Celebrating Diabetes Awareness Month

Celebrating Diabetes Awareness Month with Facts, Fun, and Freebies

November is Diabetes Awareness Month, and whether you've been living with diabetes for years or just want to make sure you're on the right track, this is your reminder to check in on your health.

Diabetes isn't just about sugar; it's about understanding your body, your habits, and your risk. And the truth is, diabetes doesn't always announce itself with flashing lights and warning sirens. Many people have it (or are on the path to it) without even realizing it.

But don't worry, we can fix that. Let's start with a quick self-check quiz.

🩺 Quick Diabetes Risk Test

Answer these questions honestly, no judgment here!

1️⃣ Age:

• Under 40 (0 points)

• 40–49 (1 point)

• 50–59 (2 points)

• 60 or older (3 points)

2️⃣ Gender:

• Male (1 point)

• Female (0 points)

3️⃣ Family history:

• Parent, brother, or sister with diabetes? (1 point)

4️⃣ Physical activity:

• Less than 30 minutes of activity most days? (1 point)

5️⃣ Weight status:

• Overweight for your height? (2 points)

6️⃣ History of high blood sugar:

• Ever been told you have high blood sugar or prediabetes? (5 points)

7️⃣ High blood pressure or cholesterol?

• Yes (1 point)

8️⃣ Have you had a baby weighing over 9 pounds or been told you had gestational diabetes? (for women)

• Yes (1 point)

✅ Add up your score:

• 0–4 points: Low risk, keep up your healthy habits!

• 5–9 points: Moderate risk, talk with your healthcare provider about a simple blood test.

• 10+ points: High risk, it's time to schedule a checkup and take action now.

Knowledge is power, and you just took the first step.

💡 Top 10 Facts Everyone Should Know About Diabetes

1️⃣ It's more common than you think.

Over 38 million Americans have diabetes, which is 1 in 10 adults.

2️⃣ Many people don't know they have it.

About 1 in 4 adults with diabetes is undiagnosed. Early symptoms like fatigue or blurry vision are easy to overlook.

3️⃣ Prediabetes is reversible.

Nearly 100 million people have prediabetes, and small changes can make a huge difference, things like eating balanced meals, moving more, and getting enough sleep.

4️⃣ Type 2 diabetes isn't just about sugar.

It's about how your body uses insulin, the hormone that helps move glucose (sugar) into your cells.

5️⃣ Type 1 and Type 2 are different.

Type 1 is autoimmune (the body stops making insulin). Type 2 happens when your body still makes insulin but doesn't use it effectively.

6️⃣ It's a whole-body condition.

Diabetes can affect your heart, kidneys, eyes, and nerves, but managing your blood sugar helps protect them all.

7️⃣ Small lifestyle changes = big wins.

Losing even 5–7% of your body weight and getting regular activity can lower your risk by almost 60%.

8️⃣ Carbs aren't the enemy.

It's about balance! Pair carbs with protein, fiber, or healthy fats to keep your blood sugar steady.

9️⃣ Sleep and stress matter.

Poor sleep and stress hormones can raise blood sugar, so self-care isn't just nice, it's necessary.

🔟 You're not alone.

Diabetes management is a team effort, and you're the MVP.

📣 Join Me for Free Community Events!

Let's make diabetes awareness local, interactive, and supportive.

Join me, Kelly Robers, RDN, CDCES, for two free diabetes talks at the Juniper Branch of the Phoenix Public Library:

📍 Juniper Branch Library

🗓️ Sunday, November 17 at 10:00 a.m.

🗓️ Friday, November 22 at 11:30 a.m.

🎁 Bonus: Free glucometer giveaway at each session!

We'll talk about reading glucose numbers, eating smarter (without losing your favorite foods), and managing stress around the holidays.

Bring your questions or your curiosity. Either way, you'll leave with practical tools and maybe a free meter!

❤️ Final Thought

Diabetes doesn't have to be overwhelming. The more you understand it, the more control you have. Awareness is the first step, and taking that step, like you just did, is something worth celebrating.

Let's make this Diabetes Awareness Month the one where you take action, ask questions, and show your body a little extra care.