From May 2009 (Cont'd)

Challenge #2
In the first challenge we tried walking to and from work/school/church/meetings with safety and time efficiency. Even though this was meant as a challenge, it does not mean we have to stop trying it. But, let's move on.

The next challenge is the Breakfast Challenge. There are two parts to this one:
1) If the first drink you have in the morning is coffee, then try to substitute it with water. Yes, water (keeps you awake, doesn't dehydrate you, and it's good for the brain among other numerous benefits).
2) Try some 'green' with your breakfast. If you find it difficult to get green vegetables in your daily diet, then make it one of the first things you eat in the morning. Hey, you can still eat a normal breakfast.

Spotlight: Diabetes
In this first spotlight topic, I want to address Diabetes. There are many angles to take on this disease, but I am coming from the standpoint that is within my current scope of practice. According to the American Diabetes Association "Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin." Basically, the body does not adequately convert sugar, starches, and other food into energy for daily life. Case and point, this information could or should be elementary information for those that have the disease and compassionate information for those that do not have it but would like to help others. This is information that *never* gets old since this disease affects approximately 23.6 million people nationwide, and this number increases as obesity and inactivity grow.

I think that one of the most important facts or goals regarding the manipulation of this disease, as resonated throughout the American Diabetes Association and from health professionals, is that people with diabetes can live *long, healthy, and happy lives! *Deviating from this goal, of course, makes it a lot more difficult to achieve. More information can be accessed at www.diabetes.org .

Within the wide system of managing diabetes (i.e., taking medication, exercising, and adding proper nutrition) I would like to include that paying attention is vital. To pay attention means that we all understand the motions that someone, who has the disease, endures on an individual level. Likewise, to support is perhaps the strongest attribute of managing diabetes. The health care team will do its job, but family and friends fall into this category as well and closely adopt a care giving persona. The last attribute is cutting the intimidation factor. For those with diabetes and for those who know someone with it, the disease can be managed. It is part patience and self-control and 100% mettle!

Progressing Through Spring,
Derek Arledge, CSCS