During National Diabetes Awareness Month "maintain don't gain"

From the Florida Department of Health-Orange County

November is American Diabetes Month® and the Florida Department of Health in Orange County (DOH-Orange) seeks to increase diabetes awareness and challenge the community to prevent or keep their glucose levels in control.

“Maintaining a healthy weight can prevent many health problems including type 2 diabetes, cancer, sleep apnea, and arthritis,” said Dr. Kevin Sherin, DOH-Orange Health Officer. “Physical activity and healthy eating are keys to controlling glucose levels and preventing diabetes.”

Nine out of ten Americans with prediabetes do not know they have it. Prediabetes is a condition where blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not high enough for the diagnosis of diabetes. People with prediabetes are at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes and for heart disease and stroke.

Simple tips such as starting each day with a healthy breakfast can help prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes and effectively manage all types of diabetes to avoid complications. Physical activity and healthy eating go hand in hand with achieving a healthy weight and preventing chronic diseases such as diabetes, even during the holidays.

DOH-Orange’s Healthiest Weight program encourages the community to join the “Maintain, Don’t Gain” Holiday Challenge.

Visit: http://www.healthiestweightfl.com/activities/holiday.html to join the FREE seven-week challenge and receive tips, tricks, and ideas to help you maintain your weight throughout the holiday season.

About the Florida Department of Health

The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote, and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county, and community efforts.

Follow us on Twitter at @HealthyFla and on Facebook. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.