It is no secret that as parents, we tend to spend much more time taking care of others than we do ourselves. You can try and tell yourself otherwise, but you know it is a fact. I get it! We have all been there at one point or another; there has been a time – probably more recently than you’d like to admit – when you put your own self-care to the side.
But I am here to tell you that taking time for you and your health is not an indulgence. It’s a critical part of life. That’s why I am happy to participate in this public service announcement from the Ad-Council.
March 22nd is Diabetes Alert Day. No one is excused from prediabetes. 86 million American adults (more than 1 in 3) have prediabetes and are at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes, a serious health condition that can lead to heart attack and stroke. Surprisingly, nearly 90% of those with prediabetes don’t even know that they have it.
Prediabetes often can be reversed through weight loss, diet changes and increased physical activity. Diagnosis is key: research shows that once people are aware of their condition, they are much more likely to make the necessary lifestyle changes.
Part of taking care of yourself is being conscious of what you are eating and making sure that you mobilize yourself. We are not saying get up and run a marathon right this second – although, that is a great way to stay healthy! Eat right and move your body – two simple things that could decrease your risk for diabetes. If you think you or a loved one might be at risk, take this simple test.
- Believe it or not, salads CAN be delicious. Look up interesting ways to prepare them and other vegetables, and aim to eat at least one at dinner every night.
- Low-fat doesn’t have to be low on flavor. So try to cook in these ways: roast, broil, grill, steam or bake — instead of deep-frying or pan-frying.
- Reading food labels is so important. The more you know about what goes into your food, the better decisions you’ll be able to make. Also, try and cut down on foods with saturated fat or trans-fat, and hydrogenated fat or partially hydrogenated fat. Check labels to help you make healthy choices.
- Choose foods with less sodium than your usual choices.
If you can keep track of your family’s crazy schedule, keeping track of your daily fat grams and calorie intake should be a breeze! Here’s a handy tracker you can download, print and share, and will help you make eating healthier a regular thing.
We need to communicate a sense of urgency; this is a serious and important message. – it’s time to take action and what better day to spread the message than on Diabetes Alert Day! Take a moment to share this message with your friends, family and co-workers!
