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Understanding Diabetes and Taking Action for Your Health

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November is Diabetes Awareness Month, a time to focus on prevention, education, and lifestyle strategies that help reduce risk and improve quality of life. Whether you are living with diabetes, prediabetes, or simply want to make healthier choices, small steps can lead to big results.


What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body turns food into energy. Normally, your body breaks down most of what you eat into glucose (sugar) and releases it into your bloodstream. When blood sugar rises, your pancreas releases insulin, a hormone that helps move that sugar into your cells for energy.


When you have diabetes, your body either doesn’t make enough insulin or can’t use it properly. Over time, this leads to high blood sugar levels, which can cause damage to the heart, kidneys, nerves, eyes, and other organs if left unmanaged.


There are 2 types of diabetes:


Type 1 Diabetes

  • An autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin.

  • People with Type 1 diabetes must take insulin daily to regulate blood sugar.

  • While exercise doesn’t replace insulin, it plays a key role in improving energy, heart health, and insulin efficiency.


Type 2 Diabetes

  • The most common form, where the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t make enough to keep blood sugar normal.

  • Often linked to lifestyle factors such as inactivity, excess weight, or poor nutrition, but genetics also play a role.

  • Regular physical activity, balanced nutrition, and stress management can help prevent or manage this condition effectively.


How Movement Helps

Physical activity is one of the most powerful tools for preventing and managing diabetes. Exercise helps muscles absorb glucose for energy, improves insulin sensitivity, and supports overall metabolic health. Even short bouts of movement, like walking after meals, strength training, or yoga, can lead to measurable improvements in blood sugar control.

Here’s how movement benefits people living with or at risk for diabetes:

  • Improves blood sugar control: Active muscles use more glucose, helping reduce excess blood sugar.

  • Supports heart health: Regular movement lowers blood pressure and cholesterol, reducing cardiovascular risk.

  • Boosts mood and reduces stress: Exercise releases endorphins that help balance mood and decrease cortisol, which can elevate blood sugar.

  • Increases energy and reduces fatigue: Improved circulation helps oxygen and nutrients reach your muscles and brain more efficiently.


🩺 Important Note: If you are living with diabetes or have other health concerns, speak with your doctor before beginning a new exercise routine. They can help you determine the best type and intensity of activity for your needs.


At WellNorth, we make it easy to move with purpose through our virtual classes, challenges, and on-demand wellness library. From strength and mobility sessions to mindfulness and nutrition workshops, our goal is to help you create healthy habits that last.


Watch Our Workshop Replay

If you missed it live, you can still catch our educational session, “Fitness + Diabetes = The Winning Combination.” This 10 minute workshop breaks down how fitness supports blood sugar management, the best types of exercise for people living with diabetes, and practical tips to build consistency safely.





Beyond Exercise: The Whole-Person Approach

Managing or preventing diabetes isn’t just about physical activity. It’s about taking care of your whole self.


Here are a few ways to support your wellness:

  • Manage stress: Ongoing stress can raise blood sugar. Our Calm Sessions offer quick, guided practices that help you unwind and restore balance.

  • Eat mindfully: Choose whole foods, lean proteins, healthy fats, and fiber-rich carbs. Avoid skipping meals, and try pairing carbohydrates with protein to slow sugar absorption.

  • Get quality sleep: Aim for 7–9 hours of restful sleep. Poor sleep can interfere with insulin regulation and appetite control.

  • Stay consistent: Lasting progress comes from small daily habits. Even 10–15 minutes of movement a day adds up.



How WellNorth Can Support You

At WellNorth, we provide a variety of virtual programs designed to make healthy living easier and more sustainable. Whether you’re just starting your wellness journey or looking for structured support, we’re here to help.


Our on-demand wellness library, live fitness classes, and guided mindfulness sessions are available anytime, anywhere, making it simple to stay active and engaged.


This November, take one small step toward a healthier, stronger you. Watch the workshop replay, join a class, or reach out for guidance on how to build a plan that works for your needs.



Have a question about this blog or WellNorth? Contact us at wellnorth@livunltd.com.

 
 
 

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