Americans are paying $322 billion per year for treatment of Diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association. Between the 29.1 million Americans with Type 1 and 2 diabetes and the 86 million with prediabetes, chances are you or someone close to you falls into this category. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concluded that, in 2011, nearly 81% of adults with diagnosed diabetes were either being treated with insulin, pills or both. Considering all this, it should come as no surprise that 60% of U.S. personal bankruptcies are caused by medical bills.
Direct diabetic costs:
- hospital stays and procedures (such as amputations)
- prescription medications
- anti-diabetic agents and diabetes supplies
- doctor appointments
- nursing/residential facility stays
Indirect diabetic costs:
- work absence
- reduced work productivity
- inability to work
While diet and exercise can eliminate or reduce the need for medication, only 16% of diagnosed adults do so. This percentage is staggeringly low for a number of reasons. For starters, many who suffer from Type 2 Diabetes live in poverty-dense areas and are surrounded by “food-deserts,” that make it difficult to consume fresh produce and healthy foods regularly. Secondly, the healthcare industry is quick to prescribe pharmaceutical drugs as the main treatment.
No matter if one suffers from Type 1, Type 2 or prediabetes, primary blood sugar management is a vital. Insulin, produced by the pancreas, controls the blood glucose levels when they get out of a certain range. While those with Type 1 are unable to produce enough insulin to regulate their levels, Type 2 and prediabetes sufferers are resistant to the insulin their bodies do produce. Though there are distinct differences, both types of diabetics should strive for the same nutritional goals that include leafy greens, slow burning carbohydrates and adequate, lean protein.
In fact, the “diabetic diet,” is one that is ideal for everyone, diabetic or not.
Even though November, Diabetes Awareness month, is coming to a close, it’s important to continue the work of reading labels, choosing raw vegetables over processed foods, and keeping blood sugar levels stable, all year long. If you are interested in extra support, Purium’s Scoop of Greens, on special for another week, is designed to help sustain healthy glucose levels.
