Diabetes by the Numbers – and How Exercise Helps Fight It

As we enter a period of the year conspicuous for nutritional overindulgence, an article on diabetes, a disease largely preventable by nutritional discipline, is in order.

More than 12 million Americans over 65 have diabetes. That is just one of the fascinating, if troubling, statistics about the disease. Let’s look at some other telling numbers.

30

Number of Americans in millions who have diabetes

25

Percentage over 65 who have it

7

Seventh leading cause of death in the US

6

Ways exercise helps:

* Lowers blood glucose, blood pressure, HDL cholesterol and triglycerides

* Lowers risk for pre-diabetes, type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke

* Relieves stress

* Strengthens the heart, muscles and bones

* Improves blood circulation and tones muscles

* Improves flexibility

3

Steps to prevent and manage Type 2: stay at a healthy weight; eat well; be active

Type 2

The most common form

0

Reasons you’re too old to start exercising and eating right.

The American Diabetes Association defines type 2 diabetes as “characterized by high blood glucose levels caused by either a lack of insulin or the body’s inability to use insulin efficiently. Type 2 diabetes develops most often in middle-aged and older adults but can appear in young people.”

If you think you might be at risk, talk to your doctor. If you have been diagnosed, be sure to know about proper eating and exercising and take care of yourself every day. At Inner Strength Fitness, we are here to help!