It's Diabetes Awareness Month – plan now for a healthy holiday season
About 38 million Americans have diabetes, and an estimated 1 in 5 don't know it. If you have a family history or are over 35, it's important to schedule a diabetes screening. During the holidays, have a healthy eating plan and stay active to manage your diabetes symptoms and enjoy your time with family and friends.
Palatka, FL – November is Diabetes Awareness Month, and HCA Florida Healthcare doctors are encouraging people who have the disease or may be at risk to “know your numbers” – cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar and weight – and practice healthy eating this holiday season.
Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs when your body has trouble managing blood sugar levels. About 38 million adults and young people in the U.S. have diabetes, and an estimated 1 in 5 don’t know they have it. Diabetes can damage your eyes, kidneys, nerves, and heart, and it is linked to some types of cancer. But taking charge of your health may help you prevent serious complications.
“We recommend that all adults 35 and older be tested for diabetes, and because the disease tends to run in families, you should be tested even earlier if you have a family history,” said Vanessa Barnes, MSN, chief nursing officer for HCA Florida Putnam Hospital.
There are several types of diabetes. The most common is Type 2 diabetes, which typically runs in families. People who are overweight are at greater risk for Type 2 diabetes, which is treated with medications and lifestyle changes. All diabetic patients should work with a healthcare provider to create a treatment plan that includes healthy eating to help manage blood glucose levels.
“If you have a diabetes diagnosis, make sure your holiday plans include healthy food choices, staying active and regularly checking your blood sugar levels,” Barnes said.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control offers these holiday strategies, either for yourself or to support a loved one with diabetes, to help you enjoy the season:
- Eat close to your usual times to keep your blood sugar steady.
- Don’t skip meals to save up for a big holiday feast.
- Avoid or limit alcohol. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Being active is your secret holiday weapon. Even a 10-minute walk after a big meal helps.
- If you’re hosting a holiday meal, offer healthy alternatives along with the holiday classics.
For more information about diabetes, including symptoms to watch for, visit HCA Florida Healthcare’s Healthy Living Blog.