MADISON COUNTY – In observing Diabetes Awareness Day, Crestwood Medical Center issued way ways to reach healthy levels of blood sugar.

Diabetes affects almost 30 million people in the United States, a stunning 10 percent of the overall population. Recent research reveals that diabetes is now the third leading cause of death, not seventh, as previous research had found, according to Crestwood sources.

One of the most alarming statistics is that one in four persons has diabetes but is unaware of the disease. American Diabetes Association sponsors Diabetes Alert Day, observed March 28 this year, to serve as an annual wake-up call.

“The incidence of Type 2 Diabetes in this country has tripled in the last 20 years,” said registered nurse Cynthia Roberts said. Roberts is Diabetes Educator at Crestwood.

“Adoption of sugary diets and sedentary lifestyles has caused diabetes to reach epidemic proportions. On the positive side, this condition doesn’t have to be a death sentence. It’s almost always avoidable and even reversible, with serious lifestyle changes,” Roberts said.

Crestwood recommends five top ways to keep blood sugar at healthy levels and to keep Type 2 Diabetes from affecting individuals:

* Get more physical activity: A person doesn’t have to run marathons. Just 30 minutes of intentional activity, at least five times per week, can profoundly affect insulin resistance. Mixing aerobic, heart-pumping activity with some resistance training is best.

* Get plenty of fiber: Fiber can improve blood sugar management. Sources include fruits, vegetables, beans, whole grains and nuts. 

* Choose whole grains: One-half of grain intake should be whole grains. Look for labels that say “whole grains,” and opt for organic when possible. 

* Lose a little weight: Losing even 5 or 10 pounds can impact a reduction in blood sugar levels and insulin resistance.

* Skip fad diets: Yo-yo dieting and fad diets are hard on the heart, mind and organs. Decide on wholesome food choices 80 percent of the time, and your body will work the way it was designed. 

Each month, Crestwood offers “Diabetes: Education for Your Success.” American Diabetes Association has approved this educational program for diabetes self-management. Participants can learn about behavior modification to successfully self-manage diabetes and related conditions. 

For more information, call Crestwood at 256-429-4061.