In this episode of the Wellness Wake Up Call, hosted by Kristin Bogdonis, a nutrition and wellness educator for University of Illinois Extension, we dive into the importance of National Diabetes Month, which takes place in November. With an alarming 37 million Americans living with diabetes, it is crucial to raise awareness and understanding of this widespread disease. Shockingly, 20% of those affected are completely unaware of their condition. In the Quad Cities area alone, 13% of adults have diabetes, and an additional 11% have been informed that they have prediabetes or borderline diabetes.Bogdonis sheds light on the fact that prediabetes can go unnoticed for years, without showing any symptoms. To tackle this issue head-on, she advises individuals with a family history of diabetes, those aged 45 or older, individuals who are overweight, or those who have had gestational diabetes, to consult with their doctors and get their blood sugar tested. By determining elevated blood glucose levels, one can take the necessary steps to make lifestyle changes that can prevent or delay the progression of the disease. Shockingly, if left untreated, many people with prediabetes will develop type 2 diabetes within a decade.Apart from the risk of developing diabetes, both diabetes and prediabetes increase the likelihood of heart disease and stroke. Bogdonis emphasizes the importance of taking control of one's health through exercise and dietary modifications to prevent complications and bring blood glucose levels back to normal. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that as diabetes progresses, medication may become necessary. With the rising costs of food and healthcare, Bogdonis shares valuable tips from the CDC on saving money when it comes to diabetes care and treatment.To further help individuals manage their diabetes, Bogdonis provides practical suggestions for saving money on food. These include prepping produce at home instead of buying pre-cut, stocking up on frozen and canned fruits and vegetables, and incorporating more plant-based proteins such as beans, peas, and lentils into meals. Moreover, she offers information on how to find financial assistance for diabetes care and encourages listeners to take a prediabetes risk quiz.In closing, Bogdonis reminds us all to prioritize our health and wishes everyone a healthy day. She expresses her gratitude for tuning in to the Wellness Wake Up Call segment and encourages listeners to continue their journey towards wellness.
