November is Diabetes Month, a time to communicate the seriousness of diabetes and the importance of diabetes prevention and management, especially with the holiday season and associated meals and treats coming over the next month. Diabetes Dietitian Debbie Guild with Pella Regional Health Center says depending on a person’s age, weight, and other factors, they may be at higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

“Anyone with a family member with diabetes has a greater risk of developing diabetes, especially if they have any of the following risk factors,” she said:

· Are age 45 or older
· Are Black, Hispanic/Latino, American Indian, Asian American, or Pacific Islander
· Are overweight
· Are physically inactive
· Have high blood pressure or take medicine for high blood pressure
· Have low HDL cholesterol and/or high triglycerides
· Had diabetes during pregnancy
· Have been diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Guild says healthy diets, more exercise, drinking more water and less sugary drinks, quitting smoking and limiting alcohol are all ways to help prevent diabetes or slow its development.

“Good nutrition can delay or prevent the development of type 2 diabetes. Once you get diabetes, a good balanced diet can assist with good blood sugar control, which leads to fewer complications,” said Guild.