Two thirds of all American adults nearly 1 out 3 children are over weight or obese. As a result, our nation has high rates of Type 2 diabetes and other chronic illnesses. Working together, we can ensure our children’s health—and their future. The good news this epidemic and chronic illnesses are completely preventable. Proper nutrition will be a deciding factor to eliminate this epidemic. Nutritional diseases are diseases in humans that are directly or indirectly caused by a lack of essential nutrients in the diet. Nutritional diseases are commonly associated with chronic malnutrition. Additionally, conditions such as obesity from overeating can also cause, or contribute to, serious health problems. A study, the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP), proved that type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed in those at high risk for the disease. Type 2 Diabetes is a serious problem within the African-Americans, Native Americans, Pacific Islanders, and Latino communities, let’s take action. Remember that maintaining and improving your health of wealth is a lifetime journey.
.The CDC reports that “26.7% of people self-reported as being obese” (Morbidity & Mortality Weekly Report, [MMWR], August 3, 2010). And, the breakdown of obesity rates breaks along racial lines. African-Americans rating highest with 36.8% reported (non-hispanic black women reported at 41.9%), and Hispanics coming in second with 30.7% self-reporting being obese.
Family history and lack of nutrition, is closely associated with developing type 2 diabetes amongst young children as well as adults. Demographically, there are ethnic groups that are more susceptible to the onset of Type 2 diabetes. These groups include African Americans, Native American, Pacific Islanders, and Latino’s. This is especially true in the African-American community since nearly 13% of African Americans over the age of 20 are living with Type 2 diabetes. And the numbers are still rising. Center of Disease Control (CDC) estimates that as many as 1 in 3 U.S. adults could have Type 2 diabetes by 2050, unless something changes. In order for things to change, you have to change, as stated by Jim Rohn (motivational speaker). You can take steps to prevent type 2 diabetes. Even small changes can make a difference, and it is never too late to start making healthier choices. The CDC stated, the costs of diabetes add up to about $174 billion a year.
Prevention vs. Treatment:
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, and is triggered by a combination of unchangeable factors, such as family history and race, and controllable factors, such as obesity and inactivity. It’s also the seventh leading cause of death in the United States, according to 2007 data, and is the leading cause of leg and foot amputations, kidney failure and new cases of blindness in adults under age 75, according to the CDC.
Here are some Suggestions:
- If you are at risk for type 2 diabetes, using an exercise planning form may help you and GFRfit or any other health professional to create a personalized exercise and nutritional program.
- Join a Weight-Loss Challenges or begin a nutritional program to stay motivated, while exercising and eating healthy.
- Eating more vegetables, whole grains, and nuts can lower your risk for type 2 diabetes. If you want to learn more about eating well, see the topic Healthy Eating.
- Take good care of your feet.
- Quit smoking. If you smoke cigarettes, talk with your doctor about ways to quit. Smoking contributes to the early development of diabetes complications. For more information, see the topic Quitting Smoking.
If you know anybody or are worried about your family members developing Type 2 diabetes, GFR can provide support in-depth nutrition education to help you develop a personalized meal plan that fits your lifestyle and activity level. We all can do our part by making healthy choices and select nutritious foods, All the while having fun doing it.
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