Food for Thought: American Diabetes Month

November is American Diabetes Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about diabetes, its impact, and the steps we can all take to promote better health and prevention. Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body processes blood sugar (glucose), an essential energy source for our cells. Over 37 million Americans live with diabetes (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], n.d.), and millions more are at risk, highlighting the need for public education and support.

What is diabetes?

Diabetes occurs when the body either doesn't make enough insulin (a hormone that regulates blood sugar) or can’t use insulin effectively. This leads to elevated blood sugar levels, which can cause serious health issues if left unmanaged.

Who does diabetes affect?

Diabetes can affect anyone, though we know that it disproportionately affects marginalized communities due to a combination of socioeconomic, environmental, and healthcare access challenges (Hill-Briggs et al., 2020). Many individuals in low-income communities face barriers like limited access to affordable, nutritious foods, spaces for movement and exercise, and preventive healthcare services. These factors, along with higher rates of stress and a lack of diabetes education, contribute to increased diabetes incidence and complications within marginalized populations (Elmohr et al., 2024). Additionally, disparities in healthcare access mean that people from marginalized backgrounds are less likely to receive early screenings, consistent treatment, and quality follow-up care, all of which are crucial for effective diabetes management. Addressing these inequities requires comprehensive public health initiatives that promote accessibility, culturally sensitive education, and policies aimed at reducing these systemic barriers to care (Black, 2002).

Why approaching diabetes through a harm reduction lens matters:

Harm reduction practices (within the context of diabetic care) focus on minimizing the adverse effects of certain behaviors rather than demanding immediate, sweeping lifestyle changes, making them more accessible and sustainable. For example, harm reduction could involve implementing affordable, community-centered nutrition programs that teach meal planning within budget constraints and offer tips for making health-forward choices without eliminating cultural food practices (Vanstone et al., 2017). Similarly, harm reduction strategies in healthcare settings can include providing regular screenings and preventive services at community centers to bridge access gaps for those who might not regularly visit clinics (Campbell et al., 2019). By meeting people where they are and focusing on realistic, incremental health improvements, harm reduction practices empower individuals in their decision-making without facing judgment or unrealistic expectations, ultimately fostering a more supportive environment for managing and preventing diabetes.

How to help?

Getting involved in local elections is one way to address these challenges. Local government decisions influence critical areas like funding for community health clinics, zoning for grocery stores with fresh produce, and investments in public spaces where residents can exercise. By voting for representatives and policies that prioritize health equity, individuals can advocate for initiatives that improve access to nutritious food, affordable healthcare, and education on managing and preventing diabetes. Additionally, engaging in local elections can drive accountability, ensuring that elected officials prioritize resources for underserved areas and make meaningful strides toward reducing health disparities. Taking part in these processes gives communities a voice in shaping policies that directly impact their health and quality of life.

Where can you find diabetes-specific care?

We invite you to schedule a visit at a Bastyr Clinic, in Seattle or San Diego for diabetes screening or to discuss any diabetic health concerns. Our clinics provide personalized, holistic care with a focus on preventive health. Whether you're at risk for diabetes, have already been diagnosed, or are simply looking to maintain your health, we’re here to support you in achieving sustainable health goals. Let’s work together to make this American Diabetes Month a step toward better health for all.

Ellen Prairie, ND, is a naturopathic physician with a well-rounded background in both conventional and integrative healthcare. SHe is a 2024 graduate of Bastyr University.

Voter’s Guide:

https://www.sos.wa.gov/elections/voters/2024-general-election-voters-guide

Article References:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Diabetes data and statistics. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Retrieved October 28, 2024, from https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/php/data-research/

Hill-Briggs, F., Adler, N. E., Berkowitz, S. A., Chin, M. H., Gary-Webb, T. L., Navas-Acien, A., Thornton, P. L., & Haire-Joshu, D. (2020). Social Determinants of Health and Diabetes: A Scientific Review. Diabetes care, 44(1), 258–279. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.2337/dci20-0053

Elmohr, M. M., Javed, Z., Dubey, P., Jordan, J. E., Shah, L., Nasir, K., Rohren, E. M., & Lincoln, C. M. (2024). Social Determinants of Health Framework to Identify and Reduce Barriers to Imaging in Marginalized Communities. Radiology, 310(2), e223097. https://doi.org/10.1148/radiol.223097

Black S. A. (2002). Diabetes, diversity, and disparity: what do we do with the evidence? American journal of public health, 92(4), 543–548. https://doi.org/10.2105/ajph.92.4.543

Vanstone, M., Rewegan, A., Brundisini, F., Giacomini, M., Kandasamy, S., & DeJean, D. (2017). Diet modification challenges faced by marginalized and non-marginalized adults with type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and qualitative meta-synthesis. Chronic illness, 13(3), 217–235. https://doi.org/10.1177/1742395316675024

Campbell, D. J. T., Campbell, R. B., Ziegler, C., McBrien, K. A., Hwang, S. W., & Booth, G. L. (2019). Interventions for improved diabetes control and self-management among those experiencing homelessness: protocol for a mixed methods scoping review. Systematic reviews, 8(1), 100. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13643-019-1020-x