Report: 24 Million People in the U.S. Have Diabetes
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Glenn Mueller
Senior Writer/Editor
Diabetes is growing in epidemic proportions in this country, and those numbers show no signs of slowing down. In fact, the U.S. Government reported recently that the number of Americans with diabetes has grown to 24 million -- a full 8 percent of the population.
According to a report published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, those numbers represent an increase of 3 million people in just two years. As if these numbers aren't alarming enough, approximately 57 million Americans currently suffer from pre-diabetes.
“These numbers leave me speechless," says Tracey Ryan, eDiets Manager of Nutrition Support. "That 24 million Americans have diabetes is shocking enough, but what is more saddening is the thought that 57 million more are on the verge of developing diabetes if they don’t make changes, and quickly."
Fortunately, Tracey says there are some things you can do to lower your risk for diabetes.
"It is extremely important to be aware of your risk for diabetes, but being proactive is just as important, if not more,” Tracey says.
Perhaps the best way to decrease your risk for diabetes is to start exercising. Exercise can help control your blood glucose, lower your blood pressure, and improve your blood cholesterol. It also reduces your risk for heart disease and stroke, by strengthening your cardiovascular system. Perhaps most importantly for people with diabetes, participating in regular physical activity helps insulin work better, increases flexibility and improves blood circulation. Recent research shows that just about any type of exercise improves blood glucose control.
“If you are at risk of developing diabetes it is time that you made some changes to the way you eat and how much physical activity you do," Tracey says.
According to the American Diabetes Association, losing even a little bit of weight can help people with or at risk for diabetes by lowering insulin resistance and lowering blood glucose levels. Tracey suggests following a healthy meal plan similar to the Living With Diabetes plan on eDiets.
"Making sure you round out your diet with lean meats, fish, whole grains, fruits and vegetables in combination with a moderate amount of exercise should help you to lose some weight, and at the same time reduce your risk for diabetes,” Tracey says.
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