Good morning, this is your Wellness Wake-Up Call with University of Illinois Extension.
November is National Diabetes Awareness Month, and today we’re talking about how to determine if you are at risk for developing diabetes.
It’s estimated that 38.4 million people in the U.S. are living with diabetes, and another 8.7 million may have the condition but remain undiagnosed. Diabetes occurs when your blood glucose, also called blood sugar, is too high. While diabetes can develop at any age, the risk of Type 2 diabetes increases significantly with certain factors.
One of the most common risk factors is being overweight or obese. The encouraging news is that losing just 5 to 10 percent of your current body weight can help reduce your risk.
Your diet also matters. Eating a wide variety of fruits and vegetables provides essential nutrients while helping to control blood sugar. On the flip side, limiting or avoiding ultra-processed foods, such as chips, deli meats, sugary drinks, and instant soups, can help reduce your risk by cutting out excess sugar, sodium, fats, and calories.
Physical activity is another powerful way to lower your risk. Aim for at least 30 minutes of intentional movement each day. Exercise improves insulin sensitivity, supports weight management, and helps lower blood sugar.
The bottom line: small, consistent changes can make a big difference. Eat more whole foods, move your body daily, and talk to your healthcare provider about your personal risk.
Thank you for listening! I hope you have a happy and healthy day ahead. Content for today’s episode was provided by Diane Reinhold, nutrition and wellness educator for University of Illinois Extension.
Resources:
Diabetes Risk Test, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease, 09/09/2025
Diabetes Statistics, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease, 09/09/2025
Preventing Type 2 Diabetes, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease, 09/09/2025
Are You at Risk for Type 2 Diabetes?
