The Door County YMCA Focuses on Prevention during National Diabetes Awareness Month

As the prediabetes rate continues to rise, few Door County residents know they are at risk

November is National Diabetes Awareness Month, and the Door County YMCA is encouraging residents of Door County to learn their risks for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes, and to take preventive steps to potentially reduce their chances of developing the disease.

New statistics for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show that one in four Americans (86 million people) have prediabetes, up from 79 million in 2010. Prediabetes is a condition in which a person’s blood glucose is elevated, but not high enough for a diabetes diagnosis. Only 10 percent of those with prediabetes know they have it. With awareness and simple actions, people with prediabetes may prevent the onset of diabetes.

“As the number of new people with prediabetes continues to rise, it is important residents of Door County understand what a prediabetes diagnosis means, and options available to reverse course,” said Mary Claire McHugh, Senior Program and Healthy Living Director, of the Door County YMCA. “Fortunately, simple lifestyle changes can greatly reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and the Y can help people make the necessary changes to improve health.”

Assisting in helping individuals decrease their risk of becoming diabetic is a priority for the Door County YMCA as we work to improve the overall health of our community. We off all current members, and those considering becoming a member, a free jumpstart consultation where we sit down individually and review their medical history, discuss their goals and help to create a program to become more active that also matches their particular interests. Follow up consultation are also available to all members as we work to provide encouragement and assistance to those needing helping in their journey to well being

We are always there to help our members make basic lifestyle changes that contribute to weight loss and decrease the risk of type 2 diabetes. Some changes that everyone can make include:

·         Eat fruits and vegetables every day.

·         Choose fish, lean meats and poultry without skin.

·         Aim for whole grains with every meal.

·         Be moderately active at least 30 minutes per day five days a week.

·         Choose water to drink instead of beverages with added sugar.

·         Speak to your doctor about your diabetes risk factors, especially if you have a family history or are overweight. 

To learn more about the Door County YMCA’s Healthy Living Programs please contact the Sturgeon Bay Program Center at 920.743.4949 or the Northern Door Program Center at 920.868.3660.