The February-March 2009 issue of Solano Magazine published an article entitled, “The Diabetes Epidemic.” Epidemic – isn’t this word a little too strong? Does this mean that diabetes is a prevalent condition in Solano County and in the United States?

According to the American Diabetes Association, 8% of the population or 23.6 million people in the US are diabetic. In Solano County alone, 9% of adults are suffering from this disease. Obesity is by far the greatest factor linked to diabetes. In fact a study conducted by the Temple University School of Medicine claims that nearly 80% of diabetics are obese.

Most signs and symptoms of diabetes seem harmless. As a result, they often go unnoticed. Overweight individuals or those with a family-history of diabetes should watch out for the following:

• Excessive thirst
• Frequent urination
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Tingling sensation in the extremeties
• Slow healing of wounds

Dr. Ronald W. Chapman, a public health officer of Solano County, said “Diabetes is a major contributor to the leading causes of death. Diabetes causes heart disease and strokes.” Aside from these two, diabetes also leads to:

• Blindness
• Kidney failure
• Amputations
• Nerve disease
• Digestive disorders

The onset of diabetes can be prevented or delayed. It begins with identifying the risk factors and knowing how to avoid them. The risk factors of diabetes include:

• Obesity
• Hypertension and high cholesterol
• Poor food choices
• Physical inactivity
• Gestational diabetes
• Family history of diabetes

Almost all risk factors are linked to an unhealthy lifestyle. Twenty to thirty minutes of exercise a day and eating more nutritious meals can make a major impact in people’s lives. By leading healthier lifestyles, diabetes will cease to be an “epidemic”. Along with that change, we may help prevent or delay the onset of other diseases.

Linda Michaelis will help you lead a healthy lifestyle. As an expert in Diabetes, she knows how to design meals that will keep your blood sugar level under control. Linda is serving the following towns and cities of Solano County as a registered dietitian and certified nutritionist:

• Birds Landing
• Collinsville
• Cordelia – located within the city limits of Fairfield.
• Elmira
• Green Valley
• Bucktown – within or just outside of NW Vacaville.
• Scandia