November is National Diabetes Awareness Month 

Diabetes is a life-long disease that affects the way your body handles glucose, a kind of sugar, in your blood. Your body changes most of the food you eat into glucose, which your body uses for energy. Your blood takes the glucose to the cells throughout your body. Your blood always has some glucose in it. But too much glucose in the blood is not good for your health.

Type 1 diabetes is commonly diagnosed in children and young adults, and it's a lifelong condition.  If you have this type of diabetes, your body does not make insulin, so you must take insulin every day.

The most common form of diabetes, type 2 diabetes occurs when your body does not make enough insulin, so glucose is not getting into the cells.  8.1 million people with diabetes do not know they have the disease.

It is important to check your blood glucose level and speak with your doctor. You can take positive steps to prevent type two diabetes by:

• Controlling your weight. Florida’s Healthiest Weight program can help you make small changes to ensure you at the right weight for you.
• Quitting smoking. Tobacco usage can lead to many health issues, including type 2 diabetes. Quit your way at Tobacco Free Florida.
• Adding moderate exercise. Simple steps – such as walking during the day – can greatly reduce your chances of contracting type 2 diabetes. Pinellas County has many walking trails that are easy to get to. Find a map here.
• Eating right. Adding more fruits and vegetables can make a big difference in your overall health. Farmers Markets can be found in many places in Pinellas County, where you can find produce and other healthy foods for lower prices.

For more information about diabetes and how you can manage it, visit the Florida Department of Health Diabetes Information Page.