Let’s March into Spring HEALTHIER

March is

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National Nutrition Month was created by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. The month focuses on helping people make informed and healthy food choices. They focus on developing better eating habits and healthy physical activities. Many common health problems can be prevented by taking charge of your diet and exercise. Paying attention to what you eat and drink and physical movement are two of the biggest ways you can take control of your health.

Common health problems that can positively benefit from a good eating regime are many. At any age it is important to pay attention to what you eat and the quantity. Our diet contributes to our overall well being.

Diabetes is a long lasting disease that affects how your body turns food into energy. There are different types of Diabetes. Over 34 million people live with diabetes and over 85 million live with prediabetes. Most of the food we eat is broken down into sugar (glucose) and released into our bloodstream. When your blood sugar goes up, your pancreas is signaled to release insulin. Insulin acts like a key to let the blood sugar into your body’s cells for use as energy. With diabetes, your body doesn’t make insulin or can’t use it properly. Over time, serious health problems can develop, such as heart disease, kidney disease and vision loss.

Living with diabetes can be a challenge. But one can do a lot of good by eating well and staying active. A healthy diet that includes a balance of nutrient rich foods is extremely important. Balancing your blood sugar is the key to staying well. Knowledge is power, so here’s a list of things to help create a healthy eating plan.

Meal Planning – Make a plan so you are not caught without the proper foods to sustain your health

Grocery Shopping – Helps keep you on track with your meal plans

Read Food Labels – Know the nutritional value of the food you purchase

Eating Out – Have a plan before you go to a restaurant, choose wisely

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Learn much, much more at: mayoclinic.org, cdc.org, diabetes.org, eatingwell.org

 

Posted in Fun Facts /General Information /Health Topics /

How to survive Thanksgiving with Diabetes?

November is American Diabetes Month

How to survive Thanksgiving with Diabetes?

Thanksgiving is a day to reflect upon what we are thankful for. Most people say goodbye to their diets on this day, but people with diabetes cannot afford to do that.

However, Diabetics can still enjoy Thanksgiving in full if they follow some easy tips:

Plan Ahead – Get to know the menu beforehand and plan what you are going to eat.

Eat in Moderation – It is okay to indulge in potatoes, just remember to not pile them on your plate. One-quarter of your plate can be dedicated to carbohydrates.

Fill up on vegetables – Vegetables such as green beans, carrots, broccoli or brussel sprouts are free game.

Check your blood sugar often – Start by knowing how foods affect your levels… Then, start checking your blood sugar two hours after you finish eating, and every two hours or so after that.

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Photo Source: wtxl.com

Learn how to plan your Thanksgiving meal here.

Posted in General Information /Health Topics /

November is National Diabetes Month

November is National Diabetes Month

Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects over 34 million Americans, 12 million of which are citizen 65 and older. As a prevalent and chronic disease, it is important to shed some light on some misconceptions.

It is a myth that only people who are overweight develop diabetes. Weight and obesity are risk factors but they are not the only ones to be considered. Age, family history, and ethnicity are also important risk factors. Many people diagnosed with diabetes are normal weight. Another myth, has to do with what type diet a person with diabetes should eat. A healthy eating plan for people with diabetes is generally the same as a healthy eating plan for anyone.  In addition, diabetics can eat sweets. The key is small portions and limited frequency.

People are able to live normal lives while managing diabetes. Sticking to a healthy lifestyle can control the symptoms and complications associated with the disease. There is no cure for diabetes. The best way to combat the disease is to: a healthy diet, exercise and if needed, medication prescribed by a physician.

Some patients require blood sugar testing. Some, may benefit from the uses of insulin or oral medications. Managing diabetes is often about finding the right combination of healthy living options and medication management to help maintain blood glucose levels. Each person with diabetes is different, so an individualized plan of action is required. For more information one should contact a medical professional. Additional information is available from the American Diabetes Association.

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Photo Source: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/

 

To find this and to learn more about Diabetes click here

Posted in General Information /Health Topics /Nursing /Senior Living /