Posted on Oct.29.2024October 31, 2024

Diabetes Awareness Month: Understanding, Preventing, and Managing Diabetes

Graphic for Diabetes Awareness Month featuring a blue and gray awareness ribbon with a red teardrop symbol. To the right, a circular photo of Whitney Hightower, a smiling woman with curly hair in a bun, wearing glasses and a red sweater. The accompanying text reads, 'A note from our Outpatient Registered Dietitian, Whitney Hightower, MS, RDN, LD,' on a teal background

Take Charge of Your Health This Diabetes Awareness Month

November marks Diabetes Awareness Month, a time to reflect on the impact of diabetes on our community and the importance of education, prevention, and management. Whether you or a loved one is living with diabetes, or you’re just looking to improve your health, there are many steps we can all take to reduce the risk and enhance the quality of life.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body processes blood sugar (glucose). There are three main types:

Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune condition where the body doesn’t produce insulin.
Type 2 Diabetes: A condition where the body doesn’t use insulin properly, often linked to lifestyle factors.
Gestational Diabetes: A type that occurs during pregnancy and can increase the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.

Why Awareness Matters

Diabetes affects millions of people in the U.S., and many may not even know they have it. Early detection is key to preventing complications such as heart disease, kidney damage, and vision problems. Increasing awareness helps individuals recognize symptoms early, manage their condition effectively, and adopt healthy habits that can lower their risk.

Take Action for Prevention and Management

Even though Type 1 diabetes is not preventable, making small, meaningful lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes and manage both types effectively. Here are some steps you can take:

Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on complex carbohydrates like fruits, vegetables and whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats from foods like nuts, seeds, avocados and oils Avoid sugary drinks that can raise blood sugar levels quickly without providing lasting energy.
Stay Active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week, that is about 30 minutes per day. Regular exercise helps improve insulin sensitivity and keeps blood sugar in check.
Monitor Blood Sugar: If you’re living with diabetes, regular blood sugar checks at home with a glucometer or continuous glucose monitor are crucial to stay within target ranges and adjust treatment or lifestyle habits if necessary.
Visit Your Healthcare Provider: Regular check-ups can help catch any changes early and allow your care team to adjust your treatment plan if needed.

Support is Available

Managing diabetes can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. At our hospital, we offer various resources to help you stay on track:

Diabetes Support Group: Led by Whitney Hightower, MS, RDN, LD, our Diabetes Support Group meets every third Thursday of the month. This group is a fantastic resource for learning new strategies, sharing experiences, and receiving encouragement from others who are navigating similar challenges. No RSVP is required, and this monthly group is open to the public. Learn more at: Diabetes Education – Monadnock Community Hospital
Education and Counseling: Our Certified Diabetes Education and Care Specialist and registered dietitians offer personalized guidance on nutrition, medication, and lifestyle changes to help you live well with diabetes.

Resources

American Diabetes Association (ADA) Provides comprehensive information on diabetes types, management, research, and advocacy. It also offers resources for meal planning, fitness, and self-care.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Diabetes Offers detailed resources on diabetes prevention, management, data, and statistics, including tips on healthy lifestyle changes.

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) A reliable source for scientific research and health information on diabetes, its complications, and related topics.

Mayo Clinic – Diabetes Provides a thorough overview of diabetes types, symptoms, complications, and expert advice on care and treatment.

Join Us in Raising Awareness

This Diabetes Awareness Month, let’s work together to raise awareness, promote healthy living, and support those managing diabetes. Small changes can make a big difference – let’s take the steps toward a healthier tomorrow.

For more information about our support group or to schedule an appointment with our diabetes care team, contact us at 603-924-4699 ext. 4299.

Stay well,
Whitney Hightower, MS RDN LD

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Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on complex carbohydrates like fruits, vegetables and whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats from foods like nuts, seeds, avocados and oils Avoid sugary drinks that can raise blood sugar levels quickly without providing lasting energy.
Stay Active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week, that is about 30 minutes per day. Regular exercise helps improve insulin sensitivity and keeps blood sugar in check.
Monitor Blood Sugar: If you're living with diabetes, regular blood sugar checks at home with a glucometer or continuous glucose monitor are crucial to stay within target ranges and adjust treatment or lifestyle habits if necessary.
Visit Your Healthcare Provider: Regular check-ups can help catch any changes early and allow your care team to adjust your treatment plan if needed.

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Diabetes Support Group: Led by Whitney Hightower, MS, RDN, LD, our Diabetes Support Group meets every third Thursday of the month. This group is a fantastic resource for learning new strategies, sharing experiences, and receiving encouragement from others who are navigating similar challenges. No RSVP is required, and this monthly group is open to the public. Learn more at: Diabetes Education - Monadnock Community Hospital
Education and Counseling: Our Certified Diabetes Education and Care Specialist and registered dietitians offer personalized guidance on nutrition, medication, and lifestyle changes to help you live well with diabetes.

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