Pyeongtaek City (Mayor Jeong Jang-seon) Anjung Public Health Branch held a nutrition education program for diabetic patients on the 14th (Thursday) to commemorate ‘World Diabetes Day’ and received a great response.
‘World Diabetes Day (November 14)’ is a day established by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the World Health Organization (WHO) with the purpose of raising global awareness of diabetes and encouraging appropriate management.
To commemorate this and to actively manage diabetes, Anjung Public Health Center has the theme of ‘Making Podo Tofu’ by practicing high-protein, low-carbohydrate cooking that can make you feel full and lower blood sugar by consuming various vegetables and proteins at home. We have provided an opportunity that can be fully utilized.
An official from Anjung Health Branch said, “On this World Diabetes Day, we hope to raise awareness about diabetes and actively manage it to prevent complications. Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs due to impaired blood sugar control function, and it can lead to dangerous complications.” “It can cause it, so early detection is important through a healthy lifestyle and regular health checkups,” he said.
If you have questions about managing diabetes and high blood pressure, you can receive tests and consultations by visiting the health consultation room on the 3rd floor of the Anjung Public Health Branch (031-8024-8664).
Meanwhile, in commemoration of World Diabetes Day (November 14), Songtan Public Health Center in Pyeongtaek City operated a ‘low-sugar diet class’ program on the 14th to form proper eating habits and prevent complications for diabetic patients and high-risk group citizens registered at the public health center.
In this ‘low-sugar diet class’ program, we provided education on understanding diabetic diet control and foot care for diabetic patients, and had time to make tofu rolls as part of cooking practice on a nutritious low-sugar diet for diabetic patients.
According to data released by the Korean Diabetes Association, the prevalence of diabetes among adults over 30 years of age in Korea in 2022 is 14.8%, and the control rate of glycated hemoglobin less than 6.5% is 34.2%, so diabetic patients are very common around people, and recently, diabetes Although interest has increased, self-management is still insufficient.
If you have diabetes for more than 15 years, the likelihood of complications increases, so control your blood sugar to the normal range (fasting 99 mg/dl or less, postprandial 140 mg/dl or less) through weight loss, regular living, and improved eating habits from the beginning. It is important to manage.
An official at Songtan Public Health Center said, “In the prevention and management of diabetes, blood sugar control, blood pressure control, and consistent exercise must come first, and we plan to support people to improve diabetes self-management skills and prevent complications through various programs in the future.”
Economy Queen Reporter Kim Hong-mi / Photo Pyeongtaek City
What are some effective dietary strategies for managing diabetes, as discussed in the interview with Dr. Lee Hae-jin?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Nutrition Expert Dr. Lee Hae-jin
Time.news Editor: Good day, everyone! Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Lee Hae-jin, a renowned nutritionist and diabetes management expert. Dr. Lee, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Lee Hae-jin: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to be here to discuss such an important topic, especially with World Diabetes Day just around the corner.
Time.news Editor: Absolutely! Pyeongtaek City recently held a nutrition education program for diabetic patients. Can you tell us how these events contribute to raising awareness and promoting effective diabetes management?
Dr. Lee Hae-jin: Events like the one held by the Anjung Public Health Branch play a critical role in raising awareness about diabetes. They educate patients not only on the nature of the disease but also on practical ways to manage it through diet and lifestyle changes. Programs that focus on high-protein, low-carbohydrate meals, such as the “Making Podo Tofu” initiative, can empower individuals to make healthier choices that can help control blood sugar levels.
Time.news Editor: That sounds fascinating! There’s an emphasis on low-carbohydrate cooking. Why is that particularly beneficial for diabetic patients?
Dr. Lee Hae-jin: Reducing carbohydrate intake can lower blood sugar levels and improve overall metabolic health. When individuals consume fewer carbs, their bodies require less insulin to manage blood sugar, which is essential for diabetes management. High-protein diets also promote satiety, helping patients feel full and reducing the likelihood of overeating.
Time.news Editor: The Anjung Health Branch highlighted the importance of early detection and regular health checkups. Why is early detection so critical in managing diabetes?
Dr. Lee Hae-jin: Early detection is crucial because many people with diabetes are undiagnosed and can suffer from complications that arise from prolonged high blood sugar levels. Regular checkups enable healthcare providers to monitor blood sugar levels and make recommendations for lifestyle changes before significant health issues develop. This proactive approach can significantly decrease the risk of complications associated with diabetes.
Time.news Editor: In your experience, what are some common myths about diabetes management that you wish to dispel?
Dr. Lee Hae-jin: One of the biggest myths is that people with diabetes must completely eliminate sugar from their diets. While it’s important to manage sugar intake, it’s more about moderation and making smart choices. Another myth is that diabetes only affects older adults. Type 1 diabetes can affect children and young adults, and Type 2 diabetes is increasingly being diagnosed in younger populations due to rising obesity rates.
Time.news Editor: That’s insightful! Given the rise in diabetes cases globally, what advice would you give to those looking to prevent this condition?
Dr. Lee Hae-jin: Adopting a healthy lifestyle is key. This includes maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Regular physical activity is also essential. Additionally, I encourage everyone to get regular health screenings, especially if they have risk factors such as a family history of diabetes.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Lee, for sharing your expertise with us. It’s inspiring to see how local initiatives like the ones in Pyeongtaek can have a positive impact on community health.
Dr. Lee Hae-jin: Thank you for shining a light on this important issue. Every small step taken towards better awareness and management can make a significant difference in the lives of those living with diabetes.
Time.news Editor: That’s a wrap for today! Remember, knowledge is power, especially when it comes to managing diabetes. Until next time!