Did you know that of the 98 million Americans who have prediabetes, more than 8 in 10 adults are not aware they have it?
November is National Diabetes Awareness Month, and the Regional YMCA is encouraging our members and community to understand their risks for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes and steps to take to prevent the disease.
Take the 60-second risk test from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and American Diabetes Association’s risk test to find out if you’re at risk.
If you are at risk, we’re here to help!
Prevention IS possible.
The Regional YMCA offers the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program in the Greater Danbury area in person and on ZOOM, which helps participants achieve healthy eating, regular physical activity, and modest weight loss—all of which have been shown to reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Interested in learning more or joining the program? Hear from our Health and Wellness Director, Lisa O’Connor, in an information session on the Diabetes Prevention program here at the Y.
- Thursday November 6th at 1:00pm in person Register (ZOOM link will be emailed to anyone who registers)
- Tuesday November 11th at 6:30pm on ZOOM: Register (ZOOM link will be emailed to anyone who registers)
- Or fill out this form and Lisa will contact you! Contact Form
Here are some tips and reminders to bring into this November so you can go into the holidays happy and healthy!
- More Fruits and Veggies: Try incorporating more fruits and vegetables into your day! Eating a colorful array of healthy foods can have a huge impact on your overall health. There are some great fall recipes available including vegetables that are in season this time of year – get creative in the kitchen!
- More Lean Proteins: Basic lifestyle changes – such as choosing fish, lean meats and poultry without skin – can contribute to weight loss and decrease the risk for type 2 diabetes.
- Grain Power: There’s power in grain! Aim for whole grains with every meal. A whole grain sandwich filled with fresh veggies and lean meat is both filling and delicious.
- 150 Minutes of Movement: Small steps matter. Build up to 150 minutes of physical activity per week. You can start with a simple walk each day or check out our Y’s exciting group fitness class schedule. The key is to just keep moving!
- Drink More Water: Basic lifestyle changes, like drinking water instead of drinks with added sugar, can contribute to weight loss and decreases the risk for type 2 diabetes. Carrying and refilling a reusable water bottle is an easy way to keep thirst (and sugary beverage temptation!) at bay.
Remember — we’re here to support you!
Whether you’re joining the Diabetes Prevention Program, working out at the Y, or signing up for another health and wellness class, we’re with you every step of the way.