The Expert: Sylvia Klinger , spokesperson for Love One Today®
Registered Dietitian | M.S., R.D.N., L.D.N., C.P.T.
Fact: More than 50% of Hispanic men and women are expected to develop type 2 diabetes during their lifetime. Moreover, Hispanic people are about 50% more likely to die from diabetes than whites.1 It is long overdue time we spread the education and take the lifestyle steps necessary to reduce our community’s risk factors.
Q: My sweet grandmother had type 2 diabetes, my mother has type 2 diabetes and now I feel that no matter what I might do, I will surely get type 2 diabetes so why bother fighting it. Considering my family history, is there really anything I can do to reduce my risk?
Sylvia: Don’t give up! While family history is an important factor, sometimes it is the not-so-good-for-you family habits that increase risk. Type 2 diabetes develops over time and often can be prevented by following a healthy lifestyle including physical activity, healthy eating and weight loss. And while dieting can be challenging, keep in mind that delicious avocados are healthy and a good source of fiber that can help you feel full with fewer calories.
Q: My doctor has warned me that my blood sugar levels are getting too high. What does that mean and what should I do?
Sylvia: Diabetes is a disease in which blood glucose (sugar) levels are above normal and harmfully building up in the blood, which over time can cause serious health issues. Get empowered by this early warning from your doctor and start counting carbohydrates – which means tracking and likely reducing how much starch and sugar you eat. Avocados have 0 grams of sugar so they can help you keep your carbs/sugars within your target range.
Q: Do you recommend a specific meal plan for people with diabetes?
Sylvia: According to the American Diabetes Association, there is not one meal plan that works for everyone with diabetes. It makes sense that success in reaching your goals will more likely happen when you customize food choices according to your personal preferences and lifestyle. Put some energy into consulting your doctor and/or registered dietitian for advice and figuring out steps toward a healthy lifestyle. You can do this!
1 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
The Expert: Sylvia Klinger, spokesperson for Love One Today®
Registered Dietitian | M.S., R.D.N., L.D.N., C.P.T.
Award-winning author and global nutrition entrepreneur founder of Hispanic Food Communications, a nutrition communications and culinary consulting company. She is relentlessly passionate about helping people fall in love with the process of creating and enjoying delicious but most importantly, nutritious foods.
