November is Diabetes Awareness Month
November is National Diabetes Awareness month. Diabetes is a disease that affects the body’s ability to produce or respond to the hormone insulin. Insulin is produced in the pancreas and regulates the amount of glucose (sugar) in the blood. Diabetes occurs when blood glucose levels are too high for a prolonged period. Over time, this can cause severe health problems. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, almost 38 million Americans, both adults and children, have diabetes.
What does diabetes mean for your diet? With a focus on portions and frequency, all foods can be enjoyed. Eating well and managing carbohydrates are key to sustaining a healthy blood sugar range. Being physically active and maintaining a healthy weight are important as well. Partnering with healthcare providers to develop a plan, including frequent monitoring, will help to manage diabetes.
For a delicious, diabetes-friendly meal, try this recipe for Pasta with Pumpkin Sauce from the Mayo Clinic. You can find details about this recipe and others, as well as information on managing diabetes here.