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It’s wise to check for risk of diabetes

12/4/2011 9:52:35 AM by Administrator Account

Fit for Life by Jeanine Achin

November was National Diabetes Awareness Month, making this a great time to understand the risk factors for diabetes and discover some steps to take to prevent the disease. Factors that could put a person at risk for Type 2 diabetes include family history, age, weight and activity level. With that in mind and with some traditionally heavy eating coming up through the holidays, now is a good time to evaluate your risk by taking this simple quiz.

    Answer yes or no to the following:
   • My blood pressure is 140/90 or higher or I have been told that I have high blood pressure.
   • I have been told that my cholesterol levels are not normal.
   • I am fairly inactive, not physically active more than two times per week.
   • I have or had a parent or sibling with diabetes.
   • I have been told I have pre-diabetes.
   • I have had gestational diabetes or I gave birth to a baby weighing more than 9 pounds.
   • I am age 45 years or older.
   If you answered yes to two or more of the questions, then you may be at risk for pre-diabetes or diabetes. For more information and fuller screening information, go online to YMCA.net/diabetes-prevention. You can learn how background and lifestyle choices help determine the ultimate risk for pre-diabetes and Type 2 diabetes. As one of the nation’s leading nonprofits dedicated to strengthening community through healthy living, the YMCA is urging residents to assess their risk for both.
   Nearly 26 million Americans have diabetes and a staggering 79 million people have pre-diabetes, a condition where blood glucose is elevated but not high enough to be diagnosed with diabetes.
   While the nation’s struggle with obesity and Type 2 diabetes is well-chronicled, the amount of people with pre-diabetes is a growing and often underreported issue that can be prevented with changes in eating and physical activity habits. People with pre-diabetes are at risk for not only developing Type 2 diabetes, but cardiovascular diseases, stroke and other conditions.
   Some basic lifestyle changes that contribute to weight loss and healthy living can decrease the risk for Type 2 diabetes. They include:
   • Eating fruits and vegetables every day.
   • Choosing fish, lean meats and poultry without skin.
   • Consuming whole grains with every meal.
   • Being moderately active at least 30 minutes per day five days a week.
   • Choosing water to drink instead of beverages with added sugar.
   • Speaking to your doctor about your diabetes risk factors, especially if you have a family history or are overweight.

   Jeanine Achin is the executive director of the Newman YMCA in Seekonk. She holds numerous national fitness certifications. Contact her at (508) 336-7103 or jachin@gpymca.org.

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