الثلاثاء، 31 مايو 2016

الأحد، 29 مايو 2016

#IDriveMyHealth: Amanda’s Story

D2SD_ 2016_5-19v2

Nearly three in four NASCAR® fans are impacted by diabetes, which affects approximately 30 million people nationwide. The Drive to Stop DiabetesSM campaign, presented by Lilly Diabetes in collaboration with American Diabetes Association®, strives to empower Americans with diabetes to live well. The face of the campaign, NASCAR XFINITY Series driver Ryan Reed, has type 1 diabetes and is an inspiration for all people with the disease.


 

D2SD_ 2016_5-19v2Holding the cold microphone in my hand for the first time at age 6, I looked out at the crowd and I was hooked. I knew I wanted to sing and entertain people for the rest of my life. I was already performing and entertaining to anyone who would listen. Yes, I was that kid.

Hi, my name is Amanda Jo. I am a country music singer and songwriter from Nashville, Tennessee. I am also a person with type 1 diabetes.

I will never forget the day my dad picked me up from school and took me to the doctor to get a routine checkup, 16 years ago. While my dad and I saw the doctor, my mom spoke with her friend on the phone. She told her friend: “I’m sure she’s fine. It’s not like she has diabetes or anything.”

Another phone call came in later that afternoon, one that would change my life. I had type 1 diabetes. I was fortunate that they had caught it early. My blood sugar was only in the 250s at diagnosis—I was still early in the honeymoon stages of the disease.

Although the diagnosis came as a complete shock to my family, I quickly decided to not let it stop me from following my dreams of becoming a country music singer. I moved to Nashville with a dream in my heart, a car full of belongings and an insulin pump on my side. Since that time, I’ve recorded an album full of my stories, travelled all over the United States and performed on hundreds of stages. I am living my dream.

Managing diabetes as a country music singer can be complicated. I’ve learned to be prepared for anything. Finding healthy meals is challenging on the road—it’s very unpredictable. I make sure to have plenty of snacks and glucose sources on hand in case I can’t eat meals on time. I also make a conscious effort to stay hydrated; zero-calorie fitness drinks are my preferred choice.

The most important tools I use to manage my diabetes are my insulin pump and continuous glucose monitor. The ability to know what my blood sugar is and the direction it’s headed at the push of a button is lifesaving. I am able to quickly peek at my CGM on stage without anyone seeing. I can make small adjustments via my insulin pump . . . and continue on with the show.

D2SD_ 2016_5-19I was first introduced to Ryan Reed and the Drive to Stop Diabetes campaign after his 2015 win at Daytona. The more I found out about Ryan and his story, the more I felt connected to him. He is another person with type 1 diabetes who leads an active lifestyle. I love that he did not let the disease interfere with his dream of being a NASCAR driver. He also reaches out to others with diabetes to encourage them to maintain an active, healthy lifestyle and follow their dreams.

I live a fun-filled and crazy life. I wake up in different cities at different times, play music for new crowds and meet new people almost every day. The highs and lows of diabetes are not always simple to manage with my adventurous life. But I refuse to let it stop me from doing what I truly love. Why would I?

My biggest #IDriveMyHealth recommendation is this: Don’t let diabetes stop you from following your dreams.

Look out for me the next time I’m on the road in your hometown!


 

Are you a NASCAR fan impacted by diabetes? Share your healthy lifestyle tips with us on social media, using #IDriveMyHealth.

To learn more about the Drive to Stop Diabetes campaign and find out how to get involved, visit http://ift.tt/1Orwomd.



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الجمعة، 27 مايو 2016

Live. Work. Play: Tamei’s Diabetes Story

Working for the American Diabetes Association® means making a difference for millions of people and working toward a future free of diabetes and all its burdens.

We all have a story to share. Some of us live with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, gestational diabetes or prediabetes. Others have loved ones with the disease o
r have lost someone to the fight.

