Diabetes Type 2

Diabetes--let's prevent an epidemic

Most people know someone who has or had diabetes, perhaps a grandparent or an elderly aunt. And many of us probably still think that the disease only runs in families. Well, times have changed. Unhealthy eating and not enough physical activity has meant that diabetes has become a whole lot more democratic. In fact, by the year 2004, one in four Canadians older than 45 will have diabetes, a disease that can result in serious health problems.

The lifestyle disease Type 2 diabetes is the more common form of diabetes, found in 90% of people with the disease. Although Type 2 diabetes occurs more often in middle-aged adults it is now found in children, some as young as 6-8 years old. An inactive lifestyle and eating more calories than your body needs play key roles in the disease. In many cases type 2 diabetes can be prevented by healthy eating and physical activity.

Eat Healthy! Excite your taste buds with a variety of foods each day. Pack punch for your health with lots of colourful fruits and veggies Do you heart a favour and make lower-fat food choices more often. Give your health a boost. Score big with snacks that offer more than just sugar, salt or fat

Get Active! Take a step in the right direction. Add more physical activity in your day. It's all good. Increase your strength, endurance, and flexibility. It doesn't matter how fast you go--Walking will get you there. Right on target. Aim for 30 - 60 minutes of physical activity each day--you don't have to do it all at once. You're laughing now! Choose activities you enjoy and you'll feel great.

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Last Updated - Thursday, June 23, 2005