Diabetes: A dietitian gives her tips Part 1

November 8, 1:24 PMNew England Fitness ExaminerJo Levy

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Legumes such as soybeans contain dietary fibers.

November is National Diabetes Awareness Month. On November 7, 2009 it was reported that Melissa Joy Dobbins, a registered dietitian and Certified Diabetes Educator, visited ABC7 Chicago to share  information about diabetes.

About 122 million Americans have diabetes or pre-diabetes. Pre-diabetes means you have an elevated blood sugar that isn't high enough to qualify as diabetes. 40% don't know they have diabetes. Ethnic groups athat have a a high risk for developing Type 2 diabetes include people of African-American, Latino, American Indian, Asian and Pacific Islander descent. Risk factors such as obesity, sedentary lifestyles and a family history of diabetes also increase the risk that you will get it.

Her tips include:

"1. Get physical activity every day. It can be as simple as a daily walk.
2. Eat more more fiber, less fat, less salt, less sugar. Lose weight if needed or maintain a healthy weight. Even a small amount of weight loss can significantly improve blood sugar levels and some people can even decrease or go off their diabetes medications.
3. Stop smoking.
4. Take medications as directed. Diabetes pills and/or insulin are often necessary to control blood sugars and should not be viewed as a negative. Also, discuss aspirin therapy with your doctor to see if it is appropriate for you.
5. Remind yourself that diabetes is a progressive disease so it is normal to make changes in your diet, medication and exercise plan frequently to help control your diabetes.
6. You are the most important person on your healthcare team. Educate yourself about diabetes by reading books, magazines and websites from credible sources (such as registered dietitians, nurses, physicians and reputable diabetes organizations). Ask your healthcare provider questions about your treatment plan and be an active participant in the process."

Source and more information.

To read my articles about healthy foods go here.

I would also suggest reading A diet rich in vegetables while pregnant may prevent type 2 diabetes in children by the Pasco County Food Examiner.