The following are personal stories from the Association’s staff about why we are so committed to the mission to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes.


 

ADA_Staff_Tamei_052716 v2Tamei Elliott
Associate Coordinator, Treasury Services
Home Office (Alexandria, Va.)

Before writing this post, I thought about all of the undesirable experiences I’ve had with my type 1 diabetes. I then remembered that I want to encourage and inspire those who already know what it’s like to have a low blood sugar, followed by a high blood sugar.

You know, when you’re low and you overeat because your main goal is to raise it up—but then you feel terrible for overcompensating because you know the negative results of high blood sugar. And then you feel sick, nauseous and tired from the swings in blood sugar, from the two events happening back to back.

Anyway, life with diabetes is a process and every day is not going to be perfect. That is one lesson I am still learning.  

Diagnosed at age 16, I decided that the only way to tackle this beast was to educate myself as much as possible on the disease. Nutrition plays a very important role in diabetes education and that is the sole reason why I pursued my bachelor’s degree in nutritional science. As I grew with the disease, my understanding of it grew too. I didn’t want to stop there, so I am currently pursuing my master’s degree in biotechnology. After all, the development of insulin was one of the earliest uses of biotechnology in pharmaceutical manufacturing and it’s the reason why I am alive today.

In my free time I host seminars about healthy eating on a budget and nutrition classes that concentrate on diabetes education. I like to focus on youth from rural areas because they truly are the future and often have the most to learn about diabetes. I’ve taught many classes where I’ve heard, “You’re a diabetic? You’re not fat, though.” And then there is the infamous, “My grandma said you get diabetes from eating too much sugar.” I believe that if they have a better understanding of nutrition and how it connects directly to managing diabetes and preventing type 2, it could potentially save their lives or the lives of their loved ones. And nutrition is just one important aspect of diabetes; there are also the complications to think about.

Diabetes and depression go hand-in-hand, and I personally battle with it on a daily basis. There needs to be more awareness, information and resources on how to cope with the two—each alone is difficult enough to deal with. One way I do is through music. DJing has become my creative outlet. For me it is a form of healing. If you experience the same distress from diabetes or another chronic illness, I encourage you to try and find something similar, whether it’s through art, dancing, singing or whatever you may enjoy.

Working at the American Diabetes Association has been life changing. I’ve been part of the treasury department for two years and have never worked with such a great and passionate team. They work for the mission, for me and for millions like me all around the country. I am so proud to know them and the many others who work for the Association. The people here are inspiring and when I’m feeling down, I am constantly reminded why I should keep going.

I want to share my story not to boast about my accomplishments, but to show others like me that it’s possible to pursue your dreams. Know that you are not alone and that you have the strength inside you to push through. You just have to believe in yourself. We have an entire Association that believes in all people with diabetes and works daily so that we can live a better life with diabetes.

Everything is possible. You just have to put forth the hard work to get there—and don’t forget to smile and check your blood glucose levels in the meantime.


 

To learn more about nationwide employment opportunities and life at the Association, please visit diabetes.org/careers.



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الأربعاء، 25 مايو 2016

Weight-Loss Surgery Helps Treat Type 2 Diabetes

Title: Weight-Loss Surgery Helps Treat Type 2 Diabetes
Category: Health News
Created: 5/24/2016 12:00:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 5/25/2016 12:00:00 AM

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25 Legends: Timothy Trout

StepOut_ 2016_5-10

This year marks the 25th anniversary of two American Diabetes Association® signature fundraising events—Step Out: Walk to Stop Diabetes® and Tour de Cure®.

Every dollar raised at these events supports people living with diabetes and funds our life-changing research and programs.

The “25 Legends” blog series highlights personal stories from some of the Association’s most dedicated walkers and riders who are affected by the disease.


 

StepOut_ 2016_5-10My name is Timothy Trout and I’m from Greenville, South Carolina. I have been living with type 1 diabetes for 22 years. I was diagnosed at 5 years old; I’m 27 today.

