Wake-Up Stats:
Type 2 Diabetes : Primarily insulin resistance, where the key (insulin) struggles to unlock cell doors. Over 90% of diabetes cases are Type 2. Are You at Risk? Let's talk risk. Some factors are in your control— body weight and lifestyle habits. But others, like age, ethnicity, and genetics, play their cards. It's not about blame; it's about awareness. Take the Prediabetes Risk Test at Take The Prediabetes Risk Test | DoIHavePrediabetes.org. Let's face it, you're not one to ignore a potential threat in your business—why do it with your health? like having very few or no keys (insulin). Less than 10% of those with diabetes are in this boat, and it demands insulin for survival.
37.3 million people in the United States have diabetes— that's 11.3% of the population. 96 million adults, a whopping 38.0% of the adult population, have prediabetes. Every year, 1.4 million Americans, just like you, get hit with a diabetes diagnosis. You could be dealt a game-changer that reshapes your personal and professional trajectory. If current trends persist, by 2050, 1 in 3 adults could be living with diabetes. Imagine 1 in 3 adults in your business community dealing with diabetes. It's not just a statistic; it forecasts challenges that could impact your business environment. Now, let's not sugarcoat it—this is a call to action, especially for those leading the charge in the business world. Success is crucial, but so is your health. It’s vital to recognize the impact your health has on not just yourself but also on your family. Breaking It Down: Diabetes messes with how your body handles sugar. Picture it like a critical lock and key system: glucose, your energy source from food, is needed for daily activities. Insulin is the key, made by the organ called the pancreas, to unlock your cell doors. This allows glucose to enter your cells and fuel your hustle. Most of the time, this lock and key system works like a well- oiled machine, ensuring glucose is used efficiently. However, diabetes can throw a wrench into this system, leading to different types: 1. Insulin Resistance. Sometimes, your cells become resistant to the key, insulin. It's like having a key that doesn't fit the lock properly, even when there's plenty of glucose around. This leads to elevated blood sugar levels. 2. Insulin Deficiency. In other cases, the pancreas doesn't make enough insulin or none at all. This means there aren't enough keys (insulin) to unlock the cell doors, so glucose stays trapped in your bloodstream. 3. Glucose Overproduction. Occasionally, the liver over- produces glucose and releases it into your bloodstream at the wrong times, especially overnight. This results in sudden spikes in blood sugar levels.
Recognizing Symptoms : Let's get practical and talk about the signs:
Frequent urination? Persistent thirst? That could be your body trying to tell you something. Excessive hunger, even when you're eating like a boss? Your cells might not be getting the message. Increased fatigue and blurred vision? Although could be attributable to many things, it’s important to be aware and take note. Slow-healing wounds? Unexplained weight loss? Tingling in the hands and feet? Dry, itchy skin or frequent infections? These could be multiple memos from your body. The Bottom Line : Your success depends on more than just business strategy; it depends on your health. These symptoms could be your wake up call, and here's the silver lining: as you take charge of your health, these symptoms can fade away. With a determined mindset, clear goals, healthy habits, and tools such as diabetes self-management education, skills and support—just like you tackle business challenges—you can secure not only your success but also a thriving future.
It's time to make a power move—for your business and your well- being. Because in the game of life, the real winners prioritize both.
Leanna Schwend, PharmD and Diabetes Care and Education Specialist, owner/CEO of Yellowstone Pharmacy of Forsyth and
Founder of SugarBEAT Enterprise. Leanna has received awards for Excellence in Innovation and Advancing the Vision in Quality Care. She's also thriving with Type 1 Diabetes. Learn more at www.sugarbeatenterprise.com and www.yellowstonepharmacy.com.
Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes : The two most common types of Diabetes:
Type 1 Diabetes : Insulin deficiency,
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