NOVEMBER IS NATIONAL DIABETES MONTH

Did you know that African Americans are two times more likely to be diagnosed with diabetes than non-Hispanic whites are? In addition, that diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in the United States.
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a condition in which the quantity of glucose in the blood is too elevated (hyperglycemia). This is a result of not enough insulin; no insulin or the body has cells that do not respond properly to the insulin the pancreas produces.

There are three main types:
Diabetes Mellitus Type 1: You produce no insulin at all.
Diabetes Mellitus Type 2: You do not produce enough insulin or your insulin is not working properly.
Gestational Diabetes: You develop diabetes just during your pregnancy.

Diabetes Mellitus I and Diabetes Mellitus II are chronic conditions, that is, they cannot be cured.
Gestational Diabetes resolves itself after the person gives birth.

Since Diabetes Mellitus I and II cannot be cured, properly controlling it is the most effective way of dealing with the disease.
Some symptoms
-frequent urination -disproportionate thirst
-intense hunger -weight gain
-unusual weight loss -increased fatigue
-cuts/ bruises do not heal properly or quickly
If any of these symptoms are noticed, it is best to talk to your doctor about them.

Treatment
Type I diabetes- injected insulin, dietary and exercise adherence
Type II Diabetes- oral tablets and special diet. Sometimes injection of Insulin is also required.
If Diabetes has been diagnosed, it is best to make some lifestyle changes such as regular exercises, regular checkups and watching what you eat.

Check out the bulletin board in the corridor at the Masjid throughout this month for tips on controlling your blood sugar level.

If you have health related questions for Sis. Olitha, you can leave a message for her to return your call at 612-521-1749 or email her at:Olitha@masjidannur.org