My family has been participating in Step Out: Walk to Stop Diabetes since 1995, soon after I was diagnosed. Our team is called Team In Motion (TIM). I was the first person in my family to be diagnosed with diabetes—my younger sister has been diagnosed since—and we were looking for a way to be in touch with others who shared the same personal and family experiences with the disease.

Diabetes has impacted many aspects of my life. The daily burdens associated with the disease are frustrating, but in a way, I enjoy the challenge of it. I am determined to lead the best, most active, most fulfilling life I can, and I am too stubborn to let type 1 diabetes get in the way. I play sports and enjoy weight-lifting, hiking and cooking healthy meals. And even though diabetes makes some of that a little more challenging, it has also made me understand the importance of maintaining my health. Following a healthy lifestyle helps me manage my blood glucose and makes me feel better overall.

I have always felt great after finishing a Step Out walk. Being involved early on helped me understand the importance of having a supportive community and following a healthy lifestyle. Participating in the walks helped me form these good habits.

The walk itself is exciting, but the sense of community there is the best part. Step Out provides the unique opportunity to connect with others affected by diabetes, and it is nice to know that others are going through the same thing as you on a daily basis.

My favorite memory from the walk was winning the top fundraising trophy when I was very young.  I remember telling my mother I wanted to win, and she said, “Well, that will probably go to the bigger companies that have a lot of people fundraising for them.” I was a little disheartened at first, but after a few weeks of rallying our friends, family, neighbors and colleagues, we ended up winning! We spent several weekends walking around our neighborhood telling people about the event and why they should support the American Diabetes Association. Educating people about the cause was a rewarding experience, and getting our name on the trophy was pretty cool.

My younger self would have said that my family’s biggest accomplishment was winning that fundraising trophy, but now I’d say it is the great feeling of getting everyone together to support people affected by diabetes.

Step Out walks are a great opportunity to meet others who are passionate about stopping diabetes, and I plan to continue supporting the American Diabetes Association. If you’re looking to connect with the diabetes community, my advice is to gather up as many friends and relatives as you can and go for it!

Together, we CAN Stop Diabetes.


The Association is so grateful of our 25 Legends! Their tireless efforts as walkers and riders are a tremendous support and inspiration to people with diabetes.

Sign up today! Learn more about these events and find out how to get involved at diabetes.org/stepout and http://ift.tt/1qKFQGM.



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الثلاثاء، 24 مايو 2016

Safe Air Travel with Diabetes

Passenger Passing Through Security Check At Airport

Passenger Passing Through Security Check At Airport

With Memorial Day weekend coming up, many people across the country will begin planning their summer vacations (if not already). However, for people living with diabetes, there is often a lot more preparation involved, from packing extra medications and supplies to securing doctors’ notes. And what about your insulin pump, continuous glucose monitor and liquids—can they even go through airport screening?

We’ve gathered a few tips that will help you plan accordingly and enjoy your trip, especially if your itinerary includes air travel.

First, don’t be alarmed about TSA’s airport screening policy change to require some passengers to undergo a full-body scan, announced in December 2015. Generally, passengers, including those who have personal medical devices, will still have the option to opt out of a full-body scan in favor of a pat-down.

If the airport you are traveling out of has Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) available, you can request to use it instead of a metal detector. You also have a right to have a full pat-down screening done in private and with a witness of your choice. We have more advice for handling your screening concerns.

Rest assured, you are able to bring your diabetes medications and supplies through airport security. These include insulin and insulin-loaded dispensing products, glucagon emergency kits, blood glucose meters and continuous blood glucose monitors. See our full list of what you can bring with you.

