It’s Diabetes Awareness Month!

Each November brings another month of Diabetes Awareness (with World Diabetes Day taking place on November 14th).  To help us in celebrating, I am honoured to feature two dietitians, and friends of mine, from GetReal Gurls Nutrition.  April Saunders and Michelle Saraiva are both Certified Diabetes Educators who debunk nutrition myths, review products and provide realistic tips and tricks for achieving your healthiest lifestyle on their awesome website.

Some fast facts about diabetes in Canada:

• Almost four million Canadians have been diagnosed with diabetes, and many more are unaware they have the disease.
• Diabetes can lead to serious complications such as cardiovascular disease and stroke, blindness, chronic kidney disease, nervous system damage, and dental diseases.
• Males are at a higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes.
• People living with diabetes are more susceptible to complications from pneumonia and the flu.
• The majority of Canadians diagnosed with diabetes today have type 2 diabetes.
• The likelihood of developing this type of diabetes can be reduced through losing excess weight, eating well, and exercising. Even a 5-10% weight loss can significantly reduce your risk.
• Body fat stored around the abdomen (rather than the hips and thighs) is a risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes.
• Increasing physical activity reduces the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Want to see if you’re at risk for developing type 2 diabetes?  Visit the Canadian Diabetes Association’s website and take the test to assess your level of risk: Take the Test

Stay tuned to GetReal Gurls Nutrition and Dietetic Directions for more diabetes-themed posts this month!