Diabetes, the chronic health condition where a body doesn’t produce enough insulin, affects nearly a third of the American population. More than 20% of those with Type 2 diabetes and 80% with prediabetes are unaware of their condition and aren’t diagnosed. Our community is disproportionately affected by the diabetes epidemic; 12.1% of African Americans have the disease, and a study by the U.S. Office of Minority Health states that we are 2.5 times more likely to be hospitalized with diabetes and associated long-term complications.
Actress and comedian Retta is ready to tackle those numbers head-on and help our community become more aware of our health. The Parks and Recreation alum has established the first-ever National Glucose Awareness Week with getglucoseaware.com, starting today through September 29, to raise awareness and educate the 135 million-plus Americans with diabetes to improve their health through monitoring and life changes. It’s a personal mission for Retta, who has managed her Type 2 diabetes for the past few years.
“For me, finding simple changes to lower my sugar intake has really helped. It can be as simple as using a little less creamer in your coffee,” she tells EBONY. “I’ve adjusted my overall diet, cutting down on sweet drinks and reducing my carb intake.”
Retta leans into nutritious snacking. “I like pecans, walnuts and almonds,” she shares. She also encourages us to move: “Stay active. I love to swim, so that’s one way I stay active.”
Dexcom, Beyond Type 2 and Retta will launch a nationwide step challenge beginning September 30. People are encouraged to participate and have the chance to win prizes.
Keeping glucose levels stable is essential for managing diabetes and maintaining overall well-being, but in a recent survey, only 10% of respondents with Type 2 diabetes not on insulin and those with prediabetes said they understand the factors that cause changes in their glucose extremely well. Retta uses Stelo, the first over-the-counter glucose biosensor in the U.S., to manage glucose levels. “It gives me readings of my glucose levels all day long. It’s made me aware of how my eating habits affect my glucose.”
While change is never easy, she understands the importance of making small adjustments to live a better and healthier life.
“Managing my diabetes takes a bit more work when I’m on the road, but I’ve become more comfortable with my diagnosis and have found what works best for me through trial and error and monitoring what activity or food is causing a glucose spike.” She’s excited to partner with Dexcom to share educational resources about diabetes management and close the glucose knowledge gap.
On October 4, Retta returns to our screens. HGTV will premiere its Ugliest House in America spinoff, Scariest Houses in America, which she hosts. “There will be four episodes in October leading up to Halloween, and it’s gonna be good,” she teases.