Chances are, you’ll have a positive experience at the airport. Here are some first-hand accounts of people living with diabetes—our Facebook fans:

  • Liquid Rules: “Recently, both Kansas City and Las Vegas airports allowed me to keep two bottles of Boost for low [blood sugar].” – Kendra J. People with diabetes are allowed to exceed the limit on liquids with medications such as insulin and glucagon, and fast-acting sources of carbohydrate, such as juice.
  • Point it Out: “I recently had the most pleasurable experience in the Orlando International Airport. Pre checked my bag at the curb and was given TSA pre check. When I got to the line I told the lady I wore an insulin pump and a CGM. She looked at me with a smile took me by the hand and whispered, ‘I’m a type 1, I wear one too.’ All I had to do was touch my equipment and she swiped my hands! All my supplies including juice boxes, skittles, meds, etc. went right thru! Feeling blessed!” – Diane V.
  • Make a Choice: “I just flew a couple weeks ago and asked for the pat down, having both a pump, and CGM. They swabbed everything in my med pack, asked no questions about a [loose] vial or multiple boxed vials. I had to handle my pump and CGM, and then they swabbed my hands.” – Robin H. Remember, you are entitled to a pat-down if you prefer, but your insulin pump may be subject to additional screening.

Want more tips? Turn to Diabetes Forecast magazine for ways to ensure your lifesaving diabetes medications and supplies make it through airport security.

If you have questions before traveling or need help, contact the TSA Cares helpline at (855) 787-2227.

And if you’ve experienced difficulties going through airport security screening checkpoints and need help from our legal advocates, call us at (800) DIABETES.



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الاثنين، 23 مايو 2016

Your Rights, One Voice: Andrés’ Story

SAS_2016_5-23

Andrés just wants to go to camp.

SAS_2016_5-23Eleven-year-old Andrés Alba of Elburn, Illinois, has a strong interest in math and science. The Illinois Mathematical and Science Academy (IMSA) offers an all-day summer camp for students like Andrés who want to learn more about science, math and technology. Andrés wanted to attend a week-long IMSA camp this summer, but he hit a stumbling block, just because he has type 1 diabetes.

Andrés, who was diagnosed with diabetes in 2010, lives a happy, normal life.

He also wears an insulin pump and a continuous glucose monitor (CGM). He is well-versed in his diabetes care, but due to his age, he needs assistance at times. When he experiences high or low blood glucose, his judgment can be affected.

Andrés has attended other in the past. Support systems were put in place that to help make sure that Andrés stayed medically safe while he attended those camps. For example, someone would contact Andrés’ mother, Adriana, during the day to update her about his blood glucose numbers, and together they would decide if his insulin treatment needed to be adjusted. This system worked very well and the camp directors supported it.

Based on his family’s previous camp experience, Andrés expected to be able to attend the IMSA camp.

This was particularly true because IMSA’s regular camp program (run during the school year) fully accommodates students with diabetes. But after researching the summer camp, Adriana learned that a registered nurse would only be available until noon each day.

When she asked about diabetes care in the afternoons, she was told by a few of the camp directors that they could not offer any options for afternoon care. They did not propose anything to ease Adriana’s concerns. Adriana wondered who would be there for Andrés after the camp nurse left each day — and if he could even attend at all.

Adriana was frustrated. And because the situation seemed unfair, she told the camp directors that she would contact the American Diabetes Association® and the local media.

She spoke with one of the Association’s legal advocates, who shared specific information about the anti-discrimination laws that applied under the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Under the law, the IMSA camp needed to offer accommodations so Andrés could attend.

Adriana wrote a letter to the camp that spelled out this information. She also reached out to her local media about the issue. A local television station ran a comprehensive interview of Andrés and Adriana. The segment received a lot of attention, especially because the reporter himself had first-hand knowledge of type 1 diabetes and really understood the issue.

What happened?

As a result of Adriana’s efforts — as guided by the American Diabetes Association — the IMSA camp reached out to coordinate the management of Andrés’ diabetes care. The camp’s staff nurse, as well as the teachers who will have Andrés in their classes, will be trained on his diabetes care. After the nurse leaves each day, the trained classroom teachers will be available.

