STARTING THE JOURNEY TO OVERCOME DIABESITY

Celebrating Black History Month

As we celebrate the invaluable contributions of Black history this month, we are reminded of the strength, resilience and legacy of Black people. But, despite the rich history, Black people continue to face health challenges year after year.

An epidemic

In our community we are struggling daily against a worsening epidemic of obesity and type 2 diabetes – also referred to as ‘Diabesity’, which is the single commonest cause of kidney failure. A study found that biological risk factors – including weight and fat around the abdomen – are primarily responsible for higher rates of diabetes in the Black community compared with white communities.

Are you paying attention?

Being closed off to signs or just simply ignoring it is not healthy and, more importantly, it is not God’s will. His will is for you to be healthy so you can do the things He wants done on the earth.

However, it seemed inconsistent that many were praying about fluctuating weight, disease, and wondering why their bodies weren’t functioning at an optimal level, yet consumed one of the biggest enemies that our ancestors got killed on the plantation for: sugar. It’s the same enemy that continues to produce more cholesterol, destroy cell structure, elevate insulin levels and more.

Although much of our cultural foods were created for good health, unfortunately poor dietary and sedentary habits plus lack of knowledge (Hosea 4:6) can bring on these preventable diseases and can even cause premature death. The Bible says: ‘Do not destroy the work of God for the sake of food’ (Romans 14:20). When you eat the wrong types of food, your insulin levels are continuously elevated. Insulin acts as a fat storage hormone, so keeping it elevated by consuming sugar and ultra processed foods will release a multitude of chemicals in your gut that make weight loss very slow and disease control challenging.

You can make positive changes

Making positive changes, such as losing excess weight, can help reduce the risk for developing obesity and diabetes. But to withstand the storms of life against disease, injuries and attacks we must build health upon wisdom, as written in Proverbs 4:20-22.

Diet and exercise are two factors we have control over, yet they are overlooked. Exercise is one of the best things we can do for our health. God’s Word says: ‘It profits little’ (1 Timothy 4:8), but a little is better than nothing!

Use the tips below for the prevention, treatment and reversal of the fastest growing health threats to the Black population.

3. If you currently exercise with the primary goal to lose weight, but have no discipline in healthy eating, and you’re praying for God to heal your body so you can lose the additional weight and reverse the disease, then STOP. This is the very definition of insanity.

4. Get adequate rest and sleep at least 7-8 hours each night.

5. Drink plenty of purified water – try to aim for at least 6-8 glasses.

6. Stress less. Excessive stress has been associated with overeating, slow metabolic rate, and causes blood sugar levels and insulin to rise. It can make the body gain and retain weight; particularly in and around the midsection of the body.

7. Improve the quality of your food by eating more legumes – rich meals, such as beans, peas, lentils and high fibre – to help you feel fuller for longer. If the food available to you at your social gatherings is unhealthy, simply bring your own.

8. If you want to make living a healthier life a success, then don’t associate with people who ‘may cause you to stumble’ (Romans 14:21).

Health in Action:

1. Reducing belly fat may be the best way to prevent pre-diabetes from turning into full-blown diabetes.

2. If you haven’t been exercising, then start now. If possible, explore forms of movement, such as walking, to stir the waters in your body. When your body is stagnant it becomes a breeding ground for infection and disease. Research found walking one hour a day can reduce mortality by 24%.

9. Check your blood sugar levels regularly, using a flash glucose monitor, or pay attention to symptoms, such as blurred vision, increased thirst, dry mouth, frequent urination. (Please seek a medical professional if you’re unsure.)

10. Reduce large servings of fatty, high calorie, refined and processed foods.

If you are struggling in your health and don’t know what to do, visit www.scriptfit.com