In the United States, National Diabetes Month began in November. What a fitting way to kick off the holiday season by bringing attention to the importance of prevention, building a community committed to healthier lifestyles, and encouraging others to do the same. Our mission at Black Women's Health Imperative is to educate and equip our community with the tools they need to manage diabetes, including recognizing the symptoms, avoiding complications, and living a healthy lifestyle.
The Basics of Diabetes:
Diabetes, particularly Type 2, disproportionately impacts our community. It's crucial to comprehend the risk factors and take proactive steps toward prevention.
Essential Takeaways:
- Type 2 diabetes is characterized by insulin resistance, which prevents glucose from entering cells.
- Sugar Control: Serious health complications may develop over time if blood sugar levels are consistently high.
- A person's way of life: Food, exercise, and stress all are all important.
Management and Prevention:
- Maintaining a healthy blood sugar level with a balanced diet emphasizing whole foods, fiber, and portion control.
- Maintaining a regular exercise routine helps with weight management and makes insulin sensitivity better.
- Monitoring: Regular check-ups and blood sugar monitoring are vital for early detection.
Understanding Type 2 diabetes is the first step toward prevention and effective management. Let's raise awareness, empower ourselves, and support one another on this journey towards better health!
Change Your Lifestyle. Change Your Life. (CYL²™) is BWHI’s signature lifestyle change program, based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) evidence-based National Diabetes Prevention Program, tailored to Black women’s lived experiences. No organization partnering with the National Diabetes Prevention Program has helped more Black women change their lives.
Together, we can exemplify the power of proactive self-care. Learn more about CYL2™ and get involved by visiting https://bwhi.org/CYL2/.