Adriana has a lot of praise for the Association staff who helped Andrés: “They provided the expert support and direction I needed. The Association gave me superior information and guidance about what to do — both from its national and local staff. Andrés is thrilled to attend this summer. Thank you.”


 

The American Diabetes Association leads the effort to prevent and eliminate discrimination against people with diabetes at school, at work and in other parts of daily life. If you need help, call 1-800-DIABETES or visit http://ift.tt/1zCIiW2.

 Through our nationwide Safe at School program, the Association is dedicated to making sure that all children with diabetes are medically safe at school and have the same educational opportunities as their peers. Visit our Safe at School website for information and resources.

Give the gift of fairness — donate now to help people with diabetes facing discrimination, just like Andrés.

donate now



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الخميس، 19 مايو 2016

الثلاثاء، 17 مايو 2016

الاثنين، 16 مايو 2016

الجمعة، 13 مايو 2016

#IDriveMyHealth: Olivia’s Story

Nearly three in four NASCAR® fans are impacted by diabetes, which affects approximately 30 million people nationwide. The Drive to Stop DiabetesSM campaign, presented by Lilly Diabetes in collaboration with American Diabetes Association®, strives to empower Americans with diabetes to live well. The face of the campaign, NASCAR XFINITY Series driver Ryan Reed, has type 1 diabetes and is an inspiration for all people with the disease.

This is the first in an “I Drive My Health” blog series that will feature personal stories from racing fans living well with diabetes.


D2SD_2016_5-13v3My name is Olivia Jenkins. I’m 21 years old and I’m from Warren, Michigan. I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes 13 years ago on Jan. 28, 2003, when I was 8 years old.

I went to the doctor complaining of an earache, and my mom mentioned that I was constantly drinking water and going to the bathroom. Fortunately, my doctor knew the signs of diabetes and tested my blood glucose—and the result came back with a level close to 600. I spent three nights at the hospital getting started on insulin injections and learning about anything and everything diabetes related.

I started dancing at 3 years old and I didn’t let my diagnosis stop me from doing what I loved. I continued dancing until I finished middle school. When I got to high school, I joined the tennis team and played varsity all four years. Even though I had my ups and downs controlling my diabetes during some of the matches, some of my biggest accomplishments occurred while playing tennis. My doubles partner and I were the No. 1 doubles team in our league two years in a row—and we had an undefeated season our senior year.

Since finishing high school and starting college as a photography and graphic design major, I will admit, I haven’t quite been as active as I once was. Between classes, working, homework and the cold winters in Michigan, when I finally get free time, I just want to relax and not do anything. I know I should be more active and eat healthier, so this summer I hope to start making a change (since I won’t have as much going on). When I keep active and eat better, there is an improvement in my glucose readings, my A1C and my overall well-being.

D2SD_ 2016_5-13v4Diabetes is a crazy, up-and-down journey. Managing type 1 diabetes is not easy. Every single thing that I do, every single thing that I eat and drink . . . everything affects my blood glucose. In addition to eating healthy and staying active, I also have to take insulin injections—no fewer than four times a day.

I credit part of my successes to my role models with diabetes, such as Ryan Reed. I became a fan of Ryan and the Drive to Stop Diabetes campaign as soon as I heard about it in 2013. Having someone with diabetes in the spotlight motivates me to never give up. If people like him can live their dreams doing what they love while living with diabetes, you can too.


Are you a NASCAR fan impacted by diabetes? Share your healthy lifestyle tips with us on social media, using #IDriveMyHealth.

To learn more about the Drive to Stop Diabetes campaign and find out how to get involved, visit http://ift.tt/1Orwomd.



