There are over 400 million people in the world living with diabetes. If we don’t do something about this soon, via education and treatment, this number is expected to grow past 600 million.
World Diabetes Day is celebrated every year on November 14 in order to bring more awareness to the disease. This year, the focus is on women and diabetes as 200 million women are living with diabetes, today.
In fact, diabetes is responsible for 2 million deaths among women each year. Needless to say, it is a very serious problem and this year the diabetes community is coming together to put a stop to it.
If you want to participate, here are five fun ways to do so:
Plant-Based Potluck
A plant-based diet is an effective way to prevent type 2 diabetes and, in some cases, reverse the diagnosis. Fresh fruits and vegetables provide the body with all of the vital nutrients that we need to live well. They are also full of antioxidants, which protect against the damaging effects of diabetes. 
By organizing a plant-based potluck, you can help raise awareness about a lifestyle that is proven effective against type 2 diabetes. Plus, potlucks are fun and usually full of delicious food.
Diabetes Flash Mob
The International Diabetes Federation has been known to host flash mobs all over the world on World Diabetes Day, so why not jump in on this fun tradition? If you don’t have one organized in your area, you can easily organize one yourself. This is not only heaps of fun, but it is also a great opportunity to connect with the diabetes community in your area.
Walk-A-Thon
Exercise is another effective strategy to prevent and sometimes reverse type 2 diabetes. As such, World Diabetes Day is a great way to raise awareness about its effectiveness. You can either organize a community event at a local school or host your own personal walk-a-thon. If you gather sponsors for your event, you can donate the proceeds to your favorite diabetes organization.
Light Big Blue Lights
Blue lights are the unofficial beacon of World Diabetes Day. You can also wear blue, pass out blue ribbons, or hang little blue lights in your office. It is a fun and spirited way to raise awareness in your area.
Take the Big Blue Test
With the Big Blue Test (BBT) you log your glucose levels and then exercise for 15 to 20 minutes. This could be a walk around the block, an intense HIIT workout, or a yoga session. Once you complete your activity, check your blood sugar again.
Once you see how effective just 15 to 20 minutes of exercise are in regulating your glucose levels, you will likely want to incorporate more of it into your daily habits.
Not only that but by participating in the BBT online, you are raising money for nonprofits that aid people with diabetes. Everybody wins!
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[expand title=”References“]
Newsday. URL Link. Retrieved November 9, 2017.
Journal of Geriatric Cardiology. URL Link. November 9, 2017.
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