by
Dianna Malkowski, Physician Assistant & Nutritionist
 |
| Dianna Malkowski |
On
the American Diabetes Association Alert Day, this year on March 27, the
association asks the public to take the Diabetes Risk Test to find out if
they’re at risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Here at The CareGiver Partnership, we remind everyone that diagnosis
and management are key to avoiding serious complications.
Type
2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the way a body metabolizes its
main source of fuel: sugar, also known as glucose. Although there is no cure,
the condition is manageable and even preventable in some cases. The American
Diabetes Association Alert Day is a way to increase public awareness of
diabetes risks.
People
who may be at risk for type 2 diabetes include those who are over the age of
45, overweight, lead sedentary lifestyles and have a family history of the
disease. Symptoms can include increased hunger, thirst or urination; weight
loss or fatigue; blurred vision; frequent infections or slow-healing sores; or
areas of darkened skin in body creases.
Symptoms
can develop very slowly, and although being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes can
be frightening, early intervention can help make the disease more manageable. Strategies
for managing type 2 diabetes include a lifelong commitment to the following
areas:
- Healthy eating. Registered dietitians put together meal plans that fit their patients’ lifestyles and health goals. A plan may include fruits, vegetables and whole grains, along with guidelines for tracking carbohydrates and the glycemic index of foods. A diet may also include glucose-control juices or shakes.
- Physical activity. A doctor will recommend an exercise program that may include at least 30 minutes of aerobic exercise most days of the week.
- Blood sugar monitoring. A doctor will create a treatment plan that dictates how often blood sugar levels are checked. Levels can change in response to diet and activity, alcohol, hormones or stress, and medication or illness. Monitoring tools include glucose monitoring systems, lancets, test strips and, in some cases, urinalysis or other types of testing kits.
Although
Alert Day is once per year, the risk test is available year-round. Get more
information on Alert
Day,
and look for the new risk test to go live on March 27.
Dianna
Malkowski is a Board Certified Physician Assistant and Mayo Clinic trained
nutritionist specializing in diabetes, cancer, wound healing, therapeutic diets
and nutrition support. She serves on the board of professional advisers for The
CareGiver Partnership and enjoys working with patients and caregivers alike. Ask
Dianna a question.
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