Diabetes Prevention

Amy Boni
Nov 11
2 min read

Understanding Diabetes

One of the most common and often preventable chronic conditions we see in our community is diabetes. With over 37 million Americans currently living with diabetes and millions more at risk, knowing the early signs is crucial in order to take preventative steps.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic health condition that affects how your body turns food into energy. When you eat, your body breaks down food into glucose (sugar) and releases it into your bloodstream. With diabetes, your body either doesn't make enough insulin or can't use it properly. This leads to high blood sugar levels which when left untreated can cause serious health issues over time.

There are two main types of diabetes:

Type 1 diabetes: An autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Type 1 is commonly diagnosed in children and young adults.
Type 2 diabetes: Typically due to a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors, the body becomes resistant to insulin or does not produce enough of it. This can be caused by factors such as obesity, inactive lifestyle, unhealthy diet and more.

Common Signs of Diabetes

Early detection can make a big difference in preventing diabetes. Here are some warning signs to look out for:

Frequent Urination
Increased Thirst
Unexplained Weight Loss
Fatigue
Blurred Vision
Slow-healing Sores
Tingling or Numbness in Hands or Feet
Frequent Infrections

If you or some one you know is experiencing these symptoms we encourage you to get in contact with a healthcare provider to further understand your health. Our team at Heritage Health is always here to help, reach out to our 24/7 nurse advice line 208-620-5250 at any time. View our other Patient Resources here.

Steps You Can Take to Prevent Type 2 Diabetes

Luckily type 2 diabetes can often be delayed or prevented with the help of healthy lifestyle changes. Heres some key steps that can be taken:

Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on foods like whole grains, lean proteins, vegetables, and healthy fats. Cut back any sugary drinks or processed foods.
Remain Active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week. Activities such as walking, biking, swimming, or even dancing can help your body use insulin more efficiently.
Get Regular Checkups: Routine screenings and bloodwork are crucial to detect early signs of diabetes, even before symptoms appear.
Manage Stress: Chronic stress can take a toll on your body. High stress levels are known to impact blood sugar levels. Heritage Health also offers counseling services to help you find healthy ways to manage life's challenges.

Partnering with you for a Healthier Life

At Heritage Health, we're committed to walking alongside you on your wellness journey. Whether you have questions about your health, screening services, or need support managing your condition, our care team is here to help.