November is National Diabetes Awareness Month, a time when communities across the country team up to bring attention to diabetes and its impact on millions of Americans.

Did you know that more than 30 million Americans have diabetes, and another 84 million are prediabetic? That’s almost half of all adults in this country.

How do I prevent type 2 diabetes? First of all, eat healthy. Eat five or more servings of fruit and vegetables, whole grain and water daily. 

Next, be active. Walk, bike, swim, dance or engage in another form of exercise for 30 minutes most days of the week. You can also try to lose weight. Losing as little as 10 to 15 pounds can lower your risk of type 2 diabetes. Finally, talk to your doctor about your risk factors and get tested for diabetes.

You can find out your risk for diabetes here: http://www.diabetes.org/risk-test.

Reducing Blood Sugar Levels

Would you like to reduce your A1C, a blood test that measures your average blood sugar level, by almost 1.8%? That’s like taking a 9.1% A1C down to 7.3%, which is a significant difference. How? Ask your doctor for a referral to Aultman’s Diabetes and Nutrition Therapy program and you could start feeling better, lead a healthier life, get ongoing support and possibly reduce your A1C by more than 1.5%.

The Diabetes and Nutrition Therapy program offers individual, group and remote classes, as well as a free monthly support group to help with your diabetic needs. Call 330-363-5235 to learn more.

We know that diabetes can be a challenge. Prevention and knowledge are key. With correct treatment and recommended modified lifestyle changes, many patients can make a difference in their risk factors or diabetes complications.