What does this mean? Did you know there are over 21 million children and adults that have diabetes? One third of Americans have diabetes but yet to have been diagnosed? Also one in five adults and children are at risk for Type 2 diabetes.
Children are more at risk for Type 2 diabetes in the United States than ever before. How come you ask? Because of lifestyle changes, physical education has been cut in schools and more children sit in front of the computer and TV screen then participate in physical activity. What can you do to prevent your child from developing Type 2 diabetes? A few lifestyle changes will benefit you and your child. Increase fiber intake, add more fruit and vegetables to your diet and cut out fast food and processed food. Exercise is the key. Offer healthier after schools snacks, try new foods but allow time for the child to get used to them. Changes maybe slow and painful but stick with it.
After school or on the weekends enroll your child in some sort of organized physical activity. There are many options out there. You have soccer, softball, basketball and football. Find an activity your child will enjoy. Instead of staying home on the weekend, take bike rides, hike or any outside activity. Be sure to not use food as a reward or punishment for your child to develop later issues with food and to thwart diabetes.
Diabetes is usually diagnoses five to seven years after the onset of the disease. The major symptoms are thirst, frequent urination, overweight and a sedentary lifestyle. A simple blood test can determine if you have diabetes. Ask your physician or go to any free blood screenings offered in your area.
Complications from diabetes are blindness, amputations, heart disease, kidney failure, stroke and death. Diabetes is a killer and should not be considered lightly. African Americans, Latinos and Native Americans have a greater risk for diabetes along with those who have a history of Diabetes.
Famous people with diabetes are: Patti LaBelle, a true singing legend, THE BLIND BOYS OF ALABAMA, DARYL COLEY, MARC DORSEY, NBA PLAYER CHRIS DUDLEY, GLADYS KNIGHT, and pop star Elliot Yamin.
Be sure to take the simple 7 question test and see if you are at risk for Diabetes.
