What Is The Diabetes Prevention Program?
The Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) is a proven lifestyle change program to prevent or delay your chances of getting Type 2 diabetes. The program lasts for one year and is led by a lifestyle coach in a small group. During weekly and monthly meetings, your lifestyle coach will show you how to make healthy food choices, increase physical activity, and deal with stress.
Diabetes prevention programs are offered at hundreds of locations throughout the state and country. To find other program locations, visit the national diabetes prevention program website.
Why Join?
Over 84 million Americans have prediabetes and most don’t even know it. Prediabetes means you have a higher than normal blood sugar level but not high enough to have type 2 diabetes. People with prediabetes will likely develop type 2 diabetes unless they make a healthy lifestyle change.
Moms diagnosed with gestational diabetes (GDM) are at high risk for developing type 2 diabetes, with half of all moms with GDM getting type 2 diabetes before their child is 10 years old.
Luckily, programs such as the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) are proven to successfully help adults reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes. More than just a weight loss program, the DPP approach focuses on long-term lifestyle changes that help participants lose the weight and keep it off.
Caroline Rankin is Director of Chronic Disease Prevention Programs at YMCA of Central Ohio. We asked her to tell us why moms at risk for type 2 diabetes should join a DPP.
Make a change that works for you
Change is not easy, but the YMCA's Diabetes Prevention Program offers measurable progress and unlimited support. Participants make the changes that work for them and they own them. They realize they can approach things differently and have more control.
We're in this together
Since all participants are at risk for diabetes, they share and support each other. They are not alone in this journey and they have support to move forward.
Gaining tools to fight old habits
Life will always have barriers and stresses and sometimes we turn to food to cope, but DPP participants learn tools to use throughout their lives to continue to lead a healthy lifestyle and not fall back into old habits.
Measurable change
Not only will participants lose weight, they will see their blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels improve.
A positive change for mom is a positive change for the family
We are all busy and there are not enough hours in the day. However, as a mom it is so important that you take care of yourself. If you do not have your health and feel good it will have a great impact on your family.Type 2 diabetes is a serious disease but it is also one that is preventable. By making small changes, losing a small amount of weight and increasing physical activity you can prevent the disease. You are also a role model for your family. As you make changes for a healthier lifestyle it will have a positive effect on all your family members.
Healthy Eating
Gestational Diabetes Resources
Type 2 Diabetes Resources
