There are an estimated 20.8 million children and adults in the United States who have diabetes. Approximately 14.6 million people have been diagnosed, leaving approximately 6.2 million people unaware that they have diabetes. Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to many other health complications and conditions and may even lead to death. Health complications associated with uncontrolled diabetes are heart disease and stroke, high blood pressure, blindness, kidney disease, nervous system disease, amputations, dental disease, and pregnancy complications.

Type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed mainly through diet, exercise and maintenance of a healthy body weight.

The following is a list of tips to making healthy food choices:

• Eat a lot of fruit and non-starchy vegetables like spinach, carrots, broccoli, and green beans
• Eat whole grain foods like brown rice or whole wheat pasta rather than processed grains
• Eat fish 2-3 times each week
• Choose lean meats such as skinless chicken and turkey, pork loin, and sirloin
• Choose non-fat dairy products
• Drink water and other calorie free beverages
• Use liquid oils rather than solid fats for cooking