“…let us not [only] love in word or talk but in deed and in truth.”     1 John 3:18

Diabetes Awareness Month

Diabetes mellitus refers to a group of metabolic diseases that affect how the body uses blood sugar (glucose).  And how the body produces and uses Insulin.  Glucose is an important source of energy for the cells that make up the muscles and tissues.  It's also the brain's main source of fuel.

The main cause of diabetes varies by type. But no matter what type of diabetes you have, it can lead to excess sugar in the blood. Too much sugar in the blood can lead to serious health problems, especially vascular (blood vessel), kidney, and nerve complications.

Chronic diabetes conditions include type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes.  Potentially reversible diabetes conditions include prediabetes and gestational diabetes.  Prediabetes happens when blood sugar levels are higher than normal. But the blood sugar levels aren't high enough to be called diabetes.  And prediabetes can lead to diabetes unless steps are taken to prevent it. Gestational diabetes happens during pregnancy.  But it may go away after the baby is born.

Approximately 8.7% of adult Iowans have diabetes costing about 2.5 billion dollars in health care costs yearly.

Risk factors for diabetes depend on the type of diabetes. Family history may play a part in all types.  Environmental factors and geography can add to the risk of type 1 diabetes.

Race or ethnicity also may raise your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Although it's unclear why, certain people — including Black, Hispanic, American Indian and Asian American people — are at higher risk.  Prediabetes, type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes are more common in people who are overweight or obese.

 Reduce your risk: 

• Eat healthy foods. Choose foods lower in fat and calories and higher in fiber. Focus on fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Eat a variety to keep from feeling bored.
• Get more physical activity. Try to get about 30 minutes of moderate aerobic activity on most days of the week. Or aim to get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity a week.
• Lose excess pounds. If you're overweight, losing even 7% of your body weight can lower the risk of diabetes.                    

Carolyn D. Pauling PhD RN

Parish Nurse