Diabetes Prevention Participants Losing Weight
Monday, August 4, 2014
The statistics are alarming: an estimated 79 million Americans—including nearly 40,000 adults in Carroll, Haralson and Heard counties—have pre-diabetes, a dangerous condition that puts them at elevated risk of developing type 2 diabetes. That’s in addition to the 25 million Americans already diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.
But the good news is that diabetes can often be prevented or delayed by maintaining a healthy weight and stayingphysically active.
Real People, Real Progress
Millie Grant, a certified Diabetes Prevention lifestyle coach and project coordinator for Get Healthy, Live Well, leads a Monday evening class that meets in Carrollton.
“It’s a great feeling of empowerment for people to take charge of their health by learning to control what they eat and staying active,” Grant said. “I’m so proud of my class.”
Tanner Health System’s Get Healthy, Live Well initiative launched the Diabetes Prevention Program to help people in west Georgia avoid getting diabetes. As of May 1, the program’s initial 70 participants had already lost a total of 529 pounds, an average of 10.8 pounds per person. They are continuing to consistently lose weight each week.
Diabetes Prevention Program in West Georgia
The Diabetes Prevention Program is an evidence-based lifestyle change program for preventing type 2 diabetes developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The program can help people cut their risk of developing type 2 diabetes in half. Participants, many of whom are pre-diabetic or at high risk for developing diabetes, strive to lose 7 percent of their body weight and get 150 minutes of physical activity a week.
The Diabetes Prevention Program focuses on eating a healthier diet by reducing fat and calories and keeping a food journal. The classes also offer strategies for getting more physical activity. Meanwhile, the small-group setting provides support and motivation.
Check Your Risk Factors
Want to know if you have prediabetes? Take the free screening test here: Prediabetes Screening Test.