You or someone you know likely has diabetes. More than 30 million Americans have a type of diabetes. I’m one of them. My type 2 diabetes developed following gestational diabetes. Because it’s so common, I’m going to share some disturbing details about diabetes and what we can do to improve our health.
Disturbing Numbers
More than 30 million U.S. adults have diabetes
1 out of 4 of them don’t know they have it, meaning 7.5 million Americans are diabetic and don’t know
There are 3 main types of diabetes (type 1, type 2, and gestational)
9 out of 10 people have type 2 diabetes. That’s 27 million people living with type 2 diabetes
6.75 million Americans are walking around with type 2 diabetes and don’t know that they have it
It’s hard for me to realize myself and many of my friends and family are included in that number – along with many of you. That’s why I started the For My Health Today podcast and this blog. If by sharing weekly episodes and blog posts, I’m able to reach just a handful of people and impact just a few lives in a positive way, then it’s worth it.
Not-So-Scary Solution
Although there is no cure for diabetes yet, we have the power to change our health situation. Living a healthy lifestyle can prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes. This is great news for anyone who is at risk for developing type 2 diabetes or has been told that they have prediabetes. If you are among the 27 million Americans who already have type 2 diabetes, then living a healthy lifestyle can reduce the negative impact of diabetes on your life.
Living a healthy lifestyle really does matter.
The actions you take are totally up to you, and what you do every day makes a difference, from:
What you’re eating
Whether or not you’re physically active
Taking your medicines if you’ve been prescribed medicine to manage type 2 diabetes
Keeping your regular/routine doctor’s appointments to stay on track
Progress is Perfection
I wish I could offer you a simple solution in a three-step plan to perfect health, but I can’t. However, what I can offer is:
Inspiration
Motivation
Encouragement
Reminders
Helpful information
Resources
Tips and continued discussion
I’m committed to trying every day. Forward progress (not to be confused with perfection) consists of small steps that lead to big rewards.
Action Steps
Decide to take some sort of positive action right now. Be encouraged, my friends!
Subscribe to the For My Health Today podcast for tips to live a healthier lifestyle and a weekly dose of inspiration.
You can also follow me on Instagram to keep your motivation up. I post pictures of me walking for my health to encourage you to do the same. Leave me a comment with how type 2 diabetes has impacted your life and ask me your questions as you get started!