Diabetes: reducing risk

Do you want to reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 71%? If so, there are key lifestyle changes can help you achieve this goal. These changes center on:

• Moderate weight loss
• A healthy diet
• Exercise

A major study known as the Diabetes Prevention Program found that older adults, in particular, can benefit from these healthy habits. Study participants age 60 or older reduced the risk of their prediabetes progressing to diabetes by 71 percent. To achieve that goal, the participants lost 5 to 7 percent of their body weight, ate a healthy diet, and increased their physical activity.

Due to the success of the Diabetes Prevention Program study, the federal government has sought to expand access to its interventions. Starting in April 2018, the government implemented the program for people at risk of diabetes. It’s estimated that 22 million Americans 65 and older who have prediabetes could receive free or reduced cost services from the expansion. If you qualify, you may be eligible for a year of coaching with a trained diabetes educator, who will develop a plan to improve your diet, increase physical activity and lose excess weight. People who show dedication to the program may be eligible for a second year of enrollment. You can check your eligibility and find programs near you by visiting www.DoIHavePrediabetes.org.

Changing your eating and exercise habits to lose weight may seem daunting, but it’s well worth the effort. And it’s never too late to start. In fact, research has shown that older adults seeking to prevent diabetes have better success in achieving exercise and weight-loss goals than do their younger counterparts.

Have you stopped your prediabetes from progressing to diabetes?

Tell others and join the conversation at the Diabetes Group.