LOGAN — November is Diabetes Awareness Month and the Logan County Diabetes Coalition is working hard to raise awareness about Type 2 Diabetes.

Most people living in southern West Virginia know someone who has Type 2 Diabetes. The body needs insulin to help convert the food we eat into fuel. Diabetes is a condition that occurs when the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or when the insulin produced doesn’t work very well. Insulin is important because it helps to control blood sugar. When a person has Type 2 Diabetes blood sugar levels are not controlled. Type 2 Diabetes usually occurs in adults.

Reducing the risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes can be done by making small changes in your day to day activities. Here are some tips for reducing your risk:

• Choose smaller portions and choose healthier foods. Eat fewer foods high in starch (potatoes, etc.)

• Exercise - Talk to your doctor about exercises that will work for you!

• Lose weight - losing just 5-10 percent of your body weight can make a big difference. Cut back on sugary drinks.

If you have Type 2 Diabetes, following the steps above and taking medications as directed, can help keep blood your sugar levels in check. If you have Type 2 Diabetes you can still reduce your risk of developing complications by keeping your blood sugars in control.