November is Diabetes Awareness Month

One in three Americans has prediabetes, and 70% of people with prediabetes are between the ages of 25 and 44. The statistics have proven the importance of early education for diabetes and the need for preventive care. This week on Fox17, Dr. Bitner shares the risk factors of prediabetes and diabetes and what you can do to fight against diabetes. 

Fact #1

There are known risk factors for prediabetes. Understanding your individual risk can help you create a plan to take preventive steps to protect your health. No matter your age, it’s important to begin implementing habits and talk with your doctor about ways to minimize your risk and continue aging well.

Risk factors for prediabetes:

• Obesity
• Inactivity
• Diets high in processed foods
• Family history of obesity or diabetes
• Gestational diabetes
• Perimenopause/menopause 
• Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) 
• High blood pressure 

Fact #2

Having diabetes can increase your risk for:

• Heart Disease 
• Obesity 
• Stroke
• Extremity amputation
• Erectile dysfunction 
• Chronic kidney disease
• High blood pressure
• Loss of vision or blindness
• Dementia 

High blood sugar and diabetes can also lead to poor metabolism and increased fatty plaque in blood vessels, putting you at risk for other major diseases. One health issue can lead to another, and it’s vital to take steps now to prevent disease before it begins. 

Fact #3

The first step to better health is knowing your risk. ​​Understanding how your blood sugar responds to food is essential to combating prediabetes and preventing diabetes. An annual A1C test, which provides a snapshot of your blood sugar levels over the past three months, and wearing a glucose monitor can help you and your doctor make informed decisions based on results. Using these tools to learn how your body functions can help you know what food keeps your blood sugar stable and find other practices to implement into your routine. 

Fact #4

You have the power to change your risk. Building a foundation of healthy habits is the most effective way to foster healthy aging. Start by prioritizing fiber, eating protein first, and incorporating a walk after meals. By adding resistance training to your workout routine and prioritizing walking, you can enhance your strength and metabolism. If you’re struggling with weight or related issues and can’t find a routine that works, talk with your doctor about medication options like GLP-1. By making healthy choices every day, you can have a profound impact on your health, allowing you to continue doing what you love for longer.

Patient Story:

Jane, 48, had a standard blood panel, including an A1C. She had no family history of diabetes, walked every day, and ate healthy. Jane was confused and upset by her A1C results of 5.9, which indicated she was prediabetic. She asked her doctor what she could do to prevent diabetes.

 Jane began to wear a glucose monitor and discovered that her diet spiked her blood sugar. She began eating protein first, removed foods like peanut butter, bananas, potatoes, and most treats from her diet, and replaced them with high-fiber foods. Along with her eating habits, Jane added strength training to her workout routine. 

Her A1C level decreased within 3 months. Jane was grateful her doctor caught it early. She was able to prevent diabetes with habits and avoided having to use medication. Overall, Jane felt better and was more confident. 

Takeaway Tip:

Take proactive steps to prevent diabetes by getting your A1C checked, learning about your specific risk factors, and working with your doctor to implement habits that will help you age well. 

Watch the Full Segment Here.