New Morning Star Baptist Church

November is National Diabetes Month, a time when communities across the country seek to bring attention to diabetes. This year’s focus is on taking action to prevent diabetes health problems. Diabetes is a disease that occurs when your blood glucose, also called blood sugar, is too high. It affects about 37 million Americans, including adults and youth. Diabetes can damage the eyes, kidneys, nerves, and heart, and it is linked to some types of cancer.

But there’s also good news: 

Taking charge of your health may help you prevent diabetes health problems. Following are some tips to get started:

1. Manage your blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.  You can start by managing your diabetes ABCs:
   · A is for the A1C test that health care professionals use to measure your average blood glucose levels. Some people with diabetes also use devices to track their blood glucose throughout the day and night.
   · B is for blood pressure.
   · C is for cholesterol.
2. Take small steps toward healthy habits.
   · Lifestyle habits such as planning healthy meals, being physically active, getting enough sleep, and not smoking may help you manage your diabetes ABCs. You don’t have to do it all at once. Start slow and build healthier habits from there.
3. Take your medicines on time.
   · Remember to take your medicines even if you feel healthy. 
4. Reach  or maintain a healthy weight.
   · If you are overweight or obese, ask your primary care provider if healthy eating, physical activity, or other weight-loss treatments may help you manage your weight.
5. Take  care of your mental health.
   · Managing diabetes can be hard. If you feel down, sad, or overwhelmed, learn about healthy ways to cope with stress. Work with your health care team.
6. Managing diabetes takes a team.
   · Your health care team may include a primary care provider, diabetes specialist, registered dietitian, or certified diabetes educator.

For more information visit:  

National Diabetes Month 2023      |     Observing American Diabetes Month