The Fanwood Scotch Plains YMCA is addressing the rising rate of Diabetes that is affecting our country by offering a diabetes class that will focus on those with type two Diabetes (typically known as Adult Onset Diabetes) and those at risk for developing diabetes (known as pre-diabetes). This program will run for 10 weeks beginning the week of November 18th at their Main Facility located at 1340 Martine Avenue in Scotch Plains.
There are approximately 79 million Americans who have pre-diabetes. That is 1 in 3 adults! Also, there are 25.8 million Americans with diagnosed Diabetes. Diabetes is a very important disease to control as it is the leading cause of heart disease, stroke, blindness, kidney disease, and nerve damage. The goal of this series of classes is to not only to help those with existing diabetes better control their blood sugars, but also, have an impact on the course of disease with those that have pre-diabetes…hopefully delaying or stopping its path to actual diabetes. The key issue with pre-diabetes is determining that you have it, so you can address it.
Here are some ways to determine if you have or are at risk for pre-diabetes:
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· It has been confirmed with a blood test with your physician
· You previously had gestational diabetes
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· Other factors to consider: strong family history of type 2 diabetes, inactive lifestyle, and BMI greater than 25
The class is led by Donna Peart who is a Registered Dietitian as well as a Personal Trainer. Donna has specialized in Diabetes management for many years. “Our goal is to have our participants recognize the lifestyle factors that are affecting their health and blood sugar. It is eye opening to see what foods affect your blood sugar, and what a difference you can make by modifying your diet through balancing carbohydrates throughout your day,” states Donna. Many people are aware of what the healthy food choices are but may not know about serving sizes. Also, increasing activity level and moderate weight loss makes very big impact on blood sugar. High blood sugar is one of the main culprits in decreasing cardiovascular health. For this 10 week session participants, will learn their individual calorie needs, plan their own meal plan and have cooking demos. The program also focuses on exercise which is integral in success.
Please call the Fanwood Scotch Plains YMCA to register at 908-889-8880 and/or contact Donna Peart for further information at dpeart@fspymca.org.
The Y is the nation’s leading nonprofit committed to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. For information on membership or programs, or to request a schedule of classes, please call the Fanwood-Scotch Plains YMCA at (908) 889-8880 or visit the Y’s website at www.fanwoodscotchplainsymca.org. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify.
