About 26 million people are living with diabetes and 79 million more are at risk for diabetes.

These staggering numbers mean that 105 million Americans have diabetes or prediabetes. If you or a loved one is living with diabetes, take time during November to go over a daily care plan as well as a care plan during an illness or emergency.

Small changes can make a big difference in preventing health challenges today and in the future.

 

Take Charge to prevent type 2 diabetes

You can prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes by losing 5 to 7 percent of your body weight—that is 10 to 14 pounds for a 200-pound person, and by making simple lifestyle changes, such as getting 150 minutes of physical activity a week and eating a balanced diet including fruits and vegetables.

Are you at risk for prediabetes? Answer a few questions to find out your risk level.

If you are at risk, take time to talk to your health care provider about lifestyle changes you can make to prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes.

 

Jamey Helgeson is the Program Director at The Arc Mower County and can be reached at jamey@arcmowercounty.org or by calling 507-433-8994, Extension 102. You can also visit our website (www.arcmowercounty.org) and follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/arcmc).