Celebrate National Nutrition Month: 6 Family-Friendly Strategies for a Healthier Lifestyle Together!

Food plays a big role in our lives, influencing both our health and our family bonds. Unfortunately, unhealthy eating can lead to serious problems like type 2 diabetes. This is especially relevant in Maine, where about 10% of adults, or around 116,500 people, are living with diabetes. Each year, roughly 6,800 adults receive a new diagnosis.

Moreover, around one in three adults in Maine have prediabetes, and many may not even know it. This condition puts individuals at a higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes, heart issues, and other health complications.

Understanding Diabetes and Prediabetes

Diabetes is a long-term health issue, where the body struggles to manage blood sugar levels. This can happen either because the body doesn’t make enough insulin (as in type 1 diabetes) or because it can’t use insulin effectively (as in type 2 diabetes). Prediabetes, on the other hand, indicates blood sugar levels that are elevated but not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes. The good news? Prediabetes can often be reversed through positive lifestyle changes.

Tip for Better Health: Family Engagement is Key

The Diabetes Prevention Program offered by MaineHealth emphasizes the importance of families working together towards healthier living. Here are some simple yet effective strategies families can use:

1. Get Active Together: Choose a fun activity that everyone enjoys, like biking or playing sports. This can make exercising feel less like a chore.
2. Cook Together: Encourage cooperation by preparing meals as a family. This not only makes cooking enjoyable but also teaches kids valuable skills for the future.
3. Grocery Shop as a Team: Involve everyone in the shopping process. This can help all family members feel invested in healthy eating.
4. Discuss Food Choices: Open conversations about food can help pinpoint everyone’s preferences. Work together to blend different tastes in meals.
5. Select Healthy Snacks: Be mindful of the snacks you buy. Opt for healthier options rather than processed foods, which can increase diabetes risk.
6. Talk About Family Health History: Discussing health issues that run in the family can help everyone understand their risks. Make sure to share this information with younger family members.

The Diabetes Prevention Program recognizes that support from family and community is essential for making lasting changes. By collaborating on meal planning, cooking, and exercise, families can foster healthy habits that last a lifetime.

As diabetes continues to be a significant health concern, awareness and proactive measures can go a long way. Remember, making small changes today can lead to better health tomorrow. You can explore the Diabetes Prevention Program at MaineHealth for more insights and tools to manage your risk of diabetes.

This article aims to educate and inform—not to replace professional medical advice.

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