Northern Light Sebasticook Valley Hospital brings awareness to diabetes epidemic
Date: 11/13/2023
Did you know that thirty-seven million Americans have diabetes. Northern Light Sebasticook Valley Hospital in Pittsfield is recognizing American Diabetes Month in November with information to help everyone make a difference against the diabetes epidemic.
November is the traditional start of holiday season which often includes lots of carbs and sugary treats - it can be a perfect storm, especially for those living with diabetes. Diabetes is a chronic (long-lasting) health condition that affects how your body turns food into energy. Insulin acts like a key to let the blood sugar into your body’s cells for use as energy. When there isn’t enough insulin, our cells stop responding to insulin, resulting in too much blood sugar staying in the bloodstream.
Being diagnosed with diabetes can be overwhelming. There can be huge lifestyle changes such as diet, having to monitor your glucose level, and keeping your blood sugars in check. While there isn’t a cure for diabetes, there are several steps you can take to either prevent or manage diabetes. First and foremost is adapting a healthier lifestyle. Here are some tips.
- Lose weight
- Eat healthy food
- Be physically active
- Take medicine as prescribed
- Get diabetes self-management education and support
- Make and keep healthcare appointments
Northern Light diabetes providers and dietitians recommend doing some food planning ahead of turkey day.
Meaghan Geroux, MS, RDN, is a registered dietitian nutritionist who works with patients at Northern Light Primary Care in Pittsfield and Newport. “I recommend making whole fruits and non-starchy vegetables a staple in your diet and include more whole grains when you can. Foods that contain whole grains, such as whole wheat bread or brown rice, are higher in fiber which means they are digested at a slower rate than foods made with refined sugars or flours. Consuming foods that contain fiber help prevent blood sugar spikes and if you combine fiber with protein, that’s even better!” Geroux adds, “Just remember, it’s what we do most of the time that’s important. One bad meal won’t ruin your goals, but many bad meals could.”
Whether you have diabetes yourself or are helping someone else manage their care, reach out to your primary care for a referral to local resources that can help you live your best life with health tips, tools, food advice, and much more. Visit northernlighthealth.org/Services/Endocrinology-and-Diabetes-Care.