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الاثنين، 9 مايو 2016

Transcript: Twitter Chat For Better Sleep Month (Part 2)

twitter-chat-sleep-month

Twitter Chat Transcript Click Here To View Part 1 Of This Transcript powerofsleep Signs of sleep apnea include: Irritability, Sexual dysfunction, Morning headaches, Excessive Daytime Sleepiness #DiabetesINFL hsilvia75 @CorreyHope @CoffeyTalk @NikRph It helps me fall asleep, just so tired when I wake up #BetterSleepMonth #DiabetesINFL mck3lly @dentistmel @DiabetesINFL @primetimeparent YESSS. #Diabetesinfl #BetterSleepMonth diabetesinfl Q7. What are some of the major health issues caused by lack of sleep? #BetterSleepMonth #Diabetesinfl kymnasium @DiabetesINFL a6 take naps when you can to make up for lack of sleep. #BetterSleepMonth #DiabetesINFL 1loco #BetterSleepMonth #DiabetesINFL https://t.co/vtFyrhKloo ranadurham @Hsilvia75 @amypcampbell @DiabetesINFL right on #BetterSleepMonth #diabetesinfl amypcampbell @DiabetesINFL: New study – eating fatty foods can cause drowsiness during the day and interfere with sleep at night. #diabetesINFL momandsports @DiabetesINFL Q7 high blood pressure #BetterSleepMonth #Diabetesinfl mck3lly @PowerofSleep I tell my kids this! @primetimeparent #Diabetesinfl #BetterSleepMonth 1loco @DiabetesINFL A7: Diabetes, obesity, sleep apnea #BetterSleepMonth #DiabetesINFL cheryl888888 @DiabetesINFL @primetimeparent A6 take power naps. #diabetesinfl #BetterSleepMonth mulysa32 Thank u! #BetterSleepMonth #DiabetesINFL #DiabetesChat https://t.co/RMQPjSGayI hsilvia75 @CoffeyTalk It’s so hard to get to bed at those times #BetterSleepMonth #DiabetesINFL powerofsleep Studies have linked shiftwork to increased risk of diabetes. #DiabetesINFL shadow62310 @DiabetesINFL A7. heart issues , anxiety , blood sugar spikes, and so [...]

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Transcript: Twitter Chat For Better Sleep Month (Part 1)

twitter-chat-sleep-month

Twitter Chat Transcript Click Here To View Part 2 Of This Transcript diabetesinfl Who’s ready for tonight’s #Diabetesinfl twitter chat w/@DiabetesINFL @amypcampbell @PowerofSleep @BetterSleepOrg #BetterSleepMonth primetimeparent Welcome everyone to the #BetterSleepMonth #DiabetesINFL and tweet along to win (1) of (3) $50 gift cards 1loco @primetimeparent Happy to be here! #BetterSleepMonth #DiabetesINFL 1loco @DiabetesINFL @amypcampbell @PowerofSleep @BetterSleepOrg Ready! #BetterSleepMonth #DiabetesINFL dentistmel Hey, hey, hey! It’s time for the #BetterSleepMonth #DiabetesINFL party! AD diabetesinfl We are so fortunate to have @amypcampbell @CoffeyTalk @PowerofSleep with us tonight for #Diabetesinfl #BetterSleepMonth ranadurham @DiabetesINFL @amypcampbell @PowerofSleep @BetterSleepOrg Me me #diabetesinfl ranadurham @1loco @DiabetesINFL @amypcampbell @PowerofSleep @BetterSleepOrg me too and gl #diabetesinfl diabetesinfl .@1loco @amypcampbell @PowerofSleep @BetterSleepOrg Thanks for joining us #BetterSleepMonth #DiabetesINFL diabetesinfl Follow @dentistmel @DiabetesINFL @CoffeyTalk @amypcampbell @primetimeparent @PowerofSleep @MaureenSRN #Diabetesinfl #BetterSleepMonth maureensrn Greetings from Murfreesboro, TN. Delighted to be here tonight. #DiabetesINFL 1loco @RanaDurham @DiabetesINFL @amypcampbell @PowerofSleep @BetterSleepOrg Thank you! Same to you! #BetterSleepMonth #DiabetesINFL nupurg_ghosh @dentistmel Hi so glad to join #BetterSleepMonth #diabetesINFL ranadurham @DiabetesINFL @amypcampbell @PowerofSleep @BetterSleepOrg yaay #BetterSleepMonth #diabetesinfl 1loco @DiabetesINFL @dentistmel @CoffeyTalk @amypcampbell @primetimeparent @PowerofSleep @MaureenSRN Following! #BetterSleepMonth #DiabetesINFL hsilvia75 @DiabetesINFL @amypcampbell @CoffeyTalk @PowerofSleep Hello! And thank you for being here! #BetterSleepMonth #DiabetesINFL maureensrn #DiabetesINFL amypcampbell Hi all! So [...]

