25.8 million children and adults in the United States – 8.3% of the population – have diabetes. And not too far behind those 25.8 million are the estimated 79 million Americans with prediabetes. What's worse, the increasing prevalence of Type II diabetes has become so staggering, the International Diabetes Foundation has begun to term Diabetes on the whole as “The Global Burden.” Diabetes is a serious illness, and its complications are manifold. Most know of its impact on circulation, visual acuity, and heart and kidney function. Many aren't aware, however, of its deleterious effect on gum tissue. If you're prediabetic, have diabetes or have a loved one with the disease, you'll want to learn more about how to ward off this commonly unknown side effect of the disease.
Diabetes is a disease with tentacles – its impact on a person’s health can be widespread, so it’s important to be proactive in avoiding the disease. Here are three things you can do today to keep your kids away from this disease that some are calling an epidemic in children.
- Remain active: Ensuring your kids are active is one of the best things you can do to help them stave off diabetes – because doing so help maintain a healthy weight – perhaps the “single most important cause of Type II Diabetes.”
- If dietary habits allow for it, amp up the fiber: Research suggests increased fiber intake in the form of fruits, vegetables and whole grains helps improve blood sugar control. These types of foods are also good for all of us for so many other reasons as well, so eat up and keep your kids in the green!
- Hit the weights!: Even those already diagnosed with Diabetes can benefit from doing some form of weight bearing exercise. More muscle mass helps our bodies respond better to insulin, AND enhances our physical appearance as well. Not a bad trade off for a few pushups, or run on the monkey bars.