by Jessica Giffin, Lifestyle Coach & Community Liaison, YMCA of Metro Denver
November marks the observance of National Diabetes Awareness Month. Did you know that a staggering one in three Americans have prediabetes? That’s roughly 89-million Americans. And nine out of 10 people don’t even know they have it.
The good news? Prediabetes is reversible. But before we get to prevention, it’s important to understand exactly what the condition is and if you are at risk.
Prediabetes indicates that a person’s blood glucose, or sugar level, is higher than normal but not yet high enough to be diagnosed as having type 2 diabetes. People with prediabetes are predisposed to a later diagnosis of type 2 diabetes and are also at a much higher risk of other serious health problems, including stroke and heart disease.
The most common risk factors for those with prediabetes include the following:
• Over the age of 45
• Are overweight
• Have a family history of diabetes
• Are physically active fewer than three times a week
• Have had Gestational diabetes for gave birth to a baby weighing more than 9lbs.
So how can you reverse prediabetes?
The YMCA of Metro Denver offers a nationally recognized Diabetes Prevention Program to help those diagnosed with prediabetes empower themselves to take ownership of their health by teaching them about nutrition, physical activity, overcoming stress and how to stay motivated. The program is part of the Centers for Disease Control-led National Diabetes Prevention Program, which has proven that through healthier eating, increased physical activity and a small amount of weight loss, it’s possible to prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes by 58-71%.
The Y’s year-long program consists of one-hour classes in a small group setting. Each class is led by a trained lifestyle coach and is designed to teach participants strategies to not only reduce their risk of type-2 diabetes but to also live a healthier, happier life. Key tactics include healthy eating, increased physical activity and losing weight.
As Jessica Giffin, lifestyle coach and community liaison from the Y says, it’s really a lifestyle balance program.
“This is an opportunity to make small changes that can make a positive impact on your health and reduce your risk for developing diabetes,” says Jessica. “And it’s not a diet! We empower people to make lifestyle decisions that can be sustained over time. We know change is hard and we are here to help!”
The program takes place in a group setting, allowing participants to share, brainstorm and find support among each other.
“The diabetes prevention program has changed my life,” said Adrn’e Steel, program participant. “It’s a support system so we brainstorm a lot together, you’re not doing it by yourself.”
Jane and Jim Lipscomb, a Denver-area couple, participated in the program last year and had phenomenal results. In fact, they shared that even during the pandemic, they’ve been able to keep up with their newfound healthy lifestyles.
“Together, we have lost a combined 67 pounds and significantly lowered our risk for type 2 diabetes through the Y’s Diabetes Prevention Program,” Jane Lipscomb, program participant. “And best of all, we feel great and are back to doing activities we love! Jim, who is 72, recently hiked Rollins Pass after years of thinking he never could again — that’s over 14 miles and 2,562 feet of elevation gain!”
The YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program is offered year-round in seven counties in Metro Denver, including its five YMCA Wellness Centers and more than 20 community sites and, right now, the program is taking place virtually to allow for greater flexibility among participants during the pandemic.
To learn more about the Y’s diabetes prevention program or health and fitness programs at the YMCA of Metro Denver, visit https://www.denverymca.org/.