FAMILY HEALTH TIPS

Diabetes Facts

• Almost 3 million African Americans have diabetes and many don’t know it.

• Diabetes is a disease that causes high blood sugar.

• When adults get diabetes it is usually type. This type II can often be prevented.

• “Prediabetes” or “Borderline diabetes” is when blood sugar test results are higher than normal.

• Many people have no signs, or only mild ones. Some signs include: feeling tired, blurred vision, weight loss, infections, increased urination, increased hunger or thirst.

• A healthy lifestyle can help prevent diabetes: Get 30 minutes of exercise 5 days a week, Eat foods low in fat and calories; Eat smaller amounts; Eat a variety of healthy foods, like whole grains, fruits, vegetables.

Flu Shots for Adults

• Shots are safe. Side effects like soreness where the shot was given, muscle aches or fever are usually very mild and disappear within a few days. Serious side-effects are rare.

• There’s a new shot every year: The flu virus keeps changing.

• Shots help you stay well.

• The flu can lead to other serious infections like pneumonia.

• It’s best to get your flu shot around October or November.

• Flu shots are important for individuals 50 and older, those that live in a nursing home and or have long term illnesses like diabetes, asthma or heart disease.