About 90 to 95% of Americans with diabetes have type 2, which is often preventable. While risk factors such as age and family history may be out of our control, others are not. Taking a proactive approach with lifestyle changes may help you prevent or delay the disease.
Your weight, diet, physical activity, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels are factors you might have the power to change with the help of your doctor.
Physical Activity
Engaging in physical activity is one of the most effective ways to improve your overall health. Adults should engage in 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week, in addition to 2 days of resistance or strength training. If you can talk but not sing, the activity is moderately intense.
Slashing Salt for Better Blood Pressure
Reducing your salt intake may help lower your blood pressure. On average, Americans consume approximately 3,600 milligrams of sodium per day. However, dietary guidelines recommend consuming less than 2,300 mg, which is equivalent to approximately one teaspoon of table salt. Reading nutrition labels, rinsing canned foods, and opting for unsalted snacks can help lower those numbers.
Knowing Your Numbers
Certain blood tests measure the fat molecules (lipids) in your blood. When you know your numbers, you can work with your provider to manage your cholesterol.
Tools & Support
The Villages Health is proud to offer a host of health and wellness tools and classes, including the Diabetes Prevention Program designed for individuals at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the program has been proven effective for supporting and sustaining weight loss while reducing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. For information, visit https://thevillageshealth.com/learning-center/ or call 352-604-5868
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