The Florida Department of Health in Orange County Healthiest Weight Initiative recognizes November as American Diabetes Month® (ADM), an excellent opportunity to increase diabetes awareness and provide tools to help the community prevent diabetes or keep their glucose levels in control.

“Obesity is often associated with diabetes and sometimes referred to as diabesity. Maintaining a healthy weight can prevent many health problems including type 2 diabetes, cancer, sleep apnea and arthritis. Increasing physical activity and healthy eating are key steps to take in order to achieve a healthy weight that can aid in the control of glucose levels or prevention of diabetes,” said. Dr. Kevin Sherin, health officer for the Florida Department of Health in Orange County.

Nearly 30 million children and adults in the United States have diabetes and another 86 million Americans have prediabetes a condition in which blood glucose levels are higher than normal but are not high enough for a diagnosis of diabetes. People with prediabetes are at increased risk for developing type 2 diabetes and for heart disease and stroke.

Simple tips such as starting the day with a healthy breakfast can help prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes and effectively manage all types of diabetes to avoid complications. Physical activity and healthy eating go hand in hand to achieve a healthy weight and prevent chronic diseases such as diabetes even during the holidays. The Healthiest Weight Initiative in Orange County encourages the community to join the free “Maintain, Don’t Gain” Holiday Challenge from November 17 through December 31.  Visit www.healthiestweightfl.com/holiday  to join and receive a weekly newsletter full of tips, recipes and more.