Take some time this November to learn more about  “sugar” (a.k.a. diabetes) and what you can do to keep you and your loved ones healthy!

Here are some tips to keep in mind as we enter National Diabetes Month:

1.     It’s important for everyone, especially people with diabetes, to eat right. Eating more non-starchy vegetables and whole grains is a great way to change your diet for the better! For more advice on what foods are best for someone with diabetes, click here.

2.     Make sure to stay active! Exercise helps to lower blood glucose (the level of sugar in your blood), making it a key part of keeping healthy. Click here for more information and examples of exercises you can try! [http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/recently-diagnosed/where-do-i-begin/getting-active.html]

3.     It can be a little confusing to figure out how to manage diet, blood glucose levels and other important factors. Your doctor is thereto help! Ask her or him to explain if there’s anything you’re confused about.

4.     There are lots of myths about diabetes. For instance, that people who have it can’t get tattoos (not true!). Make sure you’re getting your information from good sources, like your doctor,  nurse, or another health care professional. If you get some information online, or from something you read, ask them if they think you can trust that source! For more info about diabetes myths, click here.

5.     If you’re worried about getting diabetes, you’re not alone. There are others in your community who share your experiences. The number of Harlem residents with diabetes is  more than twice as large as those with the disease who live on the Upper West Side.

6.     There are also lots of resources in Harlem that can help you. The Harlem YMCA can help you find a diabetes prevention class. Click here for more. Also considering checking out  NYC Health+ Hospitals' Diabetes Wellness Center.

Take some time this month to learn more about diabetes! The American Diabetes Association is a great source.