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الأربعاء، 4 مايو 2016

الثلاثاء، 3 مايو 2016

Time To Step It Up, America!

shoes

KLHAs CEO of the American Diabetes Association, I see research and statistics every day that reinforce the importance of staying active to reduce risk factors surrounding diabetes. One fact that stands out in particular is that sitting for long periods of time increases the risk of serious, potentially life-threatening health problems such as obesity, type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

To counteract these negative effects, the Association recommends that everyone get up and move at least once every 90 minutes. Why every 90 minutes, you ask? Well, this recommendation is based on research published by Marc Hamilton, PhD, Texas Obesity Research Center, Houston, in Diabetes Care, one of the Association’s peer-reviewed scientific journals. In his study, Dr. Hamilton first described the idea that light physical activity spread throughout the whole day could be more effective at improving the metabolism of fat, cholesterol and blood sugar than intense exercise for a couple of hours. It’s an important finding—and one we need to call attention to.

That’s why I’m very excited to spread the word with our second annual National Get Fit Don’t Sit DaySM, which is taking place tomorrow, Wednesday, May 4.

National Get Fit Don’t Sit Day serves as a jumping-off point for all Americans to lead more active lives at work and beyond—beginning with that important commitment to get moving at least once every 90 minutes. On this Wellness Day, the Association will be encouraging healthier lifestyles by helping our own employees to stay active on the job.

On Wednesday, our Home Office staff will be wearing our best athletic clothes, participating in office yoga and working out at a pop-up gym. I’m even leading a staff walk to a nearby nature preserve! We encourage all companies and organizations to join us in whatever way is best for their own culture, from hosting exercise classes at the office, to having a steps challenge, to holding walking or standing meetings—anything that helps promote movement throughout the work day.

shoesI’m also thrilled to be hosting our first-ever CEO Fitness Challenge, in which 7 health and fitness industry leaders from across the country are joining me to  compete for the most steps on National Get Fit Don’t Sit Day.

The CEO Fitness Challenge will not only keep us active, but also set a great example for our organizations and the rest of America. I personally look forward to going head-to-head with executive leaders from Sun Life Financial, Lilly Diabetes, Sanofi, Merck, Moda Health, the Portland Trailblazers and Garmin as we work to get up and get moving at least once every 90 minutes. Our progress throughout the day will be shown at http://ift.tt/1Uwljqh, so check it out. And feel free to keep us accountable by following along!

At the Association, we truly believe that healthy employees are happy employees, and we’re excited to walk the walk on this National Get Fit Don’t Sit Day. I’m looking forward to proving that working in a traditionally sedentary environment doesn’t mean that we have to succumb to the negative effects of sitting—all it takes is a commitment to staying moving.

Are you joining us on National Get Fit Don’t Sit Day? Leave me a comment, or better yet, share what you’re doing to stay active with us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Now #GetFitDontSit!

Kevin L. Hagan
Chief Executive Officer
American Diabetes Association



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الاثنين، 2 مايو 2016