Camarillo Y offers help in preventing onset of diabetes


BE IN THE KNOW—Healthy eating and exercise go a long way toward reducing the risks of Type 2 diabetes. To understand the dangers of the disease and learn how lifestyle choices and family history affect the potential of becoming diabetic, visit YMCA.net/diabetes.

BE IN THE KNOW—Healthy eating and exercise go a long way toward reducing the risks of Type 2 diabetes. To understand the dangers of the disease and learn how lifestyle choices and family history affect the potential of becoming diabetic, visit YMCA.net/diabetes.

The Camarillo Family YMCA is encouraging residents to learn about their risks for pre-diabetes and Type 2 diabetes and to take preventive steps to potentially reduce their chances of developing the disease.

Statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that more than 1 in 3 Americans have pre-diabetes, a condition in which blood glucose is elevated but not high enough for a diabetes diagnosis. Only 10 percent of those with pre-diabetes know they have it. Specialists say that with awareness and simple actions, patients may be able to prevent the onset of diabetes.

To assess the risk for the disease and learn how lifestyle choices and family history help determine the risks, visit YMCA.net/diabetes. Risk factors include race, age, weight and activity level.

The Camarillo Family Y also offers its members three complimentary one-hour sessions with a Y Fit expert to discuss health concerns and develop a fitness plan and solutions to meet their specific needs and goals.

According to the Y, the following habits can help decrease the risk for Type 2 diabetes: eat fruits and vegetables daily; choose fish, lean meats and poultry without skin; aim for whole grains with every meal; be moderately active, getting at least 150 minutes of physical activity each week; choose water instead of beverages with added sugar; and speak to your doctor about risk factors, especially if you have a family history or are overweight.

For information about Camarillo Family YMCA programs, email Paula Kristofferson at Paula.Kristofferson@ciymca.org or call (805) 484-0423, ext. 23.