, complications can arise from your diabetes that can be life-threatening, which makes keeping an eye out for these warning signs particularly important:
● Check your feet. If you begin experiencing poor blood flow due to your diabetes, then your feet will be the first place to show the signs. Take time to check your feet every day, so you can be aware of any changes.
● Learn something new. Make sure to stay well-informed about diabetes, and learn as much as you can about how to properly manage the disease.
● Take 10,000 steps a day. Walking is the easiest form of exercise, so invest in a pedometer and commit to walking a minimum of 10,000 steps every day.
Participate in World Diabetes Day
November 14th is the official World Diabetes Day, and across the globe diabetes patients and their families come together to show support, encouragement, and learn about diabetes prevention and management. Learn more on the International Diabetes Federation’s website at www.idf.org.
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