“We, as members of the human race in this century, either have diabetes or are at risk for getting it.  This is a current issue for everyone. Managing Diabetes means the difference between not only life and death.  Not paying attention to factors related to Diabetes puts one at risk for the ‘in-between’: having to deal with the consequences of poor management” (quoted from a LGV member who attended the talk)

Three dozen members and friends stayed after church on November 16 to learn more about diabetes from Dr. Paul Sack who used short films, slides, and humor. We learned that type 1 and type 2 diabetes demand careful attention not only to balance sugar intake and insulin levels, but also to diet, weight-loss and exercise. Paul stated that the deliberately delicious recipes were wonderful but more importantly “it’s not so much what you eat but how much.” We need sugar and carbohydrates. Unfortunately, our lifestyle doesn’t include enough exercise at work or in leisure. 50% of type 2 diabetes could be prevented or harm reduced by modified diets and exercise (150 minutes weekly). Paul gave a refresher about blood sugar levels and new medicine as well as better prices on prescriptions. Long-term medicines sometimes need to be changed. He demonstrated improved testing lancets, the ease of a pencil insulin dispenser and discussed sugar and glucose tests. Diabetes does run in families but if one member has diabetes, the rest of the family can benefit from healthier diets and prevention activities. Several people “won” diabetes cookbooks with correct answers to basic understanding questions featured on the LGV website at http://www.lgvcob.org/wellness/resources.htm.

Diabetes follows the obesity epidemic, worldwide. Diabetes is a real public health challenge especially for children who are uninsured or who have parents who are not monitoring their children as carefully as needed. Many of the Asian and Hispanic community have difficulty getting the health care they need or sticking to a healthy diet -- their adolescents drink too many sodas and junk food like many teens. Paul explained why the consequences of diabetes include loss of eyesight, poor foot circulation and amputations, heart or kidney dysfunction, and possible side effects of medications. Endocrinologists recognize that the “scare factor” after a diabetic is diagnosed helps compliance with medications and diet but even that will wear off after a year. Therefore continuing education and follow-up with patients are necessary in his clinics.

One visitor was impressed by the level of sharing between people as a result of Dr. Sack’s presentation. Many easily-read brochures and actual recipes remain available in the wellness area.

Look for information relating to Diabetes prevention, treatment, and nutrition on our Resources page!