The Canadian Diabetes Association became Diabetes Canada on February 13, 2017 to shed the light on the diabetes epidemic Canada is facing. It's taking a monumental toll on our health.
It is estimated that more than 5.7 million have prediabetes. Prediabetes refers to blood glucose levels that are higher than normal, but not yet high enough to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes (i.e. a fasting plasma glucose level of 7.0 mmol/L or higher). Nearly 50 per cent of those with prediabetes will go on to develop type 2 diabetes.
There are many signs and symptoms that can indicate diabetes. Signs and symptoms can include the following:
Unusual thirst
Frequent urination
Weight change (gain or loss)
Extreme fatigue or lack of energy
Blurred vision
Frequent or recurring infections
Cuts and bruises that are slow to heal
Tingling or numbness in the hands or feet
If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to contact your health-care provider right away. Even if you don’t have symptoms, if you are 40 or older, you should still get checked. It is important to recognize, however, that many people who have type 2 diabetes may display no symptoms.
The Sacred Circle Program is based upon common Aboriginal traditional health perspectives that health is achieved through a balance of mental (mind), physical (body), emotional (heart) and spiritual (spirit) wellness. In many Aboriginal cultures, a “Sacred Circle” or “Medicine Wheel” image is used to explain this balance between the 4 important components of holistic health. The ANFCA’s cultural advisors and Elders of the Elders’ Wisdom Circle have been involved in the development and approval of the Sacred Circle design, explanations and resources.