National Diabetes Awareness Month

SmartShape Weight Loss Centre

November is National Diabetes Awareness Month. Did you know that according to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), 80% of those with living with Type 2 diabetes are overweight or obese? As such, the term “diabesity” was coined and became prevalent amongst healthcare professionals to describe the development of Type 2 diabetes in those of overweight or obese patients.

As obesity rates in Canada continue to soar, so too, will the number of people living with Type 2 diabetes. In a 2010 report, published by the Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences (ICES), it is predicted that 4 million Canadians will have diabetes by 2017. But wait! Why not be proactive? According to the Canadian Diabetes Association, below is a list of tips that may help prevent you from getting included in the statistics.

Eat well. Eat 3 meals per day at regular times. Limit your intake of sugars and high-fat foods. Include fibre in your diet! Fibre is the only carbohydrate that does not increase blood sugar; therefore, eating high fibre foods may lower your blood glucose and help you feel full.

Be active. Set time aside for physical activity! Even if it’s just walking 30 minutes a day, you will see benefits. Regular physical activity will improve your blood glucose control.

Get regular check-ups. See your family physician on a regular basis for checkups. Remember eating healthy and staying active isn’t your only source of prevention.

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