And it's a good thing too - nearly 24 million Americans have diabetes, and about 6 million of them are unaware of their disease. With obesity on the rise, millions more are at risk of developing diabetes.
Are you at risk?
These are some of the factors that increase your risk for diabetes. If you have any of these risk factors, you should consider talking to your doctor about your risk and weather you should be tested.
- 45 years or older
- BMI higher than 25
- Parent, brother, or sister with diabetes
- African American, Hispanic/Latino, American Indian, Asian American or Pacific Islander background
- History of gestational diabetes or giving birth to a baby weighing 9 pounds or more
- Higher than normal blood sugar levels
- High blood pressure (above 140/90)
- HDL cholesterol less than 35
- Triglyceride level higher than 250
- Physically activity less than three times a week
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Guess what? Although some of these risk factors are out of your control, you can change some of them. Recent studies have shown that people at high risk for type 2 diabetes can prevent or delay the onset of the disease by losing 5 to 7 percent of their body weight if overweight. You can do that by eating healthier and getting moderate physical activity for 150 minutes each week or vigorous physical activity for 75 minutes each week. For more information on how to prevent diabetes, check out the National Diabetes Education Program.
Do you already have diabetes?
If you have already been diagnosed with diabetes, talk to your doctor or a Registered Dietitian to help you determine the best course of action.
Want more information about diabetes?
Check out some of these great resources:
Diabetes Act Now
National Diabetes Education Program
American Diabetes Association
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
And the winner is...
Jade! Congratulations Jade, you are officially a Smartie Pants!
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SMRT!
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