BE KIND Wellness Wednesday – A Guide to Health Holiday Habits!

Happy Wellness Wednesday!

Wellness Wednesday emails are designed to provide you with simple tools, information, and resources to encourage positive and healthy lifestyle choices. As a proud recipient of The Healthy Arizona Worksite Award, The Be Kind People Project is committed to the health and wellness of its employees, friends, and family.

 

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic health condition that affects how your body turns food into energy—diabetes affects 34.2 million Americans. If you are diagnosed with diabetes, your body either does not make enough insulin or cannot make insulin. There is no cure for diabetes; however, maintaining a healthy balanced lifestyle can prevent diabetes or help you manage your diabetes.

Balance is vital in managing Type 2 Diabetes, and with the upcoming holiday season, it is essential to enjoy the sweet treats or food while still holding yourself accountable!

Diabetes Risk Factors 

There are three types of diabetes, but the most common are Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes. Type 1 Diabetes is an autoimmune condition where your body does not produce enough insulin. Type 1 Diabetes usually occurs in children, teens, and young adults. Type 2 Diabetes your body does not use insulin well and cannot keep normal blood sugar levels. Approximately 90% of individuals who are diagnosed with diabetes have Type 2 Diabetes.

Type 1 Diabetes Risk Factors:

  • Family History
  • Age

Type 2 Diabetes Risk Factors:

  • Have prediabetes
  • Overweight
  • 45 years or older
  • Have a family member diagnosed with type 2 diabetes

 

Can Type 2 Diabetes Be Prevented? 

Type 2 Diabetes can be prevented or delayed with positive lifestyle changes like daily physical activity and a healthy, well-balanced diet. Examples of physical activities you can implement are Zumba or Swimming.

Prediabetes is when blood sugar levels are abnormally high and is one step away from Type 2 Diabetes. By implementing healthy changes like staying active, you can delay type 2 diabetes and improve your overall physical and mental health!

Happy Holidays!

Lastly, it is essential to remember what the holiday season means to you and enjoy your visits with family and friends.

When you prioritize the essential things in life, you will find it easier to maintain a healthy, balanced holiday diet.

Published on December 8, 2022
By Maria Kirley, School Wellness Programs & Events Intern

Questions? Comments? Want to contribute to the Wellness Wednesday Bulletin?
Send your ideas to Krysta Flores at krysta@bkpp.org.

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