How the diabetes dilemma can affect you Published Aug. 9, 2011 By Shari Lopatin TriWest Healthcare Alliance MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- According to the American Diabetes Association, more than eight percent of the entire U.S. population has diabetes, and another 79 million Americans are in danger of becoming diabetic. That's more people than the entire country of France. With such staggering numbers, what is causing this epidemic? "Over the past decade, obesity has become recognized as a national health threat and a major public health challenge," said the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "Obese adults are at an increased risk for many serious health conditions, including Type 2 diabetes." Thirty-three of the country's 50 states had at least a quarter of their population obese in 2009. Only Colorado and Washington D.C., kept their obesity prevalence to less than 20 percent. The ADA identifies people who are overweight or obese, and who don't exercise regularly, at higher risk for developing diabetes. Therefore, as the country grows less active and collectively gains weight, more and more people will become diabetic. Many other health problems can develop once a person becomes diabetic, including heart disease and stroke, high blood pressure, blindness, kidney disease and nerve system disease. Tips on preventing the onset of Type 2 diabetes include: · Make a grocery list when shopping and buy more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. · Purchase leaner meats--such as chicken and fish--and stick to lower-fat dairy products. · Take a brisk walk every day (such as in the morning or after dinner). · Join an exercise class, such as dance, aerobics, or weight-lifting. · Gently stretch every night before bed. For more healthy living tips, visit TriWest's Healthy Living Portal at www.triwest.com/healthyliving.