Diabetes and Obesity
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Updated: December 22, 2010
The obesity rate continues to steadily increase, affecting the long-term health for many individuals. Carrying extra weight works against the action of insulin for those who are diabetic, while also increasing risk of heart disease and high blood pressure. According to the National Institutes of Health, more than 85 percent of people with type 2 diabetes are overweight.
Yes, in fact, reducing your body weight by just 5% and being physically active for at least 30 minutes per day can have significant health benefits. Lowering your blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol, relieving stress on your joints, particularly the hips, knees, ankles, and feet. A healthy weight allows you to move around and breathe easier as well enjoy increased energy levels, reducing mental stress. We can all use some stress relief.
Three health improvements that are beneficial are first set specific, attainable goals for your weight. Break a big goal into smaller steps. Number 2 is changing your food habits. Eating healthy foods for proper nutrition is important for everyone, but even more so for people with diabetes. Number 3 is to get moving. Regular physical activity may lower blood glucose and blood cholesterol levels, and relieve stress.
Remember that you do not have to accept weight gain as part of the process of controlling diabetes. Discuss with your health care team all the things that could be affecting your weight, including your medicines, the foods you eat, and your activity level. You owe it to your self and to your good health to do what you can to achieve a healthy weight and keep your blood sugars in an acceptable range.
For more information on Diabetes and Obesity nutrition, please call Shannon Diabetes Education program at 659-7194.
Yes, in fact, reducing your body weight by just 5% and being physically active for at least 30 minutes per day can have significant health benefits. Lowering your blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol, relieving stress on your joints, particularly the hips, knees, ankles, and feet. A healthy weight allows you to move around and breathe easier as well enjoy increased energy levels, reducing mental stress. We can all use some stress relief.
Three health improvements that are beneficial are first set specific, attainable goals for your weight. Break a big goal into smaller steps. Number 2 is changing your food habits. Eating healthy foods for proper nutrition is important for everyone, but even more so for people with diabetes. Number 3 is to get moving. Regular physical activity may lower blood glucose and blood cholesterol levels, and relieve stress.
Remember that you do not have to accept weight gain as part of the process of controlling diabetes. Discuss with your health care team all the things that could be affecting your weight, including your medicines, the foods you eat, and your activity level. You owe it to your self and to your good health to do what you can to achieve a healthy weight and keep your blood sugars in an acceptable range.
For more information on Diabetes and Obesity nutrition, please call Shannon Diabetes Education program at 659-7194.
