This is a busy time of the year with political elections and the holidays. What better time than November to remember that it is also National Diabetes Month. This year the focus for the month is “Knowing Your Diabetes ABCs” and “America Gets Cooking to Stop Diabetes”.

Last year it was estimated that 26 million Americans were affected by diabetes, and that number has grown to 29 million Americans for this year. Let’s spread the word that Americans need to make changes to reduce the risk of developing diabetes, or if they have diabetes, preventing complications.

Living in the South we are lucky to have such amazing kinds of food to eat. They may not be all that healthy for us. It is important for everyone to eat healthy, well-balanced meals. So the idea is to make plans to cook and share healthy recipes with family, friends, or co-workers. Try to make healthy choices of eating low fats and less sugar to help reach these goals.

Heart problems can be a complication of diabetes. A way to help protect the heart is to know your diabetes ABCs:

• A for the A1C (A-one-C)
• B for Blood pressure
• C for Cholesterol
• S is for Stop Smoking

A1C is a blood test to measure average blood sugar for the past three months. Blood pressure is how much blood is being forced against blood vessels. Know what is your HDL (good) and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. Call 1-800-QUITNOW, for help to stop smoking.

Last but not least, do not forget to get up and move. Find ways to get that blood circulating by walking, dancing, or other activities.

Let us work hard to slow down those numbers of people diagnosed with diabetes. For more ideas and information to manage diabetes visit www.YourDiabetesInfo.org/Diabetesmonth2014, or call The Florida Department of Health in Lafayette County @ 386-294-1321.