The Florida Department of Health in Orange County (DOH-Orange) recognizes November as American Diabetes Month®, and seeks to increase diabetes awareness and challenge the community to prevent or keep their glucose levels in control. 

“Obesity is often associated with diabetes and sometimes referred to as diabesity,” said Dr. Kevin Sherin, DOH-Orange Health Officer. “Maintaining a healthy weight can prevent many health problems including type 2 diabetes, cancer, sleep apnea and arthritis. Physical activity and healthy eating are keys to controlling glucose levels and preventing diabetes.” 

Over 30 million children and adults in the United States have diabetes. Another 86 million Americans have prediabetes, which is a condition where blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not high enough for 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 each 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 with achieving a healthy weight and preventing chronic diseases such as diabetes, even during the holidays. 

DOH-Orange’s Healthiest Weight program encourages the community to join the “Maintain, Don’t Gain” Holiday Challenge.  Visit http://www.healthiestweightfl.com/activities/holiday.html to join the FREE seven-week challenge and receive tips, tricks, and ideas to help you maintain your weight throughout the holiday season.