Contact:

Sherry Duncan

Administrator

Putnam.Info@flhealth.gov

386-326-3254

Putnam County, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in Putnam County (DOH-Putnam) emphasizes the importance of diabetes prevention and management during National Diabetes Awareness Month, recognized annually in November.

There are two main types of diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, which is not preventable, the body cannot produce enough insulin, requiring insulin treatment. In type 2 diabetes, the body makes insulin, but the insulin does not work. Type 2 diabetes is most common; however, it can be preventable by practicing a healthy lifestyle.

Diabetes Prevention and Management

Several lifestyle factors can help individuals prevent or manage diabetes:

• Stay active: Regular physical activity helps the body use insulin more easily. It is recommended for adults to exercise 30 minutes per day, five days a Walking is one of the easiest ways to start.
• Nutritious eating: Healthy eating plays an important role in lowering the risk for type 2 diabetes. A diet with whole grains, healthy fats, non-starchy vegetables, and reduced sugar can help the body better regulate insulin.
• Manage stress: Adding stress-reducing activities into daily routines can help maintain normal blood sugar Getting enough sleep is key to reducing stress. Adults should aim for seven to nine hours of sleep per night.

This year, the Florida Legislature passed Senate Bill 958, Type 1 Diabetes Early Detection Program. The Florida Department of Health, in collaboration with school districts throughout the state, has developed informational materials for the early detection of type 1 diabetes for parents and guardians of students. This program promotes early detection of type 1 diabetes in children by educating parents and guardians on risk factors, warning signs, screening, and recommendations.

Diabetes Prevention Program

The Diabetes Prevention Program features 16 classes with a lifestyle coach who helps participants who are at risk of developing diabetes to improve their weight management skills, increase physical activity, manage stress, and share new habits and bond with others. Please register by contacting Carol Kazounis at 386-326-3223, or Tina Thomas at 386-326-3207.

For residents living with diabetes, the six-week Diabetes Self-Management Program helps participants manage symptoms, increase their quality of life, reduce the risk of additional complications, and achieve a healthy weight. Please register by contacting Carol Kazounis at 386-326-3223 or Tina Thomas at 386-326-3207.

About the Florida Department of Health

The Department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote, and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county, and community efforts.

Follow us on X at @HealthyFla and on Facebook. For more information about the Florida Department of Health, visit FloridaHealth.gov.