Let’s talk about Diabetes! Did you know that according to the CDC (Center of Disease and Control) African Americans were twice as likely as non-Hispanic whites to die from diabetes? African American adults are 60 percent more likely than non-Hispanic white adults to be diagnosed with diabetes by a physician. 60% is a large percentage!
Diabetes is an endocrine disease in which your blood sugar (blood glucose) levels are too high! Glucose comes from the foods that we consume. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, such as in eating a piece of chocolate cake or eating your favorite candy bar, your blood glucose level will elevate (too much sugar in your bloodstream). Your body reacts to this elevation in blood glucose by your Pancreas producing insulin which helps the glucose get into your cells to provide energy or fuel for your body.
The Most common type is Type 2 Diabetes. What happens with Type 2 Diabetes is when you consistently have high blood sugar, your body becomes resistant to the insulin that helps to provide fuel and bring your blood sugar levels down! So how do we get this taken care of? Know the signs and symptoms of diabetes. Common signs and symptoms are: Excessive Thirst, Frequent Urination, Hunger, Fatigue, Weight loss, Slow Healing Sores, Dry, Itchy Skin, Tingling Sensation in Feet, and Blurred Vision.
Treatment for Type 2 Diabetes are modifications to your diet and adding physical activity to your daily routine!! Visit your primary care doctor to start a conversation, a nutritionist to help with making healthier food choices, and your physical therapist! Your local physical therapist can customize an exercise program for you, educate you on how to monitor your glucose levels during exercise, and will encourage you to remain active. Exercise actually helps lower your blood glucose levels and in some cases people who stuck with their exercise routine and ate healthier were able to kick Type 2 Diabetes to the curb as it is a disease that can be reversed!
Call for a free consultation today at Neurologic Optimal Wellness Physical Therapy LLC (413)-318-4776 or visit our website at www.neuroptnow.com
Dr. Katrina J. Banks, PT, DPT, CCI, CSRS, LSVT-BIG, NCS
